Tube connector for an infusion device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a tube connector (402) for an infusion device, such as for delivering insulin from an insulin pump. The tube connector includes a connector body (404) adapted to connect with a tube (406). The tube connector also includes opposing first and second latch arms (412, 414) that are resiliently joined to the connector body at flexure locations (420, 422). The tube connector also includes a first lever (424) attached to the first latch arm and a second lever (426) attached to the second latch arm. The first and second levers extend alongside the first and second latch arms, respectively, such that pressing the first and second levers toward each other deflects the first and second latch arms relative to the body portion about the flexure location.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a tube connector for an infusion set, an infusion set comprising a tube connector, an infusion portion for an infusion set and an infusion system. In several examples, the infusion system is for intermittent or continuous subcutaneous delivery of a medicament or therapeutic fluid, such as insulin. In several examples, the infusion set is for intermittent or continuous subcutaneous delivery of a medicament or therapeutic fluid, such as insulin. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the art, infusion systems are commonly used for delivering a medicament or therapeutic fluid to a subcutaneous site of a patient. For example, infusion systems are known for delivering insulin from an insulin pump to a patient. The combination of an insulin pump and an infusion system can provide benefits for controlling the dose volume, configuring a dose regimen, and providing continuous or intermittent delivery. The infusion system typically comprises an infusion set having an infusion portion with a housing attached to the user. The infusion portion is typically adhered to the skin of the user and can remain in place for several days before being replaced. The infusion portion comprises a tubular cannula extending from the housing and the infusion portion is adapted to receive the medicament through a connecting tube for suitably connecting to other components of the infusion system, such as a pump. The infusion set comprises a tube connector for connecting the tube to the infusion portion. The tube connector provides the possibility to disconnect the infusion portion from the connecting tube and other components of the infusion set and system in order to improve the comfort of the user. Disconnecting the connecting tube can enable the user to perform activities that are hindered or prevented by the pump and other components.

[0003] The infusion set, including the housing, the connecting tube and the tube connector, is typically made small and compact so that the user does not experience hindrance or discomfort when wearing the infusion system for a long time. However, the compact design of the infusion set can make it more difficult for some users to use the infusion set, for example to connect and disconnect the tube connector from the infusion portion. In particular, users with impaired motion and flexibility can have more difficulties when using compact infusion sets. These users can be elderly and / or can suffer from specific diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, other central nervous system (CNS) diseases and / or arthritis. SUMMARY

[0004] According to the invention, there is provided a tube connector for an infusion set, the tube connector comprising: a connector body adapted for connection with a tube; first and second opposing latch arms resiliently joined to the connector body at a flexure site; a first lever attached to the first latch arm and a second lever attached to the second latch arm, the first and second levers extending alongside the first and second latch arms respectively, such that pressing the first and second levers towards each other causes the first and second latch arms to deflect about the flexure site relative to the connector body.

[0005] Pressing the first and second levers to deflect the first and second latch arms disengages the latch arms from the corresponding latches in the infusion set for connecting and disconnecting the tube connector and the infusion set. Thus, the levers reduce the force required to connect and disconnect the tube connector and the infusion set, which is advantageous for users with impaired motion and dexterity. Furthermore, providing separate levers, rather than relying on the user to directly contact the latch arms, means that the levers can be larger and easier to grip, and longer to increase leverage, making the tube connector easier to use, particularly for users with impaired motion and dexterity.

[0006] In some examples, the connector body can comprise a tube connection site. The first latch arm and the first lever can be arranged on a first side of the tube connection site. The second latch arm and the second lever can be arranged on a second side of the tube connection site opposite the first side. The tube connection site can be centrally located between the first and second latch arms. In examples, the first latch arm can be disposed between the first lever and the tube connection site, and the second latch arm can be disposed between the second lever and the tube connection site. In this way, the latch arms are disposed inboard of the levers. The levers can be the outermost portions of the tube connector, such that they are easily identified and gripped.

[0007] In examples, the connector body can be substantially planar, lying in a plane. The first and second latch arms and the first and second levers can be arranged in substantially the same plane as the plane of the connector body. That is, the tube connector, in particular the connector body, can be substantially flat and planar, and the latch arms and levers can be arranged in the same plane as the connector body. In examples, the tube connection site can also be substantially flush with the plane of the connector body. In some examples, the first and second latch arms, the first and second levers, and the tube connection site can be aligned in the plane of the connector body.

[0008] In examples, the first and second latch arms can each comprise a latch. The latch of the first latch arm can extend towards the first lever, and the latch of the second latch arm can extend towards the second lever. Each latch can comprise a protrusion, for example a hook-shaped protrusion. Each latch can have a shape corresponding to a corresponding latch portion in the infusion set.

[0009] In various examples, the first lever can be coupled to the first latch arm along a portion of the first latch arm, and the second lever can be coupled to the second latch arm along a portion of the second latch arm. The first lever can be coupled to the first latch arm along a smaller portion of the first latch arm proximate the flexure, and the second lever can be coupled to the second latch arm along a smaller portion of the second latch arm proximate the flexure. In various examples, the first and second levers can each extend further from the connector body than the first and second latch arms, respectively. Thus, the first and second levers can extend beyond the ends of the first and second latch arms, respectively, to increase leverage when a user squeezes the levers.

[0010] In various examples, the first and second levers can each include a gripping surface. The gripping surface can be a contoured surface, such as having notches, knurling, or other contours. These contours can improve a user's grip on the first and second levers.

[0011] The tube connector can also include at least one guide arm extending from the connector body. In various examples, the at least one guide arm can be substantially parallel to the first and second latch arms. In various examples, the at least one guide arm can be disposed on substantially the same plane as the first and second latch arms. In various examples, the tube connector includes two guide arms that are spaced apart and parallel to each other.

[0012] In various examples, the tube connector can also include a front portion having a fluid connector for fluidly coupling to an infusion component of an infusion set, and a rear portion including a tube connection for a tube. The flexure can be disposed at the rear portion such that the first and second latch arms extend from the rear portion toward the front portion. In various examples, the first and second latch arms, and the first and second levers, can extend beyond the front portion of the tube connector.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is also provided an infusion set including an infusion portion having a cannula and a mounting portion for mounting the infusion portion to a patient's skin with the cannula in a subcutaneous position. The infusion set also includes a tube connector as described above.

[0014] In various examples, the infusion set can include at least one opening for the first and / or second latch arms of the tube connector. The opening can include a latch portion for engaging with the first and / or second latch arms. In various examples, the infusion set can include a first opening for the first latch arm and a second opening for the second latch arm. Each of the first and second openings can include a latch portion for engaging with the first and second latch arms, respectively.

[0015] In various examples, the infusion set can also include a guide opening for the guide arm of the tube connector.

[0016] In various examples, the infusion set can further comprise a body portion, and the first and second levers can be arranged alongside and spaced apart from the body portion when the tube connector is connected to the infusion set. In this way, the first and second levers of the tube connector can be easily grasped and squeezed for connecting or disconnecting the tube connector from the infusion set.

[0017] According to another aspect of the present application, there is also provided an infusion system comprising the above-mentioned infusion set, and a drug source for delivering a drug to a patient via the tube connector and the cannula.

[0018] In various examples, the infusion system can further comprise a pump for continuously or intermittently delivering a drug to a patient.

[0019] According to another aspect of the present application, there is also provided an infusion set insertion device for attaching an infusion set to a patient, the infusion set insertion device comprising an insertion device body and a button operable to move the infusion set within the insertion device body, the button and / or the insertion device body comprising an opening adapted to receive a safety connector such that the safety connector prevents the button from moving relative to the insertion device body. The safety connector comprises a connector body, first and second opposing latch arms resiliently joined to the connector body at a flexing site, and a first lever attached to the first latch arm and a second lever attached to the second latch arm, the first and second levers extending alongside the first and second latch arms respectively, such that pressing the first and second levers towards each other causes the first and second latch arms to deflect relative to the body portion about the flexing site.

[0020] It will be appreciated that the safety connector can be similar to the above-mentioned tube connector, but without any connection for connecting a tube. This allows the safety connector to be connected to the infusion set in place of the tube connector, for example in order to seal the infusion set when the tube connector is disconnected. In some examples, the tube connector can comprise a fluid path and a septum, which allows a user to inject a drug into the infusion set via the safety connector when the safety connector is connected to the infusion set, for example using a syringe.

[0021] Various other aspects of the present application relate to the use / uses of the above-mentioned tube connector, infusion set and infusion system. In various examples, the above-mentioned tube connector, infusion set and infusion system can be used for delivering a liquid drug subcutaneously to a patient. Such use of the tube connector, infusion set and infusion system can be a method of treatment.

[0022] In various examples, the method of treatment can be a method of treating diabetes by delivering insulin to a patient using the above-mentioned tube connector, infusion set and infusion system. The insulin can be delivered in a continuous manner or in an intermittent manner, for example in an intermittent manner in response to a detected blood glucose or according to a predetermined delivery schedule.

[0023] In various other examples, the treatment method can be a method for treating a central nervous system disorder (e.g., Parkinson's disease) by delivering a drug to a patient using the tubing connector, infusion set, and infusion system described above. The drug can be levodopa (optionally with carbidopa), a dopamine agonist (particularly apomorphine), and / or a monoamine oxidase-B inhibitor.

[0024] The treatment method may include attaching the infusion set to the patient's skin (e.g., using an adhesive patch) such that the cannula is located subcutaneously. Attaching the infusion set may include using an insertion device, and may include removing the safety connector from the insertion device before attaching the infusion set to the patient's skin using the insertion device. The treatment method may also include connecting a drug source to the infusion set via the aforementioned tube connector. The drug source may be a pump. The treatment method may also include delivering the drug to the patient via the connecting tube, the tube connector, and the infusion set.

[0025] According to another aspect of the present invention, an infusion portion of an infusion set is provided. The infusion portion includes a cannula for delivering a drug subcutaneously when the infusion portion is attached to a patient's skin. The infusion portion also includes a connector having a sidewall having a regular polygonal cross-section, the number of sides of the regular polygonal cross-section being divisible by 4. A plurality of fluid ports are disposed in the sidewall of the connector, and each of the plurality of fluid ports is connected to the cannula.

[0026] Advantageously, the tube connector can be connected to the infusion section by sliding sideways to connect to one of the fluid ports. Because there are multiple fluid ports, connection can be made in a variety of different positions. This improves usability by allowing patients with impaired mobility or dexterity to find the angle and orientation that best suits their abilities. Furthermore, the polygonal cross-section of the connector helps ensure proper alignment between the tube connector and the fluid port by using opposing sides of the connector as guides for the tube connector.

[0027] In various examples, the sidewall may have at least four sides, such as four sides, or eight sides, or twelve sides, or sixteen sides. The length of each side is the same, so the sides are arranged in pairs.

[0028] In various examples, each side of the sidewall can include one of the plurality of fluid ports. In other words, each side of the connector can include a fluid port such that the tube connector can be connected from any side.

[0029] In various examples, each side can include a recess, and the fluid port on each side can be located in the recess. During connection, the recess can help align the needle of the tube connector with the fluid port.

[0030] In examples, the connector can further include a flange edge that overhangs the sidewall. The flange edge can include a plurality of guides. Each of the plurality of guides can include a recess. Each recess can be aligned with a fluid port. During connection of the tube connector to the infusion portion, the tube connector can cooperate with the guides / recesses to ensure alignment with the fluid ports.

[0031] In examples, the infusion portion can further include a base. The connector can protrude from the base. The base can be attached to the patient's skin, for example, by an adhesive patch. In examples, the base can include a plurality of guides. Each of the plurality of guides can include a recess. Each recess can be aligned with a fluid port. During connection of the tube connector to the infusion portion, the tube connector can cooperate with the guides / recesses to ensure alignment with the fluid ports.

[0032] In examples, the infusion portion can further include a cannula receiving chamber in fluid communication with the cannula. Each of the plurality of fluid ports can be in communication with the cannula receiving chamber.

[0033] In examples, each of the plurality of fluid ports includes a seal, such as a septum seal. The tube connector can have a needle arranged to pierce the septum seal of the fluid port during connection of the tube connector to the infusion portion. The septum can reseal after removal of the needle, allowing the cannula to be sealed when the tube connector is detached.

[0034] According to another aspect of the application, there is provided a tube connector. The tube connector is for connection to an infusion portion having a sidewall with a regular polygonal cross-section having a number of sides divisible by 4. The infusion portion further has a plurality of fluid ports. The tube connector includes a first arm and a second arm spaced apart from and parallel to the first arm. The tube connector further includes a needle extending between the first and second arms. The first arm is spaced apart from the second arm such that, when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion, the first and second arms engage opposite two sides of the sidewall of the infusion portion to align the needle with a fluid port between the opposite two sides.

[0035] Advantageously, the first and second arms form the alignment between the needle and the fluid port when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion by a lateral sliding movement.

[0036] In examples, the tube connector can further include a guide arranged to engage a corresponding guide of the infusion portion when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion. In examples, the guide can include a protrusion. The protrusion can be arranged to engage a recess of the infusion portion when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion. The recess on the infusion portion can be provided on a flange edge of the connector and / or a base of the infusion portion.

[0037] In various examples, the tube connector can further comprise a connecting tube and a fluid path connecting the connecting tube to the needle. The connecting tube is detachable from the tube connector.

[0038] In various examples, the tube connector can further comprise a rotatably mounted locking member. The locking member can be rotated to engage the infusion portion and retain the tube connector to the infusion portion when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion.

[0039] In various examples, the locking member can comprise an annular member. The annular member can be rotated to at least partially enclose a portion of the infusion portion, for example, it can enclose opposite sides of the infusion portion, in particular the connection head, when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion. In various examples, the locking member can be rotatably mounted to the tube connector about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the needle. In various examples, the locking member can comprise a latch configured to retain the locking member in a locked position.

[0040] In various examples, the first arm of the tube connector can comprise a first latch and the second arm can comprise a second latch. The first and second latches can be arranged to clamp onto the connection head of the infusion portion when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion. In this way, the tube connector can be retained in the connected position and the clamping can provide a tactile and / or audible indication that the tube connector has been properly connected to the infusion portion. In various examples, the first and second latches can be arranged to engage recesses on opposite sides of the connection head when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion.

[0041] In various examples, the tube connector can comprise a first annular member and a second annular member joined together by an opening. The second annular member can be sized such that the infusion portion can extend through the second annular member. The first annular member can comprise a first arm, a second arm and a needle. In this example, the tube connector can be connected to the infusion portion by positioning the infusion portion in the first annular member and sliding the tube connector laterally such that the infusion portion passes through the opening and into the first annular member and engages the needle, the first arm and the second arm.

[0042] According to another aspect of the present application, there is also provided an infusion set comprising the above-mentioned infusion portion and the tube connector.

[0043] According to another aspect of the present application, there is also provided an infusion system comprising the infusion set and a drug source. The drug source can be a syringe or a pump. The pump can be an insulin pump. The pump can provide continuous or intermittent drug delivery to a patient via the infusion set.

[0044] According to another aspect of the application, there is also provided an infusion set insertion device for attaching an infusion set to a patient, the infusion set insertion device comprising an insertion device body and a button operable to move an infusion set within the insertion device body, the button and / or the insertion device body comprising an opening adapted to receive a safety connector such that the safety connector can prevent movement of the button relative to the insertion device body.

[0045] The safety connector can be similar to the above-mentioned tube connector, but without any connection for a tube and without any needle. This allows the safety connector to be connected to the infusion set in place of the tube connector, for example to seal the infusion set when the tube connector is disconnected. In some examples, the tube connector can comprise a fluid path and a septum that allows a user to inject a medicament into the infusion set via the safety connector when the safety connector is connected to the infusion set, for example using a syringe.

[0046] A number of other aspects of the application relate to the use of the above-mentioned infusion set, tube connector, infusion set and infusion system. In a number of examples, the above-mentioned infusion set, tube connector, infusion set and infusion system can be used to deliver a liquid medicament subcutaneously to a patient. Such use of the infusion set, tube connector, infusion set and infusion system can be a method of treatment.

[0047] In a number of examples, the method of treatment can be a method of treating diabetes by delivering insulin to a patient using the above-mentioned infusion set, tube connector, infusion set and infusion system. The insulin can be delivered in a continuous manner or in an intermittent manner, for example in response to a detected blood glucose or according to a predetermined delivery schedule.

[0048] In a number of other examples, the method of treatment can be a method of treating a central nervous system disorder (for example Parkinson’s disease) by delivering a medicament to a patient using the above-mentioned infusion set, tube connector, infusion set and infusion system. The medicament can be levodopa (optionally together with carbidopa), a dopamine agonist (in particular apomorphine) and / or a monoamine oxidase-B inhibitor.

[0049] The method of treatment can comprise attaching the infusion set to the patient’s skin (for example using an adhesive patch) such that the cannula is located subcutaneously. Attaching the infusion set can comprise using the insertion device, and can comprise removing the safety connector from the insertion device prior to using the insertion device to attach the infusion set to the patient’s skin. The method of treatment can further comprise connecting a medicament source to the infusion set via the above-mentioned tube connector. The medicament source can be a pump. The method of treatment can further comprise delivering the medicament to the patient via the connecting tube, tube connector and infusion set.

[0050] According to another aspect of the application, there is provided a tube connector for an infusion set, the tube connector comprising:

[0051] a body portion including a tube connection site for connection with a tube and a fluid connector for fluidic coupling to an infusion portion of an infusion set;

[0052] a first and a second latching arm extending from the body portion on opposite sides of the fluid connector; and

[0053] a first tab attached to the first latching arm and a second tab attached to the second latching arm,

[0054] wherein the first and second tabs are attached to the first and second latching arms, respectively, on opposite sides from the fluid connector and extend above the body portion spaced apart from the body portion, such that pressing the first and second tabs toward the body portion deflects the first and second latching arms, respectively.

[0055] The first and second tabs advantageously provide a better contact area for user grip and improve the leverage for deflecting the first and second latching arms during connection and disconnection. In particular, the first and second tabs together define a pressing surface for the user to press, in particular with a single thumb or finger. Thus, the user can press down on the tube connector to depress the first and second tabs to connect and disconnect the tube connector and the infusion portion of the infusion set. This advantageously reduces the force needed to deflect the first and second latching arms and makes it easier to apply, which is advantageous for users with limited mobility.

[0056] In examples, the first and second latching arms can be joined to the body portion at first and second flexure sites, respectively. The first and second flexure sites can be adapted to bend when the first and second latches are pressed toward the body portion. In examples, the body portion can include a front side and a back side. In examples, the tube connection site can be disposed on the back side and the fluid connector can be disposed on the front side. In examples, the first and second flexure sites can be disposed on the back side.

[0057] In examples, the first latching arm can include a first latch and the second latching arm can include a second latch. The first and second latches can extend from the first and second latching arms in a direction toward the first and second tabs.

[0058] In examples, the first and second tabs can be spaced apart from each other near a central component of the body portion. In examples, the fluid connector can be disposed in the central component of the body portion.

[0059] In various examples, the fluid connector can include a needle. In various examples, the first and second latch arms can be parallel to the needle. In various examples, the first and second latch arms can be disposed on the same plane as the needle. In various examples, the needle can engage a fluid connector of the infusion portion when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion.

[0060] In various other examples, the fluid connector can include a port, optionally with a seal, disposed to engage a needle of the infusion portion of the infusion set when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion.

[0061] In various examples, the first and second latch arms can extend beyond a front side of the body portion.

[0062] In various examples, the tube connector can further include at least one guide arm extending from the body portion. In various examples, the tube connector can include two guide arms. In various examples, the at least one guide arm can extend parallel to the first and second latch arms. In various examples, the at least one guide arm can be disposed between the first and second latch arms. In various examples, the at least one guide arm is in the same plane as the first and second latch arms. In various examples, the at least one latch arm does not deflect when the first and second tabs are pressed toward the body portion. In particular, the at least one guide arm can extend from the body portion inward of the flexing portion (i.e., proximate to the central portion of the body portion). Thus, the first and second latch arms are outward of the at least one guide arm, and the at least one guide arm does not deflect when the first and second tabs are pressed toward the body portion.

[0063] According to the present invention, there is also provided an infusion set comprising: an infusion portion having a cannula and a mounting portion for mounting the infusion portion to a skin of a patient with the cannula in a subcutaneous position; and a tube connector as described above.

[0064] In various examples, the infusion set can include at least one opening for the first and / or second latch arms. In various examples, the opening can include a latch portion for engaging the first and / or second latch arms.

[0065] In various examples, the infusion set can include a first opening for the first latch arm and a second opening for the second latch arm. In various examples, each of the first and second openings can include a latch portion for engaging the first and second latch arms, respectively.

[0066] In various examples, the infusion portion can further include a guide opening for the at least one guide arm of the tube connector.

[0067] According to the present invention, there is also provided an infusion system comprising the above infusion set, and a source of medicament for delivering the medicament to the patient through the tubing connector and the cannula.

[0068] In various examples, the infusion system can further comprise a pump for delivering the medicament to the patient continuously or intermittently.

[0069] According to the present invention, there is also provided an infusion set insertion device for attaching an infusion set to a patient, the infusion set insertion device comprising an insertion device body and a button operable to move the infusion set within the insertion device body, wherein the button and / or the insertion device body comprises an opening adapted to receive a safety connector such that the safety connector can prevent movement of the button relative to the insertion device body, wherein the safety connector comprises:

[0070] a body portion having a central component;

[0071] first and second latch arms extending from the body portion on opposite sides of the central component; and

[0072] a first tab attached to the first latch arm and a second tab attached to the second latch arm,

[0073] wherein the first and second tabs are attached to the first and second latch arms, respectively, on opposite sides from the central component and extend above the body portion spaced apart from the body portion such that pressing the first and second tabs towards the body portion deflects the first and second latch arms, respectively.

[0074] It will be appreciated that the safety connector can be similar to the above tubing connector, but without any connection for a tube. This allows the safety connector to be connected to the infusion set in place of the tubing connector, for example to seal the infusion set when the tubing connector is disconnected. In some examples, the tubing connector can comprise a fluid path and a septum that allows a user to inject medicament into the infusion set via the safety connector, for example using a syringe, when the safety connector is connected to the infusion set.

[0075] Various other aspects of the present invention relate to the use of the above tubing connector, infusion set and infusion system. In various examples, the above tubing connector, infusion set and infusion system can be used to deliver a liquid medicament subcutaneously to a patient. Such use of the tubing connector, infusion set and infusion system can be a method of treatment.

[0076] In various examples, the method of treatment can be a method of treating diabetes by delivering insulin to a patient using the above tubing connector, infusion set and infusion system. The insulin can be delivered in a continuous manner or in an intermittent manner, for example in response to a detected blood glucose or in accordance with a predetermined delivery schedule.

[0077] In various other examples, the method of treatment can be a method of treating a central nervous system disorder (e.g., Parkinson's disease) by delivering a medication to a patient using the above-described tube connector, infusion set, and infusion system. The medication can be levodopa (optionally with carbidopa), a dopamine agonist (particularly apomorphine), and / or a monoamine oxidase-B inhibitor.

[0078] The method of treatment can include attaching the infusion set to the patient's skin (e.g., using an adhesive patch) such that the cannula is located subcutaneously. Attaching the infusion set can include using an insertion device, and can include removing the safety connector from the insertion device prior to attaching the infusion set to the patient's skin using the insertion device. The method of treatment can also include connecting a medication source to the infusion set via the above-described tube connector. The medication source can be a pump. The method of treatment can also include delivering the medication to the patient via the connecting tube, tube connector, and infusion set.

[0079] According to another aspect of the application, there is provided a tube connector for an infusion set. The tube connector includes a connector body having a tube connection site for connection with a tube and a fluid path for connecting the tube with an infusion set during use. The tube connector also includes an arm arranged to engage with the infusion set when the tube connector is connected to the infusion set. The tube connector also includes a loop portion extending from the connector body such that a user can pull the loop portion to disconnect the tube connector from the infusion set.

[0080] Advantageously, the loop member can be gripped in a variety of different ways, including as a pull ring, which can make it easier for patients with impaired dexterity to grip and pull the tube connector to disconnect it from the infusion portion.

[0081] In various examples, the tube connector includes a first arm (the arm) and a second arm. The second arm can be parallel to and spaced apart from the first arm. The first and second arms can each include a latch for connecting the tube connector to the infusion set. The latches of the first and second arms can face each other. The arm (i.e., the first arm and / or the second arm) can be resiliently deflectable.

[0082] In various examples, the tube connector can also include a needle extending from the connector body and connected to the fluid path. The needle can be arranged to engage a fluid port of the infusion set when the tube connector is connected to the infusion set. The fluid port can include a seal, such as a septum, that is pierced by the needle. The needle can be parallel to the latch arm.

[0083] In various examples, the loop portion can be rotatably connected to the connector body. The arm (or the first and second arms) can extend from the connector body in an axial direction, and the loop portion can be rotatably connected to the connector body about a rotational axis that is perpendicular to the axial direction. In various examples, the loop portion can be hingedly joined to the connector body.

[0084] In various examples, the loop portion is rotatable to engage the infusion set when the tube connector is connected to the infusion set, thereby retaining the tube connector on the infusion set. That is, the loop portion can be a locking member. The loop portion can be configured to clamp onto a portion of the infusion set.

[0085] In some examples, the infusion set includes a connector head having a sidewall with a fluid port. The sidewall of the infusion set can include a plurality of fluid ports. The tube connector can be configured to connect to the infusion set at any one of the plurality of fluid ports.

[0086] In various examples, the infusion set includes a guide corresponding to each fluid port. The tube connector can include a corresponding guide arranged to engage the guide of the infusion set when the tube connector is connected to the infusion set to align with one of the plurality of fluid ports.

[0087] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided an infusion set, comprising: an infusion portion having a cannula and a mounting portion for mounting the infusion portion to a skin of a patient with the cannula in a subcutaneous position; and a tube connector as described above.

[0088] In various examples, the infusion portion can include a connector head having a sidewall with a fluid port. The sidewall of the connector head can include a plurality of fluid ports. In various examples, the connector head can include a regular polygonal cross-sectional shape having a number of sides divisible by 4. The tube connector can have a first arm and a second arm that engage opposite two sides of the sidewall of the infusion portion when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion to ensure alignment.

[0089] In various examples, the connector head can include one or more recesses. The arm (or first and second arms) of the tube connector can (each) include a latch arranged to engage one of the recesses of the connector head when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion.

[0090] In various examples, one of the tube connector and the infusion portion includes a needle. The other of the tube connector and the infusion portion can include a fluid port. The fluid port can include a seal, such as a septum, pierceable by the needle.

[0091] In various examples, the infusion portion can include a guide feature. The guide feature can be engaged by a corresponding guide feature of the tube connector to create alignment during connection of the tube connector to the infusion portion.

[0092] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided an infusion system, comprising the infusion set described above, and a drug source for delivering a drug to a patient through the tube connector and the cannula.

[0093] In various examples, the infusion system can further comprise a pump for continuous or intermittent delivery of the medicament to the patient.

[0094] According to a further aspect of the application, there is also provided an infusion set insertion device for attaching an infusion set to a patient. The infusion set insertion device comprises an insertion device body and a button operable to move an infusion set within the insertion device body. The button and / or the insertion device body comprises an opening adapted to receive a safety connector such that the safety connector prevents movement of the button relative to the insertion device body. The safety connector comprises: an arm for engaging the infusion set; and a loop portion extending from the connector body such that a user can pull the loop portion to disconnect the tube connector from the infusion set.

[0095] According to a further aspect of the application, there is also provided a tube connector for an infusion set, the tube connector comprising a connector body having a tube connection site for connection with a tube and a fluid path for connecting the tube with the infusion set during use. The tube connector further comprises an arm arranged to engage with the infusion set when the tube connector is connected to the infusion set. The tube connector further comprises a locking member rotatably attached to the connector body and rotatable to engage the infusion portion when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion to retain the tube connector on the infusion set.

[0096] In various examples, the shape of the locking member can be determined to at least partially surround a portion of the infusion set when in the locked position. The locking member can comprise a loop portion. The loop portion can surround a portion of the infusion set, for example a connector head of the infusion set.

[0097] It will be appreciated that the safety connector can be similar to the tube connector described above, but without any connection for connecting a tube or needle. This allows the safety connector to be connected to the infusion set in place of the tube connector, for example to seal the infusion set when the tube connector is disconnected. In some examples, the tube connector can comprise a fluid path and a seal (for example a septum) that allows a user to inject medicament into the infusion set via the safety connector, for example using a syringe, when the safety connector is connected to the infusion set.

[0098] Various other aspects of the application relate to the use of the tube connector, infusion set and infusion system described above. In various examples, the tube connector, infusion set and infusion system described above can be used to deliver a liquid medicament subcutaneously to a patient. Such use of the tube connector, infusion set and infusion system can be a method of treatment.

[0099] In various examples, the method of treatment can be a method of treating diabetes by delivering insulin to a patient using the tubing connector, infusion set, and infusion system described above. The insulin can be delivered continuously or intermittently, for example, in response to detected blood glucose or according to a predetermined delivery schedule.

[0100] In various other examples, the treatment method can be a method for treating a central nervous system disorder (e.g., Parkinson's disease) by delivering a drug to a patient using the tubing connector, infusion set, and infusion system described above. The drug can be levodopa (optionally with carbidopa), a dopamine agonist (particularly apomorphine), and / or a monoamine oxidase-B inhibitor.

[0101] The treatment method may include attaching the infusion set to the patient's skin (e.g., using an adhesive patch) such that the cannula is located subcutaneously. Attaching the infusion set may include using an insertion device, and may include removing the safety connector from the insertion device before attaching the infusion set to the patient's skin using the insertion device. The treatment method may also include connecting a drug source to the infusion set via the aforementioned tube connector. The drug source may be a pump. The treatment method may also include delivering the drug to the patient via the connecting tube, the tube connector, and the infusion set.

[0102] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tube connector for connecting to an infusion portion of an infusion set, the tube connector comprising:

[0103] a first ring portion and a second ring portion together defining a closed ring,

[0104] wherein the first ring portion is larger than the second ring portion and the first ring portion is sized so that the first ring portion can be positioned on the connector of the infusion portion,

[0105] wherein the second ring portion is sized to receive the connector of the infusion portion when the tube connector is moved laterally and the connector moves from the first ring portion into the second ring portion, and

[0106] The tube connector further comprises a fluid connector provided in the second ring portion, the fluid connector being used to form a fluid connection between the tube connector and the infusion portion.

[0107] Advantageously, for patients with impaired dexterity, a sideways sliding movement to connect the tube connector to the infusion part is easy.

[0108] In examples, the second ring portion can comprise a resiliently deflectable arm arranged to engage a connector of the infusion portion. In examples, the second ring portion can comprise a first resiliently deflectable arm and an opposing second resiliently deflectable arm. The first and second resiliently deflectable arms can be arranged to engage opposing sides of a connector of the infusion portion. The engagement between the resiliently deflectable arm or each resiliently deflectable arm and the connector can create an alignment between the tube connector and the connector, in particular between the fluid connection of the tube connector and a corresponding feature of the infusion portion.

[0109] In examples, the or each resiliently deflectable arm can comprise a latch arranged to latch over a connector of the infusion portion. The latch or each latch can engage a recess on the connector to clip the tube connector to the infusion portion.

[0110] In examples, the fluid connection of the tube connector can comprise a needle that protrudes into the second ring portion. During connection of the tube connector to the infusion portion, the needle can engage a seal, such as a septum, of the infusion portion to form a fluid connection between the tube connector and the infusion portion. In other examples, the fluid connection of the tube connector can comprise a seal, such as a septum, and the infusion portion can comprise a needle arranged to engage the fluid connection.

[0111] In examples, the connector of the infusion portion can comprise a polygonal cross-section with parallel opposing sides. In such examples, the tube connector can further comprise an opening between the first ring portion and the second ring portion. The opening can be sized such that the connector can only pass through the opening when the direction of movement is parallel to the parallel opposing sides of the connector. That is, the width of the opening can correspond to (e.g. be slightly larger than) the distance between the opposing sides of the connector such that the connector can only pass through the opening when properly aligned. In examples, the connector of the infusion portion can comprise a regular polygonal cross-section with a number of sides that is divisible by 4. In this way, when two parallel opposing sides are aligned with the opening, a third side is perpendicular to the two parallel opposing sides and the fluid port of the third side can be engaged by the fluid connection (e.g. needle).

[0112] In examples, the tube connector can further comprise at least one protrusion extending into the closed ring. An opening can be defined between the at least one protrusion and an opposing side of the tube connector. In examples, the tube connector comprises a first protrusion on a first side of the closed ring and a second protrusion on an opposing side of the closed ring and the opening is defined between the first and second protrusions. The protrusion or each protrusion can be tapered to guide the connector through the opening.

[0113] In various examples, the shape of the second ring portion can be determined to match a cross-sectional shape of the connector of the infusion portion. In some examples, the connector can have a generally triangular or other (regular) polygonal cross-sectional shape, and the second ring portion can include a corresponding profile that allows the connector to slide into the second ring portion while creating an alignment between the fluid connection and a corresponding feature (e.g., a fluid port) of the infusion portion.

[0114] In various examples, the tube connector can further include a connection tube in fluid communication with the fluid connection. The connection tube can be used to connect to a drug source, such as a pump.

[0115] In various examples, the portion of the first ring portion opposite the second ring portion is shaped to match a portion of the connector. In this way, the profile of the first ring portion can create an alignment between the fluid connection and a corresponding feature (e.g., a fluid port) of the infusion portion before the connector is moved into the second ring portion.

[0116] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is also provided an infusion portion for an infusion set. The infusion portion includes a base for attachment to a patient’s skin and a cannula for subcutaneous delivery of a drug during use. The infusion portion includes a connector extending from the base, the connector including a fluid port for fluid connection with the above-described tube connector.

[0117] In various examples, the connector can include a polygonal cross-sectional shape having a plurality of sides. For example, the connector can include a generally triangular cross-sectional shape with the fluid port disposed at one of the tips of the connector. In such examples, the second ring portion of the tube connector can include a partial triangular profile to receive the connector and align the fluid port and the fluid connection.

[0118] In various other examples, the connector can include a regular polygonal cross-sectional shape with the fluid port disposed on one side of the connector. In such examples, the second ring portion of the tube connector can include a partial regular polygonal profile to receive the connector and align the fluid port and the fluid connection.

[0119] In various examples, the connector can include a plurality of fluid ports disposed in different sides of the connector. In this way, the tube connector can be connected to the infusion portion at a plurality of different angles.

[0120] In various examples, each side of the connector includes a recess. One or more of the recesses can engage with one or more elastically deformable arms of the tube connector to clamp the tube connector onto the infusion portion. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the recesses can engage with a protrusion on the tube connector to align the fluid connection with the fluid port of the infusion portion.

[0121] In various examples, the connector can include a flange edge that overhangs the sidewall of the connector opposite the base. When the connector is received in the second ring portion of the tube connector, the second ring portion can be disposed between the base and the flange edge. This can facilitate forming a connection between the tube connector and the infusion portion.

[0122] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided an infusion set comprising the above-described tube connector and infusion portion.

[0123] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided an infusion system comprising the infusion set and a drug source, such as a drug pump, for example an insulin pump. The drug source can be a syringe or a pump. The pump can be an insulin pump. The pump can provide continuous or intermittent drug delivery to a patient via the infusion set.

[0124] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided an infusion set insertion device for attaching an infusion set to a patient, the infusion set insertion device comprising an insertion device body and a button operable to move the infusion set within the insertion device body, the button and / or the insertion device body comprising an opening adapted to receive a safety connector such that the safety connector prevents movement of the button relative to the insertion device body.

[0125] The safety connector can be similar to the above-described tube connector, but without any connection for a tube and without any needle. This allows the safety connector to be connected to the infusion set in place of the tube connector, for example to seal the infusion set when the tube connector is disconnected. In some examples, the tube connector can comprise a fluid path and a septum that allows a user to inject a drug into the infusion set via the safety connector when the safety connector is connected to the infusion set, for example using a syringe to make the injection.

[0126] Other aspects of the present invention relate to the use of the above-described tube connector, infusion portion, infusion set and infusion system. In various examples, the above-described tube connector, infusion portion, infusion set and infusion system can be used to deliver a liquid drug subcutaneously to a patient. Such use of the tube connector, infusion portion, infusion set and infusion system can be a method of treatment.

[0127] In various examples, the method of treatment can be a method of treating diabetes by delivering insulin to a patient using the above-described tube connector, infusion portion, infusion set and infusion system. The insulin can be delivered in a continuous manner or in an intermittent manner, for example in an intermittent manner in response to a detected blood glucose or according to a predetermined delivery schedule.

[0128] In various other examples, the treatment method can be a method for treating a central nervous system disorder (e.g., Parkinson's disease) by delivering a drug to a patient using the tubing connector, infusion portion, infusion set, and infusion system. The drug can be levodopa (optionally with carbidopa), a dopamine agonist (particularly apomorphine), and / or a monoamine oxidase-B inhibitor.

[0129] The treatment method may include attaching the infusion portion to the patient's skin (e.g., using an adhesive patch) such that the cannula is located subcutaneously. Attaching the infusion set may include using an insertion device, and may include removing the safety connector from the insertion device before attaching the infusion set to the patient's skin using the insertion device. The treatment method may also include connecting a drug source to the infusion set via the tube connector described above. The drug source may be a pump. The treatment method may also include delivering the drug to the patient via the connecting tube, the tube connector, and the infusion portion.

[0130] Other technical features may be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following drawings, description and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0131] Examples of the present invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0132] Figure 1A shows the attachment of the infusion portion of the infusion set to the user;

[0133] Figure 1B The pump, connecting tubing, and tubing connectors of the infusion system are shown;

[0134] Figure 1C The connection of the connecting tube to the infusion part is shown;

[0135] Figure 2 An example infusion set having an infusion portion and a tube connector is shown;

[0136] Figure 3A Shown Figure 2 a first example infusion portion of the illustrated infusion set;

[0137] Figure 3B Shown Figure 2 a second example infusion portion of the illustrated infusion set;

[0138] Figure 4 Shown Figure 2 a tubing connector for the infusion set shown;

[0139] Figure 5A The infusion portion attachment tool and safety connector are shown;

[0140] Figure 5B Shown Figure 5A Safety connector;

[0141] Figure 6A An example infusion portion is shown;

[0142] Figure 6B A cross-section of the infusion portion of Figure 6A is shown;

[0143] Figure 7 The tube connector of Figure 6A and Figure 6B is shown;

[0144] Figure 8A The tube connector of Figure 7 is shown and the infusion portion of Figure 6A is shown;

[0145] Figure 8B Another view of the tube connector of Figure 7 is shown and the infusion portion of Figure 6A is shown;

[0146] Figure 8C The connection of the tube connector of Figure 7 to the infusion portion of Figure 6A is shown;

[0147] Figure 8D The tube connector of Figure 6A is shown when connected to the infusion portion of Figure 7 ;

[0148] Figure 9A Another example infusion portion is shown;

[0149] Figure 9B The tube connector connected to the infusion portion of Figure 9A is shown;

[0150] Figure 9C The tube connector and infusion portion after the tube connector is connected and locked is shown;

[0151] Figure 10A Another example tube connector is shown;

[0152] Figure 10B The initial connection of the tube connector of Figure 10A to the infusion portion is shown;

[0153] Figure 10C The tube connector of Figure 10A connected to the infusion portion is shown;

[0154] Figure 11A An example infusion portion insertion device and safety connector is shown;

[0155] Figure 11B Shown Figure 11A inserting the infusion portion of the device into the device with the safety connector in a different configuration;

[0156] Figure 11C Another example safety connector and infusion section insertion device is shown;

[0157] Figure 12 An example infusion set having an infusion portion and a tube connector is shown;

[0158] Figure 13A Shown Figure 12 a first example infusion portion of the illustrated infusion set;

[0159] Figure 13B Shown Figure 12 a second example infusion portion of the illustrated infusion set;

[0160] Figure 14A Shown Figure 12 a top view of the tubing connector of the illustrated infusion set;

[0161] Figure 14B Shown Figure 12 A front view of the tubing connector of the infusion set shown;

[0162] Figure 14C Shown Figure 12 a rear view of the tubing connector of the illustrated infusion set;

[0163] Figure 14D Shown Figure 12 Different rear views of the tubing connector of the infusion set shown;

[0164] Figure 15A The infusion portion attachment tool and safety connector are shown;

[0165] Figure 15B Shown Figure 15A Safety connector;

[0166] Figure 16A An example infusion set having an infusion portion and a tube connector is shown;

[0167] Figure 16B Shown Figure 16A Another view of the infusion set shown with the tubing connection locked to the infusion portion;

[0168] Figure 17 Shown Figure 16A a first example infusion portion of the illustrated infusion set;

[0169] Figure 18 Shown Figure 16A a tubing connector for the infusion set shown;

[0170] Figure 19A Another example infusion portion of an infusion set is shown;

[0171] Figure 19B Shown Figure 19A A cross section of the infusion section is shown;

[0172] Figure 20A Shown with Figure 18 The tube connector shown and Figure 19A and Figure 19B an infusion set for the infusion portion shown;

[0173] Figure 20B Shown Figure 20A Another view of the infusion set shown;

[0174] Figure 20C Shown Figure 20A and Figure 20B Initial connection of the tubing connector to the infusion portion of the infusion set shown;

[0175] Figure 20D Shown 20A to 20C Infusion set, at which point the tube connector is connected to the infusion part;

[0176] Figure 21A Another example infusion portion of an infusion set is shown;

[0177] Figure 21B Shown with tube connector and Figure 21A an infusion set for the infusion portion shown;

[0178] Figure 21C Shows the connection to Figure 21A a tubing connector for the infusion portion shown;

[0179] Figure 22A An infusion portion insertion device with a safety connector is shown;

[0180] Figure 22B Shown Figure 22A Another view of the infusion portion of the insertion device;

[0181] Figure 23 An example infusion portion of an infusion set is shown;

[0182] Figure 24A shows the connection Figure 23 Example tubing connector for the infusion section shown;

[0183] Figure 24B Shown Figure 24A pipe connectors;

[0184] Figure 25A Shown Figure 24A and Figure 24B The pipe connector in Figure 23 Initial connection of the infusion section;

[0185] Figure 25B Shows the connection to Figure 23 Infusion portion shown Figure 24A and Figure 24B The pipe connector shown;

[0186] Figure 26A An alternative example infusion portion of an infusion set is shown;

[0187] Figure 26B Shown Figure 26A Cross section of the infusion portion;

[0188] Figure 27 Another example infusion portion of an infusion set is shown;

[0189] Figure 28 Shown for Figure 26A 、 Figure 26B and Figure 27 The tube connector of the infusion part;

[0190] Figure 29A Shown Figure 28 The pipe connector with Figure 26A 、 Figure 26B or Figure 27 Initial connection of the infusion portion;

[0191] Figure 29B Shown is the connection to the infusion section Figure 28 pipe connectors; and

[0192] Figure 30 An example safety connector and infusion portion insertion device are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0193] like Figure 1A As shown, the user attaches the infusion portion 104 to their skin 102. The infusion portion 104 includes a housing 106 and a mounting portion 108 that attaches the housing 106 to the skin 102. In this example, the mounting portion 108 is an adhesive patch that adheres to the skin 102 to attach the infusion portion 104 to the user. The housing 106 also includes a cannula 112 that is located subcutaneously when the infusion portion 104 is attached to the skin 102. A tube connection portion 110 is provided for connecting a connecting tube (see below). Figure 1B and Figure 1C The tube connection portion 110 is fluidly connected to the cannula 112 so that medication can flow from the tube connection portion 110 into the cannula 112 for delivery to a user.

[0194] Figure 1B A pump 114, a connecting tube 116, and a tube connector 118 are shown, which can be connected to Figure 1A the tube connection portion 110 shown. The connecting tube 116 is connected between the pump 114 and the tube connector 118.

[0195] As Figure 1C shown, when the infusion portion 104 is attached to a user, the tube connector 118 can be connected to the tube connection portion 110 of the housing 106. In this way, fluid can be pumped by the pump 114 (see Figure 1B ) through the connecting tube 116, the tube connector 118, the housing 106, and to the cannula 112 (see Figure 1A ) for delivery to the patient. The pump 114 (see Figure 1B ) can operate continuously or intermittently in order to deliver the medication at a desired rate.

[0196] The tube connector 118 can be disconnected from the tube connection portion 110 of the housing 106, thereby allowing the pump 114 to be disconnected, but leaving the infusion portion 104 in place. Thus, the pump 114 can be removed and then reattached through the tube connector 118.

[0197] Figure 2 An example infusion set 202 is shown. The infusion set 202 includes an infusion portion 204. As described with reference to Figures 1A to 1C , the infusion portion 204 has a body portion 206 that can be attached to a user. A cannula 210 is disposed within the body portion 206, and when the body portion 206 is attached to a user, the cannula 210 is located subcutaneously. It will be appreciated that the cannula 210 extends from a side of the body portion 206 opposite that shown, and that the top of the cannula 210 is shown in Figure 2 . The infusion portion 204 also includes a tube connection portion 208 for connection with a connecting tube 214 through a tube connector 212. The tube connection portion 208 and the tube connector 212 are described in more detail with reference to Figures 3A to 4 .

[0198] As shown, the tube connector 212 includes a first lever 216 and a second lever 218. As described further below, from Figure 2 the position shown, the first lever 216 and the second lever 218 can be pushed inward toward the body portion 206 to disconnect the tube connector 212 from the infusion portion 204. As shown, when the tube connector 212 is connected to the infusion portion 204, the first lever 216 and the second lever 218 extend on either side of the body portion 206 and are spaced apart from the body portion 206.

[0199] Figure 3A A first example infusion portion 302 is shown, which can be the infusion portion 204 described with reference to Figure 2The infusion portion 204 is described above. As shown, the infusion portion 302 includes a body portion 304, which can be attached to a user as described above with reference to Figures 1A to 1C The cannula 310 is disposed within the body portion 304 and is located subcutaneously when the body portion 304 is attached to a user. It should be understood that the cannula 310 extends from an opposite side of the body portion 304 than shown and that the top of the cannula 310 is shown in Figure 2 The infusion portion 302 also includes a tube connection portion 306 for connecting with a connection tube via a tube connector as described further below with reference to Figure 4 The tube connection portion 306 includes a fluid connector 308 for forming a fluid connection with the tube connector and connection tube as shown. The fluid connector 308 can include a septum or other seal that is pierced by the tube connector and allows the fluid connector 308 to reseal when the tube connector is disconnected from the infusion portion 302.

[0200] The tube connection portion 306 includes a first latch opening 312 and a second latch opening 314 for receiving first and second latch arms of the tube connector as described further below with reference to Figure 4 The first latch opening 312 and the second latch opening 314 include internal latch portions as described further below. The tube connection portion 306 also includes a first guide opening 316 and a second guide opening 318. The first guide opening 316 and the second guide opening 318 are arranged to receive first and second guide arms of the tube connector as described further below with reference to

[0201] The tube connection portion 306 includes a first latch opening 312 and a second latch opening 314 for receiving first and second latch arms of the tube connector as described further below with reference to Figure 3A The first latch opening 312 and the second latch opening 314 include internal latch portions as described further below. The tube connection portion 306 also includes a first guide opening 316 and a second guide opening 318. The first guide opening 316 and the second guide opening 318 are arranged to receive first and second guide arms of the tube connector as described further below with reference to Figure 4 Figure 4

[0202] Figure 3B Another example infusion portion 320 is shown, which can be the infusion portion 204 described above with reference to Figure 2 The infusion portion 320 of FIG. 3B is similar to the infusion portion of FIG. 3A and like reference numerals are used for like features. Figure 3B The infusion portion 320 of FIG. 3B is similar to the infusion portion of FIG. 3A and like reference numerals are used for like features. Figure 3A The infusion portion 302 of FIG. 3A and the infusion portion 320 of FIG. 3B can be used with the infusion set 200 of FIG. 2A and the infusion set 300 of FIG. 3A, respectively. Figure 3A The infusion portion 302 of FIG. 3A and the infusion portion 320 of FIG. 3B can be used with the infusion set 200 of FIG. 2A and the infusion set 300 of FIG. 3A, respectively. Figure 3B ​​The difference between the infusion portion 320 and the infusion portion 302 is that the first latch opening 312 and the first guide opening 316 are formed as separate portions of a single opening in the body portion 304. Similarly, the second latch opening 314 and the second guide opening 318 are formed as separate portions of a single opening in the body portion 304. In particular, the first latch opening 312 is formed in a first portion of the opening that is generally disposed away from the fluid connector 308, and the first guide opening 316 is disposed in a second portion of the opening that is disposed adjacent to the fluid connector 308. In the same manner, the second latch opening 314 is formed in a first portion of the opening that is generally disposed away from the fluid connector 308, and the second guide opening 318 is disposed in a second portion of the opening that is disposed adjacent to the fluid connector 308.

[0203] Figure 4 A tube connector 402 is shown for use with the infusion portion 302 of Figure 3A and the infusion portion 320 of Figure 3B .

[0204] As shown in Figure 4 , the tube connector 402 includes a connector body 404. The connector body 404 includes a front side 442 and a back side 444. The connector body 404 is symmetric about a midplane.

[0205] A connection tube 406 is connected to a fluid path 408 at a first side of the connector body 404, and a needle 410 extends from an opposite side of the connector body 404. The connection tube 406, the fluid path 408, and the needle 410 are disposed on the midplane of the connector body 404. The connection tube 406 is connected to the fluid path 408 at the back side 444, and the needle 410 is connected to the fluid path 408 at the front side 442 and protrudes beyond the front side 442. When the tube connector 402 is connected to the infusion portion 302 ( Figure 3A ) or the infusion portion 320 ( Figure 3B ), the needle 410 engages the fluid connector 308 to form a fluid connection between the connection tube 406 and the cannula 310.

[0206] As shown in Figure 4As shown, the pipe connector 402 includes a first latch arm 412 and a second latch arm 414. The first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414 extend from the connector body 404 at the front side 442. The first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414 protrude from the connector body 404. The first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414 are substantially parallel to each other. The first latch arm 412 includes a first latch 416 located at the distal end of the first latch arm 412 (the end opposite the connector body 404). The second latch arm 414 includes a second latch 418 located at the distal end of the second latch arm 414 (the end opposite the connector body 404). The first latch 416 points away from the second latch arm 414, and the second latch 418 points away from the first latch arm 412. In other words, the first latch 416 and the second latch 418 point outward and away from the midplane of the pipe connector 402. As described below, the first latch 416 and the second latch 418 are configured to latch onto interior latching sites of the first latch opening 312 and the second latch opening 314 of the infusion portion 302 , 320 , respectively, during use.

[0207] The first latch arm 412 is coupled to the connector body 404 at a first flexure 420. The second latch arm 414 is coupled to the connector body 404 at a second flexure 422. The first flexure 420 and the second flexure 422 are resiliently deformable such that the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414 are resiliently deflectable, thereby allowing the first latch 416 and the second latch 418 to be latched and unlatched as described below. The first flexure 420 and the second flexure 422 may be formed from a thinner section of the connector body 404, or from a different material (e.g., provided by co-molding), or from an embedded or attached feature, such as a spring feature. Figure 4 As shown, the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414 are both spaced apart from the central portion 446 of the connector body 404, and this spacing allows the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414 to deflect inwardly.

[0208] like Figure 4 As shown, a first lever 424 is coupled to the first latch arm 412. Similarly, a second lever 426 is coupled to the second latch arm 414. The first lever 424 and the second lever 426 are located outboard of a mid-plane of the connector body 404. The first lever 424 and the second lever 426 are substantially parallel to the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414 and extend beside / adjacent to the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414, respectively. The first lever 424 and the second lever 426 can be pressed inwardly toward each other to deflect the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414 for connecting and disconnecting the tube connector 402 with the infusion portion 302, 320.

[0209] As shown in Figure 4 , the first lever 424 is joined to the first latch arm 412 along a portion of the length of the first lever 424 and a portion of the length of the first latch arm 412. The first lever 424 is joined to the first latch arm 412 at a joining portion 428, and the first latch arm 412 protrudes beyond the joining portion 428. A free portion 432 of the first lever 424 also extends beyond the joining portion 428. Similarly, the second lever 426 is joined to the second latch arm 414 along a portion of the length of the second lever 426 and a portion of the length of the second latch arm 414. The second lever 426 is joined to the second latch arm 414 at a joining portion 430, and the second latch arm 414 protrudes beyond the joining portion 430. A free portion 434 of the second lever 426 also extends beyond the joining portion 430. The distal ends of the first lever 424 and the second lever 426 are substantially flush with the distal ends of the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414, and in some examples, the first lever 424 and the second lever 426 can extend farther than the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414. As shown, each of the first lever 424 and the second lever 426 includes a gripping surface 436.

[0210] As shown in Figure 2 , when the tube connector 212, 402 is connected to the infusion portion 204, the first lever 216, 424 and the second lever 218, 426 extend along opposite sides of the infusion portion 204.

[0211] Referring again to Figure 4 , the tube connector 402 further comprises a first guide arm 438 and a second guide arm 440. The first guide arm 438 and the second guide arm 440 protrude in a forward direction from the connector body 404, in particular from the central part 446. That is, the first guide arm 438 and the second guide arm 440 extend from the front side face 442 of the connector body 404. The first guide arm 438 is adapted to be received in the first guide opening 316 (see Figure 3A and Figure 3B ) of the infusion portion 302, 320, and the second guide arm 440 is adapted to be received in the second guide opening 318 (see Figure 3A and Figure 3B ) of the infusion portion 302, 320. The first guide arm 438 and the second guide arm 440 cooperate with the first guide opening 316 and the second guide opening 318, respectively, for guiding the connection of the tube connector 402 and the infusion portion 302, 320, in particular for aligning the needle 410 with the fluid connector 308.

[0212] With reference to Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 4During connection of the tube connector 402 to the infusion portion 302, 320, the first latch arm 412 is received in the first latch opening 312 and the second latch arm 414 is received in the second latch opening 314. The first guide arm 438 and the second guide arm 440 are simultaneously received in the first guide opening 316 and the second guide opening 318, respectively. As the tube connector 402 is pushed onto the infusion portion 302, 320, the first latch 416 and the second latch 418 will engage respective latch features in the first latch opening 312 and the second latch opening 314, respectively. Engagement of the first guide opening 316 and the second guide opening 318 with the latch features can cause the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414 to deflect inwardly, and further movement will cause the first latch 416 and the second latch 418 to couple with the respective latch features of the infusion portion 302, 320. Additionally or alternatively, a user can press the first lever 424 and the second lever 426 toward one another to deflect the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414 and facilitate engagement of the first latch 416 and the second latch 418 with the respective latch features. At the same time, the needle 410 has been connected with the fluid connector 308, e.g., by piercing a septum of the fluid connector 308 and forming a fluid connection with the cannula 310.

[0213] The tube connector 402 can be disconnected from the infusion portion 302, 320 by pressing the first lever 424 and the second lever 426 toward one another to disengage the first latch 416 and the second latch 418 from the respective latch features, and by pulling the tube connector 402 away from the infusion portion 302, 320.

[0214] During connection and disconnection, the first lever 424 and the second lever 426 can provide improved contact area for user grasping and improved leverage for deflecting the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414. In particular, the first lever 424 and the second lever 426 are disposed outside of the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414, respectively, and the free portions 432, 434 lengthen the first lever 424 and the second lever 426 further from the first flexure 420 and the second flexure 422. This advantageously reduces the force required to deflect the first latch arm 412 and the second latch arm 414 inwardly. Furthermore, the lengthened first lever 424 and the second lever 426 can be grasped differently by a user, e.g., using their knuckles instead of their fingertips. Furthermore, once connected, the lengthened first lever 424 and the second lever 426 extend alongside / beside the main portion 304, as shown in FIG. 4B, which can provide a more ergonomic connection and disconnection process. Figure 2As shown, it also makes it easier for the user to sense and adjust the amount of force applied to the first lever 424 and the second lever 426 before pulling off the tube connector 402. This is because the body portion 304 will limit the deflection of the first lever 424 and the second lever 426, so the user will know that excessive force is not required. All of these advantages make it easier for users with impaired movement or dexterity to use the tube connector 402 and the infusion set.

[0215] As described above, the tube connector 118, 212, 402 is used to connect the connecting tube 116, 214, 406 to the infusion part 104, 204, 302, 320. The tube connector 118, 212, 402 has the connecting tube 116, 214, 406 attached thereto and is clamped into the infusion part 104, 204, 302, 320.

[0216] In several other examples, such as Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, a similar safety connector 504 may be used with the insertion device 502 . Figure 5A The insertion device 502 shown in FIG. Figure 1A The infusion portion (e.g., infusion portion 104, 204, 302, 320) is attached to the user's skin 102 in the manner shown in FIG. 5 , thereby inserting the cannula 112 into a subcutaneous position. The insertion device 502 includes an insertion device body 508 that holds the infusion portion 104, 204, 302, 320 and the mounting portion 108 (see FIG. 5 ). Figure 1A The infusion portion 104, 204, 302, 320 is held with the cannula pointing toward the open end of the insertion device body 508. A button 506 is provided at the opposite end, and pressing the button 506 pushes the infusion portion 104, 204, 302, 320 downward through the insertion device body 508, out of the open end, and into contact with the user's skin. In this way, the cannula pierces the skin, and the mounting portion attaches the infusion portion 104, 204, 302, 320 to the skin.

[0217] An insertion device 502 is known from, for example, EP 2 552 513 B1.

[0218] like Figure 5AAs shown, prior to use of the insertion device 502, the safety connector 504 is used in the connection portion 510 to lock the button 506 in the extended position. When the infusion system is provided to the user, the infusion portion 104, 204, 302, 320 is provided within the insertion device body 508 of the insertion device 502, and the safety connector 504 is positioned to lock the button 506. Prior to use, the user removes the safety connector 504 from the connection portion 510, positions the insertion device 502 on their skin, and pushes the button 506 to insert the cannula and attach the infusion portion 104, 204, 302, 320 to the skin.

[0219] As Figure 5B shown, the safety connector 504 is similar to the tube connector 402 described above with reference to FIGS. 4A-4C. The difference between the safety connector 504 and the tube connector 402 described with reference to FIGS. 4A-4C is that the safety connector 504 does not include a tube connection site or any needle or fluid path. However, to simplify manufacturing and reduce the number of unique parts, the safety connector 504 can include the unused tube connection structure and fluid path. Figure 4 Figure 4 The remainder of the safety connector 504 is as described above with reference to

[0220] The remainder of the safety connector 504 is as described above with reference to Figure 4 In particular, the safety connector 504 includes a connector body 512 from which a first latch arm 514 and a second latch arm 516 extend. The first latch arm 514 and the second latch arm 516 are attached to the connector body 512 at a first flex site 518 and a second flex site 520, respectively. A first lever 522 is linked to the first latch arm 514, and a second lever 524 is linked to the second latch arm 516. The first lever 522 and the second lever 524 are as described with reference to the tube connector 402. The safety connector 504 also includes a first guide arm 526 and a second guide arm 528. Figure 4

[0221] As Figure 5A shown, the insertion device 502 includes a connection portion 510 that receives the safety connector 504. In particular, the connection portion 510 includes openings that receive the first latch arm 514, the second latch arm 516, the first guide arm 526, and the second guide arm 528. When the safety connector 504 is connected to the connection portion 510, the first lever 522 and the second lever 524 will be outside of and partially around the button 506. In this way, when the safety connector 504 is connected to the connection portion 510, it prevents the button 506 from moving downward, thereby preventing accidental or premature activation of the insertion device 502.

[0222] ​​As described above, before using the insertion device 502, the safety connector 504 is removed, allowing the button 506 to be pressed. Therefore, the advantages of the tube connector 402 described above with respect to ease of removal also apply to the safety connector 504. Furthermore, it is advantageous to provide the same connector as the safety connector 504 and the tube connector 402 so that the patient does not have to use two different types of connectors.

[0223] As described above, the tube connector 118, 212, 412 can be connected to a pump, such as a pump for administering a therapeutic substance, via the connecting tube 214. However, the tube connector 118, 212, 412 can be replaced with a dummy connector or a dummy component shaped to correspond to the tube connector 118, 212, 412 but without the connecting tube 214. In this way, the patient can disconnect the real tube connector 118, 212, 412 and replace it with the dummy component. In this way, the pump for administering medication or therapeutic substances can be disconnected from the patient's infusion set 202. When the patient wears the infusion set 202 with the dummy component or dummy connector and needs medication or therapeutic substances, the patient can, for example, inject the medication or therapeutic substance directly into the cannula 210 through a portion of the infusion set 202, such as by using a syringe.

[0224] In this way, the patient can easily leave the room for a shorter period of time without having to carry difficult-to-manage medical equipment, such as the aforementioned pump for administering medication, but can still inject medication or therapeutic substances when needed using, for example, a small syringe.

[0225] Similarly, Figure 5A and Figure 5B The safety connector 504 shown in FIG. 5 can be used as a dummy component after being removed from the insertion device 502 .

[0226] In some examples, the secure connector 504 may additionally include Figure 4 Fluid path 408 and needle 410 are shown, along with a pierceable area, such as a septum, at the opening of fluid path 408. In this manner, the septum can allow a patient to administer medication by injecting the medication into infusion set 202 via fluid path 408 and needle 410.

[0227] Figure 6A The infusion portion 1202 of the infusion set is shown. The infusion portion 1202 includes a base 1204 and a connector 1206 protruding from the base 1204. In use, the base 1204 is attached to the patient's skin, for example using a reference Figure 1AA described adhesive patch. The infusion portion 1202 includes a cannula in the cannula receiving opening 1208. The side wall 1210 of the connector 1206 includes a plurality of fluid ports 1212. Each fluid port 1212 is in fluid communication with the cannula through the cannula receiving opening 1208 and can include a seal, such as a septum. Thus, the needle 1218 of a tube connector can be connected to any of the fluid ports 1212 for fluid connection with the cannula.

[0228] The connector 1206 also includes a flange edge 1214. The flange edge 1214 has a plurality of recesses 1216 formed around its peripheral edge. In this way, the flange edge 1214 has a wavy form. Each fluid port 1212 is aligned with one of the recesses 1216 of the flange edge 1214. As shown, the recesses 1216 can also extend through the side wall 1210, as described further below.

[0229] Thus, the tube connector can be attached to the infusion portion 1202 from any of a plurality of different directions in which the needle 1218 is aligned with a fluid port 1212 in the infusion portion 1202. As described below, the shape of the side wall 1210 and / or the flange edge 1214 ensures proper alignment between the tube connector and one of the fluid ports 1212.

[0230] Figure 6B A cross-section of the infusion portion 1202 is shown, particularly of the connector 1206 taken below the flange edge 1214. As shown, the side wall 1210 of the connector 1206 has a polygonal shape. That is, the cross-section of the side wall 1210 is polygonal. In particular, the cross-section of the side wall 1210 is a regular polygonal cross-section having an even number of sides. Specifically, the side wall 1210 has a number of sides 1220a-1220h that is divisible by 4. Thus, the cross-section of the side wall 1210 is regular and symmetrical, and the sides are arranged in parallel opposite pairs of sides of the same length.

[0231] In the illustrated example, the side wall 1210 has eight sides / edges 1220a-1220h. Each side / edge 1220a-1220h has a recess 1222a-1222h and a fluid port 1224a-1224h. In a number of other examples, the side wall 1210 can have four sides / edges, or twelve sides, or sixteen sides, each having a fluid port. As shown, each side / edge 1220a-1220h can or can not have a recess. Figure 6B

[0232] ​Each fluid port 1224a-1224h is connected to the cannula receiving opening 1208, which is connected to the cannula. Thus, any of the fluid ports 1224a-1224h can be used to connect to a cannula. Each fluid port 1224a-1224h includes a seal, such as a septum, which can be pierced by a needle, as described below.

[0233] Figure 7 Shown with Figure 6A and Figure 6B The infusion portion 1202 is used together with the tube connector 1302.

[0234] like Figure 7 As shown, tube connector 1302 includes a connector body 1304. Connector body 1304 includes a tube connection site 1320 at which a tube (not shown) is connected. Connector body 1304 also includes a needle 1318 and a fluid path extending between needle 1318 and tube connection site 1320. As previously described, when tube connector 1302 is connected to an infusion section, the fluid path provides a fluid connection between the tube and the cannula. In various other examples, instead of needle 1318, tube connector 1302 may include a tube connection site for fluid connection to a fluid port or needle of the infusion section.

[0235] As shown, the tubing connector 1302 includes a locking member, in this example, an annular member 1324. The annular member 1324 is rotatably mounted to the connector body 1304 at hinges 1322a, 1322b. The annular member 1324 can be rotated relative to the connector body 1304 so that the annular member 1324 can be used as a pull ring and / or a locking mechanism, as described below. The annular member 1324 includes a clamp portion 1326 for clamping the annular member 1324 in a locked position, as described further below. The annular member 1324 also includes a finger grip 1328 for more easily grasping the annular member 1324 to lift it from the locked position, as described further below.

[0236] like Figure 7The tube connector 1302 includes a first arm 1306 and a second arm 1308, as shown. The first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308 extend from the connector body 1304. The first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308 are substantially parallel to each other. The needle 1318 is disposed between the first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308 and points in substantially the same direction as the first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308. In examples in which the needle 1318 includes a needle, the needle extends parallel to the first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308 and between the first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308. As described below, this allows the tube connector 1302 to be moved into connection to the infusion portion by sliding laterally when the first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308 couple the tube connector 1302 to the infusion portion, which forms a fluid connection with the needle 1318.

[0237] In the illustrated example, the first arm 1306 includes a first latch 1310 and the second arm 1308 includes a second latch 1312. The first latch 1310 points inward toward the second arm 1308 and the second latch 1312 points inward toward the first arm 1306.

[0238] The first arm 1306 is joined to the connector body 1304 at a first flex site 1314. The second arm 1308 is joined to the connector body 304 at a second flex site 1316. The first flex site 1314 and the second flex site 1316 are elastically deformable such that the first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308 can be elastically deflected, allowing the first latch 1310 and the second latch 1312 to latch and unlatch. The first flex site 1314 and the second flex site 1316 can be formed from a thinner section of the connector body 1304, or from a different material (e.g., provided by co-molding), or from an embedded or attached feature such as a spring feature.

[0239] In some alternative examples, the first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308 can not include any latches. In such examples, the annular member 1324 can be relied upon to hold the tube connector 1302 in connection with the infusion portion 1202.

[0240] Figures 8A to 8D The tube connector 1302 is shown connected to Figure 7 the infusion portion 1202, as described above. Figure 6A and Figure 6B the infusion portion 1202, as described above. Figures 8A to 8D, the tube connector 1302 includes a needle 1318 and a connecting tube 1402. The needle 1318 extends from the connector body 1304 between the first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308. The connecting tube 1402 is connected to the opposite side of the connector body 1304 and is fluidically connected to the needle 1318 via a fluid path in the connector body 1304. When the tube connector 1302 is connected to the infusion portion 1202, the needle 1318 provides a fluid connection between the connecting tube 1402 and the cannula in the cannula receiving opening 1208, as previously described.

[0241] like Figure 8A As shown, before connecting the tube connector 302 to the infusion portion 1202, the ring member 1324 is rotated away from the infusion portion 1202 into an open position that allows the tube connector 1302 to be slid laterally onto the infusion portion 1202, as described below.

[0242] like Figure 8B As shown, during the process of connecting the tube connector 1302 and the infusion portion 1202, the needle 1318 is aligned with one of the fluid ports 1212 of the infusion portion 1202. The needle 1318 enters the fluid port 1212 to connect the tube (1402, see Figure 8A ) and a cannula in the cannula receiving opening 1208 to form a fluid connection.

[0243] refer to Figure 8B and Figure 8C When the tube connector 1302 is pushed onto the infusion portion 1202, the needle 1318 is located in the fluid port 1212, and the first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308 are located on both sides of the connector 1206 of the infusion portion 1202. The first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308 are located between the flange edge 1214 and the base (1204, see Figure 6A )between.

[0244] In particular, the first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308 contact opposite sides of the connector 1206. The first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308 are spaced apart to only allow the tube connector 1302 to be parallel to two opposite sides / two opposite edges of the connector 1206 (e.g., as shown in FIG. Figure 6B The connector 1206 can only be slid onto the infusion portion 1202 when the regular polygonal cross section has a number of sides 1220a-1220h that is divisible by 4 (see FIG. Figure 6B ), and the location of the fluid ports 1224a-1224h in each side 1220a-1220h, the tube connector 1302 can be connected to the infusion portion 1202 only when the needle 1318 is aligned with the fluid ports 1224a-1224h.

[0245] Accordingly, the shape of the infusion portion 1202, and in particular the shape of the connector head 1206, allows for connection of the tube connector 1302 by lateral sliding from a plurality of different directions. In the illustrated example, the tube connector 1302 can be connected to the infusion portion 1202 from eight different directions. The shape of the infusion portion 1202 also prevents the tube connector 1302 from being pushed onto the infusion portion 1202 in the absence of proper alignment.

[0246] In addition, the tube connector 1302 can include protrusions (not shown) that align and engage with the recesses (1216, see Figure 6A ) of the infusion portion 1202, particularly on the flange edge (1214, see Figure 6A ). This can provide further alignment between the needle 1318 and the fluid port (1212, see Figure 8B ) of the infusion portion 202.

[0247] As shown in Figure 8C , when the tube connector 1302 is pushed onto the infusion portion 1202, the first arm 1306 and the second arm 1308 are on either side of the connector head 1206. In examples where the first arm 1306 includes a first latch 1310 and the second arm 1308 includes a second latch 1312, the first latch 1310 and the second latch 1312 can be pinched on the sidewall (1210, see Figure 6A ) of the connector head 1206 to hold the tube connector 1302 on the infusion portion 1202. In particular, the first latch 1310 and the second latch 1312 can engage opposing recesses (recesses 1222a-1222h, see Figure 6B ) of the infusion portion 1202. However, in some examples, the first latch 1310 and the second latch 1312 are omitted.

[0248] As shown in Figure 8D , once the needle 1318 is connected with the fluid port (1212, see Figure 9B ), the ring member 1324 can be rotated downward to encircle the connector head 1206 of the infusion portion 1202. In this position, the tube connector 1302 is locked on the infusion portion 1202 by the ring member 1324.

[0249] As noted above, when the ring member 1324 is rotated over the connector head 1206, it can create some interference with the connector head 1206, and in particular the flange edge 1214. The ring member 1324 can include one or more gripping features (1326, see Figure 8C ) that pinch on the flange edge 1214 when the ring member 1324 is pushed downward over the connector head 1206. This can improve the locking by holding the ring member 1324 in the locked position shown in Figure 8D .

[0250] The patient can unlock the tube connector 1302 from the infusion portion 1202 by rotating the ring-shaped member 1324 away from the infusion portion 1202. The finger grip 1328 can make it easier for the patient to grip the ring-shaped member 1324.

[0251] Advantageously, only a small force is required to connect or disconnect the tube connector 1302 from the infusion portion 1202, which makes it easier for users with impaired mobility or dexterity to use.

[0252] Figure 9A Another example infusion portion 1502 of an infusion set is shown. The infusion portion 1502 is similar to the infusion portion 1202 described with reference to Figure 6A and Figure 6B In particular, the infusion portion 1502 comprises a base 1504 and a connector head 1506. The connector head 1506 comprises a cannula-receiving opening 1508, and a plurality of fluid ports (not shown in Figure 9A ) are present in the sidewall of the connector head 1506. A flange edge 1510 of the connector head 1506 is provided. The connector head 1506, in particular the sidewall, has a regular polygonal cross-section, the number of sides of which is divisible by 4. The sidewall comprises a plurality of fluid ports, as described with reference to Figure 6A and Figure 6B .

[0253] As also shown in Figure 9A , in the present example, the base 1504 comprises a plurality of recesses 1512 spaced around the base 1504. The recesses 1512 of the base 1504 are aligned with the recesses (1216, see Figure 6A ) of the flange edge 1510 and the recesses (1222a-1222h, see Figure 6B ) of the connector head 1506. The recesses 1512 are thereby also aligned with the fluid ports in the connector head 1506.

[0254] As shown in Figure 9B and Figure 9C , a tube connector 1514 can be connected to the infusion portion 1502. The tube connector 1514 is similar to the tube connector 1302 described above with reference to Figure 7 The tube connector 1514 can be connected to the infusion portion 1502 in the same way as described in detail with reference to Figures 8A to 8D .

[0255] In particular, as shown, the tube connector 1514 includes a connector body 1520 from which the first arm 1516 and the second arm 1518 extend. When the tube connector 1514 is connected to the infusion portion 1502, the first arm 1516 and the second arm 1518 are positioned on either side of the connector head 1506 of the infusion portion 1502 below the flange edge 1510. As also shown, the tube connector 1514 includes a connecting tube 1522 that is in communication with a needle 1524 that forms a fluid connection with a cannula in the cannula receiving opening 1508 when the tube connector 1514 is connected to the infusion portion 1502. As noted above, a rotatable locking member, in particular a ring member 1526, is provided for pulling the tube connector 1514 as well as for locking the tube connector 1514 to the infusion portion 1502.

[0256] As Figure 9B and Figure 9C shown, the tube connector 1514 also includes a guide 1528. In the present example, the guide 1528 is a protrusion. The guide 1528 is disposed on the connector body 1520 proximate to the needle 1524. As Figure 9B and Figure 9C shown, the guide 1528 is aligned with one of the recesses 1512 of the flange edge 1510 when the tube connector 1514 is connected to the infusion portion 1502. In this way, the guide 1528 cooperates with the recess 1512 to ensure proper alignment when the tube connector 1514 is attached to the infusion portion 1502.

[0257] In a similar manner, the guide 1528 can extend from the connector body 1520 on the opposite side of the side shown in the illustration, such that the guide 1528 can additionally or alternatively engage with the recess 1512 of the base 1504 to ensure alignment in the same manner.

[0258] Thus, the tube connector 1514 can be attached to the infusion portion 1502 from a plurality of different directions in which the needle 1524 is aligned with a fluid port (1212, see Figure 6A ) in the infusion portion 1502.

[0259] As also Figure 9B and Figure 9C shown, the ring member 1526 can include a clip 1530 that interacts with the infusion portion 1502 to clip the ring member 1526 into Figure 9C the closed position shown, as described previously. In the present example, the clip 1530 is centrally located on the ring member 1526 and is arranged to clip into the recess 1512 of the connector head 1506 when the ring member 1526 is in the closed position shown. Figure 9C

[0260] Figure 10A is shown in connection with​ Figure 6A and Figure 6B the infusion portion 1202 shown in FIGS. 1 1 A and 1 1 B and / or Figure 9A another example tube connector 1602 for use with the infusion portion 1502 shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B. In this example, the tube connector 1602 includes a first annular member 1604 and a second annular member 1606 that are joined to one another.

[0261] The first annular member 1604 and the second annular member 1606 are partially circular / partially annular with an opening 1608 formed therebetween, thus the first annular member 1604 and the second annular member 1606 define a closed shape. The first annular member 1604 is shaped to match the infusion portion 1202, particularly the connector head (1206, see FIG. 1 1 A). In particular, the first annular member 1604 includes a first arm 1614 and a second arm 1616 that are disposed on opposite sides that engage the infusion portion 1202. The first arm 1614 and the second arm 1616 are connected to the first annular member 1604 at flexure sites such that the first arm 1614 and the second arm 1616 are elastically deflectable. The first arm 1614 includes a first latch 1618 that faces the second arm 1616, and the second arm 1616 includes a second latch 1620 that faces the first arm 1614. Figure 6A and Figure 6B The second annular member 1606 is larger than the first arm 1614.

[0262] The tube connector 1602 also includes a tube connection site 1610 for attaching a connecting tube 1622, as shown in FIG. 16B. The tube connector 1602 also includes a needle 1612 that, when attached, forms a fluid connection with the infusion portion 1202. The needle 1612 can include a needle 1612 as shown in FIG. 16C.

[0263] The tube connector 1602 also includes a tube connection site 1610 for attaching a connecting tube 1622, as shown in FIG. 16B. The tube connector 1602 also includes a needle 1612 that, when attached, forms a fluid connection with the infusion portion 1202. The needle 1612 can include a needle 1612 as shown in FIG. 16C. Figure 10B Figure 10B The tube connector 1602 also includes a tube connection site 1610 for attaching a connecting tube 1622, as shown in FIG. 16B. The tube connector 1602 also includes a needle 1612 that, when attached, forms a fluid connection with the infusion portion 1202. The needle 1612 can include a needle 1612 as shown in FIG. 16C.

[0264] Figure 10B The tube connector 1602 is shown in an initial stage of connection to the infusion portion 1202 described with reference to FIGS. 1 1 A and 1 1 B. Figure 10A The tube connector 1602 is shown in an initial stage of connection to the infusion portion 1202 described with reference to FIGS. 1 1 A and 1 1 B. Figure 6A The tube connector 1602 is shown in an initial stage of connection to the infusion portion 1202 described with reference to FIGS. 1 1 A and 1 1 B. Figure 6B The tube connector 1602 is shown in an initial stage of connection to the infusion portion 1202 described with reference to FIGS. 1 1 A and 1 1 B. Figure 10C The tube connector 1602 is shown in an initial stage of connection to the infusion portion 1202 described with reference to FIGS. 1 1 A and 1 1 B. Figure 9A The tube connector 1602 is shown in an initial stage of connection to the infusion portion 1202 described with reference to FIGS. 1 1 A and 1 1 B.

[0265] The tube connector 1602 is shown in an initial stage of connection to the infusion portion 1202 described with reference to FIGS. 1 1 A and 1 1 B. Figure 10B ​As shown, the second annular member 1606 is initially placed over the infusion portion 1202. The second annular member 1606 is large enough to be placed over the infusion portion 1202 without engaging the infusion portion 1202. As shown, in this position, the needle 1612 is pointing toward the infusion portion 1202. The first arm 1614 and the second arm 1616 are also pointing toward the infusion portion 1202.

[0266] From this position, the tube connector 1602 can be slid laterally toward the infusion portion 1202 to connect the tube connector 1602 to the infusion portion 1202. As shown, Figure 10B The narrowing of the opening 1608 at the intersection between the first annular member 1604 and the second annular member 1606 is facilitated by the protrusion 1624 and the opposing protrusion 1626. The narrowing of the opening 1608 helps to guide the infusion portion 1202 into the first annular member 1604.

[0267] Figure 10C The tube connector 1602 is shown connected to the infusion portion 1202. The tube connector 1602 has been slid laterally from the Figure 10B position shown. The first arm 1614 and the second arm 1616 have engaged the side wall (1210, see Figure 6A and Figure 6B ) of the connector head (1206, see Figure 6A and Figure 6B ). The needle 1612 has also engaged the fluid port (1212, see Figure 6A and Figure 6B ) to form a fluid connection between the connecting tube 1622 and the infusion portion 1202.

[0268] The first arm 1614 and the second arm 1616 are spaced apart from each other such that it is only possible to move from the Figure 10B position shown to the Figure 10C position shown when the needle 1612 is aligned with the fluid port of the infusion portion 1202. That is, the first arm 1614 and the second arm 1616 engage opposite sides of the side wall (1210, see Figure 6B ) and will prevent the tube connector 1602 from moving toward the infusion portion 1202 unless the first arm 1614 and the second arm 1616 are parallel to the opposite sides of the side wall (1210, see Figure 6B ). In this way, the tube connector 1602 can only be slid into connection with the infusion portion 1202 when the needle 1612 is aligned with the fluid port of the infusion portion 1202.

[0269] When the tube connector 1602 is slid into connection with the infusion portion 1202, the first and second latches 1618, 1620 engage the infusion portion 1202 and cause the first and second arms 1614, 1616 to deflect outwardly. The first and second latches 1618, 1620 can then be clamped around the infusion portion 1202 to hold the tube connector 1602 in place on the infusion portion 1202.

[0270] Advantageously, the patient can use the second annular member 1606 to grasp the tube connector 1602 to disconnect the tube connector 1602 from the infusion portion 1202. In particular, the patient can grasp any portion of the second annular member 1606 and push it toward the infusion portion 1202 to disconnect the tube connector 1602 from the infusion portion 1202. Similarly, the second annular member 1606 can be used as a pull tab to move the tube connector 1602 into connection with the infusion portion 1202. Patients with impaired dexterity will find it easier to grasp and push / pull the second annular member 1606, making it easier for them to connect and disconnect the tube connector 1602.

[0271] As described above, the tube connectors 118, 1302, 1514 are used to connect the connecting tubes 116, 1402, 1522 to the infusion portions 104, 1202, 1502. The tube connectors 118, 1302, 1514 have the connecting tubes 116, 1402, 1522 attached to them and are clamped into the infusion portions 104, 1202, 1502.

[0272] In a number of other examples, as Figure 11A shown, connectors similar to the tube connectors 118, 1302, 1514 described above can be provided as safety connectors 1704. The safety connectors 1704 can be used with an insertion device 1702. Figure 11A The insertion device 1702, as shown in Figure 1A , is used to attach an infusion portion (e.g., the infusion portions 104, 1202, 1502) to the skin 102 of a user in a manner that inserts the cannula 112 into a subcutaneous location. The insertion device 1702 includes an insertion device body 1708 that holds the infusion portion 104, 1202, 1502 and the mounting portion 108 (see Figure 1A ). The infusion portion 104, 1202, 1502 is held with the cannula facing the open end of the insertion device body 1708. A button 1706 is disposed at the opposite end, and pressing the button 1706 pushes the infusion portion 104, 1202, 1502 downward through the insertion device body 1708, out the open end, and into contact with the skin of the user. In this way, the cannula pierces the skin, and the mounting portion attaches the infusion portion 104, 1202, 1502 to the skin.

[0273] A suitable insertion device 1702 is known from, for example, EP 2 552 513 B1.

[0274] like Figure 11A As shown, before using the insertion device 1702, the safety connector 1704 is used to connect the portion 1710 to lock the button 1706 in the extended position. When the infusion system is provided to the user, the infusion portion 104, 1202, 1502 is provided in the insertion device body 1708 of the insertion device 1702, and the safety connector 1704 is positioned to lock the button 1706. The safety connector 1704 is similar to the reference Figure 7 The tube connector 1302 is substantially the same as described, or it may be used in conjunction with the tube connector 1302 of FIG. Figure 9B and Figure 9C The tube connector 1514 described is substantially the same. However, the safety connector 1704 does not have a tube or needle. In this position, the annular member 1712 of the safety connector 1704 is folded against the insertion device body 1708.

[0275] Before use, the user removes the safety connector 1704 from the connecting portion 1710 by rotating the ring member 1712 upward, using the ring member 1712 as a pull ring, and pulling the safety connector 1704 out of the connecting portion 1710. The user can then position the insertion device 1702 on their skin and push the button 1706 to insert the cannula and attach the infusion portion 104, 1202, 1502 to the skin.

[0276] In particular, if Figure 11B As shown, the ring member 1712 can be rotated away from the insertion device body 1708 so that it can be grasped to pull the safety connector 1704 out of the connecting portion 1710 and away from the insertion device 1702. After the safety connector 1704 is removed, the button 1706 can be pressed to operate the insertion device 1702.

[0277] Thus, the advantages described above for tube connectors 118, 1302, 1514 in terms of ease of removal also apply to safety connector 1704. Furthermore, it is advantageous to provide the same connector for both safety connector 1704 and tube connector 118, 1302, 1514 so that the patient does not have to use two different types of connectors. In particular, patients with impaired dexterity may find it easier to grip ring member 1712 by using the ring member as a pull ring or by gripping opposite sides of ring member 1712.

[0278] Figure 11C An insertion device 1702 is shown with an alternative safety connector 1714. In particular, the safety connector 1714 is similar to the one shown in FIG. Figure 10AThe tube connector 1602 is described above, but without the needle 1612 or the connecting tube 1622. The safety connector 1714 includes a second looped member 1716, which, as described above with reference to the safety connector 1704, is configured to be pulled to remove the safety connector 1714 from the insertion device 1702. Figure 10A The second looped member 1606 is described above. As shown, the second looped member 1716 provides a pull tab for removing the safety connector 1714 from the insertion device 1702, thereby allowing the button 1706 to be depressed to deploy the infusion portion as described above. Figure 11C

[0279] As described above, the tube connectors 118, 1302, 1514, 1602 can be coupled to a pump for administering a therapeutic substance, for example, by the connecting tubes 116, 1402, 1522, 1622. However, the tube connectors 118, 1302, 1514, 1602 can be replaced with a mock connector or mock component that is shaped to correspond to the tube connectors 118, 1302, 1514, 1602, but without the connecting tubes 116, 1402, 1522, 1622. In this way, a patient can disconnect the real tube connectors 118, 1302, 1514, 1602 and replace them with the mock components. In this way, a pump for administering a drug or therapeutic substance can be disconnected from the infusion portion 104, 1202, 1502 of a patient. When a patient wears an infusion portion 104, 1202, 1502 with mock components or mock connectors and needs a drug or therapeutic substance, the patient can inject the drug or therapeutic substance directly into the cannula, for example, by using a syringe, for example, through a portion of the infusion portion 104, 1202, 1502.

[0280] In this way, a patient can easily leave home for a short period of time without having to carry around difficult to manage medical equipment, such as a pump for administering a drug as described above, but still be able to inject a drug or therapeutic substance when needed, for example, using a small syringe.

[0281] Similarly, the safety connectors 1704, 1714 shown in FIGS. 17A-17B can be used as mock components after being removed from the insertion device 1702. Figure 11A , Figure 11B or Figure 11C

[0282] In some examples, the safety connectors 1704, 1714 can be fluidly coupled to the infusion portion 104, 1202, 1502 and can include a pierceable region, such as a septum, for allowing a patient to administer a drug by injecting the drug through the pierceable region and into the infusion portion 104, 1202, 1502.

[0283] Figure 12 ​​An example infusion set 2202 is shown. The infusion set 2202 includes an infusion portion 2204. The infusion portion 2204 has a body portion 2206, as shown in FIG. Figures 1A to 1C As described above, the main body portion 2206 can be attached to a user. The cannula 2210 is disposed within the main body portion 2206 and is positioned subcutaneously while the main body portion 2206 is attached to the user. It should be understood that the cannula 2210 extends from the side of the main body portion 2206 opposite to that shown, and the top of the cannula 2210 is located at Figure 12 The infusion portion 2204 further includes a tube connection portion 2208 for connecting to a connecting tube 2214 via a tube connector 2212. 13A to 14A The tube connection portion 2208 and the tube connector 2212 are described in more detail.

[0284] As shown, the tube connector 2212 includes a body portion 2216, a first tab 2218, and a second tab 220. The first tab 2218 and the second tab 2220 overlie the body portion 2216, and as further described below, the first tab 2218 and the second tab 2220 can be pushed toward the body portion 2216 to move the latch arm and disconnect the tube connector 2212 from the infusion portion 2204.

[0285] Figure 13A A first example infusion portion 2302 is shown, which may be a reference Figure 12 As shown in the figure, the infusion part 2302 includes a main body part 2304, which can be Figures 1A to 1C The cannula 2310 is disposed within the body portion 2304 and is positioned subcutaneously while the body portion 2304 is attached to the user. It should be understood that the cannula 2310 extends from the side of the body portion 2304 opposite to that shown, and that the top of the cannula 2310 is located at Figure 12 The infusion portion 2302 also includes a device for injecting the infusion product into the patient's body. Figure 14A The tube connector is further described as a tube connecting portion 2306 connected to the connecting tube.

[0286] The tube connection portion 2306 includes a fluid connector 2308 for connecting to the Figure 14A The tubing connector and connecting tubing are shown forming a fluid connection. The fluid connector 2308 may include a septum or other seal that is pierced by the tubing connector and allows the fluid connector 2308 to be resealed when the tubing connector is disconnected from the infusion portion 2302.

[0287] like Figure 13A As shown, the tube connection portion 2306 includes a first latch opening 2312 and a second latch opening 2314 for receiving a latch. Figure 14AThe first and second latch arms of the pipe connector are described. The first latch opening 2312 and the second latch opening 2314 include internal latch portions, as further described below. The pipe connecting portion 2306 also includes a first guide opening 2316 and a second guide opening 2318. The first guide opening 2316 and the second guide opening 2318 are arranged to receive a reference Figure 14A The first and second guide arms of the pipe connector are further described.

[0288] Figure 13B Another example infusion portion 2320 is shown, which may be referenced Figure 12 The infusion portion 2204. Figure 13B The infusion portion 2320 is similar to Figure 13A infusion part, and the same reference numerals are used for similar features. Figure 13A The infusion portion 2302 and Figure 13B The difference between the infusion portion 2320 and the infusion portion 2320 is that the first latch opening 2312 and the first guide opening 2316 are formed as separate portions of a single opening in the body portion 2304. Similarly, the second latch opening 2314 and the second guide opening 2318 are formed as separate portions of a single opening in the body portion 2304. In particular, the first latch opening 2312 is formed in a first portion of the opening that is generally disposed away from the fluid connector 2308, and the first guide opening 2316 is disposed in a second portion of the opening that is disposed adjacent to the fluid connector 2308. In the same manner, the second latch opening 2314 is formed in a first portion of the opening that is generally disposed away from the fluid connector 2308, and the second guide opening 2318 is disposed in a second portion of the opening that is disposed adjacent to the fluid connector 2308.

[0289] 14A to 14D Shown with Figure 13A The infusion portion 2302 and Figure 13B The tube connector 2402 is used together with the infusion part 2320.

[0290] like Figure 14A As shown, tube connector 2402 includes a main body portion 2404. Main body portion 2404 includes a front side 2428 and a rear side 2430. A fluid connector is provided on front side 2428. In this example, the fluid connector includes a needle 2410 extending from front side 2428. Tube connector 2402 also includes a connecting tube 2406 extending from a tube connection site on rear side 2430 of main body portion 2404 and connected to needle 2410. Needle 2410 and connecting tube 2406 are connected via a fluid path 2408 extending through main body portion 2404. Main body portion 2404 is symmetrical about a midplane 2442 extending parallel to connecting tube 2406 and needle 2410.

[0291] When the tube connector 2402 is connected to the infusion portion 2302 Figure 13A ) or the infusion portion 2320 Figure 13B ), the needle 2410 engages the fluid connector 2308 to form a fluid connection between the connecting tube 2406 and the cannula 2310.

[0292] As shown in 14A to 14D , the body portion 2404 is generally planar and extends on both sides of the needle 2410 and the connecting tube 2406. The body portion 2404 comprises a central part 2432 at which the needle 2410 and the connecting tube 2406 are connected. The tube connector 2402 comprises a first latching arm 2412 and a second latching arm 2414. The first latching arm 2412 and the second latching arm 2414 are joined to opposite sides of the body portion 2404. The first latching arm 2412 and the second latching arm 2414 project substantially parallel to each other and substantially parallel to the needle 2410. The first latching arm 2412 and the second latching arm 2414 are arranged in the same plane as the body portion 2404, which is perpendicular to the median plane 2442 of the tube connector 2402.

[0293] The first latching arm 2412 comprises a first latch 2416 at a distal end of the first latching arm 2412, opposite the body portion 2404. The second latching arm 2414 comprises a second latch 2418 at a distal end of the second latching arm 2414, opposite the body portion 2404. The first latch 2416 and the second latch 2418 point upwards in the orientation shown, i.e. out of the plane of the paper. Thus, the first latch 2416 and the second latch 2418 are parallel to each other and project in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the body portion 2404 and parallel to the median plane 2442, perpendicular to the needle 2410. As will be described below, the first latch 2416 and the second latch 2418 are configured to latch on inner latching sites of the first latching opening 2312 and the second latching opening 2314, respectively, of the infusion portion 2302, 2320 during use. Figure 14A

[0294] The first tab 2420 is joined to the first latching arm 2412. Similarly, the second tab 2422 is joined to the second latching arm 2414. The first tab 2420 and the second tab 2422 extend to cover a portion of the body portion 2404 and are arranged in a plane parallel to and spaced apart from the plane of the body portion 2404. As shown in 14B to 14D ​As shown, the first tab 2420 is joined to an opposite side of the first latch arm 2412 from the central component 2432 and the second latch arm 2414 and extends to partially cover the body portion 2404. A space 2434 is defined between the first tab 2420 and the body portion 2404. Similarly, the second tab 2422 is joined to an opposite side of the second latch arm 2414 from the central component 2432 and the first latch arm 2412 and extends to partially cover the body portion 2404. A space 2436 is defined between the second tab 2422 and the body portion 2404. The ends of the first tab 2420 and the second tab 2422 are opposite and spaced apart near the central component 2432 of the body portion 2404.

[0295] As shown, pressing the first tab 2420 toward the body portion 2404 causes the first latch arm 2412 to deflect at a first flex point 2438. That is, the first flex point 2438 will flex or deform to allow the first latch arm 2412 to move. Similarly, pressing the second tab 2422 toward the body portion 2404 will cause the second latch arm 2414 to deflect at a second flex point 2440. That is, the second flex point 2440 will flex or deform to allow the second latch arm 2414 to move. Figure 14B Figure 14D As shown, pressing the first tab 2420 toward the body portion 2404 causes the first latch arm 2412 to deflect at a first flex point 2438. That is, the first flex point 2438 will flex or deform to allow the first latch arm 2412 to move. Similarly, pressing the second tab 2422 toward the body portion 2404 will cause the second latch arm 2414 to deflect at a second flex point 2440. That is, the second flex point 2440 will flex or deform to allow the second latch arm 2414 to move.

[0296] The first flex point 2438 and the second flex point 2440 can be formed by thinner sections of the body portion 2404, as shown. In particular, the first flex point 2438 and the second flex point 2440 join the first latch arm 2412 and the second latch arm 2414 to the body portion 2404 and have a reduced material thickness, thereby defining a weak point in the tube connector 2402 that will flex / bend when the first tab 2420 and the second tab 2422 are pressed.

[0297] Alternatively, the first flex point 2438 and the second flex point 2440 can comprise a different material (e.g., provided by co-molding) or be formed by an embedded or attached feature, such as a spring feature.

[0298] Accordingly, the first tab 2420 and the second tab 2422 can be pressed toward the body portion 2404 to cause the first latch arm 2412 and the second latch arm 2414 to deflect in a direction opposite the first latch 2416 and the second latch 2418. Accordingly, the first tab 2420 and the second tab 2422 can be pressed to connect and disconnect the tube connector 2402 and the infusion portions 2302, 2320, as further described below.

[0299] As shown, pressing the first tab 2420 toward the body portion 2404 causes the first latch arm 2412 to deflect at a first flex point 2438. That is, the first flex point 2438 will flex or deform to allow the first latch arm 2412 to move. Similarly, pressing the second tab 2422 toward the body portion 2404 will cause the second latch arm 2414 to deflect at a second flex point 2440. That is, the second flex point 2440 will flex or deform to allow the second latch arm 2414 to move. 14A to 14D ​As shown, the tube connector 2402 further includes a first guide arm 2424 and a second guide arm 2426. The first guide arm 2424 and the second guide arm 2426 protrude from the body portion 2404, in particular from a front side 2428 of the body portion 2404. The first guide arm 2424 and the second guide arm 2426 extend parallel to the first latch 2416 and the second latch 2418, and parallel to the needle 2410. The first guide arm 2424 and the second guide arm 2426 are arranged inboard of the first latch arm 2412 and the second latch arm 2414, closer to a central part 2432 of the body portion 2404. The first guide arm 2424 is adapted to be received in the first guide opening 2316 (see Figure 13A and Figure 13B ) of the infusion portion 2302, 2320, and the second guide arm 2426 is adapted to be received in the second guide opening 2318 (see Figure 13A and Figure 13B ) of the infusion portion 2302, 2320. The first guide arm 2424 and the second guide arm 2426 cooperate with the first guide opening 2316 and the second guide opening 2318, respectively, for guiding the connection of the tube connector 2402 and the infusion portion 2302, 2320, in particular for aligning the needle 2410 with the fluid connector 2308.

[0300] With reference to Figure 13A , Figure 13B and 14A to 14D , during the connection of the tube connector 2402 to the infusion portion 2302, 2320, the first latch arm 2412 is received in the first latch opening 2312, and the second latch arm 2414 is received in the second latch opening 2314. The first guide arm 2424 and the second guide arm 2426 are simultaneously received in the first guide opening 2316 and the second guide opening 2318, respectively, when the tube connector 2402 is pushed onto the infusion portion 2302, 2320. The first latch 2416 and the second latch 2418 will engage the respective latch features in the first latch opening 2312 and the second latch opening 2314, respectively, when the tube connector 2402 is pushed onto the infusion portion 2302, 2320. The engagement of the first guide opening 2316 and the second guide opening 2318 with the latch features can cause the first latch arm 2412 and the second latch arm 2414 to deflect, and further movement will cause the first latch 2416 and the second latch 2418 to couple with the respective latch features of the infusion portion 2302, 2320. Additionally or alternatively, a user can press the first tab 2420 and the second tab 2422 towards the body portion 2404 to deflect the first latch arm 2412 and the second latch arm 2414, and facilitate the engagement of the first latch 2416 and the second latch 2418 with the respective latch features. At the same time, the needle 2410 has connected with the fluid connector 2308, e.g. by piercing a septum of the fluid connector 2308 and forming a fluid connection with the cannula 2310.

[0301] The tube connector 2402 can be disconnected from the infusion portion 2302, 2320 by pressing the first tab 2420 and the second tab 2422 toward the body portion 2404, disengaging the first latch 2416 and the second latch 2418 from the respective latch features, and pulling the tube connector 2402 away from the infusion portion 2302, 2320.

[0302] The first tab 2420 and the second tab 2422 can advantageously provide improved contact area for user grasping and improved leverage for deflecting the first latch arm 2412 and the second latch arm 2414 during connection and disconnection. In particular, the first tab 2420 and the second tab 2422 together define a press surface for a user to press, in particular with a single thumb or finger. Thus, a user can press down on the tube connector 2402 to press down on the first tab 2420 and the second tab 2422 for connecting and disconnecting the tube connector 2402. This advantageously reduces the force required to deflect the first latch arm 2412 and the second latch arm 2414 and makes it easier to apply, which can be advantageous for users with impaired movement.

[0303] As described above, the tube connector 118, 2212, 2402 is used to connect the connecting tube 116, 2214, 2406 to the infusion portion 104, 2204, 2302, 2320. The tube connector 118, 2212, 2402 has the connecting tube 116, 2214, 2406 attached to it and is clipped into the infusion portion 104, 2204, 2302, 2320.

[0304] In a number of other examples, as shown in Figure 15A and Figure 15B A similar secure connector 2504 can be used with an insertion device 2502, as shown. Figure 15A The insertion device 2502, as shown in Figure 1A The insertion device 2502 is used to attach an infusion portion (e.g., infusion portion 104, 2204, 2302, 2320) to the skin 102 of a user in a manner as shown in Figure 1A). The infusion portion 104, 2204, 2302, 2320 is held with the cannula facing the open end of the insertion device body 2508. A button 2506 is provided at the opposite end, and pressing the button 2506 pushes the infusion portion 104, 2204, 2302, 2320 downward through the insertion device body 2508, out of the open end, and into contact with the user's skin. In this way, the cannula pierces the skin, and the mounting portion attaches the infusion portion 104, 2204, 2302, 2320 to the skin.

[0305] An insertion device 2502 is known from, for example, EP 2 552 513 B1.

[0306] like Figure 15A As shown, the safety connector 2504 is used with the connecting portion 2510 to lock the button 2506 in the extended position before using the insertion device 2502. When the infusion system is provided to the user, the infusion portion 104, 2204, 2302, 2320 is provided within the insertion device body 2508 of the insertion device 2502, and the safety connector 2504 is positioned to lock the button 2506. Before use, the user removes the safety connector 2504 from the connecting portion 2510, positions the insertion device 2502 on their skin, and pushes the button 2506 to insert the cannula and attach the infusion portion 104, 2204, 2302, 2320 to the skin.

[0307] like Figure 15B As shown, the safety connector 2504 is similar to the above reference 14A to 14D The pipe connector 2402. Safety connector 2504 and reference 14A to 14D The difference between the described tube connector 2402 is that the safety connector 2504 does not include a tube connection site or a needle or a fluid path. However, to simplify manufacturing and reduce the number of unique parts, the safety connector 2504 may include unused tube connection structures and fluid paths.

[0308] The remainder of the safety connector 2504 is as described above with reference to 14A to 14D Specifically, the safety connector 2504 includes a main body portion 2512 from which a first latch arm 2514 and a second latch arm 2516 extend. A first tab 2522 is coupled to the first latch arm 2514, and a second tab 2524 is coupled to the second latch arm 2516. The first tab 2522 and the second tab 2524 are as shown in FIG. 14A to 14D The safety connector 2504 further includes a first guide arm 2518 and a second guide arm 2520, and can be pressed to deflect the first latch arm 2514 and the second latch arm 2516.

[0309] like Figure 15AAs shown, the insertion device 2502 includes a connection portion 2510 that receives the safety connector 2504. In particular, the connection portion 2510 includes openings that receive the first latch arm 2514, the second latch arm 2516, the first guide arm 2518, and the second guide arm 2520. When the safety connector 2504 is connected to the connection portion 2510, the first latch arm 2514, the second latch arm 2516, the first guide arm 2518, and / or the second guide arm 2520 prevent the button 2506 from moving downward, thereby preventing accidental or premature actuation of the insertion device 2502.

[0310] As described above, the safety connector 2504 is removed prior to use of the insertion device 2502, thereby allowing the button 2506 to be depressed. Accordingly, the above-described advantages of the tube connector 2402 in terms of ease of removal are also applicable to the safety connector 2504. Furthermore, it is advantageous to provide the same connector as the safety connector 2504 and the tube connector 2402, so that the patient does not have to use two different types of connectors.

[0311] As described above, the tube connectors 118, 2212, 2412 can be connected to a pump for administering a therapeutic substance, for example, by the connection tube 2214. However, the tube connectors 118, 2212, 2412 can be replaced with an analog connector or an analog component that is shaped to correspond to the tube connectors 118, 2212, 2412, but does not have the connection tube 2214. In this way, the patient can disconnect the real tube connectors 118, 2212, 2412 and replace them with the analog components. In this way, the pump for administering a drug or a therapeutic substance can be disconnected from the infusion set 2202 of the patient. When the patient wears the infusion set 2202 with the analog components or the analog connectors and needs a drug or a therapeutic substance, the patient can inject the drug or the therapeutic substance directly into the cannula 2210, for example, by passing a portion of the infusion set 2202, for example, by using a syringe.

[0312] In this way, the patient can easily leave home for a short period of time without having to carry around a difficult-to-manage medical device, such as the above-described pump for administering a drug, but can still use the drug or the therapeutic substance, for example, by using a small syringe, when needed.

[0313] Similarly, Figure 15A and Figure 15B the safety connector 2504 shown in FIGS. 25A-25C can be used as an analog component after being removed from the insertion device 2502.

[0314] In some examples, the safety connector 2504 can additionally include 14A to 14DFluid path 2408 and needle 2410 are shown, along with a pierceable area, such as a septum, at the opening of fluid path 2408. In this manner, the septum can allow a patient to administer medication by injecting the medication into infusion set 2202 via fluid path 2408 and needle 2410.

[0315] Figure 16A and Figure 16B An example infusion set 3202 is shown having an infusion portion 3204 and a tube connector 3206. In the illustrated example, the tube connector 3206 is connected to the infusion portion 3204. Figure 16A In the embodiment, the tube connector 3206 is connected to the infusion portion 3204, and in the embodiment Figure 16B , the tube connector 3206 is connected and locked to the infusion part 3204.

[0316] like Figure 16A and Figure 16B As shown, the infusion portion 3204 has a main body portion 3208, which can be seen Figures 1A to 1C The cannula 3212 is disposed within the body portion 3208 and is located subcutaneously when the body portion 3208 is attached to the user. It should be understood that the cannula 3212 protrudes from the side of the body portion 3208 opposite to that shown, and that the top of the cannula 3212 is located at Figure 16A and Figure 16B Shown in.

[0317] As shown, the infusion portion 3204 further includes a tube connection portion 3210 for connecting to a connecting tube 3214 via a tube connector 3206. When the tube connector 3206 is connected to the infusion portion 3204, the tube connection portion 3210 and the tube connector 3206 are fluidically coupled. The tube connection portion 3210 may include a fluid port and / or a needle, and the tube connector 3206 may include a fluid port and / or a needle that is fluidically connected to the tube connection portion 3210, as described in further detail below.

[0318] As shown, the tube connector 3206 also includes a locking member, in this example a ring member 3216, which can be rotated to lock the tube connector 3206 to the infusion portion 3204. Figure 18 Tube connector 3206 is described in more detail.

[0319] exist Figure 16A , the annular member 3216 is in an open position, in which the annular member 3216 is rotated away from the infusion portion 3204. In this position, the tube connector 3206 can be connected to the infusion portion 3204 and can be disconnected from the infusion portion 3204.

[0320] like Figure 16BAs shown, the annular member 3216 can rotate toward the infusion portion 3204 so that it at least encircles a portion of the body portion 3208. In particular, the annular member 3216 can surround the body portion 3208 and extend to a side of the body portion 3208 opposite the tube connection portion 3210. In this manner, the annular member 3216 prevents the tube connector 3206 from being disconnected from the infusion portion 3204. In this position, the annular member 3216 is in a locked position in which the tube connector 3206 is locked onto the infusion portion 3204.

[0321] Accordingly, to connect the tube connector 3206 to the infusion portion 3204, the tube connector 3206 is pushed onto the infusion portion 3204, at which point the annular member 3216 rotates away from the infusion portion 3204, as shown in Figure 16A As shown, when attached, the tube connection portion 3210 is connected to the connection tube 3214 by the tube connector 3206. The annular member 3216 is then rotated downward to encircle the body portion 3208, as shown in Figure 16B

[0322] Advantageously, providing the annular member 3216 can eliminate the need for any latches, catches, tines, or detents or the like, which can increase the insertion force to connect the tube connector 3206 to the infusion portion 3204.

[0323] As best shown in Figure 16B the annular member 3216 can include a clip portion 3218 that clips onto a portion of the body portion 3208 to retain the annular member 3216 in the Figure 16B locked position as shown. In particular, the clip portion 3218 can interfere fit, push fit, press fit, or the like, with the body portion 3208 so that pushing the annular member 3216 downward locks the annular member 3216 to the body portion 3208. A portion of the body portion 3208 can be shaped to correspond to the annular member 3216 to facilitate the fit between the body portion 3208 and the annular member 3216. To disconnect the tube connector 3206, a user can overcome the interference between the annular member 3216 and the body portion 3208 to move the annular member 3216 back to the Figure 16A position as shown.

[0324] The clip portion 3218 is shown on the body portion 3208 opposite the tube connection portion 3210, but it should be understood that one or more clip portions 3218 can be provided on the annular member 3216, for example, on both sides of the annular member 3216 on the body portion 3208.

[0325] ​As shown, the ring member 3216 is rotatably attached to the tube connector 3206 at hinges 3220a, 3220b. The hinges of this example have two hinges 3220a, 3220b, but it should be understood that a single hinge can be provided. The hinges 3220a, 3220b can include springs, such as torsion springs or the like, to urge the ring member 3216 to rotate in a particular direction or to a particular position. In some examples, the hinges 3220a, 3220b can include an over-center mechanism arranged to urge the ring member 3216 to rotate toward Figure 16A the position shown or Figure 16B some other rotated position.

[0326] In some examples, the hinges 3220a, 3220b can constrain or limit rotation of the ring member 3216 relative to the tube connector 3206. In some examples, the ring member 3216 can be rotated from Figure 16B the position shown to a position 180 degrees such that the ring member 3216 is substantially parallel to the connection tube 3214. In this position, the ring member 3216 can be grasped and pulled to remove the tube connector 3206 from the infusion portion 3204. The ring member 3216 can advantageously be grasped in different ways and can be more easily grasped for patients with impaired dexterity, allowing the patient to more easily connect and disconnect the tube connector 3206 and the infusion portion 3204.

[0327] It should be understood that the ring member 3216 in this example is a locking member that can be rotated to lock the tube connector 3206 to the infusion portion 3204. In some examples, an alternative locking member can not be a ring, but can be an arm (e.g., a dogleg or L-shaped arm) or other shape that engages the infusion portion 3204 when it is rotated to lock the tube connector 3206 to the infusion portion 3204. In some examples, the infusion portion 3204 can include an opening, such as a notch, to receive a portion of the locking member in the locked position. Thus, the locking member can be a ring member 3216 as Figure 16A and Figure 16B shown, or can be a different shaped rotatable member.

[0328] Figure 17 An example infusion portion 3302 is shown, which can be the infusion portion 3204 described with reference to Figure 16A FIGS. 1-3. As shown, the infusion portion 3302 includes a body portion 3304, as described with reference to Figures 1A to 1CAs described above, the main body portion 3304 can be attached to the user, for example, by an adhesive patch. The cannula 3310 is disposed within the main body portion 3304 and is located subcutaneously when the main body portion 3304 is attached to the user. It should be understood that the cannula 3310 extends from the side of the main body portion 3304 opposite to that shown, and that the top of the cannula 3310 is located at Figure 16A The infusion portion 3302 further includes a tube connection portion 3306 for connecting the infusion tube to the infusion tube via a reference tube. Figure 18 The pipe connector is connected to the connecting pipe.

[0329] The tube connection portion 3306 includes a fluid connector 3308 for connecting to the Figure 18 The tubing connector and connecting tubing are shown forming a fluid connection. The fluid connector 3308 can include a septum or other seal that is pierced by the tubing connector and allows the fluid connector 3308 to be resealed when the tubing connector is disconnected from the infusion portion 3302. In various other examples, the fluid connector 3308 can include a needle protruding from the infusion portion 3302 for forming a fluid connection with a fluid port of the tubing connector.

[0330] like Figure 17 As shown, the tube connection portion 3306 includes a first opening 3312 and a second opening 3314 for receiving a reference Figure 18 The first and second arms of the tube connector further described above. The first opening 3312 and the second opening 3314 may include internal latch portions, as further described below.

[0331] Figure 18 Shown with Figure 17 The tube connector 3402 is used with the infusion portion 3302 shown. The tube connector 3402 can be a reference Figure 16A and Figure 16B Tube connector 3206 is described.

[0332] like Figure 18 As shown, tube connector 3402 includes a connector body 3404. Connector body 3404 includes a tube connection site 3420 to which a tube (not shown) is connected. Connector body 3404 also includes a needle 3418 and a fluid path extending between needle 3418 and tube connection site 3420. As previously described, when tube connector 3402 is connected to an infusion section, the fluid path provides a fluid connection between the tube and the cannula. In various other examples, instead of needle 3418, tube connector 3402 may include a connection site for connecting to a needle of the infusion section.

[0333] As shown, the tube connector 3402 includes a locking member, in this example, an annular member 3424. The annular member 3424 is secured at hinges 3422a, 3422b in a manner similar to that of reference numerals 3424 and 3424. Figure 16A and Figure 16B The annular member 3424 is rotatably mounted to the connector body 3404 in the manner described. The annular member 3424 can be rotated relative to the connector body 3404 so that the annular member 3424 can be used as a pull ring and / or locking mechanism, as described below. The annular member 3424 includes a clamp portion 3426 for clamping the annular member 3424 in a locked position, as further described below. The annular member 3424 also includes a finger grip portion 3428 for more easily grasping the annular member 3424 to lift it from the locked position, as further described below.

[0334] like Figure 18 As shown, the tube connector 3402 includes a first arm 3406 and a second arm 3408. The first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408 extend from the connector body 3404. The first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408 are substantially parallel to each other. A needle 3418 is disposed between the first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408 and points in substantially the same direction as the first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408. In the example where the needle 3418 comprises a needle, the needle extends parallel to the first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408 and extends between the first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408. As described below, this allows the tube connector 3402 to be connected to the infusion portion by lateral sliding movement when the first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408 couple the tube connector 3402 to the infusion portion, thereby forming a fluid connection with the needle 3418.

[0335] In the illustrated example, the first arm 3406 includes a first latch 3410, and the second arm 3408 includes a second latch 3412. The first latch 3410 points inwardly toward the second arm 3408, and the second latch 3412 points inwardly toward the first arm 3406. As described below, the first latch 3410 and the second latch 3412 can be configured to latch onto internal latching locations of the first opening 3312 and the second opening 3314 of the infusion portion 3302, respectively, during the process of connecting the tube connector 3402 to the infusion portion 3302.

[0336] The first arm 3406 is coupled to the connector body 3404 at a first flexure 3414. The second arm 3408 is coupled to the connector body 3404 at a second flexure 3416. The first flexure 3414 and the second flexure 3416 are elastically deformable such that the first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408 can be elastically deflected, thereby allowing the first latch 3410 and the second latch 3412 to latch and unlatch from the infusion portion. The first flexure 3414 and the second flexure 3416 can be formed from a thinner section of the connector body 3404, or from a different material (e.g., provided by co-molding), or from an embedded or attached feature, such as a spring feature.

[0337] In some alternative examples, the first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408 can not include any latches. In such examples, the annular member 3424 can be relied upon to hold the tube connector 3402 connected with the infusion portion 3302.

[0338] Referring to Figure 17 and Figure 18 In the process of connecting the tube connector 3402 to the infusion portion 3302, the first arm 3406 is received in the first opening 3312 and the second arm 3408 is received in the second opening 3314. During the connection process, the annular member 3424 is rotated away from the infusion portion 3302, as shown in Figure 18 When the tube connector 3402 is pushed onto the infusion portion 3302, the first latch 3410 (if provided) and the second latch 3412 (if provided) will engage respective latch features in the first opening 3312 and the second opening 3314, respectively. At the same time, the needle 3418 is connected with the fluid connector 3308. In various examples, one of the needle 3418 and the fluid connector 3308 can include a needle, and the other can include a fluid port (e.g., a septum) that is pierced by the needle to form a fluid connection. In this way, the needle 3418 forms a fluid connection with the cannula 3310.

[0339] To lock the tube connector 3402 on the infusion portion 3302, the annular member 3424 can be rotated to wrap around the body portion 3304, as shown in Figure 16B As described with reference to Figure 16A and Figure 16B The annular member 3424 can include a grip portion 3426 for contacting / interfering with the body portion 3304 to grip the annular member 3424 in the locked position.

[0340] The tube connector 3402 can be disconnected from the infusion portion 3302 by rotating the annular member 3424 away from the infusion portion 3302 using the finger grip 3428, overcoming any restraining force provided by the grip portion 3426. The tube connector 3402 can then be pulled away from the infusion portion 3302. If the first latch 3410 and the second latch 3412 are provided, then pulling the tube connector 3402 will overcome any latching force, such that the tube connector 3402 will slide off the infusion portion 3302. In some examples, the annular member 3424 can be rotated back and provide a pull ring for disconnecting the tube connector 3402 from the infusion portion 3302. Advantageously, only a small force is required to connect or disconnect the tube connector 3402 from the infusion portion 3302, which is easier for users with limited mobility. The annular member 3424 can also be easier to grip and can be gripped in different ways, making it easier for patients with impaired dexterity to connect and disconnect the tube connector 3402 and the infusion portion 3302.

[0341] Figure 19A Another example infusion portion 3502 of an infusion set is shown. The infusion portion 3502 includes a base 3504 and a connector head 3506 projecting from the base 3504. In use, the base 3504 is attached to the skin of a patient, for example using the adhesive patch described with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C. The infusion portion 3502 includes a cannula in a cannula receiving opening 3508. The sidewall 3510 of the connector head 3506 includes a plurality of fluid ports 3512. Each fluid port 3512 is in fluid communication with the cannula through the cannula receiving opening 3508, and can include a seal, such as a septum. Thus, a needle 3518 of a tube connector can be connected to any of the fluid ports 3512 for fluid connection with the cannula through the cannula receiving opening 3508. Figure 1A

[0342] The connector head 3506 also includes a flange edge 3514. The flange edge 3514 has a plurality of recesses 3516 formed around its peripheral edge. In this way, the flange edge 3514 has a wavy form. Each of the fluid ports 3512 is individually aligned with one of the recesses 3516 of the flange edge 3514. As shown, the recesses 3516 can also extend through the sidewall 3510, as described further below with reference to FIG. 35. Figure 19B

[0343] Thus, the tube connector can be attached to the infusion portion 3502 from any of a plurality of different directions in which a needle 3518 can be aligned with a fluid port 3512 in the infusion portion 3502. As described below, the shape of the sidewall 3510 and / or the flange edge 3514 ensures proper alignment between the tube connector and one of the fluid ports 3512.

[0344] Figure 19B A cross-section of the infusion portion 3502 is shown, particularly of the connector head 3506 taken below the flange edge 3514. As shown, the sidewall 3510 of the connector head 3506 has a polygonal shape. That is, the cross-section of the sidewall 3510 is polygonal. In particular, the cross-section of the sidewall 3510 is a regular polygonal cross-section having an even number of sides. Specifically, the sidewall 3510 has a number of sides / edges 3520a-3520h that is divisible by 4. Thus, the cross-section of the sidewall 3510 is regular and symmetrical, and the edges are arranged in parallel opposite pairs of edges of the same length.

[0345] ​​In the example shown, the sidewall 3510 has eight sides / edges 3520a-3520h. Each side / edge 3520a-3520h has a recess 3522a-3522h and a fluid port 3524a-3524h. In various other examples, the sidewall 3510 may have four sides / edges, or twelve sides / edges, or sixteen sides / edges, each having a fluid port. Figure 19B As shown, each side / edge 3520a-3520h may or may not have a recess.

[0346] Each fluid port 3524a-3524h is connected to a cannula receiving opening 3508, which is connected to a cannula. Thus, any of the fluid ports 3524a-3524h can be used to connect to a cannula. Each fluid port 3524a-3524h includes a seal, such as a septum, that can be pierced by a needle, as described below.

[0347] 20A to 20D Shown is a reference Figure 18 The tube connector 3402 is connected to the reference Figure 19A and Figure 19B The infusion part 3502. 20A to 20D , the tube connector 3402 includes a needle 3418 and a connecting tube 3602. The needle 3418 extends from the connector body 3404 between the first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408. The connecting tube 3602 is connected to the opposite side of the connector body 3404 and is fluidically connected to the needle 3418 via a fluid path in the connector body 3404. When the tube connector 3402 is connected to the infusion portion 3502, the needle 3418 provides a fluid connection between the connecting tube 3602 and the cannula in the cannula receiving opening 3508, as previously described.

[0348] like Figure 20A As shown, before connecting the tube connector 3402 to the infusion portion 3502, the ring member 3424 is rotated away from the infusion portion 3502 into an open position, thereby allowing the tube connector 3402 to be slid laterally onto the infusion portion 3502, as described below.

[0349] like Figure 20B As shown, during the process of connecting the tube connector 3402 and the infusion portion 3502, the needle 3418 is aligned with the fluid port 3512 of the infusion portion 3502. The needle 3418 enters the fluid port 3512 to connect the tube (3602, see Figure 20A ) and a cannula in the cannula receiving opening 3508 to form a fluid connection.

[0350] refer to Figure 20B and Figure 20CWhen the tube connector 3402 is pushed onto the infusion portion 3502, the needle 3418 is located in the fluid port 3512, and the first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408 are located on both sides of the connector 3506 of the infusion portion 3502. The first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408 are located between the flange edge 3514 and the base (3504, see Figure 19A )between.

[0351] In particular, the first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408 contact opposite sides of the connector 3506. The first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408 are spaced apart to only allow the tube connector 3402 to be parallel to two opposite sides / edges of the connector 3506 (e.g., as shown in FIG. Figure 19B The connector 3506 can only be slid onto the infusion portion 3502 when the regular polygonal cross section has a number of sides 3520a-3520h that is divisible by 4 (see FIG. Figure 19B ), and the location of the fluid ports 3524a-3524h in each side / edge 3520a-3520h, the tube connector 3402 can be connected to the infusion portion 3502 only when the needle 3418 is aligned with the fluid ports 3524a-3524h.

[0352] Thus, the shape of the infusion section 3502, and in particular the shape of the connector 3506, allows the tube connector 3402 to be connected by sliding sideways from a plurality of different directions. In the illustrated example, the tube connector 3402 can be connected to the infusion section 3502 from eight different directions. The shape of the infusion section 3502 also prevents the tube connector 3402 from being pushed onto the infusion section 3502 without proper alignment.

[0353] In addition, the tube connector 3402 may include a recess (3516, see Figure 19A ) especially at the flange edge (3514, see Figure 19A ) aligns and engages a protrusion (not shown). This can be achieved between the needle 3418 and the fluid port (3512, see Figure 20B ) provide further alignment between them.

[0354] like Figure 20C As shown, when the tube connector 3402 is pushed onto the infusion portion 3502, the first arm 3406 and the second arm 3408 are located on both sides of the connector 3506. In the example where the first arm 3406 includes a first latch 3410 and the second arm 3408 includes a second latch 3412, the first latch 3410 and the second latch 3412 can be clamped on the side wall of the connector 3506 (3510, see Figure 19A) to retain the tube connector 3402 on the infusion portion 3502. In particular, the first and second latches 3410, 3412 can engage opposite recesses (recesses 3522a-3522h, see Figure 19B ) of the infusion portion 3502. However, in some examples, the first and second latches 3410, 3412 are omitted.

[0355] As shown in Figure 20D , once the needle 3418 is connected to the fluid port (3512, see Figure 21B ), the ring member 3424 can be rotated downward to encircle the connector head 3506 of the infusion portion 3502. In this position, the tube connector 3402 is locked on the infusion portion 3502 by the ring member 3424.

[0356] As mentioned above, when the ring member 3424 is rotated over the connector head 3506, it can create some interference with the connector head 3506, in particular the flange edge 3514. The ring member 3424 can comprise one or more gripping features (3426, see Figure 20C ) that grip on the flange edge 3514 when the ring member 3424 is pushed down on the connector head 3506. This can improve the locking by keeping the ring member 3424 in a locked position as shown in Figure 7 .

[0357] The patient can unlock the tube connector 3402 from the infusion portion 3502 by rotating the ring member 3424 away from the infusion portion 3502. The finger grip 3428 can make it easier for the patient to grip the ring member 3424.

[0358] Advantageously, only a small force is needed to connect or disconnect the tube connector 3402 from the infusion portion 3502, which makes it easier for users with impaired mobility or dexterity to use.

[0359] Figure 21A Another example infusion portion 3702 of an infusion set is shown. The infusion portion 3702 is similar to the infusion portion 3502 described with reference to Figure 19A and Figure 19B . In particular, the infusion portion 3702 comprises a base 3704 and a connector head 3706. The connector head 3706 comprises a cannula receiving opening 3708, and there are a plurality of fluid ports (not shown in Figure 21A ) in the sidewall of the connector head 3706. A flange edge 3710 of the connector head 3706 is provided. The connector head 3706, in particular the sidewall, has a regular polygonal cross-section, the number of sides of which is divisible by 4. The sidewall comprises a plurality of fluid ports as described with reference to Figure 19A and Figure 19B .

[0360] Also as shown Figure 21A , in this example, the base 3704 includes a plurality of recesses 3712 spaced around the base 3704. The recesses 3712 of the base 3704 are aligned with the recesses (3516, see Figure 19A ) of the flange edge 3710 and the recesses (3522a-3522h, see Figure 19B ) of the connector head 3706. The recesses 3712 are thereby also aligned with the fluid ports in the connector head 3706.

[0361] As shown Figure 21B and Figure 21C , a tube connector 3714 can be connected to the infusion portion 3702. The tube connector 3714 is similar to the tube connector 3402 described above with reference to Figure 18 . The tube connector 3714 can be connected to the infusion portion 3702 in the same manner as described in detail with reference to 20A to 20D .

[0362] In particular, as shown, the tube connector 3714 includes a connector body 3720 from which a first arm 3716 and a second arm 3718 extend. When the tube connector 3714 is connected to the infusion portion 3702, the first arm 3716 and the second arm 3718 are positioned on either side of the connector head 3706 of the infusion portion 3702 below the flange edge 3710. Also as shown, the tube connector 3714 includes a connecting tube 3722 in communication with a needle 3724 that forms a fluid connection with a cannula in the cannula receiving opening 3708 when the tube connector 3714 is connected to the infusion portion 3702. As described above, a rotatable locking member, in particular a ring member 3726, is provided for pulling the tube connector 3714 as well as locking the tube connector 3714 to the infusion portion 3702.

[0363] As shown Figure 21B and Figure 21C , the tube connector 3714 also includes a guide 3728. In this example, the guide 3728 is a protrusion. The guide 3728 is provided on the connector body 3720 proximate the needle 3724. As shown Figure 21B and Figure 21C , when the tube connector 3714 is connected to the infusion portion 3702, the guide 3728 is aligned with one of the recesses 3712 of the flange edge 3710. In this way, when the tube connector 3714 is attached to the infusion portion 3702, the guide 3728 cooperates with the recess 3712 to ensure proper alignment.

[0364] In a similar manner, the guide 3728 can extend from the connector body 3720 on an opposite side of the side shown in the illustration, such that the guide 3728 can additionally or alternatively engage the recess 3712 of the base 3704 to ensure alignment in the same manner.

[0365] Accordingly, the tube connector 3714 can be attached to the infusion portion 3702 from a number of different directions in which the needle 3724 and the fluid port (3512, see Figure 19A ) in the infusion portion 3702 are aligned therewith.

[0366] As also Figure 21B and Figure 21C illustrate, the ring member 3726 can include a clip 3730 that interacts with the infusion portion 3702 to clip the ring member 3726 into the closed position shown in Figure 21C , as previously described. In the present example, the clip 3730 is centrally located on the ring member 3726 and is arranged to clip into the recess 3712 of the connector head 3706 when the ring member 3726 is in the closed position shown in Figure 21C .

[0367] As described above, the tube connectors 118, 3206, 3402, 3714 are used to connect the connecting tubes 116, 3214, 3602, 3722 to the infusion portions 104, 3204, 3302, 3502, 3702. The tube connectors 118, 3206, 3402, 3714 have the connecting tubes 116, 3214, 3602, 3722 attached thereto and are clipped into the infusion portions 104, 3204, 3302, 3502, 3702.

[0368] In a number of other examples, as Figure 22A illustrate, a connector similar to the tube connectors 118, 3206, 3402, 3714 described above can be provided as a safety connector 3804. The safety connector 3804 can be used with an insertion device 3802. Figure 22A The insertion device 3802 shown in Figure 1A is used to attach an infusion portion (e.g., the infusion portions 104, 3204, 3302, 3502, 3702) to the skin 102 of a user in a manner shown in Figure 1AThe infusion portion 104, 3204, 3302, 3502, 3702 is held with the cannula pointing toward the open end of the insertion device body 3808. A button 3806 is provided at the opposite end, and pressing the button 3806 pushes the infusion portion 104, 3204, 3302, 3502, 3702 downward through the insertion device body 3808, out of the open end, and into contact with the user's skin. In this way, the cannula pierces the skin, and the mounting portion attaches the infusion portion 104, 3204, 3302, 3502, 3702 to the skin.

[0369] A suitable insertion device 3802 is known from, for example, EP 2 552 513 B1.

[0370] like Figure 22A As shown, before using the insertion device 3802, the safety connector 3804 is used in the connecting portion 3810 to lock the button 3806 in the extended position. When the infusion system is provided to the user, the infusion portion 104, 3204, 3302, 3502, 3702 is provided in the insertion device body 3808 of the insertion device 3802, and the safety connector 3804 is positioned to lock the button 3806. The safety connector 3804 is similar to the reference 20A to 20D The tube connector 3402 described is substantially the same, or it may be used in conjunction with the tube connector 3402 of FIG. Figure 21B and Figure 21C The tube connector 3714 described is substantially the same. However, the safety connector 3804 does not have a tube connected thereto. In this position, the annular member 3812 of the safety connector 3804 is folded against the insertion device body 3808.

[0371] Before use, the user removes the safety connector 3804 from the connecting portion 3810 by rotating the ring member 3812 upward, using the ring member 3812 as a pull ring, and pulling the safety connector 3804 out of the connecting portion 3810. The user can then position the insertion device 3802 on their skin and push the button 3806 to insert the cannula and attach the infusion portion 104, 3204, 3302, 3502, 3702 to the skin.

[0372] In particular, if Figure 22B As shown, the ring member 3812 can be rotated away from the insertion device body 3808 so that it can be grasped to pull the safety connector 3804 out of the connecting portion 3810 and away from the insertion device 3802. After the safety connector 3804 is removed, the button 3806 can be pressed to operate the insertion device 3802.

[0373] Accordingly, the above-described advantages of the tube connectors 118, 3206, 3402, 3402, 3714 in terms of ease of removal also apply to the safety connector 3804. Moreover, it is advantageous to provide the same connector as the safety connector 3804 and the tube connectors 118, 3206, 3402, 3402, 3714 so that the patient does not have to use two different types of connectors. In particular, a patient with impaired dexterity will find it easier to grasp the ring-shaped member 3812 by using it as a pull ring, or by grasping opposite sides of the ring-shaped member 3812.

[0374] As described above, the tube connectors 118, 3206, 3402, 3714 can be coupled to a pump, for example, for administering a therapeutic substance, by the connecting tubes 116, 3214, 3602, 3722. However, the tube connectors 118, 3206, 3402, 3714 can be replaced with an analog connector or an analog component that is shaped to correspond to the tube connectors 118, 3206, 3402, 3714 but without the connecting tubes 116, 3214, 3602, 3722. In this way, a patient can disconnect the real tube connectors 118, 3206, 3402, 3714 and replace them with the analog components. In this way, the pump for administering the drug or therapeutic substance can be disconnected from the patient's infusion set 3202. When the patient wears the infusion set 3202 with the analog components or analog connectors and needs the drug or therapeutic substance, the patient can inject the drug or therapeutic substance directly into the cannula 3212, for example, by using a syringe, for example, by passing through a portion of the infusion set 3202.

[0375] In this way, a patient can easily leave home for a short period of time without having to carry around difficult-to-manage medical equipment, such as the above-described pump for administering a drug, but can still use the drug or therapeutic substance when needed, for example, by using a small syringe.

[0376] Figure 22A The safety connector 3804 shown in FIG. 38 can be used as an analog component after removal from the insertion device 3802.

[0377] In some examples, the safety connector 3804 can be in fluid connection with the infusion portion 104, 3204, 3302, 3502, 3702 and can include a pierceable region, such as a septum, for allowing the patient to administer a drug by injecting the drug through the pierceable region and into the infusion set 3202.

[0378] Figure 23 An example infusion portion 4202 is shown. As shown, the infusion portion 4202 includes a connector head 4204 and a base 4210, which can be as described above with reference to the infusion portion 104, 3204, 3302, 3502, 3702. Figures 1A to 1CThe connector 4204 is attached to the user, for example, by an adhesive patch. The connector 4204 protrudes from the base 4210. The cannula 4208 is disposed within the connector 4204 and is positioned subcutaneously when the connector 4204 is attached to the user. It should be understood that the cannula 4208 extends from the side of the connector 4204 opposite to that shown, and that the top of the cannula 4208 is located at the bottom of the connector 4204. Figure 23 The infusion portion 4202 also includes a fluid port 4206 for injecting fluid into the infusion portion 4202 via a reference Figure 24B The described pipe connector is connected to the connecting pipe.

[0379] The infusion portion 4202 includes a fluid port 4206 for connecting to a tube connector and connecting tubing, as described below. The fluid port 4206 can include a septum or other seal that can be pierced by the tube connector and allows the fluid port 4206 to be resealed when the tube connector is disconnected from the infusion portion 4202. In various other examples, the fluid port 4206 can include a needle protruding from the infusion portion 4202 for establishing a fluid connection with a fluid port of the tube connector.

[0380] like Figure 23 As shown, the connector 4204 is generally triangular in shape. The fluid port 4206 is located at a portion of the triangular connector 4204. The connector 4204 includes a flange edge 4212 depending from the side wall of the base 4504.

[0381] Figure 24A and Figure 24B shows the connection Figure 23 FIG4 illustrates a tube connector 4302 for an infusion section 4202. The tube connector 4302 is shaped as a ring and includes a second ring portion 4306 and a first ring portion 4304. The second ring portion 4306 and the first ring portion 4304 together define a closed ring. An opening 4308 is defined between the second ring portion 4306 and the first ring portion 4304. The first ring portion 4304 is larger than the second ring portion 4306. The second ring portion 4306 includes a side having a profile 4324. The profile 4324 is opposite the second ring portion 4306 and is shaped to mate with a side of the connector 4204 of the infusion section 4202, as described further below.

[0382] A tube connection portion 4310 is formed at one end, in this example, in the second ring portion 4306. The tube connection portion 4310 is similar to the Figure 23 The fluid port 4206 of the infusion portion 4202 is shown to form a fluid connection. The tube connection portion 4310 is also connected (or connectable) to a connecting tube 4322, such as Figure 24B As shown. Figure 24BAs shown, the tube connector 4302 can include a needle 4320 that protrudes from the tube connection portion 4310 into the second loop portion 4306. The needle 4320 is configured to engage with the fluid port 4206 of the infusion portion 4202, as further described below. Figure 23 The fluid port 4206 of the infusion portion 4202, as shown, is connected, as further described below.

[0383] As shown, the first arm 4312 and the second arm 4314 are positioned within the second loop portion 4306. The first arm 4312 and the second arm 4314 are arranged to engage the infusion portion 4202 when the tube connector 4302 is connected to the infusion portion 4202, as further described below. The first arm 4312 and the second arm 4314 are resiliently attached to the second loop portion 4306, such that the first arm and the second arm can deflect outwardly when the tube connector 4302 is connected to the infusion portion 4202.

[0384] The first arm 4312 can include a first latch 4316, and the second arm 4314 can include a second latch 4318. The first latch 4316 and the second latch 4318 can latch onto the infusion portion 4202 when the tube connector 4302 is connected to the infusion portion 4202.

[0385] The first loop portion 4304 is larger than the second loop portion 4306. In particular, the opening within the first loop portion 4304 is larger than the opening within the second loop portion 4306. This is due to the contours of the second loop portion 4306 and the first loop portion 4304, and also due to the first arm 4312 and the second arm 4314 in the second loop portion 4306.

[0386] As Figure 24B shown, the tube connector 4302 includes a needle 4320 that protrudes from the tube connection portion 4310 into the second loop portion 4306. A connecting tube 4322 is connected to the opposite side of the tube connection portion 4310, extending away from the second loop portion 4306.

[0387] In a number of other examples, the tube connection portion 4310 can include an opening, optionally with a seal or septum, that can engage with a needle or the like of the infusion portion 4202.

[0388] Figure 25A and Figure 25B is shown Figure 24B connecting the tube connector 4302 of Figure 23 to the infusion portion 4202 of Figure 25AAs shown, in the initial stage of connection, the tube connector 4302 is placed on the infusion portion 4202 such that the connector head 4204 is within the first ring portion 4304. As noted above, the first ring portion 4304 is larger than the second ring portion 4306. The first ring portion 4304 is sized such that the tube connector 4302 can be positioned with the connector head 4204 aligned with the first ring portion 4304. The second ring portion 4306 is smaller and is sized such that the connector head 4204 cannot be positioned within the second ring portion 4306 in the same manner. In particular, the size of the opening of the second ring portion 4306 and the first arm 4312 and second arm 4314 will prevent the connector head 4204 from being pushed axially into the second ring portion 4306.

[0389] In Figure 25A the position shown, the tube connector 4302, and in particular the needle 4320, faces the fluid port 4206. The first arm 4312 and the second arm 4314 are spaced apart from the connector head 4204.

[0390] At least a portion of the first ring portion 4304, and in particular the portion opposite the second ring portion 4306, is shaped to match the connector head 4204. In particular, the portion of the first ring portion 4304 opposite the second ring portion 4306 is shaped to match the profile of the sidewall of the connector head 4204. This helps to ensure that the infusion portion 4202, and in particular the fluid port 4206, and the tube connector 4302, and in particular the tube connection 4310 and the needle 4320, are aligned Figure 25A in the position shown.

[0391] As Figure 25B shown, from Figure 25A the position shown, the tube connector 4302 can be slid such that the connector head 4204 moves from the first ring portion 4304 to the second ring portion 4306 (through the opening 4308, see Figure 24A ) to the position shown. At the same time, the needle 4320 engages the fluid port 4206 to form a fluid connection between the connecting tube 4322 and the cannula 4208. Figure 25B

[0392] ​When the slide tube connector 4302 is engaged, the first arm 4312 and the second arm 4314 engage the connector head 4204 to ensure that the tube connector 4302 and the fluid port 4206 are aligned. The first arm 4312 and the second arm 4314 can additionally grip or clip onto the connector head 4204 to form a connection between the tube connector 4302 and the infusion portion 4202. In some examples, the first latch 4316 and the second latch 4318 latch onto the connector head 4204 such that the tube connector 4302 is latched onto the infusion portion 4202. In particular, the first arm 4312 and the second arm 4314 can be deflected outwardly by contact with the connector head 4204 and the first latch 4316 and the second latch 4318 can clip into recesses in the connector head 4204 or can clip around opposing surfaces of the connector head 4204.

[0393] Advantageously, the tube connector 4302 is easy to grip, especially for people with impaired dexterity. Furthermore, a patient can lever / twist the tube connector 4302 using the connector head 4204 through the above-mentioned sliding motion, which means that less force is required to connect the tube connector 4302 to the infusion portion 4202. Similarly, to disconnect the tube connector 4302 from the infusion portion 4202, a patient can grip / push the first ring portion 4304 and can lever against the connector head 4204, making it easier for people with impaired dexterity to disconnect the tube connector 4302.

[0394] Figure 26A Another example infusion portion 4502 of an infusion set is shown. The infusion portion 4502 includes a base 4504 and a connector head 4506 protruding from the base 4504. In use, the base 4504 is attached to the skin of a patient, for example using the adhesive patch described with reference to Figure 1A The infusion portion 4502 includes a cannula 4508. The sidewall 4510 of the connector head 4506 includes a plurality of fluid ports 4512. Each fluid port 4512 is in fluid communication with the cannula 4508 and can include a seal, for example a septum. Thus, a needle 4518 of a tube connector can be connected to any of the fluid ports 4512 for fluid connection with the cannula 4508.

[0395] The connector head 4506 also includes a flange edge 4514. The flange edge 4514 overhangs the sidewall 4510 on an opposite side to the base 4504. The flange edge 4514 has a plurality of recesses 4516 formed around its peripheral edge. In this way, the flange edge 4514 has a contoured form. Each fluid port 4512 is in respective alignment with one of the recesses 4516 of the flange edge 4514. As shown, the recesses 4516 can also extend through the sidewall 4510, as described further below.

[0396] Thus, the tube connector can be attached to the infusion portion 4502 from any of a number of different directions in which the needle 4518 is aligned with the fluid port 4512 in the infusion portion 4502. The shape of the sidewall 4510 and / or the flange edge 4514 can ensure proper alignment between the tube connector and one of the fluid ports 4512, as described below.

[0397] Figure 26B A cross-section of the infusion portion 4502 is shown, particularly of the connector head 4506 taken below the flange edge 4514. As shown, the sidewall 4510 of the connector head 4506 has a polygonal shape. That is, the cross-section of the sidewall 4510 is polygonal. In particular, the cross-section of the sidewall 4510 is a regular polygonal cross-section having an even number of sides. Specifically, the sidewall 4510 has a number of sides / edges 4520a-4520h that is divisible by 4. Thus, the cross-section of the sidewall 4510 is regular and symmetrical, and the sides are arranged in parallel opposite pairs of sides of the same length.

[0398] In the illustrated example, the sidewall 4510 has eight sides / edges 4520a-4520h. Each of the sides / edges 4520a-4520h has a recess 4522a-4522h and a fluid port 4524a-4524h. In a number of other examples, the sidewall 4510 can have four sides / edges, or twelve sides / edges, or sixteen sides / edges, each having a fluid port. As shown, each of the sides / edges 4520a-4520h can or can not have a recess 4522a-4522h. Figure 26B

[0399] Each of the fluid ports 4524a-4524h is connected to the cannula 4508. As such, any of the fluid ports 4524a-4524h can be used to connect to the cannula 4508. Each of the fluid ports 4524a-4524h includes a seal, such as a septum, that can be pierced by a needle, as described below.

[0400] Figure 27 Another example infusion portion 4602 of an infusion set is shown. The infusion portion 4602 is similar to the infusion portion 4502 described with reference to Figure 26A and Figure 26B In particular, the infusion portion 4602 includes a base 4604 and a connector head 4606. The connector head 4606 includes a cannula 4608, and there are a number of fluid ports (not shown in Figure 27 The connector head 4606 is provided with a flange edge 4610. As shown, the connector head 4606, particularly the sidewall, has a regular polygonal cross-section, the number of sides of which is divisible by 4. Figure 26B ​​

[0401] Also as shown Figure 27 , in this example, the base 4604 includes a plurality of recesses 4612 spaced around the base 4604. The recesses 4612 of the base 4604 are aligned with the recesses (4516, see Figure 26A ) of the flange edge 4610 and the recesses (4522a-4522h, see Figure 26B ) of the connector head 4606. The recesses 4612 are thereby also aligned with the fluid ports in the connector head 4606.

[0402] Figure 28 Another example tube connector 4702 is shown for use with the infusion portion 4502 shown in Figure 26A and Figure 26B and / or the infusion portion 4602 shown in Figure 27 .

[0403] In this example, the tube connector 4702 is shaped as a ring and includes a first ring portion 4704 and a second ring portion 4706. The second ring portion 4706 and the first ring portion 4704 together define a closed ring. An opening 4708 is defined between the second ring portion 4706 and the first ring portion 4704. The first ring portion 4704 is larger than the second ring portion 4706. The second ring portion 4706 includes a side surface having a profile 4728. The profile 4728 is opposite the first ring portion 4704 and is shaped to mate with the connector head 4506, 4606 of the infusion portion 4502, 4602, as further described below.

[0404] As shown, a first arm 4712 and a second arm 4714 are disposed within the second ring portion 4706 on opposite sides. The first arm 4712 and the second arm 4714 are arranged to engage the infusion portion 4502, 4602, as further described below. The first arm 4712 and the second arm 4714 are connected to the second ring portion 4706 at flexure sites such that the first arm 4712 and the second arm 4714 are resiliently deflectable. The first arm 4712 includes a first latch 4716 facing the second arm 4714 and the second arm 4714 includes a second latch 4718 facing the first arm 4712.

[0405] The tube connector 4702 also includes a fluid connection 4710 for attaching a connecting tube 4722. The tube connector 4702 also includes a needle 4720 extending from the fluid connection 4710 into the second ring portion 4706. Upon attachment, the needle 4720 forms a fluid connection with the infusion portion 4502, 4602, as further described below. The connecting tube 4722 is fluidly connected to the needle 4720 via the fluid connection 4710.

[0406] The first ring portion 4704 is larger than the second ring portion 4706. In particular, the opening within the first ring portion 4704 is larger than the opening within the second ring portion 4706. This is due to the profile of the second ring portion 4706 and the first ring portion 4704, and also due to the first arm 4712 and the second arm 4714 in the second ring portion 4706.

[0407] In some examples, the tube connector 4702 can comprise a protrusion arranged for engagement with one or more recesses (4516, see Figure 26A ) in the flanged edge (4514, see Figure 26A ) of the infusion portion 4502. This can ensure alignment between the needle 4720 and the fluid port (4512, see Figure 26A ). Similarly, the tube connector 4702 can comprise a protrusion arranged for engagement with one or more recesses (4612, see Figure 27 ) in the base (4604, see Figure 27 ) of the infusion portion 4602. This can ensure alignment between the needle 4720 and the fluid port of the infusion portion 4602.

[0408] Figure 29A and Figure 29B shows the connection of the tube connector 4702 of Figure 28 with the infusion portion 4502 of Figure 26A and Figure 26B . It will be appreciated that the tube connector 4702 can be connected to the infusion portion 4602 of Figure 29A and Figure 29B in the same way as described below with reference to Figure 27 .

[0409] As shown in Figure 29A , in the initial stage of connection, the tube connector 4702 is placed over the infusion portion 4502 with the connector head 4506 located within the first ring portion 4704. The first ring portion 4704 is larger than the second ring portion 4706 and is sized such that the infusion portion 4502 can be located within the opening of the first ring portion 4704 with the connector head 4506. The second ring portion 4706 is smaller and is sized such that the connector head 4506 cannot be moved axially into the second ring portion 4706. In particular, the size of the second ring portion 4706 and the first arm 4712 and the second arm 4714 prevent the connector head 4506 from being moved axially into the second ring portion 4706.

[0410] In the position shown in Figure 29A , the needle 4720 faces towards the fluid connection portion connector head 4506 and one fluid port (4512, see Figure 26A). First arm 4712 and second arm 4714 are spaced apart from connector 4506. Protrusion 4724 and protrusion 4726 are also spaced apart from connector 4506.

[0411] At least a portion of the first ring portion 4704, particularly the portion opposite the second ring portion 4706, is shaped to match the connector 4506. In particular, the first ring portion 4704 is arcuate (partially circular) to match the generally cylindrical shape of the connector 4506. This helps ensure alignment of the infusion portion 4502 and the tube connector 4702, and in particular, ensures alignment of the needle 4720 with the fluid port (4512, see FIG. Figure 26A )alignment.

[0412] like Figure 29B As shown, from Figure 29A Starting from the position shown, the tube connector 4702 can be slid so that the connector 4506 moves from the first ring portion 4704 to the second ring portion 4706 (through the opening 4708, see FIG. Figure 28 ). Simultaneously, needle 4720 engages a fluid port (4512, see Figure 26A ) to connect the tube 4722 and the cannula (4508, see Figure 26A ) to form a fluid connection. It should be understood that the tube connector 4702 can be connected to any fluid port (4512, see Figure 26A ), so the tube connector 4702 can be connected to the infusion section 4502 in many different orientations. This advantageously allows the patient to choose the orientation that is easiest for them based on the location of the infusion section 4502 on their body and their ability to move their arm / hand to push the tube connector 4702 onto the infusion section 4502.

[0413] As the tube connector 4702 is slid, the protrusions 4724 and 4726 guide the connector 4506 through the opening 4708 and into the second ring portion 4706. The spacing between the protrusions 4724 and 4726 allows the connector 4506 to move only in a direction parallel to two opposing sides / edges (e.g., sides 4520a and 4520e, see FIG. Figure 26B ) can only pass through the opening 4708. This ensures that the needle 4720 is in contact with the fluid port (4512, see Figure 26A )alignment.

[0414] When the tube connector 4702 is slid onto the infusion portion 4502, the first arm 4712 and the second arm 4714 engage with the connector 4506. The first arm 4712 and the second arm 4714 also secure the tube connector 4702 to the fluid port (4512, see Figure 26Athe alignment of the needle 4720 with the fluid port (4512, see Figure 26B ) of the infusion portion 4502. In particular, the first arm 4712 and the second arm 4714 engage opposite sides / edges (e.g., edges 4520a, 4520e, see Figure 26B ) of the sidewall (4510, see Figure 26B ) of the connector head 4506. Unless the first arm 4712 and the second arm 4714 are parallel to the opposite sides / edges (e.g., edges 4520a, 4520e) of the sidewall (4510, see Figure 26A ) of the connector head 4506, the tube connector 4702 will be prevented from moving towards the infusion portion 4502. In this way, the tube connector 4702 can only be slid into connection with the infusion portion 4502 if the needle 4720 is aligned with the fluid port (4512, see

[0415] The first arm 4712 and the second arm 4714 can additionally grip or clamp onto the connector head 4506 to form a connection between the tube connector 4702 and the infusion portion 4502. In some examples, the first latch 4716 and the second latch 4718 latch onto the connector head 4506 such that the tube connector 4702 is latched onto the infusion portion 4502. In particular, the first arm 4712 and the second arm 4714 can be deflected outwards by contact with the connector head 4506 and the first latch 4716 and the second latch 4718 can clamp into recesses (recesses 4522a-4522h, see Figure 26B ) in the connector head 4506 or can clamp around opposite sides of the connector head 4506.

[0416] Advantageously, the tube connector 4702 can be easy to grip, in particular for people with impaired dexterity. Furthermore, the patient can lever / prise the tube connector 4702 with the connector head 4506 using the sliding motion described above, which means that less force is required to connect the tube connector 4702 to the infusion portion 4502. Similarly, to disconnect the tube connector 4702 from the infusion portion 4502, the patient can grip / push the first ring portion 4704 and can lever against the connector head 4506, making it easier for people with impaired dexterity to disconnect the tube connector 4702.

[0417] As described above, the tube connectors 118, 4302, 4702 are used to connect the connecting tubes 116, 4322, 4722 to the infusion portions 104, 4202, 4502, 4602. The tube connectors 118, 4302, 4702 have the connecting tubes 116, 4322, 4722 attached thereto and clamp into the infusion portions 104, 4202, 4502, 4602.

[0418] In a number of other examples, as Figure 30As shown, the insertion device 4902 can be provided with a safety connector 4910 similar to the tube connectors 118, 4302, 4702 described above. Figure 30 The insertion device 4902 shown in Figure 1A is used to attach an infusion portion (e.g., the infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602) to the skin 102 of a user in a manner such that a cannula 112 is inserted into a subcutaneous location. The insertion device 4902 includes an insertion device body 4906 that holds the infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602 and the mounting portion 108 (see Figure 1A ). The infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602 is held with the cannula pointing towards an open end of the insertion device body 4906. A button 4904 is provided at an opposite end, and pressing the button 4904 pushes the infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602 down through the insertion device body 4906, out of the open end, and into contact with the skin of the user. In this way, the cannula pierces the skin, and the mounting portion attaches the infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602 to the skin.

[0419] Suitable insertion devices 4902 are known from, for example, EP 2552513 B1.

[0420] As shown in Figure 30 , before the insertion device 4902 is used, the safety connector 4910 is used to connect in the opening 4908 to lock the button 4904 in an extended position. When the infusion system is provided to the user, the infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602 is provided within the insertion device body 4906 of the insertion device 4902, and the safety connector 4910 is positioned to lock the button 4904. The safety connector 4910 is substantially the same as the tube connector 4302 described with reference to Figure 24A and Figure 24B . Alternatively, it can be substantially the same as the tube connector 4702 described with reference to Figure 28 . However, the safety connector 4910 is not connected to a tube or needle. The safety connector 4910 includes a first ring portion 4912 and a second ring portion (not shown in Figure 30 ). As shown, when the safety connector 4910 is received in the connection opening 4908, the second ring portion is received in the connection opening 4908, and the first ring portion 4912 protrudes from the connection opening 4908.

[0421] Prior to use, the user removes the safety connector 4910 from the connection opening 4908 by pulling the first loop portion 4912. The first loop portion 4912 advantageously provides a pull ring to pull the safety connector 4910 from the connection opening 4908. The user can then position the insertion device 4902 on their skin and push the button 4904 to insert the cannula and attach the infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602 to the skin.

[0422] Advantageously, the first loop portion 4912 can be easily grasped between the fingers and thumb, or placed by the fingers or thumb through the first loop portion 4912, making it easier for patients with impaired dexterity to remove the safety connector 4910 from the insertion device 4902.

[0423] As mentioned above, the tube connector 118, 4302, 4702 can be coupled to a pump, for example for administering a therapeutic substance, by the connection tube 116, 4322, 4722. However, the tube connector 118, 4302, 4702 can be replaced by a dummy connector or a dummy component which is shaped to correspond to the tube connector 118, 4302, 4702, but without the connection tube 116, 4322, 4722 and the needle 4320, 4720. In this way, the patient can disconnect the real tube connector 118, 4302, 4702 and replace it with the dummy component. In this way, the pump for administering the drug or therapeutic substance can be disconnected from the infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602 of the patient. The dummy component can seal the infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602, for example during cleaning. When the patient wears the infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602 with the dummy component or dummy connector and needs the drug or therapeutic substance, the patient can inject the drug or therapeutic substance directly into the cannula, for example through a part of the infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602, for example by using a syringe.

[0424] In this way, the patient can easily leave home for a short time without having to carry around difficult to manage medical equipment, such as the pump for administering the drug mentioned above, but can still inject the drug or therapeutic substance when needed, for example using a small syringe.

[0425] Similarly, Figure 30 The safety connector 4910 shown in Fig. 49 can be used as a dummy component after removal from the insertion device 4902.

[0426] In some examples, the safety connector 4910 can be fluidly coupled with the infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602 and can include a pierceable region, such as a septum, for allowing a patient to administer medication by injecting the medication through the pierceable region and into the infusion portion 104, 4202, 4502, 4602.

[0427] While the application has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the application are desired to be protected.

[0428] It should be understood that while the words like "can", "could", "preferably", "preferably", "preferred" or "more preferred" used in the above description indicate that the described features can be more desirable, this can not be necessary and embodiments without such features can be considered within the scope of the application, which is defined by the appended claims. When reading the claims, it is intended that, where words like "a", "an", "at least one" or "at least a portion" are used, the claims are not intended to be limited to only one item unless there is an explicit statement that the claim is limited to only one item. When the language "at least a portion" and / or "a portion" is used, the item can include a portion and / or the entire item unless there is an explicit statement to the contrary.

Claims

1. A tube connector for an infusion set, the tube connector comprising: a connector body adapted for connection to the pipe; opposing first and second latch arms resiliently coupled to the connector body at a flexure; as well as a first lever attached to the first latch arm and a second lever attached to the second latch arm, the first lever and the second lever extending lateral to the first latch arm and the second latch arm, respectively, such that pressing the first lever and the second lever toward each other deflects the first latch arm and the second latch arm relative to the connector body about the flexure portion.

2. The pipe connector according to claim 1, wherein The connector body includes a tube connection location, wherein the first latch arm and the first lever are arranged on a first side of the tube connection location, and the second latch arm and the second lever are arranged on a second side of the tube connection location opposite the first side.

3. The pipe connector according to claim 2, wherein The first latch arm is disposed between the first lever and the tube connection location, wherein the second latch arm is disposed between the second lever and the tube connection location.

4. The pipe connector according to claim 3, wherein The connector body is substantially planar and lies in a plane, wherein the first and second latch arms and the first and second levers are arranged in substantially the same plane as the plane of the connector body.

5. The pipe connector according to claim 4, wherein The tube connection portion is substantially flush with a plane of the connector body.

6. The pipe connector according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein The first and second latch arms, the first and second levers, and the tube connection location are aligned in a plane of the connector body.

7. The pipe connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein The first latch arm and the second latch arm each include a latch.

8. The pipe connector according to claim 7, wherein The latch of the first latch arm extends toward the first lever, wherein the latch of the second latch arm extends toward the second lever.

9. The pipe connector according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The first lever is coupled to the first latch arm along a portion of the first latch arm, wherein the second lever is coupled to the second latch arm along a portion of the second latch arm.

10. The pipe connector according to claim 9, wherein The first lever and the second lever extend further from the connector body than the first latch arm and the second latch arm, respectively.

11. The pipe connector according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein The first lever and the second lever each include a gripping surface.

12. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising at least one guide arm extending from the connector body.

13. The pipe connector according to claim 12, wherein The at least one guide arm is substantially parallel to the first latch arm and the second latch arm.

14. The pipe connector according to claim 12 or 13, wherein: The at least one guide arm is arranged in substantially the same plane as the first latch arm and the second latch arm.

15. The pipe connector according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein The tube connector comprises a front portion having a fluid connector for fluidly coupling to an infusion part of the infusion set and a rear portion comprising a tube connection for the tube, wherein the flexure region is arranged at the rear portion.

16. The pipe connector according to claim 15, wherein The first and second latch arms and the first and second levers extend from the rear portion toward the front portion.

17. The pipe connector according to claim 16, wherein The first and second latch arms and the first and second levers extend beyond the front portion of the pipe connector.

18. An infusion set comprising an infusion part and the tube connector according to any one of claims 1 to 17, the infusion part having a cannula and a mounting part for mounting the infusion part to a patient's skin in such a manner that the cannula is located subcutaneously.

19. The infusion set according to claim 18, comprising at least one opening for the first latch arm and / or the second latch arm, the opening comprising a latch portion for engagement with the first latch arm and / or the second latch arm.

20. The infusion set of claim 19, comprising a first opening for the first latch arm and a second opening for the second latch arm, each of the first opening and the second opening comprising a latch portion for engaging with the first latch arm and the second latch arm, respectively.

21. The infusion set according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein The infusion part further comprises a guide opening for a guide arm of the tube connector.

22. The infusion set according to any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein The infusion part includes a body part, wherein the first lever and the second lever are arranged beside and spaced apart from the body part when the tube connector is connected to the infusion part.

23. An infusion system comprising an infusion set according to any one of claims 18 to 22, and a drug source for delivering a drug to a patient via the tube connector and the cannula.

24. The infusion system of claim 23, further comprising a pump for continuous or intermittent delivery of the drug to the patient.

25. An infusion set insertion device for attaching an infusion set to a patient, the infusion set insertion device comprising an insertion device body and a button operable to move the infusion set within the insertion device body, wherein the button and / or the insertion device body comprises an opening adapted to receive a safety connector such that the safety connector prevents movement of the button relative to the insertion device body, wherein the safety connector comprises: Connector body; opposing first and second latch arms resiliently coupled to the connector body at a flexure; as well as a first lever attached to the first latch arm and a second lever attached to the second latch arm, the first lever and the second lever extending lateral to the first latch arm and the second latch arm, respectively, such that pressing the first lever and the second lever toward each other deflects the first latch arm and the second latch arm relative to the body portion about the flexure portion.

26. An infusion portion of an infusion set, the infusion portion comprising: a cannula for delivering a drug subcutaneously when the infusion portion is attached to the patient's skin; and a connector having a sidewall, the sidewall having a regular polygonal cross-section, the regular polygonal cross-section having a number of sides divisible by four; and A plurality of fluid ports are provided on a side wall of the connector, and each of the plurality of fluid ports is in communication with the cannula.

27. The infusion portion according to claim 26, wherein The side wall has at least four sides, such as four sides, or eight sides, or twelve sides, or sixteen sides.

28. The infusion portion according to claim 26 or 27, wherein Each side of the sidewall includes one fluid port of the plurality of fluid ports.

29. The infusion portion according to claim 28, wherein Each side includes a recess in which the fluid port on each side is located.

30. The infusion portion according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein The connector also includes a flange edge depending from the side wall.

31. The infusion portion according to claim 30, wherein The flange edge includes a plurality of guide portions.

32. The infusion portion according to claim 30, wherein Each of the plurality of guides includes a recess aligned with one of the plurality of fluid ports.

33. The infusion portion according to any one of claims 26 to 32, further comprising a base, wherein the connection head protrudes from the base.

34. The infusion portion according to any one of claims 26 to 33, wherein The base includes a plurality of guides.

35. The infusion portion according to claim 34, wherein Each of the plurality of guides includes a recess aligned with one of the plurality of fluid ports.

36. The infusion portion of any one of claims 26 to 35, further comprising a cannula receiving chamber in fluid communication with the cannula, wherein each of the plurality of fluid ports is in communication with the cannula receiving chamber.

37. The infusion portion according to any one of claims 26 to 36, wherein Each of the plurality of fluid ports includes a seal, such as a septum seal.

38. A tube connector for connecting to an infusion section, the infusion section comprising a sidewall having a regular polygonal cross-section having a number of sides divisible by four and a plurality of fluid ports, the tube connector comprising: a first arm and a second arm spaced apart from and parallel to the first arm; as well as a needle extending between the first arm and the second arm, The first arm is spaced apart from the second arm such that when the tube connector is connected to the infusion portion, the first arm and the second arm engage opposite sides of a side wall of the infusion portion to align the needle with a fluid port located between the opposite sides.

39. The tube connector according to claim 38, further comprising a guide portion arranged to engage a corresponding guide portion of the infusion part when connecting the tube connector to the infusion part.

40. A pipe connector according to claim 39, wherein The guide portion comprises a protrusion arranged to engage a recess of the infusion part when connecting the tube connector to the infusion part.

41. The tube connector according to any one of claims 38 to 40, further comprising a connecting tube and a fluid path connecting the connecting tube to the needle.

42. The tube connector according to any one of claims 38 to 41, further comprising a rotatably mounted locking member, wherein when the tube connector is connected to the infusion part, the locking member can be rotated to engage the infusion part and retain the tube connector to the infusion part.

43. A pipe connector according to claim 42, wherein The locking member comprises a ring-shaped member, wherein the ring-shaped member is rotatable to at least partially surround a portion of the infusion part when the tube connector is connected to the infusion part.

44. A pipe connector according to claim 42 or 43, wherein The locking member is rotatably mounted to the tube connector about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the needle.

45. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 42 to 44, wherein The locking member includes a latch configured to retain the locking member in a locked position.

46. ​​A pipe connector according to any one of claims 38 to 45, wherein The first arm comprises a first latch and the second arm comprises a second latch, wherein the first latch and the second latch are arranged to clamp onto the connection head of the infusion part when the tube connector is connected to the infusion part.

47. A pipe connector according to claim 46, wherein The first latch and the second latch are arranged to engage recesses on two opposing sides of the connection head when the tube connector is connected to the infusion part.

48. The tube connector according to claim 46 comprises a first annular member and a second annular member connected together by an opening, wherein the second annular member is sized so that the infusion part can extend through the second annular member, wherein the first annular member comprises the first arm, the second arm and the needle.

49. An infusion set comprising the infusion portion according to any one of claims 26 to 37 and the tube connector according to any one of claims 38 to 48.

50. An infusion system comprising a drug source and an infusion set according to claim 49, the drug source being a drug pump such as an insulin pump.

51. A tube connector for an infusion set, the tube connector comprising: a main body portion comprising a tube connection site for connection to a tube and a fluid connector for fluidly coupling to an infusion portion of the infusion set; first and second latch arms extending from the body portion on opposite sides of the fluid connector; as well as a first tab attached to the first latch arm and a second tab attached to the second latch arm, The first tab and the second tab are respectively attached to the first latch arm and the second latch arm on opposite sides opposite to the fluid connector and extend above the main body portion at a distance from the main body portion, so that pressing the first tab and the second tab toward the main body portion can deflect the first latch arm and the second latch arm, respectively.

52. A pipe connector according to claim 51, wherein The first and second latch arms are joined to the body portion at respective first and second flexure locations.

53. A pipe connector according to claim 52, wherein The first and second flexure locations are adapted to bend when the first and second tabs are pressed toward the body portion.

54. A pipe connector according to claim 52 or 53, wherein The main body portion includes a front side and a rear side, the tube connection portion is disposed on the rear side, the fluid connector is disposed on the front side, and the first flexure portion and the second flexure portion are arranged on the rear side.

55. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 51 to 54, wherein The first latch arm includes a first latch and the second latch arm includes a second latch, wherein the first latch and the second latch extend from the first latch arm and the second latch arm in a direction toward the first tab and the second tab.

56. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 51 to 55, wherein The first tab and the second tab are spaced apart from each other near a central portion of the body portion.

57. A pipe connector according to claim 56, wherein The fluid connector is disposed in the central portion of the body portion.

58. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 51 to 57, wherein The fluid connector includes a needle.

59. A pipe connector according to claim 58, wherein The first latch arm and the second latch arm are parallel to the needle.

60. A pipe connector according to claim 58 or 59, wherein The first latch arm and the second latch arm are arranged in the same plane as the needle.

61. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 51 to 60, wherein The first latch arm and the second latch arm protrude beyond a front side of the body portion.

62. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 51 to 61 further comprising at least one guide arm extending from the body portion.

63. A pipe connector according to claim 62, wherein The at least one guide arm extends parallel to the first latch arm and the second latch arm.

64. A pipe connector according to claim 62 or 63, wherein The at least one guide arm is disposed between the first latch arm and the second latch arm.

65. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 62 to 64, wherein The at least one guide arm is in the same plane as the first latch arm and the second latch arm.

66. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 62 to 65, wherein The at least one latch arm does not deflect when the first tab and the second tab are pressed toward the body portion.

67. An infusion set comprising an infusion part and a tube connector according to any one of claims 51 to 66, the infusion part having a cannula and a mounting part for mounting the infusion part to the skin of a patient in such a way that the cannula is located in a subcutaneous position.

68. The infusion set of claim 67, comprising at least one opening for the first latch arm and / or the second latch arm, the opening comprising a latch portion for engaging with the first latch arm and / or the second latch arm.

69. The infusion set of claim 68, comprising a first opening for the first latch arm and a second opening for the second latch arm, each of the first opening and the second opening comprising a latch portion for engaging with the first latch arm and the second latch arm, respectively.

70. The infusion set of claim 67, wherein The infusion part further comprises a guide opening for at least one guide arm of the tube connector.

71. An infusion system comprising an infusion set according to any one of claims 67 to 70 and a source of drug for delivering the drug to a patient via the tube connector and the cannula.

72. The infusion system of claim 71 , further comprising a pump for continuous or intermittent delivery of medication to the patient.

73. An infusion set insertion device for attaching an infusion set to a patient, the infusion set insertion device comprising an insertion device body and a button operable to move the infusion set within the insertion device body, wherein the button and / or the insertion device body comprises an opening adapted to receive a safety connector such that the safety connector prevents movement of the button relative to the insertion device body, wherein the safety connector comprises: a main body portion having a central member; first and second latch arms extending from the body portion on opposite sides of the central member; as well as a first tab attached to the first latch arm and a second tab attached to the second latch arm, The first tab and the second tab are attached to the first latch arm and the second latch arm, respectively, on opposite sides of the central component and extend above the main body portion at a distance from the main body portion, so that pressing the first tab and the second tab toward the main body portion can deflect the first latch arm and the second latch arm, respectively.

74. A tube connector for an infusion set, the tube connector comprising: a connector body having a tube connection site for connection to a tube and a fluid path for communicating the tube with the infusion set during use; an arm arranged to engage the infusion set when the tube connector is connected to the infusion set; as well as A ring portion extends from the connector body such that a user can pull the ring portion to disconnect the tube connector from the infusion set.

75. A pipe connector according to claim 74, comprising a first arm and a second arm, the second arm being parallel to and spaced apart from the first arm.

76. A pipe connector according to claim 75, wherein The first arm and the second arm each include a latch for connecting the tube connector to the infusion set.

77. The tube connector according to any one of claims 74 to 76, further comprising a needle extending from the connector body and connected to the fluid path, the needle being arranged to engage a fluid port of the infusion set when the tube connector is connected to the infusion set.

78. A pipe connector according to claim 77, wherein The needle is parallel to the latch arm.

79. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 74 to 78, wherein The ring portion is rotatably connected to the connector body.

80. A pipe connector according to claim 79, wherein The arm extends from the connector body in an axial direction, wherein the ring portion is rotatably connected to the connector body about a rotation axis perpendicular to the axial direction.

81. A pipe connector according to claim 79 or 80, wherein When the tube connector is connected to the infusion set, the ring portion can be rotated to engage the infusion set to retain the tube connector on the infusion set.

82. A pipe connector according to claim 81, wherein The ring portion is configured to clip onto a portion of the infusion set.

83. A pipe connector according to claim 81 or 82, wherein The infusion set includes a connector having a sidewall with a fluid port.

84. A pipe connector according to claim 81 or 82, wherein The side wall of the infusion set includes a plurality of fluid ports, wherein the tube connector is configured to be connectable to the infusion set at any one of the plurality of fluid ports.

85. An infusion set comprising an infusion part and a tube connector according to any one of claims 74 to 84, the infusion part having a cannula and a mounting part for mounting the infusion part to the skin of a patient in such a way that the cannula is located in a subcutaneous position.

86. The infusion set of claim 85, wherein One of the tube connector and the infusion portion includes a needle.

87. An infusion system comprising an infusion set according to any one of claims 85 to 86 and a source of drug for delivering the drug to a patient via the tube connector and the cannula.

88. The infusion system of claim 87, further comprising a pump for continuous or intermittent delivery of medication to the patient.

89. An infusion set insertion device for attaching an infusion set to a patient, the infusion set insertion device comprising an insertion device body and a button operable to move the infusion set within the insertion device body, wherein the button and / or the insertion device body comprises a connector receiving opening adapted to receive a safety connector such that the safety connector prevents movement of the button relative to the insertion device body, wherein the safety connector comprises: an arm for engaging the infusion set; as well as A ring portion extends from the connector body such that a user can pull the ring portion to disconnect the tube connector from the infusion set.

90. A tube connector for an infusion set, the tube connector comprising: a connector body having a tube connection site for connection to a tube and a fluid path for communicating the tube with the infusion set during use; an arm arranged to engage the infusion set when the tube connector is connected to the infusion set; as well as A locking member is rotatably attached to the connector body and is rotatable to engage the infusion part when the tube connector is connected to the infusion part to retain the tube connector on the infusion set.

91. A pipe connector according to claim 90, wherein The locking member is shaped to at least partially surround a portion of the infusion set when in the locked position.

92. A pipe connector according to claim 90 or 91, wherein The locking member includes a ring portion.

93. A tube connector for connecting to an infusion portion of an infusion set, the tube connector comprising: a first ring portion and a second ring portion together defining a closed ring, wherein the first ring portion is larger than the second ring portion, and the first ring portion is sized so that the first ring portion can be positioned on the connector of the infusion portion, wherein the second ring portion is sized to receive the connector of the infusion portion when the tube connector is moved laterally and the connector of the infusion portion is moved from the first ring portion into the second ring portion, and The tube connector further comprises a fluid connector provided in the second ring portion, wherein the fluid connector is used to form a fluid connection between the tube connector and the infusion portion.

94. A pipe connector according to claim 93, wherein The second ring portion comprises a resiliently deflectable arm arranged to engage a connector of the infusion portion.

95. A pipe connector according to claim 94, wherein The second ring portion comprises a first resiliently deflectable arm and an opposing second resiliently deflectable arm, the first and second resiliently deflectable arms being arranged to engage opposing sides of the connector of the infusion portion.

96. A pipe connector according to claim 94 or 95, wherein The or each resiliently deflectable arm comprises a latch arranged to latch onto a connection head of the infusion part.

97. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 93 to 96, wherein The fluid connection of the tube connector comprises a needle protruding into the second ring portion.

98. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 93 to 97, wherein The connector of the infusion portion comprises a polygonal cross-section having parallel opposing sides, wherein the tube connector further comprises an opening between the first ring portion and the second ring portion, the size of the opening being determined such that the connector can only be passed through the opening when the movement direction is parallel to the parallel opposing sides of the connector.

99. The tube connector of claim 98, further comprising at least one protrusion extending into the closed loop, wherein the opening is defined between the at least one protrusion and an opposing side of the tube connector.

100. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 93 to 99, wherein The second ring portion is shaped to match a cross-sectional shape of a connector of the infusion portion.

101. The pipe connector according to any one of claims 93 to 100, further comprising a connecting pipe in fluid communication with the fluid connection piece.

102. A pipe connector according to any one of claims 93 to 101, wherein A portion of the first ring portion opposite the second ring portion is shaped to mate with a portion of the connector.

103. An infusion portion for an infusion set, the infusion portion comprising a base for attachment to a patient's skin and a cannula for subcutaneous delivery of a drug during use, wherein the infusion portion comprises a connector extending from the base, the connector comprising a fluid port for fluid connection to a tube connector according to any one of claims 93 to 102.

104. The infusion portion according to claim 103, wherein The connector includes a polygonal cross-sectional shape having multiple sides.

105. The infusion portion according to claim 104, wherein The connector includes a generally triangular cross-sectional shape, wherein the fluid port is disposed at one of the tips of the connector, wherein the second ring portion of the tube connector includes a partial triangular profile to receive the connector and align the fluid port with the fluid connection.

106. The infusion portion according to claim 104, wherein The connector includes a regular polygonal cross-sectional shape, wherein the fluid ports are arranged on one side of the connector, and wherein the second ring portion of the tube connector includes a partial regular polygonal profile to receive the connector and align the fluid ports with the fluid connection.

107. The infusion portion according to claim 106, wherein The connector includes a plurality of fluid ports disposed in different sides of the connector.

108. The infusion portion according to claim 106 or 107, wherein Each side surface of the connector includes a recess.

109. The infusion portion according to any one of claims 103 to 108, wherein The connector includes a flange edge depending from a side wall of the connector opposite the base, wherein the second ring portion is disposed between the base and the flange edge when the connector is received in the second ring portion of the pipe connector.

110. An infusion set comprising a tube connector according to any one of claims 93 to 102 and an infusion part according to any one of claims 103 to 109.

111. An infusion system comprising a drug source, for example a drug pump such as an insulin pump, and an infusion set according to claim 110.

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