Connector coupling assembly

Abstract

Couplers are described herein. A coupler includes a coupler body, a plurality of first retention fingers, and a plurality of second retention fingers. The coupler body includes a first end and a second end and defines a cavity configured to receive a first connector and a second connector. The plurality of first retention fingers are configured to engage against a collar of the first connector to prevent axial movement of the first connector relative to the coupler. The plurality of second retention fingers are configured to engage against a shoulder of the second connector with a retention force and to release the second connector by radially expanding in response to a pull-out force exerted on the second connector exceeding the retention force.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to connectors, and in particular to connector couplings. BACKGROUND

[0002] Medical therapy often involves the infusion of medical fluids (e.g., saline solution or liquid medication) to a patient using an intravenous (IV) catheter connected to a fluid source, such as an IV bag, by a flexible tubing and fittings arrangement commonly referred to as an "IV set." Typically, the tubing or catheter are coupled or secured to one another to allow fluid communication between various portions of the tubing or catheter.

[0003] In some applications, such tubing or catheter can dislodge due to improper securing and / or when subjected to forces greater than the coupling was designed to withstand. SUMMARY

[0004] The disclosed subject matter relates to connector couplings. In certain embodiments, a coupling is disclosed that includes a coupling body including a first end and a second end and defining a cavity configured to receive a first connector and a second connector, a plurality of first retention fingers disposed proximate the first end and extending radially inward into the cavity, wherein the plurality of first retention fingers are biased radially inward toward the cavity and are configured to engage against a collar of the first connector to prevent axial movement of the first connector relative to the coupling, a plurality of second retention fingers disposed at the second end and extending radially inward into the cavity, wherein the plurality of second retention fingers are biased radially inward toward the cavity and are configured to engage against a shoulder of the second connector with a retention force and release the second connector by radially expanding in response to an extraction force exerted on the second connector exceeding the retention force.

[0005] In certain embodiments, a coupler assembly is disclosed, comprising: a first connector comprising: a first connector body having a first inlet and a first outlet, the first inlet configured to couple to a first portion of a tube, the first outlet in fluid communication with the first inlet; and a collar disposed between the first inlet and the first outlet, wherein the collar extends radially from the first connector body; a second connector comprising: a second connector body having a second inlet and a second outlet, the second inlet configured to releasably couple with the first outlet of the first connector, the second outlet configured to couple to a second portion of the tube and in fluid communication with the second inlet; and a shoulder disposed between the second inlet and the second outlet, wherein the shoulder extends radially from the second connector body; and a coupler comprising: a coupler body comprising a first end and a second end and defining a cavity, wherein the first connector and the second connector are at least partially disposed within the cavity; a plurality of first retention fingers disposed proximate the first end and extending radially inward into the cavity, wherein the plurality of first retention fingers are biased radially inward to engage against the collar of the first connector to prevent axial movement of the first connector relative to the second connector; and a plurality of second retention fingers disposed at the second end and extending radially inward into the cavity, wherein the plurality of second retention fingers are biased radially inward to engage against the shoulder of the second connector with a retention force, and the plurality of second retention fingers are configured to release the second connector by radially expanding in response to an extraction force exerted on the second connector exceeding the retention force.

[0006] In certain embodiments, a method is disclosed, comprising: inserting a portion of a first connector into a cavity of a coupler, wherein the first connector is coupled to a first portion of a tube; biasing a plurality of first retention fingers radially inward to engage against a collar of the first connector; inserting a portion of a second connector into the cavity from an opposing end of the coupler, wherein the second connector is coupled to a second portion of the tube; coupling an outlet of the first connector with an inlet of the second connector, permitting fluid communication between the first portion of the tube and the second portion of the tube; and biasing a plurality of second retention fingers radially inward to engage against a shoulder of the second connector with a retention force.

[0007] It should be apparent from this disclosure that various configurations of the technology can be utilized, and that the generic description set out in this summary is not limiting of the scope of the technology. It should also be apparent that various modifications and changes can be made in the method and apparatus described without departing from the true spirit and scope of the technology. Accordingly, it is intended that all such modifications and changes be considered as within the scope of the technology as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] The accompanying drawings (which are included to provide further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification) illustrate the disclosed embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments. In the drawings:

[0009] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the connector components according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0010] Figure 2 Based on all aspects of this disclosure Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the connector components.

[0011] Figure 3 The second connector is omitted according to various aspects of this disclosure. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the connector assembly.

[0012] Figure 4 Based on all aspects of this disclosure Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the connector assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0013] The disclosed connector includes a plurality of first retaining fingers and a plurality of second retaining fingers. The plurality of first retaining fingers can be configured to engage with a collar of a first connector to prevent axial movement of the first connector. The plurality of second retaining fingers can be configured to engage with a shoulder of a second connector, thereby preventing axial movement of the second connector. By preventing axial movement of the first and second connectors, the connector can prevent unintended or accidental displacement of the first and second connectors. Furthermore, the plurality of second retaining fingers can be configured to release the second connector in response to a pull-out force. By allowing the second connector to be removed in response to a pull-out force, the second connector can be removed if necessary by applying an increased pull-out force.

[0014] The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description of various constructions of the present technology and is not intended to represent the only constructions in which the present technology can be practiced. To provide a thorough understanding of the present technology, the detailed description includes specific details. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present technology can be practiced without these specific details. In some cases, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concept of the present technology. For ease of understanding, similar components are labeled with the same element number. Reference numerals may be appended with letter suffixes to indicate individual instances of common elements, while generally they are referred to by the same designation without suffixes.

[0015] While the following description is directed to the use of the disclosed couplings to connect medical fittings for medical fluid management, it should be understood that the description is merely an example of use and does not limit the scope of the claims. Various aspects of the disclosed couplings can be used in any application where securement of connections of various tubes and fittings is desired.

[0016] The disclosed couplings overcome several challenges found with certain conventional couplings. One challenge with certain conventional couplings is that certain conventional couplings can be inappropriately secured. Further, during use, certain conventional couplings can be designed to release or dislodge in response to relatively low pull-out forces. For example, certain conventional couplings can release in response to pull-out forces experienced by a patient rolling over in bed, a patient grabbing a tube or line on a bed rail, moving a patient to a different bed, a pediatric patient fidgeting and / or a disoriented adult patient pulling out their line. Indeed, the 2017 Annual Scientific Meeting report of the Association for Vascular Access (AVA) reported a dislodgement rate of 10% for 1000 patients with a peripheral intravenous catheter installed, which equates to approximately 33 million dislodgements per year in the United States alone. Because accidental or inadvertent dislodgement of a tube, catheter, or fitting can interrupt the management of medical fluids, the use of certain conventional couplings is not desirable.

[0017] Accordingly, in accordance with the present disclosure, it is advantageous to provide a coupling as described herein that allows for improved securement of a fitting or connector. The disclosed couplings provide a plurality of first retention fingers and a plurality of second retention fingers that permit secure retention of a connector while allowing intentional removal of the connector as desired.

[0018] An example of a coupling that allows for secure retention of a connector is now described.

[0019] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a coupling assembly 100 in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is a perspective view of a coupling assembly 100 in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of the coupling assembly 100 of Figure 1 and 2 The coupling assembly 100 allows for fluid, such as medical fluid, to flow from a fluid source to a patient by releasably coupling a portion of a tube or line in fluid communication with another portion of a tube or line.

[0020] In the illustrated example, some portions of the tubes can terminate at connectors, such as an upper connector 110 and / or a lower connector 130. The upper connector 110 and / or the lower connector 130 can allow for connection and / or disconnection of the tubes to allow for selective fluid communication therebetween.

[0021] As shown, the first portion of the tubing can terminate at an upper connector 110 to allow the first portion of the tubing to connect and / or disconnect with a mating connector, such as a lower connector 130. In some embodiments, a portion of the tubing can couple or engage with an inlet 112 of the upper connector 110. The inlet 112 can be in fluid communication with the tubing to allow fluid to pass through the upper connector 110. In some embodiments, the inlet 112 can have a flat surface to allow a medical professional to easily clean and sterilize the inlet 112. Fluid can exit or flow through the upper connector 110 via an outlet 114 disposed opposite the inlet 112. The flow path through the upper connector 110 can have a straight fluid passageway to make flushing easier and reduce the risk of hemolysis. Optionally, the upper connector 110 can include a raised feature 122 disposed on a surface of the upper connector 110 to allow a medical professional to more easily handle or manipulate the upper connector 110. Some embodiments of the upper connector 110 can provide a connector that is compatible with connectors of other portions of a fluid delivery system. Examples of the upper connector 110 can include a SmartSite™ connector, a Max Zero connector, and a Max Plus connector.

[0022] Similarly, the second portion of the tubing can terminate at a lower connector 130 to allow the second portion of the tubing to connect and / or disconnect with a mating connector, such as the upper connector 110. In some embodiments, a portion of the tubing can couple or engage with an outlet 134 of the lower connector 130. In some embodiments, the outlet 134 can include a threaded luer connection 138 to facilitate coupling with the tubing.

[0023] The tubing can be in fluid communication with the outlet 134 to allow the tubing to receive fluid that passes through the lower connector 130. The lower connector 130 can receive a fluid flow from an inlet 132 disposed opposite the outlet 134. In some embodiments, the lower connector 130 can include a dripless feature to prevent leakage or surface contamination. The lower connector can further include a luer lock to prevent accidental discharge. Optionally, the lower connector 130 can include a raised feature 140 disposed on a surface of the lower connector 130 to allow a medical professional to more easily handle or manipulate the lower connector 130. Examples of the lower connector 130 can include a connector.

[0024] In some embodiments, the outlet 114 of the upper connector 110 and / or the inlet 132 of the lower connector 130 may include features that allow the outlet 114 to mate with the inlet 132. For example, the outlet 114 may be fitted together with or otherwise engaged with the inlet 132 to allow fluid communication between the upper connector 110 and the lower connector 130 and the tubular portion coupled thereto. As will be understood, the upper connector 110 and the lower connector 130 may be coupled and disengaged to allow fluid communication as desired. As shown, the outlet 114 may include an external portion that is smooth or unthreaded. The outlet 114 may include an external portion that includes threads to facilitate engagement with the lower connector 130. As will be understood, the upper connector 110 may engage with the lower connector 130 to provide a pinless connection. Advantageously, the upper connector 110 may mate with the lower connector to form a leak-free, closed system, thereby allowing the delivery of hazardous drugs. For example, SmartSite TM The connector can be connected to Connectors to provide a closed system that prevents dangerous drugs from leaking or dripping.

[0025] In some embodiments, the upper connector 110 may include a sealing valve to allow fluid passage through the outlet 114 when it is engaged with a mating connector, and to prevent or restrict flow when the upper connector 110 is disconnected from the mating connector. In some embodiments, the upper connector 110 may include a sealing valve to seal the flow path between the inlet 112 and the outlet 114 when the outlet 114 is disconnected from the mating connector. The sealing valve may be moved to an open position when the mating connector is engaged with the outlet 114, thereby allowing flow between the inlet 112 and the outlet 114, and into the mating connector.

[0026] Similarly, the lower connector 130 may include a sealing valve to allow fluid passage through it when the inlet 132 is engaged with the mating connector, and to prevent or restrict flow when the lower connector 130 is disconnected from the mating connector. The lower connector 130 may include a sealing valve to seal the flow path between the inlet 132 and the outlet 134 when the inlet 132 is disconnected from the mating connector. Furthermore, the sealing valve may be moved to an open position when the mating connector is engaged with the inlet 132, thereby allowing flow into the lower connector 130 and between the inlet 132 and the outlet 134. Some embodiments provide that portions of the sealing valve may be formed of silicone.

[0027] Figure 3 The lower connector 130 is omitted according to various aspects of this disclosure. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the connector assembly 100. (Reference) Figures 1-3With the coupler 150, the upper connector 110 and the lower connector 130 can be secured in a coupled position to allow safe fluid communication therebetween that cannot be accidentally or inadvertently interrupted. In the illustrated example, the coupler 150 can retain or secure the upper connector 110 and / or the lower connector 130 by engaging features of the upper connector 110 and / or the lower connector 130.

[0028] As shown, the coupler 150 can have a generally tubular body that extends between a first end configured to receive the upper connector 110 and a second end configured to receive the lower connector 130. The coupler 150 can define a cavity therein that allows portions of the upper connector 110 and / or the lower connector 130 to be disposed within the coupler 150.

[0029] In the illustrated example, the upper connector 110 can be inserted into the cavity of the coupler 150 to engage with the coupler 150 and prevent the upper connector 110 from being undesirably displaced. As shown, the outlet 114 end of the upper connector 110 is directed into the cavity through the first end of the coupler 150 to reach a desired axial position relative to the coupler 150. For example, when the lower connector 130 is inserted, the upper connector 110 can be axially positioned within the coupler 150 to allow the outlet 114 to engage or couple with the inlet 132 of the lower connector 130. Advantageously, the upper connector 110 can be axially positioned within the coupler 150 such that the outlet 114 is recessed within the cavity to prevent contamination of the outlet 114 by a patient, medical personnel, etc. when the upper connector 110 is not coupled to the lower connector 130.

[0030] In some embodiments, features within the coupler 150 can position the upper connector 110 within the cavity of the coupler 150. Optionally, the coupler 150 can include a tapered alignment feature 162 to generally radially align the outlet 114 and / or the upper connector 110 within the cavity of the coupler 150. The tapered alignment feature 162 can extend from a wall of the coupler 150 into the cavity and have a generally conical shape that converges radially. Thus, as the upper connector 110 is inserted or advanced into the coupler 150, the tapered alignment feature 162 can guide the upper connector 110 radially within the cavity.

[0031] In some embodiments, the upper connector 110 can include a frustoconical or tapered portion 120 to engage or mate with the tapered alignment feature 162 of the coupler 150. The tapered portion 120 can slide along the tapered alignment feature 162 to radially align the upper connector 110 within the coupler 150. The tapered portion 120 can be disposed between the inlet 112 and the outlet 114 of the upper connector 110. In some embodiments, the tapered portion 120 can be disposed proximate the outlet 114 of the upper connector 110.

[0032] When the upper connector 110 is inserted into the coupler 150, features of the coupler 150 can retain the upper connector 110 in the inserted position. In some embodiments, the coupler 150 can retain the upper connector 110 in the axial direction while permitting the upper connector 110 to rotate relative to the coupler 150. Alternatively, the coupler 150 can retain the upper connector 110 in rotation relative to the coupler 150.

[0033] In the illustrated example, the coupler 150 can include a plurality of first retention fingers 152 to engage or retain the upper connector 110 in an inserted or coupled axial position. In some embodiments, the plurality of first retention fingers 152 are movable in the radial direction to allow the upper connector 110 to be inserted into the coupler 150. The plurality of first retention fingers 152 can move into and out of a cavity defined by the coupler 150.

[0034] As shown, the plurality of first retention fingers 152 can be hinged relative to the coupler 150 body. In some embodiments, the plurality of first retention fingers 152 are integrally formed with the coupler 150. Alternatively, slots or windows 160 are cut into the material of the coupler 150 to form the plurality of first retention fingers 152. The plurality of first retention fingers 152 can be spaced apart in the circumferential direction around the coupler 150. Alternatively, the plurality of first retention fingers 152 can be disposed in groups or sets around the coupler 150. In some embodiments, the plurality of first retention fingers 152 can be spaced apart from an end of the coupler 150 that receives the upper connector 110.

[0035] In the illustrated example, the plurality of first retention fingers 152 can be biased radially inward to engage or retain the upper connector 110 within the coupler 150. The plurality of first retention fingers 152 can exert a radial spring force against the upper connector 110 to retain the upper connector 110 within the coupler 150. As can be appreciated, the spring force of the plurality of first retention fingers 152 can correspond to the retention force exerted on the upper connector 110. The plurality of first retention fingers 152 can elastically deform to engage against the upper connector 110.

[0036] In some embodiments, the plurality of first retaining fingers 152 may each include a protrusion or projection feature 153 for engaging with a feature of the upper connector 110. The projection feature 153 may extend radially inward to contact the upper connector 110. For example, the plurality of first retaining fingers 152 and / or projection features 153 may engage abut against a collar 116 of the upper connector 110.

[0037] Optionally, the upper connector 110 may include a collar 116, which may be a radially protruding portion extending from the upper connector 110. The collar 116 may be disposed between the inlet 112 and the outlet 114. As shown, the collar 116 may be disposed toward the outlet 114. Optionally, the collar 116 may include a groove or recess 118 disposed within the collar 116.

[0038] In the illustrated example, a plurality of first retaining fingers 152 and / or protrusions 153 may engage against a collar 116 to prevent axial movement of the upper connector 110 relative to the connector 150. During insertion, after the collar 116 has moved past the plurality of first retaining fingers 152 and / or protrusions 153, the plurality of first retaining fingers 152 may move radially inward to abut against an axial surface of the collar 116 for support, thereby retaining the upper connector 110. In some embodiments, the protrusions 153 of each of the plurality of first retaining fingers 152 may engage against the collar 116. Optionally, the protrusions 153 may have a generally square or axially facing surface abutting against the collar 116 to prevent the plurality of first retaining fingers 152 from expanding radially in response to an axial (pull-out) force applied against the upper connector 110.

[0039] Figure 4 Based on all aspects of this disclosure Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the connector assembly 100. (Reference) Figures 1-4 In the illustrated example, the lower connector 130 can be inserted into the cavity of the connector 150 to engage with both the connector 150 and the upper connector 110, and to prevent or resist accidental displacement with the upper connector 110. As shown, the inlet 132 end of the lower connector 130 is guided into the cavity through the second end of the connector 150, reaching a desired axial position relative to the connector 150. For example, the lower connector 130 can be axially positioned within the connector 150 to allow the inlet 132 to engage or connect with the outlet 114 of the upper connector 110. In some embodiments, features within the connector 150 may position the lower connector 130 within the cavity of the connector 150.

[0040] Features of the coupler 150 can retain the lower connector 130 in the inserted position when the lower connector 130 is inserted into the coupler 150. In some embodiments, the coupler 150 can retain the lower connector 130 axially while permitting the lower connector 130 to rotate relative to the coupler 150 and the upper connector 110. Optionally, the coupler 150 can retain the lower connector 130 rotationally relative to the coupler 150.

[0041] In the illustrated example, the coupler 150 can include a plurality of second retention fingers 154 to engage or retain the lower connector 130 in an inserted or coupled axial position. In some embodiments, the plurality of second retention fingers 154 are movable radially to allow the lower connector 130 to be inserted into the coupler 150. The plurality of second retention fingers 154 can move into and out of a cavity defined by the coupler 150.

[0042] As shown, the plurality of second retention fingers 154 can be hinged relative to the coupler 150 body. In some embodiments, the plurality of second retention fingers 154 are integrally formed with the coupler 150. A slot or window 158 can be cut between material of the coupler 150 to form the plurality of second retention fingers 154. The plurality of second retention fingers 154 can be spaced circumferentially around the coupler 150. The plurality of second retention fingers 154 can be provided in groups or sets around the coupler 150. In some embodiments, the plurality of second retention fingers 154 can be provided at an end of the coupler 150 that receives the lower connector 130.

[0043] In the illustrated example, the plurality of second retention fingers 154 can be biased radially inward to engage or retain the lower connector 130 within the coupler 150. The plurality of second retention fingers 154 can exert a radial spring force against the lower connector 130 to retain the lower connector 130 within the coupler 150. As can be appreciated, the spring force of the plurality of second retention fingers 154 can correspond to the retention force exerted on the lower connector 130. The plurality of second retention fingers 154 can elastically deform to engage against the lower connector 130.

[0044] In some embodiments, the plurality of second retention fingers 154 can each include a protrusion or protruding feature 156 to engage with a feature of the lower connector 130. The protruding feature 156 can extend radially inward to contact the lower connector 130. For example, the plurality of second retention fingers 154 and / or the protruding feature 156 can engage against the shoulder 136 of the lower connector 130.

[0045] Optionally, the lower connector 130 can include a shoulder 136, which can be a radially protruding portion extending from the lower connector 130. The shoulder 136 can be disposed between the inlet 132 and the outlet 134. As shown, the shoulder 136 can be disposed toward the outlet 134.

[0046] In the illustrated example, the plurality of second retention fingers 154 and / or the protruding features 156 can engage against the shoulder 136 to prevent or limit axial movement of the lower connector 130 relative to the coupler 150. During insertion, after the shoulder 136 moves past the plurality of second retention fingers 154 and / or the protruding features 156, the plurality of second retention fingers 154 can move radially inward, bearing axially against an axial surface of the shoulder 136, thereby retaining the lower connector 130. In some embodiments, the protruding feature 156 of each of the plurality of second retention fingers 154 can engage against the shoulder 136.

[0047] Optionally, the protruding features 156 can have a generally sloped surface bearing against the shoulder 136, thereby allowing the plurality of second retention fingers 154 to radially expand in response to an axial (pull) force exerted against the lower connector 130. In some embodiments, the coupler 150 can be configured to allow removal of the lower connector 130 in response to a selected or predetermined pull force. The lower connector 130 can be removed from the coupler 150 with a pull force of 1 pound, 2 pounds, 4 pounds, 5 pounds, 10 pounds, etc. As can be appreciated, the pull force can be selected to prevent accidental release, while preventing damage to the tube or injury to the patient.

[0048] Optionally, the coupler 150 can be configured to allow the upper connector 110 to remain secured when the lower connector 130 is removed. In other words, the coupler 150 can be configured to allow the lower connector 130 to be released with a lower pull force than the upper connector 110. After removal, the lower connector 130 can be reinserted into the coupler 150 to reconnect the lower connector 130 with the upper connector 110.

[0049] This disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. The disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects.

[0050] Referring to an element in the singular does not imply "one and only one," unless specifically stated otherwise, but rather "one or more." Unless otherwise specified, the term "some" refers to one or more. Pronouns for the masculine (e.g., his) include those for the feminine and neutral genders (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. Titles and subtitles (if any) are for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

[0051] The term "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example or illustration." Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. In one respect, various alternative constructions and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0052] For example, phrases such as "aspect" do not imply that such aspect is essential to the present technology or that such aspect is applicable to all constructions of the present technology. Disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all constructions, or one or more constructions. An aspect may provide one or more examples. For example, phrases such as "aspect" may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. For example, phrases such as "embodiment" do not imply that such embodiment is essential to the present technology or that such embodiment is applicable to all constructions of the present technology. Disclosure relating to an embodiment may apply to all embodiments, or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. For example, phrases such as "embodiment" may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. For example, phrases such as "construction" do not imply that such construction is essential to the present technology or that such construction is applicable to all constructions of the present technology. Disclosure relating to a construction may apply to all constructions, or one or more constructions. A construction may provide one or more examples. For example, phrases such as "construction" may refer to one or more constructions, and vice versa.

[0053] In one aspect, unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, sizes, dimensions, and other specifications given in this specification (including in the claims below) are approximate, not precise. In another aspect, they are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the functions they relate to and with the custom in the field to which they belong.

[0054] In one respect, the term "linkage" or similar terms can refer to a direct link. In another respect, the term "linkage" or similar terms can refer to an indirect link.

[0055] Terms such as "top," "bottom," "front," "back," and the like if used in this disclosure should be understood as referring to an arbitrary frame of reference, instead of normal gravity reference frame. Accordingly, top, bottom, front, and back surfaces can extend upwardly, downwardly, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravity reference frame.

[0056] Various items can be rearranged (e.g., to a different order, or to divide differently) without departing from the scope of the technology. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. The claims are not to be interpreted to perform a requirement under 35 U.S.C. § 112(6) unless the equivalent language is indeed used therein. Further, with respect to the use of the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," and the like, such terms are deemed to encompass the items listed thereafter, as well as equivalents thereof, to the extent not previously used in a manner consistent with such terms.

[0057] The title, background, summary, brief description of drawings, and abstract of the disclosure are hereby incorporated into this disclosure and provided as illustrative examples of the disclosure and are not intended to be limiting in any way. Submission of these items is understood to be non-waiverary of jurisdictional novelty appropriate to issuance of a patent in jurisdictions of the disclosing party's choice. Additionally, in the DETAILED DESCRIPTION, it can be seen that the description provides illustrative examples and that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as is understood in the art, inventive subject matter can lie in less than all features of a single disclosed construction or operation. The following claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description, wherein each claim stands as a separate application.

[0058] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims, and to cover all legal equivalents thereof. However, no aspect is intended to be conveyed by any claim to be required for the practice of the required subject matter under 35 U.S.C. § 101, 102, or 103, nor should they be so interpreted.

Claims

1. A coupler, comprising: a coupler body including a first end and a second end and defining a cavity configured to receive first and second connectors; a plurality of first retention fingers disposed proximate the first end and extending radially inward into the cavity, wherein the plurality of first retention fingers are biased radially inward toward the cavity and are configured to engage against a collar of the first connector with a first retention force to prevent axial movement of the first connector relative to the coupler; a plurality of second retention fingers disposed at the second end and extending radially inward into the cavity, wherein the plurality of second retention fingers are biased radially inward toward the cavity and are configured to: engage against a shoulder of the second connector with a second retention force that is less than the first retention force; and release the second connector by radially expanding in response to an extraction force applied on the second connector exceeding the second retention force. the coupler body includes a tubular shape.

2. The coupler of claim 1, wherein, the plurality of first retention fingers are spaced apart from the first end.

3. The coupler of claim 1, wherein, the plurality of first retention fingers are spaced apart circumferentially.

4. The coupler of claim 1, wherein, the plurality of first retention fingers are configured to permit rotational movement of the first connector relative to the coupler.

5. The coupler of claim 1, wherein, each of the plurality of first retention fingers includes a protrusion extending radially inward.

6. The coupler of claim 1, wherein, the plurality of first retention fingers extend from a respective plurality of first windows defined in the coupler body.

7. The coupler of claim 1, wherein, 8. The coupler of claim 1, further comprising a tapered portion within the cavity, wherein the tapered portion is configured to radially align the first connector within the cavity. each of the plurality of second retention fingers includes a ramped protrusion extending radially inward.

9. The coupler of claim 1, wherein, the plurality of second retention fingers define a respective plurality of second windows therebetween.

10. The coupler of claim 1, wherein, 11. A coupler assembly, comprising: a first connector, comprising: a first connector body having a first inlet and a first outlet, the first inlet configured to couple to a first portion of a tube, the first outlet in fluid communication with the first inlet; and a collar disposed between the first inlet and the first outlet, wherein the collar extends radially from the first connector body; a second connector, comprising: a second connector body having a second inlet and a second outlet, the second inlet configured to releasably couple with the first outlet of the first connector, the second outlet configured to couple with a second portion of the tube and in fluid communication with the second inlet; and a shoulder disposed between the second inlet and the second outlet, wherein the shoulder extends radially from the second connector body; and a coupler, comprising: a coupler body including a first end and a second end and defining a cavity, wherein the first and second connectors are at least partially disposed within the cavity; a plurality of first retention fingers disposed proximate the first end and extending radially inward into the cavity, wherein the plurality of first retention fingers are biased radially inward toward the cavity and are configured to engage against a collar of the first connector with a first retention force to prevent axial movement of the first connector relative to the coupler; and a plurality of second retention fingers disposed at the second end and extending radially inward into the cavity, wherein the plurality of second retention fingers are biased radially inward toward the cavity and are configured to: a plurality of first retention fingers disposed proximate the first end and extending radially inward into the cavity, wherein the plurality of first retention fingers are biased radially inward to engage the collar of the first connector with a first retention force to prevent axial movement of the first connector relative to the second connector; and a plurality of second retention fingers disposed at the second end and extending radially inward into the cavity, wherein the plurality of second retention fingers are biased radially inward to engage the shoulder of the second connector with a second retention force that is less than the first retention force, and the plurality of second retention fingers are configured to release the second connector by radially expanding in response to an extraction force exerted on the second connector exceeding the second retention force.

12. The coupler assembly of claim 11, wherein, at least one of the first connector and the second connector includes a seal valve configured to prevent fluid flow in an uncoupled state.

13. The coupler assembly of claim 11, wherein, the collar defines a groove extending radially inward.

14. The coupler assembly of claim 11, wherein, the first connector body includes a frustoconical portion disposed between the first inlet and the collar, and the coupler further includes a tapered portion within the cavity, wherein the tapered portion is configured to engage the frustoconical portion to radially align the first connector within the cavity.

15. The coupler assembly of claim 11, wherein, the second outlet of the second connector is threadably engaged with the second portion of the tube.

16. The coupler assembly of claim 11, wherein, each of the plurality of second retention fingers includes a ramped protrusion extending radially inward.

17. A method comprising: inserting a portion of a first connector into a cavity of a coupler, wherein the first connector is coupled to a first portion of a tube; biasing a plurality of first retention fingers radially inward to engage a collar of the first connector with a first retention force; inserting a portion of a second connector into the cavity from an opposite end of the coupler, wherein the second connector is coupled to a second portion of the tube; coupling an outlet of the first connector with an inlet of the second connector, permitting fluid communication between the first portion of the tube and the second portion of the tube; and biasing a plurality of second retention fingers radially inward to engage a shoulder of the second connector with a second retention force that is less than the first retention force.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: exerting an extraction force on the second connector that exceeds the second retention force; and releasing the second connector from the coupler in response to the extraction force exceeding the second retention force.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: radially expanding the plurality of second retention fingers in response to the extraction force exceeding the second retention force.

20. The method of claim 17, further comprising: radially aligning the portion of the first connector within the cavity of the coupler.

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