Connector cap and connector with cap

Abstract

A cap (30) can be attached to and detached from a connector (1) having an internal thread (16) provided on the inner peripheral surface of an outer tube (15) having a cylindrical shape. The cap (30) comprises: a top plate (31) configured to block the opening of the outer tube (15); a rib (32) provided on the top plate (31) and configured to be inserted into the outer tube (15); and a protrusion (33) protruding from the side surface of the rib (32). The protrusion (33) is provided detachably from the top plate (31) in a manner capable of engaging with the internal thread (16).

Description

[0001] The present invention is a divisional application of an application with an application date of June 29, 2017, application number of 201780039699.4, and invention name of connector cap and connector with cap. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a cap that can be attached to and detached from a connector. In addition, the present invention relates to a connector having a cap that can be attached to and detached from a connector. Background Art

[0003] In the medical field, a flow path for the flow of liquids is used. For example, in enteral nutrition, for patients who cannot take food orally, liquids such as nutrients, liquid food (generally referred to as "enteral nutrition"), or medicines are administered via a catheter. The catheter is inserted from the outside of the body into the digestive tract (e.g., the stomach) and retained in the patient. Examples of catheters include a nasal catheter inserted from the patient's nose, a PEG (Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy) catheter inserted into a gastric fistula formed in the patient's abdomen, and the like. When administering a liquid to a patient, a container storing the liquid is connected to a catheter (nasal catheter, PEG catheter, etc.) retained in the patient via a soft hose or the like. In order to connect different components, a connector consisting of a male connector and a female connector is used.

[0004] Conventional connectors generally include: a male connector having a tapered surface; and a female connector having a hollow cylindrical shape into which the male connector is inserted (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Such a connection between a male connector and a female connector is generally referred to as a "sliding connection".

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2008 / 152871 Pamphlet

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-22511 Summary of the invention

[0009] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0010] In a sliding connection, the connection between the male connector and the female connector is maintained by the friction generated between the two. Sliding connections generally have low connection strength, and sometimes the male connector and the female connector may be separated unintentionally due to tensile force or pressure increase in the flow path.

[0011] As a method of improving the connection strength between the male connector and the female connector, it is conceivable to provide the male connector and the female connector with a screw-engaging structure (ie, a male thread and a female thread) that are screwed together.

[0012] However, in enteral nutrition, in order to keep the flow path in the catheter clean, a cap is generally attached to a connector provided at the upstream end of the catheter placed in the patient (hereinafter referred to as a "patient-side connector") to block its opening when liquid is not being administered (see, for example, Patent Document 2). When an internal thread is provided in the patient-side connector to improve the connection strength, it is preferable to change the configuration of the cap according to the configuration of the patient-side connector.

[0013] Furthermore, when the internal pressure of the stomach rises with the cap mounted on the patient-side connector, the cap is subjected to pressure that causes it to separate from the patient-side connector. In order to prevent the cap from falling off the patient-side connector even in such a situation, it is preferred that the cap has a high mounting strength relative to the patient-side connector. In addition, in order to prevent the patient from feeling pain when the patient-side connector with the cap mounted is pressed against the patient's body or face, the cap is preferably as small as possible.

[0014] A first object of the present invention is to provide a cap that can be attached to and detached from a connector having an internal thread, is difficult to be removed from the connector, and is compact. A second object of the present invention is to provide a connector having such a cap.

[0015] Means for solving problems

[0016] The connector cap of the present invention can be attached to and detached from the connector, and the connector has an internal thread provided on the inner peripheral surface of an outer tube having a cylindrical shape. The cap has: a top plate configured to block the opening of the outer tube; a rib provided on the top plate and configured to be inserted into the outer tube; and a protrusion protruding from the side surface of the rib. The protrusion is provided detachably from the top plate in a manner capable of engaging with the internal thread.

[0017] A hooded connector according to the present invention includes the cap according to the present invention and the connector.

[0018] Effects of the Invention

[0019] The cap of the present invention is provided with a protrusion that can engage with the internal thread of the connector on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion inserted into the outer tube of the connector. Therefore, the cap is difficult to be separated from the connector, and the cap can be miniaturized. In addition, when the cap is installed on the connector, a click feeling is generated when the protrusion engages with the internal thread, so the operator can always properly install the cap on the connector. In addition, the top plate blocks the opening of the outer tube of the connector, so that the internal thread provided on the inner peripheral surface of the outer tube can be kept clean. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1A It is a perspective view of the capped connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 1B It is a cross-sectional perspective view of the capped connector according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the capped connector according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 3A This is a perspective view of the capped connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention in which a cap is attached to the front end of the connector.

[0024] Figure 3B This is a cross-sectional view of a capped connector according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention in which a cap is attached to the front end of the connector.

[0025] Figure 4A It is a perspective view of a capped connector according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 4B It is a cross-sectional perspective view of a capped connector according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a capped connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention in which a cap is attached to the front end of the connector.

[0028] Fig. 6A It is a perspective view of a capped connector according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 6B It is a cross-sectional view of a capped connector according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 7 It is an exploded perspective view of a capped connector according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 8 A is a side view of the connector according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 8 B is along the line containing Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the connector taken along line 8B-8B of FIG.

[0032] Fig. 9 It is a perspective view of a cap device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0033] Fig.10 A~ Fig.10 C represents cross-sectional views of various cross-sectional shapes of the protrusions provided on the cylindrical portion in the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] In the cap of the present invention, the rib may be a cylindrical portion having a cylindrical shape. In this case, the protrusion may be provided on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion. The cylindrical portion having a cylindrical shape is conducive to improving the mechanical strength of the cylindrical portion. Therefore, the protrusion provided on the cylindrical portion is conducive to the reliable engagement of the protrusion with the internal thread when the cap is mounted on the connector.

[0035] The connector may also include a male component coaxially arranged with the outer cylinder in a manner surrounded by the outer cylinder. The flow path penetrating the male component along the long side direction of the male component may also be opened at the front end of the male component. In this case, the cylindrical portion may also be configured to form a liquid-tight seal between the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion and the outer peripheral surface of the male component when the cap is mounted on the connector. The configuration is conducive to improving the sealing of the flow path and improving the mounting strength of the cap relative to the connector. In addition, the engagement depth of the protrusion and the internal thread increases, which is conducive to further improving the mounting strength of the cap relative to the connector.

[0036] The connector may also include a male component coaxially disposed with the outer cylinder in a manner surrounded by the outer cylinder. The flow path penetrating the male component along the long side direction of the male component may also be opened at the front end of the male component. In this case, the cap may further include a plug body configured to be embedded in the opening of the flow path. The configuration is conducive to improving the mounting strength of the cap relative to the connector. In addition, by embedding the plug body into the flow path, the cap is positioned relative to the connector in a horizontal direction (a direction parallel to a plane perpendicular to the long side direction of the male component). This is conducive to reliably engaging the protrusion with the internal thread.

[0037] The plug body may also be configured to form a liquid-tight seal between the outer peripheral surface of the plug body and the inner peripheral surface defining the flow path when the plug body is inserted into the opening of the flow path. The configuration is advantageous in reducing the possibility of the cap falling off the connector when the pressure of the flow path of the male component increases due to an increase in the internal pressure of the stomach. In addition, even if the plug body is slightly displaced relative to the male component in the direction of being pulled out of the flow path, it is advantageous in continuously forming a liquid-tight seal.

[0038] It is also possible to configure so that when the cap of the present invention is mounted on the connector, the protrusion is separated from the thread teeth constituting the internal thread. According to the configuration, even if the cap is continuously mounted on the connector for a long period of time, the protrusion will not be permanently deformed by the thread teeth. Therefore, the function of the protrusion can be exerted for a long time without attenuation.

[0039] The cap is preferably formed of a material softer than the connector, which facilitates the cap to be easily attached and detached from the connector body and improves the chemical resistance to repeated attachment and detachment.

[0040] The cap may further include a rotation limiting mechanism for limiting the rotation of the cap around the central axis of the connector. Thus, even if the cap is repeatedly attached to and detached from the connector, the position of the protrusion relative to the thread of the internal thread of the connector can be kept constant.

[0041] The cap may further include an operating piece protruding from the outer peripheral edge of the top plate. In this case, the operating piece may be arranged on the same side as the protrusion relative to the rib. In this case, the protrusion is arranged near the operating piece to which force is applied when the cap is removed from the connector, thereby facilitating easy removal of the cap.

[0042] The cap may further include a strap for connecting the cap to the connector. This helps prevent the cap from being lost. In addition, when the connector is not in use, it helps prevent the cap from being forgotten to be mounted on the connector.

[0043] An annular ring may also be provided at the opposite end of the band to the cap. In this case, an inclined surface may also be provided on the inner circumference of the ring so that the inner diameter changes in the thickness direction of the ring. The above structure makes it easy to insert the connector into the ring.

[0044] The connector may be a male connector conforming to ISO 80369-3. By applying the cap of the present invention to the male connector, the effect of the present invention can be significantly exerted.

[0045] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail while showing a preferred embodiment. However, the present invention is of course not limited to the following embodiments. In the following description, the figures referred to are simplified and shown as the main parts constituting the embodiments of the present invention for the sake of convenience. Therefore, the present invention can be equipped with any components not shown in the following figures. In addition, within the scope of the present invention, the components shown in the following figures can be changed or omitted. In the drawings cited in the description of each embodiment, for the components corresponding to the components shown in the drawings cited in the previous embodiment, the same symbols as those in the drawings of the previous embodiment are given. For such components, repeated descriptions are omitted, and the description of the previous embodiment should be appropriately referred to.

[0046] (Implementation Method 1)

[0047] The connector provided at the upstream end of the nasal catheter is used as an example for explanation.

[0048] Figure 1AThis is a perspective view of the connector (male connector) 1 with the cap 30 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, as seen from above. Figure 1B 3 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the connector 1 with the cap 30. Figure 1B In the figure, the dot-dash line 1a is the central axis of the connector 1. The connector 1 has a connector body 10 connected to an extension hose and an infusion set on one side, and a base end 20 connected to the upstream end of a nasal catheter 9 inserted into a patient on the other side. In the present invention, in the connector 1, the side of the connector body 10 is referred to as the "front end side" or "upper side", and the side of the base end 20 is referred to as the "base end side" or "lower side". The direction connecting the connector body 10 and the base end 20 (i.e., the direction along the central axis 1a) is referred to as the "upper and lower directions", and the direction parallel to the plane perpendicular to the central axis 1a is referred to as the "horizontal direction". The direction orthogonal to the central axis 1a is referred to as the "radial direction", and the direction rotating around the central axis 1a is referred to as the "circumferential direction". Among them, "upper side", "lower side", "upper and lower directions" and "horizontal directions" mean the orientation of the connector 1 when it is used.

[0049] like Figure 1B As shown, the connector body 10 has a male component 11 and an outer tube 15 coaxial with the central axis 1a. The male component 11 is a rod-shaped component. The flow path 12 passes through the male component 11 along the long side direction of the male component 11. The outer peripheral surface 13 of the male component 11 is a tapered surface (so-called male tapered surface) whose outer diameter decreases as it approaches the front end. The outer tube 15 has a hollow cylindrical shape and surrounds the male component 11. An internal thread 16 is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the outer tube 15 (the surface opposite to the male component 10). The male component 11 and the outer tube 15 (especially the thread teeth of the internal thread 16) are separated in the radial direction, and a gap 18 exists between the two. The outer peripheral surface 17 of the outer tube 15 is a cylindrical surface with a constant outer diameter in the up and down direction. The connector body 10 can also be a male connector that conforms to the international standard ISO80369-3 related to medical devices for nutrition systems, which is currently under discussion for international standardization.

[0050] The base end portion 20 includes a cylindrical connecting tube 21 provided coaxially with the male member 11. A through hole 22 penetrates the connecting tube 21 along the central axis 1a. The through hole 22 communicates with the flow path 12 of the male member 11. The nasal catheter 9 is inserted into the through hole 22 and fixed. The method of fixing the catheter 9 to the connecting tube 21 is arbitrary, and for example, an adhesive method can be used. The catheter 9 is not limited, and for example, any soft catheter (hose) used for a known nasal catheter can be used.

[0051] The gripping portion 25 surrounds the connecting pipe 21. The cross-sectional shape of the outer surface of the gripping portion 25 along a plane parallel to the horizontal direction is a rectangle. Figure 1AAs shown, the holding portion 25 has two flat holding surfaces 25a (in Figure 1A In the figure, only one holding surface 25a is observed. The operator can easily apply a rotational force to the connector 1 by holding the holding surface 25a.

[0052] The structure of the base end portion 20 is not limited to the present embodiment 1. Among them, it is preferable to have a structure that fixes the catheter 9 in a manner that is connected to the flow path 12 of the male member 11. The structure of the holding portion 25 can be changed arbitrarily. For example, the holding surface 25a can also be directly provided on the connecting tube 21. Alternatively, the holding portion 25 and the holding surface 25a can also be omitted.

[0053] The cap 30 is connected to the connector 1 via the band 37. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the cap 30 from being lost. In addition, when the connector 1 is not in use, the cap 30 is forgotten to be mounted on the front end of the connector 1 (see the following description). Figure 3A as well as Figure 3B ) is also less likely.

[0054] The cap 30 has a circular top plate 31. The outer diameter of the top plate 31 is set so that when the cap 30 is mounted on the front end of the connector 1 (see the following description), Figure 3A as well as Figure 3B ), the top plate 31 can block the upward opening of the outer tube 15. Specifically, the outer diameter of the top plate 31 is larger than the groove diameter of the internal thread 16 provided on the outer tube 15. In general, the outer diameter of the top plate 31 is preferably substantially the same as the outer diameter of the outer tube 15, or slightly larger than it. A belt 37 is connected to the outer peripheral edge of the top plate 31. The belt 37 is a thin flat plate in the shape of a belt extending straightly in the radial direction. An operating piece 36 protrudes from the outer peripheral edge of the top plate 31 at a position opposite to the belt 37.

[0055] From one surface of the top plate 31 (at Figure 1A The cylindrical portion (rib) 32 having a cylindrical shape protrudes upward. A protrusion 33 protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 32. The protrusion 33 is arranged on the same side as the operating piece 36 relative to the cylindrical portion 32. Figure 1B As shown, the protrusion 33 is slightly separated from the top plate 31. When viewed from above, the belt 37, the top plate 31, the protrusion 33, and the operating piece 36 are arranged on a straight line along the radial direction with respect to the central axis 1a.

[0056] A plug body 34 is provided in the area surrounded by the cylindrical portion 32. The plug body 34 has a circular top view shape and protrudes upward. The plug body 34 has a sealing surface 34a near the top plate 31. The sealing surface 34a is a cylindrical surface with a constant outer diameter, or a male tapered surface (i.e., a tapered surface) whose outer diameter decreases as it moves away from the top plate 31 toward the top. The top plate 31, the cylindrical portion 32, and the plug body 34 are arranged concentrically. The cylindrical portion 32 surrounds the plug body 34 and is separated from the plug body 34.

[0057] like Figure 1A as well as Figure 1B As shown, in the present invention, a state in which the opening on the front end side (upper side) of the outer tube 15 of the connector 1 is exposed is referred to as an "open state".

[0058] Figure 2 : This is an exploded perspective view of the connector 1 with the cap 30. A circular ring 38 is provided at the end of the belt 37 opposite to the cap 30. The outer peripheral surface of the ring 38 is a cylindrical surface having a diameter substantially the same as that of the outer cylinder 15 of the connector 1. The inner peripheral surface of the ring 38 is a cylindrical surface, but four recesses (cutouts) 38a are provided at equal angle intervals. The cap 30, the belt 37, and the ring 38 are integrated to form a cap device 39.

[0059] A groove 28 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connector 1 between the connector body 10 and the base end 20. In the groove 28, four protrusions 28a (at the bottom) protrude radially outward. Figure 2 In the figure, only two protrusions 28a) are observed, which are arranged at equal angular intervals relative to the central axis 1a.

[0060] like Figure 1A as well as Figure 1B As shown, the cap device 39 is mounted on the connector 1 in such a manner that the ring 38 is embedded in the groove 28. The protrusion 28a in the groove 28 is engaged with the recess 38a of the ring 38. The cap 30 is connected to the ring 38 via the belt 37. Therefore, the cap device 39 including the cap 30 cannot rotate in the circumferential direction relative to the connector 1. That is, the recess 38a of the ring 38 and the belt 37 constitute a "rotation restriction mechanism" that restricts the rotation of the cap 30 around the central axis 1a of the connector 1. In addition, the structure of the rotation restriction mechanism is not limited to the present embodiment 1. For example, the number and arrangement of the recess 38a and the protrusion 28a are not limited to the present embodiment 1 and can be changed arbitrarily. Instead of the recess 38a and the protrusion 28a, any shape (for example, a polygonal prism surface) that fits each other can be set on the inner circumferential surface of the ring 38 and in the groove 28 (for example, refer to the embodiment 3 described later). The rotation restriction mechanism only needs to be able to actually restrict the rotation of the cap 30 around the central axis 1a. For example, displacement of the cap 30 in the circumferential direction due to deformation of the band 37 is allowed.

[0061] The material of the connector 1 is not limited, but preferably a harder material (hard material) having a mechanical strength (rigidity) that is not actually deformed by external force. For example, resin materials such as polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), rigid polyvinyl chloride, polyoxymethylene (POM), polystyrene, polyamide, polyethylene, and polypropylene (PP) can be used, among which polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), and rigid polyvinyl chloride are preferred. The connector 1 can be made as a single component by injection molding or the like using the above-mentioned resin materials.

[0062] The material of the cap device 39 is not limited, but in order to make the cap 30 easy to detach and detach relative to the connector body 10, and to be able to be repeatedly detached and detached, it is preferably flexible and resistant to aging. In particular, the cap device 39 is preferably formed of a material softer than the connector 1. Specifically, resin materials such as polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) can be used. Alternatively, a soft material with rubber elasticity (so-called elastomer) such as rubber such as isoprene rubber, silicone rubber, butyl rubber, styrene elastomer, olefin elastomer, polyurethane elastomer, vinyl elastomer and other thermoplastic elastomer can be used. The cap device 39 can use the above-mentioned materials, for example, by injection molding to manufacture the whole as a single component.

[0063] The method of integrating the connector 1 and the cap device 39 is arbitrary. For example, the connector 1 and the cap device 39 can be manufactured separately, and the connector 1 (i.e., the connector body 10 or the base end portion 20) can be inserted into the ring 38 for assembly (insertion method). In the insertion method, when the connector body 10 (or the base end portion 20) passes through the ring 38, the ring 38 is stretched in the circumferential direction in a manner of expanding the diameter. Therefore, it is convenient to form the cap device 39 from the above-mentioned soft material to install the cap device 39 on the connector 1 by the insertion method. Alternatively, the connector 1 and the cap device 39 can be integrated by a two-color molding method. Specifically, the connector 1 can be molded by a primary mold, and the cap device 39 can be molded and integrated with the connector 1 by a secondary mold. In the case where the material of the cap device 39 is a relatively high-strength material that is difficult to assemble by the insertion method, the two-color molding method is also used.

[0064] like Figure 3A as well as Figure 3B As shown in FIG. 1 , the cap 30 can be mounted on the front end of the connector 1. That is, the cap 30 and the connector body 10 are vertically opposed to each other in such a manner that the surface of the top plate 31 on which the cylindrical portion 32 is provided faces the male member 11, and the cap 30 is pressed toward the connector 1. Figure 3A as well as Figure 3BAs shown in the figure, the opening of the front end side (upper side) of the outer tube 15 is blocked by the top plate 31 of the cap 30. This state is referred to as the "closed state" in the present invention. The belt 37 is bent into a substantially arc shape. The bent belt 37 and the operating piece 36 protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the outer tube 15 in an opposite manner.

[0065] The catheter 9 is inserted into the patient through the nose so that its distal end (not shown) reaches the stomach. The connector 1 is installed at the upstream end of the catheter 9. In this state, the catheter 9 and the connector 1 are continuously placed in the patient. When performing enteral nutrition, the cap 30 is removed from the front end of the connector 1 to open the connector 1 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 1A as well as Figure 1B ). Then, a female connector (container-side connector) is connected to the connector body 10 to administer the liquid to the patient. The female connector is, for example, disposed at the downstream end of a hose connected to a container storing the liquid, or at the mouth of an injector (such as a syringe) storing the liquid. The female connector preferably has an external thread (or a protrusion) that screws into the internal thread 16. The female connector may also comply with ISO80369-3. When the enteral nutrition method is completed, the female connector is separated from the connector body 10, and the cap 30 is installed on the front end of the connector body 10 instead, so that the connector 1 is in a closed state (refer to Figure 3A as well as Figure 3B ). In this way, the cap 30 can be repeatedly attached and detached relative to the front end of the connector 1.

[0066] like Figure 3B As shown, in the closed state, the cylindrical portion 32 of the cap 30 is embedded in the gap 18 between the outer tube 15 and the male part 11, and the plug body 34 of the cap 30 is embedded in the flow path 12 of the male part 11. In addition, the top plate 31 of the cap 30 abuts against the upper end of the outer tube 15. Therefore, the flow path 12 of the male part 11 and the gap 18 between the outer tube 15 and the male part 11 are blocked by the cap 30. When the connector 1 is not used and enteral nutrition is not performed, the connector 1 is closed, thereby keeping the flow path 12 and the gap 18 clean.

[0067] like Figure 3B As shown in the figure, the protrusion 33 protruding from the cylindrical portion 32 of the cap 30 is inserted into the gap between the thread teeth 16a and 16b adjacent in the vertical direction of the internal thread 16 of the outer tube 15. The protrusion 33 is separated from the top plate 31 in the vertical direction, and the protrusion 33 can be inserted between the thread teeth 16a and 16b when the top plate 31 and the front end of the outer tube 15 are in contact. The front end of the protrusion 33 is located radially outside the front ends of the thread teeth 16a and 16b. That is, the protrusion 33 is engaged with the internal thread 16 (especially the thread teeth 16a).

[0068] In from Figure 1A as well as Figure 1B The open state shown reaches Figure 3A as well as Figure 3B During the closed state shown, the protrusion 33 needs to pass over the thread teeth 16a of the internal thread 16. The protrusion 33 is deformed when passing over the thread teeth 16a, and immediately returns to its original shape after passing over the thread teeth 16a. The force with which the operator presses the cap 30 toward the connector 1 increases sharply when the protrusion 33 passes over the thread teeth 16a, and decreases sharply after passing over the thread teeth 16a. The operator feels such a change in force as a click feeling, thereby recognizing that the cap 30 is properly installed at the front end of the connector 1. Therefore, the cap 30 can always be properly installed on the connector 1. The cylindrical portion 32 has a cylindrical shape and therefore has relatively large strength. The protrusion 33 is provided on such a cylindrical portion 32, so that when the cap 30 is installed on the connector 1, the protrusion 33 can reliably pass over the thread teeth 16a of the internal thread 16.

[0069] After the cap 30 is mounted on the connector 1, as shown in FIG. Figure 3B As shown, the protrusion 33 engages with the thread teeth 16a of the internal thread 16. In order to remove the cap 30 from the connector 1, the protrusion 33 needs to pass over the thread teeth 16a, and at this time, the protrusion 33 must be deformed. A large force is required to remove the cap 30 from the connector 1. Therefore, the possibility of the cap 30 accidentally falling off the connector 1 is low. The protrusion 33 engaged with the internal thread 16 helps to improve the mounting strength of the cap 30 relative to the connector 1. As described above, sometimes the pressure of the flow path 12 increases due to the increase in the internal pressure of the patient's stomach. When the connector 1 is left in a closed state on the patient, even if the pressure of the flow path 12 increases, the possibility of the cap 30 being pulled out of the connector 1 is low. In addition, even if an upward force is mistakenly applied to the operating piece 36, the top plate 31, etc., the possibility of the cap 30 accidentally detaching from the connector 1 is low.

[0070] Unlike the first embodiment, even without using the protrusion 33 , the mounting strength of the cap 30 with respect to the connector 1 can be improved.

[0071] For example, when the up-down dimension of the cylindrical portion 32 is increased and the fitting depth between the cylindrical portion 32 and the male component 11 (or the outer cylinder 15) is increased, the installation strength of the cap 30 can be improved. However, when the up-down dimension of the cylindrical portion 32 is increased, when the cap 30 is installed or removed from the connector 1, the cap 30 needs to be moved a long distance in the up-down direction relative to the connector 1. This reduces the operability of the installation or removal of the cap 30. In addition, since the belt 37 needs to be lengthened, the radial protrusion of the belt 37 when the cap 30 is installed on the connector 1 (see Figure 3A as well as Figure 3BAs a result, when the connector 1 with the cap 30 mounted thereon is pressed against the patient's body or face, the largely protruding band 37 is likely to cause pain to the patient.

[0072] Alternatively, it is possible to configure such that a cylindrical rib protruding toward the same side as the cylindrical portion 32 is provided on the outer peripheral edge of the top plate 31, and when the cap 30 is mounted on the connector 1, the front end portion of the outer cylinder 15 is embedded in the cylindrical rib. In this case, for example, a mutually engaging structure (for example, a convex portion and a concave portion for the convex portion to be embedded) can be provided on the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical rib and the outer peripheral surface of the outer cylinder 15. This configuration can also improve the mounting strength of the cap 30 relative to the connector 1 even without using the protrusion 33. However, in this configuration, it is necessary to increase the outer diameter of the cap 30 (especially the top plate 31). As a result, when the connector 1 with the cap 30 installed is pressed under the patient's body or face, the top plate 31 protruding larger in the radial direction is more likely to cause pain to the patient.

[0073] As can be seen from the above description, the configuration in which the protrusion 33 engaging with the internal thread 16 is provided in the cap 30 as in the first embodiment is advantageous in ensuring the mounting strength of the cap 30 relative to the connector 1, improving the operability of mounting and dismounting the cap 30, and miniaturizing the cap 30. Since the internal thread 16 provided in the connector 1 is utilized, it is not necessary to change the configuration of the connector 1 in order to improve the mounting strength of the cap 30.

[0074] like Figure 3B As shown in FIG. 1 , when the cap 30 is mounted on the connector 1, it is preferred that the protrusion 33 and the thread teeth 16a and 16b of the internal thread 16 are separated in the vertical direction. The protrusion 33 does not receive force from the internal thread 16 and does not deform. Therefore, even if the connector 1 is left in the patient for a long period of time in the closed state, it is possible to avoid the protrusion 33 from being permanently deformed due to contact with the internal thread 16. This is conducive to the above-mentioned function of the protrusion 33 being exerted for a long time without attenuation.

[0075] In the first embodiment, the recessed portion 38a provided on the inner peripheral surface of the ring 38 is fitted with the protruding portion 28a provided in the groove 28 of the connector 1 (see Figure 2 ), and the cap 30 is connected to the ring 38 via the band 37, so the position of the cap 30 relative to the connector 1 in the rotation direction around the central axis 1a does not change over time and is actually constant. Therefore, even if the cap 30 is repeatedly attached to and detached from the connector 1 and various external forces are applied to the cap 30, the protrusion 33 can always be separated from the thread teeth 16a, 16b of the internal thread 16 in the vertical direction and embedded between the thread teeth 16a, 16b.

[0076] Preferably, the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 32 is set to be slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the outer peripheral surface 13 of the male component 11. Thus, when the male component 11 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 32, the cylindrical portion 32 is deformed in a slightly expanded manner. The inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 32 is in surface contact with the outer peripheral surface 13 of the male component 11, and a liquid-tight seal is formed therebetween. This helps to improve the sealing performance of the flow path 12 and to improve the mounting strength of the cap 30 relative to the connector 1. In addition, since the cylindrical portion 32 is expanded in diameter, the protrusion 33 is inserted deeper into the groove of the internal thread 16. This increases the engagement depth between the protrusion 33 and the internal thread 16, and thus helps to improve the mounting strength of the cap 30 relative to the connector 1.

[0077] In the first embodiment, when the cap 30 is mounted on the connector 1, the cylindrical portion 32 and the internal thread 16 provided on the outer cylinder 15 are separated in the radial direction. However, this is not essential in the present invention. For example, when the cap 30 is mounted on the connector 1, the cylindrical portion 32 and the internal thread 16 provided on the outer cylinder 15 may also be in contact in the radial direction. This is conducive to further improving the mounting strength of the cap 30 relative to the connector 1.

[0078] exist Figure 3A as well as Figure 3B In order to remove the cap 30 from the connector 1 in the closed state shown, it is sufficient to lift the operating piece 36 upward. The protrusion 33 is provided on the same side as the operating piece 36 with respect to the cylindrical portion 32 (see Figure 1A as well as Figure 2 ), so the operating piece 36 is close to the protrusion 33. Therefore, when the operating piece 36 is lifted, it can be moved upward than the protrusion 33, so it is easy to perform the removal operation of the cap 30.

[0079] The plug body 34 is embedded in the opening on the front end side of the flow path 12 of the male part 11. This helps to improve the mounting strength of the cap 30 relative to the connector 1. Preferably, the plug body 34 seals the flow path 12 liquid-tightly. Sealing the flow path 12 by the plug body 34 helps to reduce the possibility of the cap 30 falling off from the connector 1 when the pressure of the flow path 12 increases due to the increase in the internal pressure of the stomach. The reason is as follows.

[0080] Unlike the first embodiment, the flow path 12 can be sealed without using the plug 34. For example, the plug 34 can be omitted and the flow path 12 can be sealed indirectly by the seal formed between the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 32 and the outer peripheral surface 13 of the male member 11.

[0081] The upward force applied to the cap 30 when the pressure of the flow path 12 rises is proportional to the area over which the pressure acts. In the configuration of the first embodiment in which the flow path 12 is sealed by the plug 34, the area over which the pressure acts is smaller than that of the configuration in which the plug 34 is not used and the sealing is performed by the seal between the cylindrical portion 32 and the male member 11, so the force applied to the cap 30 when the pressure of the flow path 12 rises is smaller. Therefore, in the first embodiment, it is advantageous to prevent the cap 30 from falling off from the connector 1 when the pressure of the flow path 12 rises.

[0082] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the sealing surface 34a constituting the outer peripheral surface of the plug body 34 is fitted with the inner peripheral surface of the prescribed flow path 12 of the male part 11 (particularly the inner peripheral surface near the front end side opening of the flow path 12), and a liquid-tight seal is formed between the two. That is, the sealing surface 34a is in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the prescribed flow path 12 in a roughly radial direction to form a seal. In this structure, even if the plug body 34 is slightly displaced in the direction of the central axis 1a relative to the male part 11, a liquid-tight seal can continue to be formed. For example, even when the cap 30 is installed on the connector 1, the depth of the cap 30 pressed into the connector 1 is slightly shallow, and the cap 30 floats slightly upward from the connector 1 due to the increase in pressure in the flow path 12, the flow path 12 can continue to be sealed. Therefore, the first embodiment is conducive to preventing the backflow of stomach contents, etc.

[0083] In the present embodiment 1, the cap 30 not only seals the flow path 12 of the male part 11, but also its top plate 31 blocks the opening on the front end side of the outer tube 15. Therefore, the gap 18 between the outer tube 15 and the male part 11 can be kept clean. The interval between the outer peripheral surface 13 of the male part 11 and the internal thread 16 of the outer tube 15 is very narrow, so it is difficult to insert a cotton swab or the like to clean the gap 18. When the sanitary state of the gap 18 is poor, bacteria multiply in the gap 18, and the bacteria may invade the patient's body through the flow path 12. The cap 30 of the present embodiment 1 blocks the opening on the front end side of the outer tube 15, so even if the connector 1 is left in the patient for a long time, the gap 18 can be kept clean, and the situation in which bacteria invade the patient and cause serious complications can be prevented.

[0084] (Implementation Method 2)

[0085] Figure 4A This is a perspective view of the connector (male connector) 1 with a cap 230 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, as seen from above. Figure 4B 2 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the connector 1 with the cap 230. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the shape of the rib provided with the protrusion 33 that engages with the internal thread 16. The second embodiment will be described below with the differences from the first embodiment as the focus.

[0086] In the second embodiment, the protrusion 33 is provided on the surface of the top plate 31 (at Figure 4A The side of the rib 232 is a substantially plate-shaped rib (a surface facing upward in the middle). When viewed from above, the rib 232 is substantially arc-shaped. That is, the rib 232 is a part of a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical shape is the same as the cylindrical shape constituting the cylindrical portion 32 of the first embodiment.

[0087] Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view showing a state where the cap 230 is mounted on the front end of the connector 1. The rib 232 is fitted into the gap 18 between the outer tube 15 and the male member 11, and the protrusion 33 is engaged with the internal thread 16.

[0088] The plug body 34 is inserted into the opening on the front end side of the flow path 12 of the male component 11. Therefore, the cap 230 is positioned in the horizontal direction relative to the connector 1. This facilitates the reliable engagement of the protrusion 33 with the internal thread 16. In addition, the surface of the rib 232 on the opposite side to the protrusion 33 (the surface on the plug body 34 side) abuts against the outer peripheral surface 13 of the male component 11. This also facilitates the reliable engagement of the protrusion 33 with the internal thread 16.

[0089] Embodiment 2 is the same as Embodiment 1 except for the above. The description of Embodiment 1 can be applied to Embodiment 2 as appropriate.

[0090] (Implementation 3)

[0091] Fig. 6A This is a perspective view of a connector (male connector) 3 with a cap 30 according to a third embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from the connection pipe 21 side. Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the connector 3 with the cap 30 . Figure 7 It is an exploded perspective view of the connector 3 with the cap 30 . Figure 8 A is a side view of connector 3, Figure 8 B is along the line containing Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the connector 3 taken along line 8B-8B of FIG. Fig. 9 It is a perspective view of a cap device 339 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention including the cap 30 .

[0092] As in Figure 7 as well as Fig. 9 As shown in the most detailed figure in the embodiment 3, a substantially rectangular through hole 338a is formed in the ring 338 of the cap device 339 of the present embodiment 3. The inner diameter of the through hole 338a is not constant in the thickness direction of the ring 338. Fig. 9 As shown, an inclined surface 338b is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 338a so that the inner diameter increases toward the surface on the same side as the surface on which the cylindrical portion 32 is formed.

[0093] like Figure 7 As shown, the base end portion 320 has a connecting tube 21 that is roughly cylindrical in shape. On the outer peripheral surface of the connecting tube 21, a pair of holding pieces 326 are provided in a manner protruding in the radial direction. The cross-sectional shape of each holding piece 326 along the horizontal direction is a hollow, roughly "U" shape. The pair of holding pieces 326 and the connecting tube 21 therebetween constitute a holding portion 325 of the connector 3. Similar to the holding portion 25 of embodiment 1, the holding portion 325 makes it easy for the operator to hold the holding portion 325 and apply a rotational force to the connector 3. The structure of the holding piece 326 is not limited to the present embodiment 3. For example, the holding piece 326 may also be a solid, roughly quadrangular prism, or may be a thinner plate-like object extending radially from the connecting tube 21.

[0094] Grooves 328a and 328b are provided on radially outward surfaces of the connection pipe 21 and the holding piece 326 at positions adjacent to the connector body 10. The grooves 328a and 328b extend in the horizontal direction. Figure 8 B is a cross-sectional view of the connector 3 along a surface passing through the grooves 328a and 328b. Figure 8 The cross-sectional shape of the connector 3 shown in FIG. 3B is configured to correspond to the through hole 338a (see FIG. 34 ) provided in the ring 338. Figure 7 ) is inscribed in the edges of a prescribed approximate rectangle.

[0095] Cap device 339 as Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 3 , the base end portion 320 is inserted into the ring 338, thereby being mounted on the connector 3. When the connecting tube 21 and the holding piece 326 are inserted into the through hole 338a, the inclined surface 338b (see FIG. 34 ) formed on the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 338a is Fig. 9 ), the ring 338 is deformed in such a way that the inner diameter of the through hole 338a is enlarged. Therefore, the connector 3 (especially the base end portion 320) is easily inserted into the ring 338. When the edge of the through hole 338a reaches the grooves 328a and 328b, the ring 338 is restored to the state before deformation, and Fig. 6A as well as Figure 6B As shown, the edges of the through hole 338a fit into the grooves 328a, 328b.

[0096] The cross-sectional shape of the connector 3 in the grooves 328a and 328b fits into the substantially rectangular through-hole 338a of the ring 338. Therefore, the rotation of the ring 338 relative to the connector 3 is restricted. The through-hole 338a provided in the ring 338 and the band 37 connecting the ring 338 and the cap 30 constitute a "rotation restriction mechanism" that restricts the rotation of the cap 30 around the central axis of the connector 3.

[0097] The present embodiment 3 is the same as the embodiment 1 except for the above contents. The description of the embodiment 1 can be appropriately applied to the present embodiment 3. Like the inclined surface 338b provided on the ring 338, an inclined surface inclined in a manner that the inner diameter changes in the thickness direction may be provided on the inner peripheral surface of the ring 38 of the embodiment 1 to facilitate the assembly of the connector 1 with the cap 30 by the insertion method.

[0098] The above-described configuration of the third embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment.

[0099] The above-mentioned Embodiments 1 to 3 are merely examples. The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned Embodiments 1 to 3, and can be modified as appropriate.

[0100] The rib having a protrusion 33 that engages with the internal thread 16 is provided with a cylindrical portion 32 having a cylindrical shape in embodiments 1 and 3, and a rib 232 that is a part of the cylindrical shape in embodiment 2, but the present invention is not limited to this. The rib can have any shape as long as it is configured to be inserted into the outer tube 15 of the connector when the cap is installed on the connector. For example, the rib can also have any shape such as a flat plate, a columnar (or a rod-shaped). The rib is erected approximately vertically from one surface of the top plate 31. A plurality of ribs can also be provided on the top plate 31. For example, a plurality of ribs can also be discretely arranged on a circle concentric with the outer tube 15.

[0101] The shape of the protrusion 33 provided on the cap is arbitrary. The cross-sectional shape of the protrusion 33 along the plane including the central axis of the cap (or plug body 34) can be Fig.10 A trapezoid as shown in Fig.10 The triangle shown in B, Fig.10 The protrusion 33 may be any shape other than a semicircular shape such as shown in C, or any shape other than these. The length of the protrusion 33 (the dimension along the direction of rotation around the central axis of the cap) is also arbitrary. The protrusion 33 may also extend along a spiral that is consistent with the groove of the internal thread 16.

[0102] The number of protrusions 33 is not limited to one, and may be two or more. The positions of the two or more protrusions 33 on the ribs 32 and 230 are arbitrary. The vertical position and the circumferential position of the two or more protrusions 33 may be the same. When a plurality of ribs are provided on the cap, one or more protrusions 33 may be provided on all of the plurality of ribs, or one or more protrusions 33 may be provided on only a portion of the plurality of ribs.

[0103] The structure for fixing the cap device 39, 339 to the connector is not limited to the ring 38, 338. For example, instead of the ring 38, 338, a fixing portion having a substantially "T" shape (or a substantially "Y" shape) may be provided at the front end of the belt 37. The fixing portion is embedded or buried in the connector. In this structure, as in the above-mentioned embodiment, the cap device can be fixed to the connector while limiting the rotation of the cap in the circumferential direction.

[0104] The rotation limiting mechanism for limiting the rotation of the cap relative to the connector may also be omitted. For example, in Embodiment 1, one or both of the recessed portion 38a and the protruding portion 28a may be omitted, and the ring 38 may be embedded in the groove 28 in a manner that allows the connector 1 to freely rotate around the central axis 1a. In this case, the protrusion 33 rotates the cap relative to the connector in a manner that moves in the groove of the internal thread 16, thereby enabling the cap to be assembled and disassembled relative to the connector 1. This configuration enables the protrusion 33 to engage more deeply with the internal thread 16, thereby facilitating the improvement of the mounting strength of the cap relative to the connector 1. In addition, it is possible to facilitate the shortening of the band 37.

[0105] In the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 3, when the cap is mounted on the front end of the connector, the belt 37 is bent into an arc shape, but the structure of the belt 37 is not limited to this. For example, a hinge that can rotate freely may be provided at least one of the belt 37, the boundary between the belt 37 and the cap, and the boundary between the belt 37 and the rings 38 and 338. When the cap is mounted or removed from the connector, the belt 37 does not actually deform except for the hinge. This structure can help reduce the amount of radial protrusion of the belt 37 when the connector is in a closed state.

[0106] In the present invention, the band 37 may also be omitted and the cap may be a separate component from the connector.

[0107] The shape, number, position, etc. of the operating piece 36 are not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 3, and can be changed arbitrarily. The operating piece 36 may protrude from the top plate 31 toward the side opposite to the cylindrical portion 32. Alternatively, the operating piece 36 may be omitted. For example, if the outer diameter of the top plate 31 of the cap is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the outer cylinder 15 of the connector in such a manner that the top plate 31 protrudes radially from the outer cylinder 15, the cap can be removed from the connector even if the operating piece 36 is not present.

[0108] In the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 3, the connector is provided at the upstream end of the nasal catheter 9, but the connector can be provided at the upstream end of any catheter (e.g., PEG catheter) used in enteral nutrition other than the nasal catheter. In addition, the connector can also be provided in a hose used in, for example, intravenous nutrition other than enteral nutrition.

[0109] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the connector body 10 is a male connector conforming to ISO80369-3, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The cap of the present invention can be applied to any connector having an outer cylinder provided with an internal thread. The connector may not have the male component 11. The connector may also be a female connector.

[0110] Industrial Applicability

[0111] The cap of the present invention is not limited, but can be used as a cap for a connector provided at one end of a catheter or a hose. The field of use of the connector is not limited, and it can also be a connector used in the fields of food and chemistry, preferably a connector used in the medical field, and more preferably a connector used in enteral nutrition. In particular, the present invention is preferably used as a cap for a connector, the connector being fixed to the upstream side end of a catheter inserted into a patient's body such as a nasal catheter or a PEG catheter, and being continuously retained in the patient for a long period of time together with the catheter.

[0112] Explanation of symbols

[0113] 1.3 Connectors

[0114] 11 Male part

[0115] 12 Flow path of male part

[0116] 13 Outer surface of male part

[0117] 15 outer cylinder

[0118] 16 Internal thread

[0119] 16a, 16b internal thread thread

[0120] 30 caps

[0121] 31 Top Plate

[0122] 32 Cylindrical part (rib)

[0123] 33 Protrusion

[0124] 34 Bolt

[0125] 34a Sealing surface (outer surface of the plug body)

[0126] 36 Operation sheet

[0127] 37 Belt (rotation limiting mechanism)

[0128] 38, 338 ring

[0129] 38a Recessed portion (rotation limiting mechanism)

[0130] 230 Cap

[0131] 232 Ribs

[0132] 338a Through hole (rotation restriction mechanism)

[0133] 338b Inclined surface

Claims

1. A connector cap that can be attached to and detached from a connector, the connector comprising an internal thread provided on the inner peripheral surface of an outer cylinder having a cylindrical shape, and a male member provided coaxially with the outer cylinder so as to be surrounded by the outer cylinder, the connector cap comprising: A top plate configured to block the opening of the outer cylinder; a rib provided on the top plate and configured to be insertable into the outer cylinder; and protrusions, projecting from the sides of the above ribs, The rib is a cylindrical portion having a cylindrical shape. The protrusion is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion and is provided detachably from the top plate in a manner capable of engaging with the internal thread. The flow path penetrating the male component along the longitudinal direction of the male component opens at the front end of the male component. The cap further includes a plug body configured to be inserted into the opening of the flow path. When the cap is mounted on the connector, the protrusion is inserted into a gap between a first thread tooth and a second thread tooth from the front end of the internal thread, and the protrusion is separated from the thread teeth constituting the internal thread. The inner diameter of the cylindrical portion is smaller than the outer diameter of the outer peripheral surface of the male member.

2. A connector cap that can be attached to and detached from a connector, the connector comprising an internal thread provided on the inner peripheral surface of an outer cylinder having a cylindrical shape, and a male member provided coaxially with the outer cylinder in a manner surrounded by the outer cylinder, the connector cap comprising: A top plate configured to block the opening of the outer cylinder; a rib provided on the top plate and configured to be insertable into the outer cylinder; and Only one protrusion protrudes from the side of the above rib, The protrusion is disposed detachably from the top plate in a manner capable of engaging with the internal thread. The flow path penetrating the male component along the longitudinal direction of the male component opens at the front end of the male component. The cap further includes a plug body configured to be inserted into the opening of the flow path and a band for connecting the cap to the connector. An annular ring is provided at the end of the belt opposite to the cap. The inner circumferential surface of the ring is provided with an inclined surface which is inclined so that the inner diameter changes in the thickness direction of the ring. The cap, the band, and the ring are integrated to form a cap device.

3. The connector cap according to claim 2, wherein: The rib is a cylindrical portion having a cylindrical shape, and the protrusion is provided on an outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion.

4. The connector cap according to claim 1 or 3, wherein: The cylindrical portion is configured to form a liquid-tight seal between an inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion and an outer peripheral surface of the male member when the cap is mounted on the connector.

5. The connector cap according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The plug body is configured to form a liquid-tight seal between an outer peripheral surface of the plug body and an inner peripheral surface defining the flow path when the plug body is fitted into the opening of the flow path.

6. The connector cap according to claim 2, wherein: When the cap is mounted on the connector, the protrusion is separated from the thread forming the internal thread.

7. The connector cap according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: Made of a material softer than the above connectors.

8. The connector cap according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: A rotation restricting mechanism is further provided, the rotation restricting mechanism restricting the cap from rotating about the central axis of the connector.

9. The connector cap according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: It also includes an operating piece protruding from the outer peripheral edge of the top plate, The operation piece is arranged on the same side as the protrusion with respect to the rib.

10. The connector cap according to claim 1, wherein: A band for connecting the cap and the connector is further provided.

11. The connector cap according to claim 10, wherein: An annular ring is provided at the end of the belt opposite to the cap. An inclined surface that is inclined so that the inner diameter changes in the thickness direction of the ring is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the ring.

12. The connector cap according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The above connector is a male connector that complies with ISO80369-3. 13 . A hooded connector comprising the cap according to claim 1 or 2 and the connector.

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