Radial seal for a disposable force sensor

Abstract

The present invention relates to radial seals for disposable force sensors. Various embodiments described herein relate to devices and methods associated with fluid pressure sensor systems and sealing members therefor. A sensing device can include a sensor disposed on a substrate and a joining member connected to the substrate about the sensor, the joining member including a generally cylindrical sealing member configured to join an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube within a housing. The sealing member can define an axial bore extending from a proximal end to a distal end, and one or more media can be disposed in the axial bore such that the sensor can detect a force applied to the media. The sealing member can include an outer sealing surface defining one or more joining elements extending circumferentially about the sealing member, the one or more joining elements configured to non-adhesively join the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube to resist removal of the sensor assembly.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of March 30, 2020, the application number of 202010240020.1, and the invention name of “Radial Seal for Disposable Force Sensor”. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to sensors, and more specifically, to facilitating secure connections between sensors and housings. BACKGROUND

[0003] Sensors can be used to directly or indirectly measure forces or pressures of fluids flowing in a system. For example, such sensors can be used in a healthcare environment to determine blood pressure or pressure of another fluid traveling through a catheter. Currently, such sensors are difficult and inefficient to produce, and require significant time, manufacturing steps, and materials to produce. The Applicant has identified a number of deficiencies and problems associated with conventional sensors and sensor systems. Through effort, ingenuity, and innovation, including development of solutions in embodiments of the present disclosure, a number of these identified problems have been addressed, many examples of which are described in detail herein. SUMMARY

[0004] Various embodiments described herein generally relate to a radial seal for non-adhesively coupling a sensor, such as a pressure sensor, within a housing of a healthcare sensor device. An example sensor device can include a sensor disposed on a substrate, and a joining member connected to the substrate around the sensor. In some embodiments, the joining member can include a generally cylindrical sealing member configured to engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the receiving tube can be a part of the housing, either as a separate device or as an integral part of the same device. In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical sealing member can define an axial bore extending from a proximal end to a distal end. In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical sealing member can be configured to receive one or more media in the axial bore. In some embodiments, the one or more media can include any suitable sealing gel or other such material, such as silicone gel containing, room temperature vulcanizing rubber, etc. In some embodiments, the sensor can be configured to detect a force applied to the media at or near the distal end. In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical sealing member can include at least an outer sealing surface defining one or more engagement elements extending circumferentially around a diameter of the generally cylindrical sealing member.

[0005] In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements protrude from at least a portion of the outer sealing surface of the generally cylindrical sealing member and define an asymmetric shape with respect to the insertion direction. In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more engagement elements can comprise: i) a middle portion that is generally flat in the axial direction and extends around the generally cylindrical sealing member in the circumferential direction; ii) a proximal portion that is proximal to the middle portion in the proximal direction and extends around the generally cylindrical sealing member in the circumferential direction, wherein the intersection of the middle portion and the proximal portion defines a first acute angle; and iii) a distal portion that is distal to the middle portion in the distal direction and extends around the generally cylindrical sealing member in the circumferential direction, wherein the intersection of the middle portion and the distal portion defines a second acute angle that is less than the first acute angle. In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can be configured to engage an inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube to resist removal of the sensor from the receiving tube during operation. In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can be configured to generate an asymmetric frictional force against the inner cylindrical surface such that the frictional force between the generally cylindrical sealing member and the inner cylindrical surface is greater during application of a force to the generally cylindrical sealing member in a removal direction defined from the distal end toward the proximal end than during application of a force to the generally cylindrical sealing member in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end.

[0006] In some embodiments, one of the one or more engagement elements can include or define a sloped surface circumferentially defined about a distal opening of the axial bore at a distal end of the generally cylindrical sealing member. In some embodiments, the outer sealing surface of the generally cylindrical sealing member can be configured to form an adhesive-free interface with an inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube such that engagement of the outer sealing surface with the inner cylindrical surface is configured to support a force applied to the media. In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can include at least two engagement elements spaced apart along the outer sealing surface. In some embodiments, the engagement member can further include a generally cylindrical receiving collar coupled to the substrate and positioned about the sensor, at least a portion of the generally cylindrical sealing member configured to be disposed about at least a portion of the generally cylindrical receiving collar such that at least a portion of the generally cylindrical receiving collar is configured to be disposed in the axial bore of the generally cylindrical sealing member. In some embodiments, the receiving collar and / or the engagement member can further include a flange coupled to the generally cylindrical sealing member within a distal end opening of the axial bore. In some embodiments, the flange can define an orifice at the distal end of the generally cylindrical sealing member having an inner diameter that is less than an inner diameter of the generally cylindrical sealing member. In some embodiments, the flange can be configured to have a width in an inward radial direction such that a portion of the flange forms a partial covering for the axial bore. In some embodiments, the flange can further include a contact surface having a positive slope in a distal direction and an inward radial direction, the slope of the flange dimensioned such that fluid flow in a generally perpendicular direction about the flange exhibits substantially laminar flow. In some embodiments, the flange can be dimensioned such that no bubbles, substantially no bubbles, or a lesser amount of bubbles are formed in the fluid as the fluid passes and about the flange.

[0007] In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can include one or more protrusions extending radially outward and at least partially angled toward the proximal end. In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can have two or more vertices abutting or coupled to the outer sealing surface of the generally cylindrical sealing member, and two or more other vertices that are raised higher in the axial direction (e.g., a direction perpendicular to the direction of insertion) than the outer sealing surface of the generally cylindrical sealing member. In some embodiments, at least one of the two or more other vertices can be proximate to the two or more vertices. In some embodiments, one or more of the engagement elements can include a proximal portion having an end portion forming a first angle relative to the generally cylindrical sealing member, a middle portion that is generally flat in the axial direction and circular in the radial direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member, and a distal portion having a tapered end portion forming a second angle relative to the generally cylindrical sealing member that is less than the first angle.

[0008] In some embodiments, the sensor device can further include a beveled plane defined circumferentially around the aperture at the distal end of the generally cylindrical sealing member. In some embodiments, the outer sealing surface of the generally cylindrical sealing member can be configured to form an adhesive-free interface with the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube. In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can include at least two engagement elements spaced apart along the outer sealing surface. In some embodiments, the housing can include a generally cylindrical receiving collar coupled to the base plate and positioned around the sensor, at least a portion of the generally cylindrical sealing member configured to be disposed around at least a portion of the generally cylindrical receiving collar. In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical sealing member can have an innermost diameter relative to an axis from the distal end to the proximal end that is less than an outermost diameter of the generally cylindrical receiving collar, such that the sealing member is configured to stretch around and frictionally secure to the generally cylindrical receiving collar. In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements exert a first resistance on the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube during insertion of the engagement member into the receiving tube, and a second resistance greater than the first resistance on the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube during removal of the engagement member from the receiving tube.

[0009] According to other embodiments of the present disclosure, a pressure reading assembly can include at least a housing defining a conduit configured to transport a bodily fluid therethrough, the conduit defining a conduit wall, and a receiving tube having a first opening, an inner cylindrical surface, and a second opening in the conduit wall. In some embodiments, the pressure reading assembly can further include a sensing device including at least a sensor disposed on a substrate and a joining member connected to the substrate about the sensor. In some embodiments, the joining member can include a generally cylindrical sealing member configured to engage the first opening of the receiving tube. In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical sealing member can define an axial bore extending from a proximal end to a distal end. In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical sealing member is configured to receive one or more media in the axial bore. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to detect a force applied to the media at or near the distal end. In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical sealing member can include an outer sealing surface defining one or more engagement elements extending circumferentially about a diameter of the generally cylindrical sealing member, wherein the one or more engagement elements are configured to engage the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube to resist removal of the sensor during operation. In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements are configured to generate an asymmetric frictional force against the inner cylindrical surface such that a frictional force between the generally cylindrical sealing member and the inner cylindrical surface is greater during application of a force to the generally cylindrical sealing member in a removal direction defined from the distal end toward the proximal end than during application of a force to the generally cylindrical sealing member in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end.

[0010] In some embodiments, the pressure reading assembly can include a fluid sealant disposed within the generally cylindrical sealing member. In some embodiments, the fluid sealant can include a silicone gel, a room temperature vulcanizing rubber, or the like. In some embodiments, the pressure reading assembly can include a contact surface defined by a sloped plane that circumferentially defines about the orifice at the distal end of the generally cylindrical sealing member. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the generally cylindrical sealing member can be configured to couple with a receiving element of the housing, the housing including a radial channel configured to communicate bodily fluid in a direction perpendicular to the orifice at the distal end of the generally cylindrical sealing member to place the fluid sealant in fluid communication with the bodily fluid. As such, in some embodiments, coupling a portion of the generally cylindrical engagement element with the receiving element of the housing can form an adhesive-free interface therebetween. In some embodiments, one or more engagement elements can be positioned proximate the distal end of the generally cylindrical sealing member. In some embodiments, the pressure reading assembly can include a generally cylindrical receiving collar coupled to the substrate and positioned about the sensor. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the generally cylindrical sealing member can be configured to be slidably disposed about at least a portion of the generally cylindrical receiving collar. In some embodiments, slidably disposing at least a portion of the generally cylindrical sealing member about at least a portion of the generally cylindrical receiving collar forms an adhesive-free interface therebetween.

[0011] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for using a sensing device such as a pressure reading assembly may include at least providing a sensing device comprising at least a sensor disposed on a substrate and a coupling member connected to the substrate around the sensor. In some embodiments, the coupling member may include a generally cylindrical sealing member configured to engage the inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical sealing member may define an axial bore extending from a proximal end to a distal end. In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical sealing member may be configured to receive one or more media in the axial bore. Thus, in some embodiments, the sensor may be configured to detect a force applied to the medium at or near the distal end. In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical sealing member may include an outer sealing surface defining one or more coupling elements extending circumferentially around the diameter of the generally cylindrical sealing member. In some embodiments, the one or more coupling elements may be configured to engage the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube to resist removal of the sensor during operation. In some embodiments, one or more engagement elements can be configured to generate an asymmetric friction force against the inner cylindrical surface such that the friction force between the generally cylindrical sealing member and the inner cylindrical surface is greater during application of force to the generally cylindrical sealing member in a removal direction defined from the distal end toward the proximal end than during application of force to the generally cylindrical sealing member in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end. In some embodiments, the method can further include delivering a volume of a medium into the axial bore defined by the generally cylindrical sealing member. In some embodiments, the method can further include slidably disposing at least a portion of the engagement member into a receiving tube of the housing such that the medium is placed in fluid contact with a body fluid delivered through a radial channel defined within the housing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The description of the embodiments may be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, the elements shown in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements. Embodiments incorporating the teachings of the present disclosure are shown and described with respect to the accompanying drawings set forth herein, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a pressure sensor system according to some exemplary embodiments described herein;

[0014] Figure 2A shows a perspective view of a receiving collar according to some exemplary embodiments described herein;

[0015] Figure 2B Shown Figure 2A a bottom view of the receiving collar;

[0016] Figure 2C ShownFigure 2A top view of the receiving collar of

[0017] Figure 2D shows a perspective view of the radial seal of Figure 2A side view of the receiving collar of

[0018] Figure 3A shows a perspective view of a radial seal according to some example embodiments described herein;

[0019] Figure 3B shows a bottom perspective view of the radial seal of Figure 3A

[0020] Figure 3C shows a bottom view of the radial seal of Figure 3A

[0021] Figure 3D shows a side view of the radial seal of Figure 3A

[0022] Figure 3E shows a top perspective view of the radial seal of Figure 3A

[0023] Figure 4A shows a perspective view of a housing according to some example embodiments described herein;

[0024] Figure 4B shows a bottom perspective view of the housing of Figure 4A

[0025] Figure 4C shows a bottom view of the housing of Figure 4A

[0026] Figure 4D shows a side view of the housing of Figure 4A

[0027] Figure 4E shows a bottom perspective view of the housing of Figure 4A

[0028] Figure 5A shows a perspective view of a sensor assembly according to some example embodiments described herein;

[0029] Figure 5B shows a bottom perspective view of the sensor assembly of Figure 5A

[0030] Figure 5C shows a side view of the sensor assembly of Figure 5C

[0031] Figure 6A ​​​​​​​​​​A cross-sectional view of a housing for a pressure reading device is shown in accordance with some example embodiments described herein;

[0032] Figure 6B A cross-sectional view of a pressure reading device is shown in accordance with some example embodiments described herein;

[0033] Figure 7A A cross-sectional view of a housing for a pressure reading device is shown in accordance with some example embodiments described herein;

[0034] Figure 7B A cross-sectional view of a pressure reading device is shown in accordance with some example embodiments described herein;

[0035] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a generally cylindrical sealing member for a pressure reading device is shown in accordance with some example embodiments described herein;

[0036] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of a generally cylindrical sealing member for a pressure reading device is shown in accordance with some example embodiments described herein;

[0037] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of a generally cylindrical sealing member for a pressure reading device is shown in accordance with some example embodiments described herein;

[0038] Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly for a pressure reading device is shown in accordance with some example embodiments discussed herein; and

[0039] Figure 12 A process flow diagram showing a method of using a joining member in a sensor assembly for a pressure reading device is shown in accordance with some example embodiments described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Some embodiments of the disclosure will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings, which show embodiments of the disclosure by way of example, but not necessarily by way of limitation. These descriptions and examples are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, as described in the appended claims. In fact, it is contemplated that many alternatives, modifications, and variations to the embodiments described herein will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Devices described herein or portions thereof can be attached or utilized in other orientations than those explicitly described.

[0041] The phrases “in one embodiment,” “according to one embodiment,” etc., generally mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with these phrases can be included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure, and can be included in more than one embodiment of the disclosure (importantly, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment).

[0042] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.

[0043] If the specification states a component, feature, structure, or characteristic “may,” “might,” “can,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “typically,” “often,” “usually,” “typically,” “optionally,” “for example,” “exemplary,” “for instance,” or “possibly,” (or any of the other similar phrases of the like) with respect to the performance of an act, inclusion of an element or component, occurrence of circumstances, or performance of an act, the particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic need not be included, occur, or be performed, and a specific embodiment can not include that component, feature, structure, or characteristic. Such component, feature, structure, or characteristic can be optionally included in some embodiments, or can be excluded.

[0044] To reduce the cost of producing sensor assemblies and to avoid the need for complex sterilization protocols, various exemplary embodiments disclosed herein can involve single-use (i.e., disposable) sensor assemblies, and in some embodiments, healthcare sensors. In such embodiments, the sensor assembly can include two or more elements that are joined together to form the sensor assembly, and a need can exist for a sensor assembly that can be manufactured to quickly, efficiently, and securely join the two or more elements. Various exemplary embodiments described herein involve a seal (e.g., a radial seal) that facilitates the engagement of the sensor assembly with a receiving tube of a housing to improve manufacturability while also bearing the loads required by pressure sensors. A separate sealing device, such as an O-ring, can not be sufficient to provide a seal and secure attachment under expected load conditions of, for example, healthcare sensors, and embodiments of the seal disclosed herein overcome these deficiencies.

[0045] In some embodiments discussed herein, a sensor can be mounted to a substrate for detecting a force. The sensor and substrate can be engaged with a fluid conduit to measure pressure therein. The sensor and substrate can be connected to the conduit via an engagement member that engages a housing of the conduit. The engagement member can at least partially define an axial bore aligned between a proximal portion of the engagement member and a distal portion of the engagement member. In some embodiments, the axial bore can at least partially define an internal volume. In some embodiments, a medium (such as a silicone gel-containing, room temperature vulcanizing rubber, etc.) can be disposed within the axial bore. In some embodiments, the medium can be disposed within the axial bore such that at least a portion of the medium extends through an orifice (e.g., as a convexity, meniscus, etc.) defined at a distal end of the engagement member. According to some example embodiments, an engagement member is described that facilitates slidable disposition of at least a portion of the engagement member into a receiving tube to fluidically couple the medium in the axial bore with a bodily fluid in the housing. In some embodiments, the housing can include a passageway configured to hold and convey bodily fluid therethrough. In some embodiments, the passageway can be positioned such that, upon slidable disposition of at least a portion of the engagement member into the receiving tube of the housing, the medium is placed in fluid communication with a flow of fluid (e.g., bodily fluid) conveyed through the passageway. In some embodiments, the bodily fluid can have a pressure or range of pressures that can exert a hydraulic pressure on the medium, the medium is operably coupled to a sensor disposed via the axial bore of the sensor assembly and configured to measure the exerted hydraulic pressure, and the medium prevents direct contamination of the sensor by the fluid. As such, the engagement member can form a seal suitable for preventing or substantially preventing leakage of the medium from the axial bore, and / or preventing or substantially preventing leakage of the bodily fluid from the housing.

[0046] Example systems and methods for implementing embodiments of the application

[0047] Figure 1A block diagram of a sensing device 100, such as a pressure reading assembly, is depicted that includes a sensor assembly 105 that includes a sensor 112 disposed on a substrate 110. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly 105 can include an engagement member 113 that can include a sealing member 114 and optionally a receiving collar 116. In some embodiments, the substrate 110 can be configured to receive the engagement member 113. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 116 can be coupled to the substrate 110 and configured to receive the sealing member 114. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 116 can be coupled to the substrate 110 around the sensor 112. In some embodiments, the engagement member 113 can include a generally cylindrical sealing member 114 configured to engage or partially engage one or more other components of the pressure reading assembly 100 so as to secure the sensor assembly 105 in place during normal operation of the pressure reading assembly 100. In some embodiments, the pressure reading assembly 100 can also include a housing 120 that includes a receiving tube 122 configured to receive at least a portion of the engagement member 113 (e.g., the sealing member 114) and a conduit 124 configured to allow a flow of fluid to flow therethrough. In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical sealing member 114 can be configured to engage at least a portion or component of the housing 120 and / or at least a portion of the receiving collar 116. In some embodiments, the housing 120 can include an outer shell or other such structure sized and configured to define the receiving tube 122. In some embodiments, the receiving tube 122 can be at least partially defined by an inner cylindrical surface. In some embodiments, the engagement member 113 can be or include a generally cylindrical sealing member 114. In some embodiments, the engagement member 113 can define an axial bore (not shown) extending from a proximal end of the engagement member 113 to a distal end of the engagement member 113. In some embodiments, the sealing member 114 and / or the receiving collar 116 can define axial bores that collectively define the bore of the engagement member. In some embodiments, coupling the engagement member 113 with the receiving tube 122 of the housing 120 can place the sensor 112 in operable communication with a bodily fluid 126 disposed within the conduit 124 of the housing 120. In some embodiments, including any of the embodiments described herein, the receiving collar 116 can be harder and more rigid than the sealing member 114 to allow the sealing member 114 to compress between the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube and the rigid collar.

[0048] In some embodiments, the engagement member 113 can be configured to receive one or more media 118 in an axial bore. In some embodiments, disposing one or more media 118 in the axial bore of the engagement member 113 can place the sensor 112 in direct fluid communication with the one or more media 118. In some embodiments, coupling the engagement member 113 with the receiving tube 122 of the housing 120 can place the one or more media 118 in fluid communication with the bodily fluid 126 disposed within the conduit 124 of the housing 120 (e.g., via an opening in the conduit wall such that the media abuts the flow path of the fluid from a right angle). In some embodiments, by placing the sensor 112 in fluid communication with the one or more media 118 and the one or more media 118 in fluid communication with the bodily fluid 126, the sensor 112 can be in indirect fluid communication and / or operable communication with the bodily fluid 126. In some embodiments, the sensor 112 is configured to detect a force applied to the media 118 at or near the distal end of the engagement member 113. In some embodiments, the bodily fluid 126 flowing through and / or disposed within the conduit 124 can exert hydraulic pressure on the one or more media 118 such that the one or more media 118, in turn, exerts the same or substantially similar hydraulic pressure on the sensor 112, the sensor 112 being configured to measure and / or calculate the hydraulic pressure exerted by any suitable means and using any suitable combination of devices or components, such as those known to those skilled in the art.

[0049] In some embodiments, the sealing member 114 can include an outer sealing surface defining one or more engagement elements extending circumferentially about an axis of the sealing member 114. In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can be configured to engage an inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 122 to resist removal of the sensor 112 and / or prevent the sensor assembly 105 from being operably coupled to the bodily fluid 126 during operation. In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can be configured to generate an asymmetric frictional force against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 122 such that the frictional force between the sealing member 114 and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 122 is greater during application of a force to the sealing member 114 in a removal direction defined from the distal end of the sealing member 114 toward the proximal end of the sealing member 114 than during application of a force to the sealing member 114 in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end. The frictional force in each direction can be based on at least one of the materials used, the shape of the engagement member 113 or components thereof, the dimensions of the sealing member 114 or components thereof, or any other suitable characteristic.

[0050] In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can be sized and configured to protrude from an outer surface of the sealing member 114. In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can have an asymmetric shape with respect to the insertion direction to cause an asymmetric frictional force (e.g., due to the structure of the one or more engagement elements, insertion of the sealing member can be easier than removal). In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more engagement elements can include a proximal portion having an end portion that forms a first angle opposite the generally cylindrical sealing member 114 (e.g., an acute angle between the intermediate portion and the proximal portion of the sealing member 114). In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can also include an intermediate portion that is generally flat in the axial direction and circular in the circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 114. In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can also include a distal portion having a tapered end portion that forms a second angle opposite the generally cylindrical sealing member 114 that is less than the first angle (e.g., an acute angle between the intermediate portion and the distal portion of the sealing member 114). In some embodiments, the sealing member 114 can also include a beveled plane circumferentially defined at a distal end of the sealing member 114 around the orifice.

[0051] In some further embodiments, the sealing member 114 can include a flange (e.g., the flanges 2143, 5143, 6143, 7143, 8143 described herein) at the distal end that reduces the diameter of the opening at the distal end. In some embodiments, the flange at the distal end of the sealing member 114 can be coupled circumferentially within the opening or integrally formed with the sealing member 114. In some embodiments, the flange can at least partially entrain the media 118 within the axial bore and can reduce bubble formation along the media surface during operation. In some embodiments, the flange can include a coupling portion configured to couple to a portion of the sealing member 114. In some embodiments, the flange can also include a top surface and a bottom surface, collectively top and bottom surfaces. In some embodiments, the slope of the top surface can be defined by the angle of the top surface relative to the distance from one of the outer or inner surfaces of the flange in either the distal or proximal direction. For example, in some embodiments, the flange can be connected at the outer surface of the generally cylindrical sealing member 114 or another suitable component of the engagement member 113 and angled in the distal direction relative to the inward radial direction (toward the center of the axial bore). As such, from the perspective of the distal end of the engagement member 113, such a flange will have at least some degree of convexity. Conversely, in some embodiments, the flange can be connected to the outer surface of the generally cylindrical sealing member 114 or another suitable component of the engagement member 113 and angled in the proximal direction relative to the inward radial direction (toward the center of the axial bore). As such, the flange can be at least partially angled relative to a horizontal plane perpendicular to the axis of the axial bore. For example, in some embodiments, from the perspective of the distal end of the engagement member 113, the flange can be angled toward the distal end of the sealing member 114. In some embodiments, the flange can be flat or parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0052] In some embodiments, the shape, size, surface properties, mechanical properties, and / or other properties of the flange can be controlled, at least in part, to alter or improve flow characteristics of a fluid (e.g., a bodily fluid) flowing through and in contact with the flange during use of the pressure reading assembly 100. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the flange can be sized and configured for one or more particular applications such that the fluid flowing through and in contact with the flange experiences substantially turbulent flow rather than laminar flow, which can reduce the likelihood that excess air bubbles formed in the conduit (such as above, near, or within the receiving tube) can be expelled. For example, the shape formed at the interface between the fluid in the conduit 124 and the distal portion of the sealing member 114, the distal portion of the receiving collar 116, the receiving tube 122, and / or the conduit 124 can erode gradually over the flow path of the fluid in the conduit 124 such that a turbulent flow region is created to prevent air bubble accumulation and to facilitate air bubble expulsion and reduce dead space at or near the sensor assembly. In some embodiments, one or more abrupt steps can be created by the flange and its interaction with the media and surrounding housing to create a turbulent flow region. In some embodiments, the top surface of the flange and the bottom surface of the flange can be joined by an annular circumferential surface extending around the inner diameter of the opening of the flange, which can be perpendicular to the top surface and / or the bottom surface.

[0053] In some embodiments, the outer sealing surface of the sealing member 114 can be configured to form an adhesive-free interface with the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube. In some embodiments, one or more engagement elements of the sealing member 114 can include at least two engagement elements spaced apart along the outer sealing surface of the sealing member 114. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 116 can be generally cylindrical. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 116 can be coupled to the base plate 110 and positioned around the sensor 112. In some embodiments, the sensor 112 can be any suitable device or apparatus, including but not limited to, a piezoelectric sensor, a pressure transducer, a pressure transmitter, a pressure gauge, a pressure indicator, a pressure switch, a piezoresistive pressure sensor, a digital pressure sensor, a piezoresistive strain gauge, a capacitive sensor, a diaphragm capacitive sensor, an electromagnetic sensor, a vacuum pressure sensor, a differential pressure sensor, a sealed pressure sensor, a potentiometric sensor, a resonant frequency sensor, variations and / or combinations thereof, and the like.

[0054] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the sealing member 114 can be configured to be disposed about at least a portion of the receiving collar 116. In some embodiments, the sealing member 114 can have an innermost diameter relative to an axis from the distal end to the proximal end that is less than an outermost diameter of the receiving collar 116, such that the sealing member 114 is configured to stretch about the receiving collar 116 and frictionally secure to the receiving collar 116. In some embodiments, the sealing member 114 can be fastened or secured to the receiving collar 116 using any suitable means, such as an adhesive, a glue, a paste, an epoxy, etc.

[0055] In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can be configured to exert a first force on the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 116, for example during insertion of the sealing member 114 into the receiving tube 122. In some embodiments, the one or more engagement elements can be configured to exert a second force on the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 122 that is greater than the first force, for example during removal of the sealing member 114 from the receiving tube 122. In some embodiments, by placing the sensor 112 in fluid communication with the one or more media 118 and placing the one or more media 118 in fluid communication with the bodily fluid 126, the sensor 112 is thereby placed in indirect fluid communication and / or operable communication with the bodily fluid 126, the frictional force of the sealing member 114 within the receiving tube 122 can be greater than the hydraulic pressure exerted by the bodily fluid 126 on the one or more media 118. In other words, the frictional force achieved between the engagement member 113 and the receiving tube 122 can be greater than the force exerted by the bodily fluid 126 on the one or more media 118, such that the engagement member 113 can remain coupled with or within the receiving tube 122 and the sensor assembly 105 can remain in place during operation of the sensor assembly. As such, in some embodiments, the sensor assembly 105 can be operably coupled to the housing 120 without the use of an adhesive between the sealing member 114 and the receiving tube 122. This can save the steps of applying an adhesive to one or both of the sealing member 114 and the receiving tube 122 and curing the adhesive to ensure that the sealing member 114 and the receiving tube 122 remain slidably engaged during operation of the device.

[0056] Reference is now made to Figures 2A-2D, a receiving collar 216 for a sensor assembly (e.g., sensor assembly 105) can include a distal portion 2160, a middle portion 2161, and a proximal portion 2162. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 216 can include an engagement element that includes the entire outer surface of the receiving collar 216. In some embodiments, the shape of the receiving collar 216 can be generally or substantially cylindrical. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 216 can define a hole at the distal portion 2160 and / or a hole at the proximal portion 2162, thereby defining an axial hole 2164 through some or all of the receiving collar 216. In some embodiments, the receiving collar can be coupled to a substrate (e.g., substrate 110) around a sensor (e.g., sensor 112). In some embodiments, the distal portion 2160, the middle portion 2161, and / or the proximal portion 2162 can be along Figure 2A 110. In some embodiments, the distal portion 2160, the intermediate portion 2161, and / or the proximal portion 2162 can at least partially define an axial bore 2164 aligned parallel to the dashed line A. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 216 can include a coupling surface 2163 defined at an edge of the bore in the distal portion 2160 of the receiving collar 216. In some embodiments, the proximal portion 2162 can be configured to abut, couple to, secure to, adhere to, or be integrally formed with a portion of the substrate 110. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 216 can be engaged with the substrate 110 such that the receiving collar 216 is disposed about the sensor 112. In some embodiments, the axial bore 2164 is at least partially defined by an inner cylindrical surface 2165 of the receiving collar 216. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 216 can be part of an engagement member (e.g., engagement member 113) and can be sized and configured such that a sealing component (e.g., sealing member 114) is disposed or partially disposed on or about the receiving collar 216. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 216 can be sized and configured such that the sealing component remains disposed on or about the receiving collar 216 during normal operation of the pressure reading assembly (e.g., pressure reading assembly 100).

[0057] In some embodiments, the receiving collar 216 can also include a coupling surface 2163, which can be formed at or coupled with the proximal portion 2162 of the receiving collar 216. In some embodiments, the coupling surface 2163 can be sized such that an aperture therethrough defines an opening at the proximal end 2162 of the receiving collar 216, the opening having an inner diameter that is less than the inner cylindrical surface 2165 of the receiving collar 216. In some embodiments, the coupling surface 2163 at the proximal end 2162 of the receiving collar 216 can be coupled within the opening or formed integrally with the receiving collar 216. In some embodiments, the coupling surface 2163 can at least partially support the media 118. In some embodiments, the coupling surface 2163 can also include a top surface and a bottom surface, collectively top and bottom surfaces. In some embodiments, the slope of the top surface can be defined by the angle of the top surface relative to the distance from one of the outer or inner surfaces of the coupling surface 2163 in either a distal or proximal direction. For example, in some embodiments, the coupling surface 2163 can be connected at the outer surface of the receiving collar 216 or another suitable component of the engagement member 113 and angled in the proximal direction relative to an inward radial direction (toward the center of the axial bore). As such, the coupling surface 2163 can have at least some degree of concavity from the perspective of the distal end of the engagement member 113. As such, the coupling surface 2163 can have at least some degree of concavity from the perspective of the distal end of the engagement member 113. In some embodiments, it is also possible that some or all of the top surface of the coupling surface 2163 can be flat and / or level. In some embodiments, the coupling surface 2163 can provide a larger surface to couple the receiving collar 216 with a base plate (described herein). In some embodiments, the receiving collar 216 can be cylindrical at the proximal end without a coupling surface. In some example embodiments, the receiving collar 216 can define an inner diameter of about 1.85 mm and can define an outer diameter of about 2.35 mm. For example, in some embodiments, the inner diameter of the receiving collar 216 can be between about 1 mm and about 3 mm, about 1.25 mm and about 2.75 mm, about 1.5 mm and about 2.5 mm, about 1.75 mm and about 2.25 mm, about 1 mm and about 3 mm, about 1.25 mm and about 2.75 mm, about 1.5 mm and about 2 mm, about 1.5 mm and about 2.75 mm, about 1.75 mm and about 2.25 mm, or about 1.75 mm and about 2 mm, including all values and ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the receiving collar 216 can be greater than about 1 mm, 1.25 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.75 mm, 2 mm, 2.25 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.75 mm, or 3 mm, including all values and ranges therebetween.In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the receiving collar 216 can be less than about 3 mm, 2.75 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.25 mm, 2 mm, 1.75 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.25 mm, or 1 mm, including all values and ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the receiving collar 216 can be between about 1.5 mm and about 3.5 mm, between about 1.75 mm and about 3.25 mm, between about 2 mm and about 3 mm, between about 1.75 mm and about 2.75 mm, between about 2 mm and about 2.75 mm, between about 2.25 mm and about 2.75 mm, between about 2 mm and about 2.75 mm, between about 2 mm and about 2.5 mm, between about 2.25 mm and about 2.75 mm, or between about 2.25 mm and about 2.5 mm, including all values and ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the receiving collar 216 can be greater than about 1.5 mm, 1.75 mm, 2 mm, 2.25 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.75 mm, 3 mm, 3.25 mm, 3.5 mm, 3.75 mm, or 4 mm, including all values and ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the receiving collar 216 can be less than about 4 mm, 3.75 mm, 3.5 mm, 3.25 mm, 3 mm, 2.75 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.25 mm, 2 mm, 1.75 mm, or 1.5 mm, including all values and ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the receiving collar 216 can be between about 50% and about 99%, or between about 65% and about 90%, between about 70% and about 85%, between about 70% and about 80%, or between about 75% and about 80% of the outer diameter of the receiving collar 216, including all values and ranges therebetween.

[0058] In some embodiments, a raised surface 2166 can be formed circumferentially at the distal end of the axial bore 2164 of the receiving collar 216. In some embodiments, the raised surface 2166 can be formed as a transition between the inner diameter of the inner surface 2165 of the receiving collar 216 and the distal end 2160 (e.g., a chamfer to a flat, horizontal distal surface). In some embodiments, the raised surface 2166 can be formed by adding or subtracting material from the receiving collar 216, which can be the same or different from the material or materials from which the receiving collar 216 is formed.

[0059] In some embodiments, the receiving collar 216 can be configured to facilitate an appropriate or suitable interface interaction between the medium (such as the medium 118) and the receiving collar 216. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 216 can be coupled to the substrate (e.g., 110) via the coupling surface 2163 such that the axial bore 2164 and the portion of the substrate within the axial bore 2164 of the receiving collar 216 can define an inner cavity that can be filled, substantially filled, or partially filled with the medium. In some embodiments, a sufficient volume of the medium can be disposed within the inner cavity of the receiving collar 216 (within the axial bore 2164) such that the medium extends beyond the distal end 2160 of the receiving collar 216. In some embodiments, the medium can be formed into a convex shape (e.g., a ridge) at or near or partially beyond the distal end 2160 of the receiving collar 216 to facilitate an appropriate distribution between the medium and the fluid in the catheter. In some embodiments, the raised surface 2166 can be formed such that when a sufficient volume of media is disposed within the axial bore 2164 of the receiving collar 216, the media is disposed against at least a portion of the raised surface 2166 such that a suitable convex shape of the media is achieved beyond the distal end 2160 of the collar.

[0060] In some embodiments, as Figure 2C As shown in enlarged portion B of FIG. , the raised surface 2166 can include a chamfered first surface 2166A and a horizontal second surface 2166B. For example, the raised surface 2166 can include a first surface 2166A that forms a reflex angle with the inner surface 2165. In some embodiments, the raised surface 2166 can include a substantially horizontal second surface 2166B (e.g., parallel to a horizontal plane perpendicular to the axis of the axial bore) that defines a second reflex angle with the first surface 2166A such that the inner diameter of the axial bore 2164 corresponding to the second surface 2166B is greater than the inner diameter of the remainder of the axial bore 2164, and the second surface 2166B is narrower than the thickness of the radial collar about the inner surface 2165. In some embodiments, the angle between the first surface 2166A and the second surface 2166B can be approximately 270 degrees. The abrupt transition between the surfaces can force the media to pack because its cohesive forces are stronger than its diffusive forces, thereby creating a convex surface at the distal end of the media. In some embodiments, the raised surface 2166 can be specifically sized and configured such that when the media is disposed within the axial bore 2164 such that the convex shape of the media protrudes beyond the distal end 2160 of the receiving collar 216, the cohesive forces of the media are stronger than the diffusive forces of the media.

[0061] Now refer to Figures 3A-3E, an exemplary sealing member 214 for use with a sensor assembly (e.g., sensor assembly 105) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can be engaged with a substrate (e.g., substrate 110) of the sensor assembly (e.g., coupled via a receiving collar 116). In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can be specifically configured and sized to be disposed around a receiving collar (such as the receiving collars discussed herein), partially around the receiving collar, or around a portion of the receiving collar. In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can be specifically configured and sized such that when the sealing member 214 is disposed around the receiving collar, partially around the receiving collar, or around a portion of the receiving collar, the difference in diameter at the interface between the sealing member 214 and the receiving collar is sufficiently small to allow the sealing member 214 to remain on the receiving collar during use of the sensor assembly.

[0062] In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can include a distal portion 2140, a middle portion 2141, and a proximal portion 2142. In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can define a hole at the distal portion 2140 and a hole at the proximal portion 2142. In some embodiments, the distal portion 2140, the middle portion 2141, and / or the proximal portion 2142 can be arranged along Figure 3A , aligned with the axis represented by dashed line C in the device. In some embodiments, the distal portion 2140, the middle portion 2141 and / or the proximal portion 2142 can at least partially define an axial bore 2144 aligned parallel to the dashed line C. In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can include a flange 2143 at the edge of the bore defined in the distal portion 2140 of the sealing member 214. In some embodiments, the flange 2143 can be configured to cover at least a portion of the medium disposed within the axial bore 2164 / 2144 such that the medium is not disturbed, deformed, removed, or otherwise damaged during assembly and / or use of the device. Further discussion of the flange 2143 is provided below with reference to Figures 8-10 Have a discussion.

[0063] In some embodiments, the proximal portion 2142 can be configured to directly or indirectly abut and / or engage with a portion of the substrate. In some embodiments, an engagement member (e.g., at least similar to engagement member 113) that can include a sealing member 214 and a receiving collar (e.g., at least similar to receiving collar) can be connected with the substrate such that the engagement member is disposed about a sensor (e.g., sensor 112) disposed on the substrate. An axial bore 2144 can be at least partially defined by an inner cylindrical surface 2145. In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can have a contact surface 2145 at a proximal end of the sealing member 214 that is configured to engage or couple with the substrate. However, in some embodiments, whether or not the sealing member 214 includes the contact surface 2145, the sealing member 214 can be configured to only partially engage or couple to the substrate 110. In some embodiments, for example, when the sealing member 214 is disposed entirely or substantially about the receiving collar, the contact surface 2145 can not directly engage or couple with the substrate 110. In some embodiments, the proximal end 2145 of the sealing member 214 can include a sloped inner surface for allowing the sealing member 214 to slide onto the receiving collar.

[0064] In some embodiments, the engagement member can be or include a generally cylindrical sealing member 214 configured to engage a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can include one or more surface features, such as a first engagement element 2147 and a second engagement element 2151 disposed on or integrally formed with an outer surface (e.g., the intermediate portion 2141) of the sealing member 214. In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can include a first engagement element 2147 disposed on or integrally formed with an outer surface, in any case a portion of the outer surface, of the sealing member 214. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 2147 can include a beveled surface 2148 positioned as a distal leading edge of the first engagement element 2147. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 2147 can include an intermediate surface 2149 that can partially, primarily, or solely function as a contact surface when the sealing member 214 is disposed within a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can also include a second engagement element 2151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 2151 can be disposed on or integrally formed with an outer surface of the sealing member 214 proximate the first engagement element 2147. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 2151 can include a beveled surface 2152 positioned as a distal leading edge of the second engagement member 2151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 2151 can include an intermediate surface 2153 that can partially, primarily, or solely function as a contact surface when the sealing member 214 is disposed within a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can include additional engagement elements or other such elements configured to fastenably engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 2147 can also include a proximal surface 2151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 2151 can also include a proximal surface 2152.

[0065] In some embodiments, for the first engagement element 2147, the intermediate surface 2149 can be generally flat in the axial direction and extend around the generally cylindrical sealing member 214 in the circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the proximal surface 2150 can be generally adjacent the intermediate surface 2149 in the proximal direction and can extend around the generally cylindrical sealing member 214 in the circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the intersection of the intermediate surface 2149 and the proximal portion 2150 can define a first acute angle. In some embodiments, the distal surface 2148 can be generally adjacent the intermediate surface 2149 in the distal direction and can extend around the generally cylindrical sealing member 214 in the circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the intersection of the intermediate surface 2149 and the distal surface 2148 can define a second acute angle that is less than the first acute angle.

[0066] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the intermediate surface 2153 can be generally planar in the axial direction and extend in the circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 214. In some embodiments, the proximal surface 2154 can be generally adjacent the intermediate surface 2153 in the proximal direction and can extend in the circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 214. In some embodiments, the intersection of the intermediate surface 2153 and the proximal portion 2154 can define a first acute angle. In some embodiments, the distal surface 2152 can be generally adjacent the intermediate surface 2153 in the distal direction and can extend in the circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 214. In some embodiments, the intersection of the intermediate surface 2153 and the distal surface 2152 can define a second acute angle that is less than the first acute angle.

[0067] In some embodiments, the first engagement element 2147 and / or the second engagement element 2151 can be sized and configured to extend circumferentially around a diameter of the sealing member 214. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 2147 and the second engagement element 2151 can be configured to engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube to resist removal of the sensor during operation. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 2147 and the second engagement element 2151 can be sized and configured to generate an asymmetric frictional force against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube such that a frictional force between the sealing member 214 and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube is greater during application of a force to the sealing member 214 in a removal direction defined from the distal end 2140 toward the proximal end 2142 than during application of a force to the sealing member 214 in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end 2142 toward the distal end 2140. In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can be a generally cylindrical sealing member 214. In some embodiments, the sealing member 214 can include or define an outer sealing surface (such as some combination of the distal portion 2140, the intermediate portion 2141, and the proximal portion 2142 of the sealing member 214). In some embodiments, the outer sealing surface can include or define one or more of the first engagement element 2147 and the second engagement element 2151 extending circumferentially around a diameter of the generally cylindrical sealing member 214, where the one or more engagement elements 2147, 2151 can be configured to engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube to resist removal of the sensor assembly during operation.

[0068] In some embodiments, one or more of the engagement elements 2147, 2151 can be configured to generate an asymmetric frictional force against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube such that the frictional force between the generally cylindrical sealing member 214 and the inner cylindrical surface is greater during application of a force to the generally cylindrical sealing member 214 in a removal direction defined from the distal end 2140 toward the proximal end 2142 than during application of a force to the generally cylindrical sealing member 214 in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end 2142. As described herein, the flange 2143 can cover a portion of the media to prevent the media from tearing during insertion of the housing (described herein). In some embodiments, the flange 2143 can further prevent or reduce bubble formation at the interface between the sensor assembly and the housing.

[0069] Referring now to Figures 4A-4E , the housing 220 of the pressure sensing system can include a sensor package 221 defining a receiving tube 222. In some embodiments, the housing 220 can include a conduit 224 defining a passageway 226 through the conduit 224 in a direction substantially aligned with a central axis of the conduit 224, which is shown as a dashed line D in Figure 4A . In some embodiments, the passageway 226 can be configured to convey a fluid, such as the bodily fluid 126, therethrough. The conduit 224 can include a conduit wall 225 defining an opening connecting the passageway 226 with the receiving tube 222. In some embodiments, the housing 220 can also include a first connector 220A and a second connector 220B configured to slidably or rotatably engage with another tubing or another conduit such that the fluid can be caused to flow through the passageway 226 of the conduit 224.

[0070] In some embodiments, the receiving tube 222 can be configured such that a portion of the sensor assembly, such as an engagement member, is slidably disposed therein. In some embodiments, the receiving tube 222 can be positioned or oriented perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the central axis of the conduit 224 (represented by the dashed line D) such that the fluid substantially tangentially passes the sensor assembly with the surface of the media. In some embodiments, by aligning the distal portion 2140 with the receiving tube 222 and applying an insertion force F in a direction perpendicular to the dashed line D of the conduit 224, as shown in Figure 4B), the sealing member 214 can be disposed within the receiving tube 222, partially within the receiving tube, or with a portion of the sealing member 214 disposed within the receiving tube. In some embodiments, when the sealing member 214 is aligned with and / or disposed within the receiving tube, the sealing member 214 can define a central hole aligned substantially perpendicular to the dashed line D. In some embodiments, one or more media 118 (such as a gel or other suitable media, such as a silicone gel, room temperature vulcanized rubber, etc.) can be disposed within the central hole of the sealing member 214. In some embodiments, slidably disposing the sealing member 214 within the receiving tube 222 of the housing 220 can place the one or more media 118 in fluid communication with the bodily fluid 126. In some embodiments, the bodily fluid 126 transmitted through the channel 226 of the conduit 224 can have a hydraulic pressure that can be applied to and / or transmitted to the one or more media 118, and the sensor 112 is configured to sense, measure, or otherwise detect the hydraulic pressure applied to the sensor by the one or more media 118.

[0071] like Figure 4D As shown, the sealing member 214 and the components of the sensor assembly can be slidably removed from the receiving tube 222 by applying or exerting a removal force F' that is greater than the friction force exerted by the sealing member 214 on the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 222. Thus, during normal operation of the pressure reading system, the removal force F' can be provided by at least the hydraulic pressure of the bodily fluid 126 exerted on the one or more media 118. In some embodiments, based on the shape, size, location, one or more materials used, etc., the sealing member 214 can exert sufficient friction on the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 222 such that the friction force can be equal to or greater than the removal force F' required to remove the sealing member 214 from the receiving tube 222.

[0072] Now refer to Figures 5A-5CIn some embodiments, the sensor assembly 205 can include a substrate 210 and a sensor (not shown) disposed on the substrate 210. In some embodiments, a joining member (e.g., including a sealing member 214 and a receiving collar) can be joined with the substrate 210 (e.g., in some embodiments, the receiving collar and the substrate can be formed as the same piece of material or coupled together). In some embodiments, the joining member can be configured, sized, and / or positioned such that the sensor is coupled to the substrate 210 and the sensor is surrounded by the joining member. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly 205 can also include electronics 211 configured to power the sensor and / or receive signals from the sensor, such as a processor, a memory, and one or more sensing modules, as understood by one of skill in the art in light of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the sensor and the joining member can be disposed on a first surface of the substrate 210, and the electronics 211 can be disposed on a second surface opposite the first surface. In some embodiments, the substrate 210 can include one or more apertures therethrough, such that the electronics 211 on the second surface of the substrate 210 can be operably coupled to the sensor on the first surface of the substrate 210 by one or more electrical wires that extend from the electronics 211 through at least one of the one or more apertures through the substrate 210 to the sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly can be coupled to an external computing device that can receive raw sensor data and / or processed data from the sensor assembly, and the external computing device can include one or more processors and / or memories to further process and / or analyze the signals received from the sensor assembly.

[0073] Reference is now made to Figure 6A and Figure 6BFIG. 1 illustrates a cross-section of a portion of a pressure sensor system (e.g., pressure reading assembly 100), according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor system can include a sensor assembly (e.g., sensor assembly 105). In some embodiments, the sensor assembly can include a substrate 310 and a sensor (e.g., sensor 112) disposed on the substrate 310. In some embodiments, the substrate 310 can also include electronics 311 configured to send / receive power and / or information to / from the sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly can include an engagement member (e.g., engagement member 113) engageable with the substrate 310. In some embodiments, the engagement member can be configured, sized, and / or positioned such that the sensor is coupled to the substrate 310 and the sensor is surrounded by the engagement member, which can include a sealing member 314 and can include a receiving collar 316. In some embodiments, the sensor and the engagement member can be disposed on a first surface of the substrate 310, and the electronics 311 can be disposed on a second surface opposite the first surface. In some embodiments, the substrate 310 can include one or more apertures therethrough, such that the electronics 311 on the second surface of the substrate 310 can be operably coupled to the sensor on the first surface of the substrate 310 by one or more electrical wires extending from the electronics 311 through at least one of the one or more apertures through the substrate 310 to the sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly can also include a receiving collar 316 around which the sealing member 314 is configured to be fastenable.

[0074] In some embodiments, the engagement member can be or include a generally cylindrical sealing member 314 (also referred to herein as a generally cylindrical sealing member 314) configured to engage a receiving tube 322 of the housing 320, the receiving tube 322 being configured to retain at least a portion of the sealing member 314 and allow pressure based on the force exerted by the fluid on the sensor 312. In some embodiments, the sealing member 314 can include an outer sealing surface having one or more surface features or other such engagement elements disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 314. In some embodiments, the sealing member 314 can include a first engagement element 3147 disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 314. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 3147 can include an inclined surface defined as a distal leading edge of the first engagement element 3147. In some embodiments, the sealing member 314 can also include a second engagement element 3151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 3151 can be disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 314 adjacent to the first engagement element 3147. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 3151 can include an inclined surface positioned as a distal leading edge of the second engagement element 3151. In some embodiments, the sealing member 314 can include an additional engagement element configured to securely engage the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 322. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 3147 can also include a proximal surface. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 3151 can also include a proximal surface.

[0075] In some embodiments, the first engagement element 3147 and / or the second engagement element 3151 can be sized and configured to extend circumferentially around the perimeter of the sealing member 314. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 3147 and the second engagement element 3151 can be configured to engage the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 322 to resist removal of the sensor during operation.

[0076] In some embodiments, the first engagement element 3147 and / or the second engagement element 3151 can be sized and configured to generate an asymmetric friction force against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 322 such that the frictional force between the sealing member 314 and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 322 is greater during application of force to the sealing member 314 in a removal direction defined from the distal end toward the proximal end than during application of force to the sealing member 314 in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end. For example, as described herein, the engagement elements can be angled toward the proximal end to allow the engagement elements to deflect during insertion, while compressing the engagement elements to increase the normal force when force is applied in the removal direction. In some embodiments, the engagement elements can include an offset center of mass, an offset attachment point between the center of a base of the engagement element (e.g., the portion of the engagement element opposite the receiving tube 322) and the center of an intermediate portion of the engagement element (e.g., the portion of the engagement element that contacts the receiving tube 322), and / or a tapered surface on at least the distal end that facilitates a lower resistance to insertion than resistance in the removal direction.

[0077] As Figure 6BAs shown, for example, the first engagement element 3147 and the second engagement element 3151 can be similar in size and shape. In some embodiments, the sealing member 314 can include fewer or more than two engagement elements, can include more than one different engagement element, and / or can include engagement elements that are integrally formed with other components and features of the sealing member 314. In some embodiments, the sealing member 314 and its engagement elements (e.g., 3147, 3151) can be configured to be slidably disposed within the receiving tube 322 of the housing 320, in accordance with various parameters described herein. In some embodiments, the outermost diameter of the sealing member 314 can be greater than the inner diameter of the receiving tube 322, such that the sealing member 314 exerts an outward force on the inner cylindrical wall of the receiving tube 322. In some embodiments, the diameter of the sealing member 314 relative to one or more recessed portions of the outer sealing surface (e.g., that do not define an outer diameter and / or that do not define one or more portions of the engagement member) can be less than the inner diameter of the receiving tube 322, such that the sealing member 314 can be inserted. In some embodiments, for example, when one or more media (e.g., 118) are disposed within the axial bore of the sealing member 314, slidably disposing the sealing member 314 into the receiving tube 322 can place the one or more media in contact with the conduit of the housing 320, and thereby allow communication with a fluid (e.g., fluid 126) disposed within and / or flowing through the conduit 326 of the housing 320 during operation. In some embodiments, the fluid 126 conveyed through the passage 326 defined by the conduit 324 can have a hydraulic pressure that can be exerted on and / or conveyed to the one or more media, the sensor is configured to sense, measure, or otherwise detect the hydraulic pressure exerted on the sensor by the one or more media, while the frictional force between the sealing member 314 and the inner cylindrical wall cannot be overcome by the pressure of the fluid on the sensor assembly.

[0078] The pressure sensor system can also include a housing base 330. In some embodiments, the housing base 330 can have a rigid structure configured to support the housing 320 in operation. In some embodiments, during assembly, as described herein, the sensor assembly is first engaged with the housing 320, and the housing base 330 is then engaged with the housing 320 to at least partially encapsulate the sensor assembly within a housing structure including the housing 320 and the housing base 330. In some embodiments, the housing base 330 can include a mechanical structure (e.g., a wall 332 as shown) to prevent the sensor assembly (e.g., the sealing member 314) from backing out of the receiving tube 322 of the housing 320. Figure 6B The wall 332 shown can prevent the sensor assembly (e.g., the sealing member 314) from backing out of the receiving tube 322 of the housing 320.

[0079] In some embodiments, the housing base 330 can securely engage the housing 320 during assembly, and the housing base 330 can include one or more mechanical structures 332 to prevent the sensor assembly from backing out of the receiving tube 322 of the housing 320 during operation. In some embodiments, the sealing member 314 can engage the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 322 of the housing 320 with sufficient resistance (e.g., friction) to prevent the sensor assembly from backing out of the receiving tube 322 during normal operation. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor system can additionally or alternatively use one or more mechanical structures 332 to at least partially prevent the sensor assembly (e.g., the sealing member 314) from backing out of the receiving tube 322 during normal operation. For example, in a medical application, if a nurse attempts to flush the housing 320 to remove debris or bodily fluids before reintroducing fluid for pressure sensing, higher than normal pressure (e.g., 80-100 psi) can be applied to the sensor, which can overcome the resistance of the sealing member 314 if the sealing member 314 is the only structure that helps prevent the sensor assembly from backing out of the receiving tube 322 of the housing 320. In some embodiments, the one or more mechanical structures 332 can redundantly ensure that the sensor assembly does not back out of the receiving tube 322 under normal or abnormal operation of the pressure sensor system. In some embodiments, the one or more mechanical structures 332 can rest against or slightly below the base plate 310 without applying any or substantial force to the base plate 310 in a static state. In such embodiments, the one or more mechanical structures 332 can limit the movement of the sensor assembly to acceptable tolerances under any pressure load without having to always forcibly push the base plate 310 upwards. In some embodiments, the one or more mechanical structures 332 can define a gap from the housing 320 that is configured to ensure that the base plate 310 and the rest of the sensor device start and remain in an acceptable position relative to the flow tube.

[0080] Reference is now made to Figure 7A and Figure 7BFIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional portion of a pressure sensor system, according to another example embodiment. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor system can include a sensor assembly (e.g., sensor assembly 105). In some embodiments, the sensor assembly can include a substrate 410 and a sensor 412 disposed on the substrate 410. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly can also include electronics 411 configured to send / receive power and / or information to / from the sensor 412. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly can include a junction member (e.g., junction member 113) that can include a sealing member 414 and can include a receiving collar 416 that can be engageable with the substrate 410. In some embodiments, the junction member can be configured, sized, and / or positioned such that the sensor 412 is coupled to the substrate 410 and the sensor 412 can be encircled by the junction member, which can include the sealing member 414 and / or the receiving collar 416. In some embodiments, the sensor 412 and the junction member can be disposed on a first surface of the substrate 410 and the electronics 411 can be disposed on a second surface opposite the first surface. In some embodiments, the substrate 410 can include one or more apertures therethrough such that the electronics 411 on the second surface of the substrate 410 can be operably coupled to the sensor 412 on the first surface of the substrate 410 by one or more electrical wires that extend from the electronics 411 through at least one of the one or more apertures through the substrate 410 to the sensor 412. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly can also include the receiving collar 416 around which the sealing member 414 is configured to be securely disposed.

[0081] In some embodiments, the engagement member can be or include a generally cylindrical sealing member 414 configured to engage the receiving tube 422 of the housing 420. In some embodiments, the sealing member 414 can include an outer sealing surface that can include one or more surface features or other such engagement elements disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 414. In some embodiments, the sealing member 414 can include a first engagement element disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 414. In some embodiments, the first engagement element can include a beveled surface positioned as a distal front surface of the first engagement element. In some embodiments, the sealing member 414 can also include a second engagement element. In some embodiments, the second engagement element can be disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 414 proximate to the first engagement element. In some embodiments, the second engagement element can include a beveled surface positioned as a distal front surface of the second engagement element. In some embodiments, the sealing member 414 can include additional engagement members or other such elements configured to fastenably engage the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 422. In some embodiments, the first engagement element can also include a proximal surface. In some embodiments, the second engagement element can also include a proximal surface. In some embodiments, an exterior angle formed by the intersection of the proximal surface and the intermediate surface can be an acute angle, an obtuse angle, or the like.

[0082] In some embodiments, the first engagement element and / or the second engagement element can be sized and configured to extend circumferentially around the diameter of the sealing member 414. In some embodiments, the first engagement element and the second engagement element can be configured to engage the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 422 to resist removal of the sensor during operation. In some embodiments, the first engagement element and the second engagement element can be sized and configured to generate an asymmetric frictional force against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 422 such that the frictional force between the sealing member 414 and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 422 is greater during application of a force to the sealing member 414 in a removal direction defined from the distal end toward the proximal end than during application of a force to the sealing member 414 in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end.

[0083] As Figure 7BAs shown, for example, the first engagement element and the second engagement element can be similar in size and shape. In some embodiments, the sealing member 414 can include fewer or more than two engagement elements, can include more than one different engagement element, and / or can include engagement elements that are integrally formed with other components and features of the sealing member 414. In some embodiments, the sealing member 414 and its engagement elements can be configured to be slidably disposed within the receiving tube 422 of the housing 420. In some embodiments, for example, when one or more media (e.g., 118) are disposed within the axial bore of the sealing member 414, slidably disposing the sealing member 414 into the receiving tube 422 can place the one or more media in contact with a fluid (e.g., 126) disposed within and / or flowing through the conduit 426 of the housing 420. In some embodiments, the fluid 126 conveyed through the passage 428 defined by the conduit 426 of the housing 420 can have a hydraulic pressure that can be applied as a force on and / or to the one or more media, the sensor 412 being configured to sense, measure, or otherwise detect the hydraulic pressure applied by the one or more media on the sensor. As can be seen in Figure 6B and Figure 7B The engagement member can be sized and configured according to a variety of different embodiments to suitably seal the receiving tube 322, 422 and the remainder of the sensing assembly from the inflow of air or other contaminants and the outflow of media and / or bodily fluid. Based on the size and material properties of the receiving tube 322, 422, the engagement member can be configured to sealingly engage the inner surface of the receiving tube 322, 422 under normal operating conditions (e.g., normal pressures or pressure ranges applied by bodily fluid on the one or more media).

[0084] The pressure sensor system can also include a housing base 430. In some embodiments, the housing base 430 can have a rigid structure configured to support the housing 420 in operation. In some embodiments, during assembly, as described herein, the sensor assembly is first engaged with the housing 420, and the housing base 430 is then engaged with the housing 420 to at least partially encapsulate the sensor assembly within a housing structure including the housing 420 and the housing base 430. In some embodiments, the housing base 430 can include a mechanical structure (e.g., a wall 332 as shown in Figure 6B to prevent the sensor assembly (e.g., the sealing member 414) from backing out of the receiving tube 422 of the housing 420.

[0085] In some embodiments, the housing base 430 can securely engage the housing 420 during assembly, and the housing base 430 can include one or more mechanical structures to prevent the sensor assembly from backing out of the receiving tube 422 of the housing 420 during operation. In some embodiments, the sealing member 414 can engage the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube 422 of the housing 420 with sufficient resistance (e.g., friction) so as to prevent the sensor assembly from backing out of the receiving tube 422 during normal operation. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor system can additionally or alternatively use one or more mechanical structures to at least partially prevent the sensor assembly (e.g., the sealing member 414) from backing out of the receiving tube 422 during normal operation. For example, in a medical application, if a nurse attempts to flush the housing 420 to remove debris or bodily fluids before reintroducing fluid for pressure sensing, a higher than normal pressure (e.g., 80-100 psi) can be applied to the sensor, which can overcome the resistance of the sealing member 414 if the sealing member 414 is the only structure that helps prevent the sensor assembly from backing out of the receiving tube 422 of the housing 420. In some embodiments, one or more mechanical structures can redundantly ensure that the sensor assembly does not back out of the receiving tube 422 under normal or abnormal operation of the pressure sensor system. In some embodiments, one or more mechanical structures can rest against or slightly below the base plate 410 without applying any or substantial force to the base plate 410. In such embodiments, one or more mechanical structures can limit the movement of the sensor assembly to acceptable tolerances without always forcibly pushing the base plate 410 upwards. In some embodiments, one or more mechanical structures can define a gap from the housing 420 that is configured to ensure that the base plate 410 and the rest of the sensor device start and remain in an acceptable position relative to the flow tube.

[0086] Reference is made below to Figures 8-10 Some, but not all, suitable configurations and contemplated embodiments for sealing members, such as the sealing member 114, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure are described in greater detail. The descriptions and illustrations are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way and are merely provided as illustrative examples to generally show concepts.

[0087] Reference is now made to Figure 8FIG. 15 shows a sealing member 514 for use with a sensor assembly (e.g., sensor assembly 105) in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, sealing member 514 can be engaged with a substrate (e.g., substrate 110) of a sensor assembly (e.g., via a receiving collar). In some embodiments, sealing member 514 can be specifically configured and sized to be disposed around, partially around, or around a portion of a receiving collar (such as a receiving collar discussed herein). In some embodiments, sealing member 514 can be specifically configured and sized such that when sealing member 514 is disposed around, partially around, or around a portion of a receiving collar, the difference in diameter at the interface between sealing member 514 and the receiving collar is small enough such that sealing member 514 remains on the receiving collar during use of the sensor assembly.

[0088] In some embodiments, sealing member 514 can include a distal portion 5140, an intermediate portion 5141, and a proximal portion 5142. In some embodiments, sealing member 514 can define a hole at distal portion 5140 and a hole at proximal portion 5142. In some embodiments, distal portion 5140, intermediate portion 5141, and / or proximal portion 5142 can be axially aligned along sealing member 514. In some embodiments, distal portion 5140, intermediate portion 5141, and / or proximal portion 5142 can at least partially define an axial hole (not shown) that is axially aligned along sealing member 514. In some embodiments, sealing member 514 can include a flange 5143 defined at an edge of the hole in distal portion 5140 of sealing member 514. In some embodiments, proximal portion 5142 can be configured to abut, couple to, fasten to, adhere to, or be integrally formed with a portion of substrate 110.

[0089] In some embodiments, the engagement member can engage with the substrate 110 such that the sealing member 514 is disposed about a sensor, such as sensor 112. The axial bore can be at least partially defined by an inner cylindrical surface (not shown). In some embodiments, the engagement member can be configured and dimensioned to be disposed about a sensor and coupled to a substrate and to hold one or more media in place about the sensor. In some embodiments, the engagement member can include a sealing member 514 disposed about at least a portion of a receiving collar that is coupled to a substrate. In other words, while the receiving collar is generally coupled to the substrate, the sealing member 514 can be disposed only about a distal portion of the receiving collar or a middle portion of the receiving collar, and in this way, the sealing member 514 can be disposed about a portion of the receiving collar without abutting or coupling to the substrate. In some embodiments, the receiving collar can define a first axial bore having a volume approximately equal to an inner diameter and length through an orifice of the receiving collar. In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 can define a second axial bore having a volume approximately equal to an inner diameter and length through an orifice of the sealing member 514. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the sealing member 514 can be substantially similar to or equal to the outer diameter of the receiving collar. In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 can have a contact surface at a proximal end of the sealing member 514. In some embodiments, the contact surface can be configured to engage with or couple to a substrate. In some embodiments, for example, when the sealing member 514 is disposed completely or substantially about the receiving collar, the contact surface can not engage or couple to the substrate 110 at any point or location.

[0090] In some embodiments, the engagement member can be or include a generally cylindrical sealing member 514 configured to engage a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 can include an outer sealing surface having one or more surface features or other such engagement elements disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 514. In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 can include a first engagement element 5147 disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 514. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 5147 can include a ramped surface 5148 positioned as a distal leading edge of the first engagement element 5147. In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 can further include a second engagement element 5151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 5151 can be disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 514 proximate the first engagement element 5147. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 5151 can include a ramped surface 5150 positioned as a distal leading edge of the second engagement element 5151. In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 can include additional engagement members or other such elements configured to fastenably engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 5147 can further include a proximal surface 5151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 5151 can further include a proximal surface 5154.

[0091] In some embodiments, the first engagement element 5147 and / or the second engagement element 5151 can be sized and configured to extend circumferentially around a diameter of the sealing member 514. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 5147 and the second engagement element 5151 can be configured to engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube to resist removal of the sensor during operation. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 5147 and the second engagement element 5151 can be sized and configured to generate an asymmetric frictional force against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube such that a frictional force between the sealing member 514 and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube is greater during application of a force to the sealing member 514 in a removal direction defined from the distal end 5140 toward the proximal end 5142 than during application of a force to the sealing member 514 in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end 5142 toward the distal end 5140.

[0092] In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 can be generally cylindrical and can be configured to fastenableiy engage a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 can include one or more surface features, such as a first engagement element 5147 and a second engagement element 5151 disposed on or integrally formed with an outer surface of the sealing member 514 (e.g., the middle portion 5141). In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 can include a first engagement element 5147 disposed on or integrally formed with an outer surface of the sealing member 514, in any case a portion of the outer surface. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 5147 can include a beveled surface 5148 positioned as a distal leading edge of the first engagement element 5147. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 5147 can include a middle surface 5149 that can partially, primarily, or solely function as a contact surface when the sealing member 514 is disposed within a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 can further include a second engagement element 5151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 5151 can be disposed on or integrally formed with an outer surface of the sealing member 514 proximate the first engagement element 5147. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 5151 can include a beveled surface 5152 positioned as a distal leading edge of the second engagement member 5151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 5151 can include a middle surface 5153 that can partially, primarily, or solely function as a contact surface when the sealing member 514 is disposed within a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 can include additional engagement elements or other such elements configured to fastenableiy engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 5147 can further include a proximal surface 5151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 5151 can further include a distal surface 5152.

[0093] In some embodiments, for the first engagement element 5147, the middle surface 5149 can be generally flat in the axial direction and extend around the generally cylindrical sealing member 514 in the circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the proximal surface 5150 can be generally adjacent the middle surface 5149 in the proximal direction and can extend around the generally cylindrical sealing member 514 in the circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the intersection of the middle surface 5149 and the proximal portion 5150 can define a first acute angle. In some embodiments, the distal surface 5148 can be generally adjacent the middle surface 5149 in the distal direction and can extend around the generally cylindrical sealing member 514 in the circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the intersection of the middle surface 5149 and the distal surface 5148 can define a second acute angle that is less than the first acute angle.

[0094] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the intermediate surface 5153 can be generally flat in the axial direction and extend circumferentially around the generally cylindrical sealing member 514. In some embodiments, the proximal surface 5154 can be generally adjacent to the intermediate surface 5153 in the proximal direction and can extend circumferentially around the generally cylindrical sealing member 514. In some embodiments, the intersection of the intermediate surface 5153 and the proximal portion 5154 can define a first reflex angle. In some embodiments, the distal surface 5152 can be generally adjacent to the intermediate surface 5153 in the distal direction and can extend circumferentially around the generally cylindrical sealing member 514. In some embodiments, the intersection of the intermediate surface 5153 and the distal surface 5152 can define a second reflex angle that is less than the first reflex angle.

[0095] Specifically, if Figure 8 As shown, the first engagement element 5147 is shown as having a first radial axis E that is associated with the axial length of the attachment of the first engagement element 5147 and the surface of the body 5155 of the sealing member 514 (e.g., disposed at the center of the intersection of the sealing member 5147 and the body 5155 of the sealing member 514). In other words, the engagement element can be described as a protrusion that extends from the body 5155 of the sealing member 514 while forming a portion of the outer sealing surface of the engagement element. Similarly, as Figure 8 As shown, the first engagement element 5147 is shown as having a second radial axis F associated with the radial center of mass of the first engagement element 5147. As shown, the second radial axis F is positioned proximal to the first radial axis E due, at least in part, to the specific size and configuration of the first engagement element 5147. In other words, because the entire attached length of the first engagement element 5147 is distal to the entire front surface 5150 of the first engagement element 5147, the center of mass of the first engagement element 5147 (shown as radial axis F) is lower than the center of the attached length (shown as radial axis E). In this configuration, inserting the sealing member 514 into the receiving tube causes the engagement element to lie flat, while attempting to remove the sealing member 514 creates compression on the engagement element by rolling the engagement element relative to the length of the engagement element, which increases the compression of the engagement element, thereby increasing the retention between the housing and the sealing member 514. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, this can be facilitated by the asymmetric friction forces applied by the sealing member 514 or its components (e.g., engagement elements 5147, 5151) against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube because the normal force between the housing and the sealing member increases as the engagement element compresses.

[0096] In some embodiments, the second engagement element 5151 may function in the same or similar manner as the first engagement element 5147. However, while Figure 8The second engagement element 5151 is shown as being similar in size to the first engagement element 5147, although positioned adjacent to the first engagement element 5147. However, the second engagement element 5151 may alternatively be sized and configured in any other suitable manner, in any combination thereof. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the sealing member 514 may not include the second engagement element 5151, and / or the first engagement element 5147 may be sized, configured, shaped, positioned, and / or responsive to applied frictional forces in any other suitable manner.

[0097] Specifically, if Figure 8 As shown, the second engagement element 5151 is shown as having an axial length of attachment to the surface of the body 5155 similar to that of the first engagement element 5147, which is not necessarily true for other embodiments. Likewise, with respect to the size and shape of the second engagement element 5151, the radial center of mass of the second engagement element 5151 appears similar to the radial center of mass of the first engagement element 5147, which is not necessarily true for other embodiments. At least in the embodiment shown, Figure 8 The second engagement element 5151 has a distal surface 5152, an intermediate surface 5153, and a proximal surface 5154 that are sufficiently similar in size and orientation to the distal surface 5148, the intermediate surface 5149, and the proximal surface 5150 of the first engagement element 5147 that the second engagement element 5151 exhibits the same or similar benefits in terms of asymmetric friction. In other words, the engagement element can be described as a protrusion that extends from the main body 5155 of the sealing member 514 and forms a portion of the outer sealing surface of the engagement element. Similarly, as shown in the figure, since the entire attachment length of the second engagement element 5151 is distal to the entire front surface 5154 of the second engagement element 5151, the center of mass of the second engagement element 5151 will be lower than the center of the attachment length of the second engagement element 5151 to the main body 5155 of the sealing member 514. In this configuration, inserting the sealing member 514 into the receiving tube causes the engaging element to lie flat, and attempting to remove the sealing member 514 may cause compression on the engaging element and may increase the force (friction, compression, etc.) applied against the inner cylindrical wall of the receiving tube. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, this may contribute to the asymmetric friction force applied by the sealing member 514 or its parts against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube. Therefore, as shown in the figure, the first engaging element 5147 and / or the second engaging element 5151 can frictionally and / or compressively engage the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube, and the diversity of the engaging elements used therefore provides a certain degree of redundancy and can also reduce the possibility that during the normal operation of the pressure reading assembly, the hydraulic pressure will apply enough force on the medium and / or the sensor assembly so that the sealing member 714 will be partially or completely extracted from the receiving tube of the housing.

[0098] In some embodiments, at least due to the length, shape, attachment location, and orientation of the first engagement element 5147 and / or the second engagement element 5151, the contact surfaces 5149, 5153 can exert a higher compressive force on the inner surface of the receiving tube than other portions (e.g., the distal surfaces 5148, 5152 of the engagement elements 5147, 5151). Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, in some embodiments, during removal or attempted removal of the sealing member 514 from the receiving tube, the engagement elements 5147, 5151 can “roll” or “crimp” or otherwise deform toward the distal end 5140 of the sealing member 514 such that the engagement elements 5147, 5151 deform to elongate in a radially outward direction, exerting increased compressive forces on the inner surface of the receiving tube and increasing the force required to overcome these compressive forces to successfully remove the sealing member 514 from the receiving tube. For example, in some embodiments, the engagement elements 5147, 5151 can be structured and configured such that movement in a direction extending from the distal end toward the proximal end (e.g., a removal direction) causes greater compression of the engagement elements than movement in a direction extending from the proximal end toward the distal end (e.g., an insertion direction). For example, the engagement elements 5147, 5151 can be at least partially angled in a proximal direction.

[0099] In some embodiments, the frictional force between the sealing member 514 or components thereof and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube can be greater during application of a force to the sealing member 514 in a removal direction defined from the distal end toward the proximal end than during application of a force to the sealing member 514 in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end, at least in part due to the higher compression when attempting to remove the sealing member 514 from the receiving tube. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the particular shape or shape features of the sealing member 514 can also or alternatively contribute to the asymmetric frictional forces exhibited by the sealing member 514. In other words, in some embodiments, the length of the sealing member 514 along the leading surface 5151 can be less than or equal to the length of attachment of the first engagement element 5147 to the body 5155 of the sealing member 514, which can result in different mechanical properties when the deformation frictional force is applied on the first engagement element 5147. Depending on the direction in which the deformation frictional force is applied and the possible range of flexing of the engagement element, the deformation frictional force can induce less or more deformation of the first engagement element 5147. In other words, in some embodiments, the first engagement element 5147 can experience a first deformation when the frictional force is applied in a direction from the distal portion 5140 to the proximal portion 5142, and can experience a second deformation that is less than the first deformation when the frictional force is applied in a direction from the proximal portion 5142 to the distal portion 5140.

[0100] In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 or portions thereof can be configured to deform to fill all available volume between and within the receiving collar. In some embodiments, because the sealing member 514 can deform to fill any available space upon receiving strain-induced stresses, such as frictional or compressive forces, the compressive force applied by the first and / or second engagement elements 5147, 5151 against the inner surface of the receiving tube can decrease upon such deformation, resulting in an undesirable mitigation of the sealing force required to remove the sealing member 514 from the receiving tube. However, in some embodiments, the sealing member 514 and the receiving tube and other components can be specifically sized and configured such that a proper fit is achieved between the sealing member 514 and the receiving tube, thereby minimizing deformation of the sealing member 514 and the compressive force of the engagement elements 5147, 5151 against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube can be maintained such that the sealing member 514 is retained within the receiving tube under normal operating pressures.

[0101] As such, the normal frictional force applied by the contact surface or edge of the first engagement element 5147 against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube in the direction in which less deformation is achieved or likely to occur at the same or similar frictional force can be less than the normal frictional force in the direction in which greater deformation is achieved or likely to occur at the same or similar frictional force. In other words, the first engagement element 5147 deforms under compression to facilitate or cause the differential force required to insert the sealing member 514 as compared to removing the sealing member from the receiving tube.

[0102] In some embodiments, the radial distance between the outer diameter of the body of the sealing member 514 and the inner diameter of the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube at the corresponding point can be greater than a predetermined threshold that is sufficient to retain the sealing member 514 within the receiving tube by allowing one or more of the engagement elements 5147, 5151 to fold and compress into the gap to propagate the seal and hold the sealing member 514 in place. In other words, in some embodiments, when the volume of the gap between the sealing member 514 and the receiving tube is less than the volume of the engagement elements 5147, 5151, for example, the sealing member 514 will tend to be removed from the receiving tube under normal operating pressures, whereas when the volume of the gap between the sealing member 514 and the receiving tube is greater than the volume of the engagement elements 5147, 5151, for example, the sealing member 514 will tend to be retained within the receiving tube under normal operating pressures, at least in part because one or more of the engagement elements 5147, 5151 can deform (e.g., fold, compress, etc.) into the volume of the gap and the normal compressive force of the sealing member 514 against the inner surface of the receiving tube will be maintained.

[0103] Reference is now made to Figure 9FIG. 6B shows a seal member 614 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the seal member 614 can be configured to be received by a receiving collar (e.g., the receiving collar 106) of a sensor assembly (e.g., the sensor assembly 105). In some embodiments, the seal member 614 can be configured to be received by a receiving collar (e.g., the receiving collar 106) of a sensor assembly (e.g., the sensor assembly 105) in a manner that allows the seal member 614 to be removed from the receiving collar (e.g., the receiving collar 106) of the sensor assembly (e.g., the sensor assembly 105). In some embodiments, the seal member 614 can be configured to be received by a receiving collar (e.g., the receiving collar 106) of a sensor assembly (e.g., the sensor assembly 105) in a manner that allows the seal member 614 to be removed from the receiving collar (e.g., the receiving collar 106) of the sensor assembly (e.g., the sensor assembly 105) without damaging the receiving collar (e.g., the receiving collar 106) of the sensor assembly (e.g., the sensor assembly 105). In some embodiments, the seal member 614 can be configured to be received by a receiving collar (e.g., the receiving collar 106) of a sensor assembly (e.g., the sensor assembly 105) in a manner that allows the seal member 614 to be removed from the receiving collar (e.g., the receiving collar 106) of the sensor assembly (e.g., the sensor assembly 105) without damaging the sensor assembly (e.g., the sensor assembly 105).

[0104] In some embodiments, the seal member 614 can include a distal portion 6140, an intermediate portion 6141, and a proximal portion 6142. In some embodiments, the seal member 614 can define a hole at the distal portion 6140 and a hole at the proximal portion 6142. In some embodiments, the distal portion 6140, the intermediate portion 6141, and / or the proximal portion 6142 can be axially aligned along the seal member 614. In some embodiments, the distal portion 6140, the intermediate portion 6141, and / or the proximal portion 6142 can at least partially define an axial hole (not shown) that is axially aligned along the seal member 614. In some embodiments, the seal member 614 can include a flange 6143 defined at an edge of the hole in the distal portion 6140 of the seal member 614.

[0105] In some embodiments, the engagement member can be engaged with the substrate such that the engagement member 614 is disposed about the sensor (e.g., sensor 112). The axial bore can be at least partially defined by an inner cylindrical surface (not shown). In some embodiments, the engagement member can be configured and dimensioned to be disposed about the sensor and coupled to the substrate and to hold the one or more media in place about the sensor. In some embodiments, the engagement member can include a sealing member 614 disposed about at least a portion of the receiving collar that is coupled to the substrate. In other words, while the receiving collar is generally coupled to the substrate, the sealing member 614 can be disposed about only a distal portion of the receiving collar or a middle portion of the receiving collar, and in this way, the sealing member 614 can be disposed about a portion of the receiving collar without abutting or coupling to the substrate. In some embodiments, the receiving collar can define a first axial bore having a volume approximately equal to an inner diameter and length through the aperture of the receiving collar. In some embodiments, the sealing member 614 can define a second axial bore having a volume approximately equal to an inner diameter and length through the aperture of the sealing member 614. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the sealing member 614 can be substantially similar to or equal to the outer diameter of the receiving collar. In some embodiments, the sealing member 614 can have a contact surface at a proximal end of the sealing member 614. In some embodiments, the contact surface can be configured to engage or couple to the substrate. In some embodiments, for example, when the sealing member 614 is disposed completely or substantially about the receiving collar, the contact surface can not engage or couple to the substrate at any point or location.

[0106] In some embodiments, the sealing member 614 can include an outer sealing surface and one or more surface features or other such engagement elements disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 614. In some embodiments, the sealing member 614 can include an engagement element 6147 disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 614. In some embodiments, the engagement element 6147 can include a beveled surface 6148 positioned as a distal leading edge of the engagement element 6147. In some embodiments, the engagement element 6147 can include a middle surface 6149 that can partially, primarily, or solely function as a contact surface when the sealing member 614 is disposed within the receiving tube. In some embodiments, the engagement element 6147 can also include a proximal surface 6151.

[0107] In some embodiments, the engagement element 6147 can be sized and configured to extend circumferentially around a diameter of the sealing member 614. In some embodiments, the engagement element 6147 can be configured to engage an inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube to resist removal of the sensor during operation. In some embodiments, the engagement element 6147 can be sized and configured to generate an asymmetric frictional force against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube such that a frictional force between the engagement member 614 and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube is greater during application of a force to the engagement member 614 in a removal direction defined from the distal end 6140 toward the proximal end 6142 than during application of a force to the engagement member 614 in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end 6142 toward the distal end 6140.

[0108] In some embodiments, for the engagement element 6147, the intermediate surface 6149 can be generally planar in the axial direction and extend in the circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 614. In some embodiments, the proximal surface 6150 can be generally adjacent the intermediate surface 6149 in the proximal direction and can extend in the circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 614. In some embodiments, an intersection of the intermediate surface 6149 and the proximal portion 6150 can define a first acute angle. In some embodiments, the distal surface 6148 can be generally adjacent the intermediate surface 6149 in the distal direction and can extend in the circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 614. In some embodiments, an intersection of the intermediate surface 6149 and the distal surface 6148 can define a second acute angle that is less than the first acute angle.

[0109] In some embodiments, a seal can be formed between the engagement member 614 and / or the engagement element 6147 (one side) and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube (the other side) at least in part due to a radial compression fit therebetween. In other words, in some embodiments, the sensor assembly can be retained in the receiving tube based at least in part on a volume match between the engagement member 614 and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube. In some embodiments, a volume of a gap within which the engagement member 614 disposed between the receiving collar and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube can be greater than a displacement volume of the engagement member 614, which can prevent or partially prevent backout of the sensor assembly from the receiving collar. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly can back out of the receiving tube when a volume of the engagement member 614 that engages the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving collar is greater than a volume of a displacement of the engagement member 614.

[0110] As Figure 9As shown, the sealing member 6147 has a first radial axis G associated with an axial length of attachment of the sealing member 6147 and the surface 5155 of the sealing member 614. Also, the sealing member 6147 is shown as having a second radial axis H associated with a radial center of mass of the sealing member 6147. As shown, the second radial axis H is positioned proximally of the first radial axis G at least in part due to the particular dimensions and configuration of the sealing member 6147. In other words, because the entire length of attachment of the sealing member 6147 is distal of the entire front surface 6151 of the sealing member 6147, the center of mass of the sealing member 6147 (shown as radial axis H) is lower than the center of the length of attachment (shown as radial axis G). Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, this can contribute to the asymmetric frictional forces exerted by the sealing member 614 or components thereof against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube.

[0111] In some embodiments, the frictional force between the sealing member 614 and / or the sealing member 6147 and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube can be greater during application of a force to the sealing member 614 in a removal direction defined from the distal end toward the proximal end than during application of a force to the sealing member 614 in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the particular shape or shape features of the sealing member 6147 can also or alternatively contribute to the asymmetric frictional forces exhibited by the sealing member 614 and / or the sealing member 6147. In other words, in some embodiments, when the sealing member 6147 includes a tapered surface 6148 that is sufficiently long relative to the non-tapered front surface 6151, the sealing member 6147 can exhibit different mechanical properties depending on the direction of the deformational frictional force exerted on the sealing member 6147. Depending on the direction of the deformational frictional force exerted, the deformational frictional force can cause less or more deformation of the sealing member 6147. In other words, in some embodiments, the sealing member 6147 can experience a first deformation when a frictional force is exerted in a direction from the distal portion 6140 to the proximal portion 6142, and can experience a second deformation that is less than the first deformation when a frictional force is exerted in a direction from the proximal portion 6142 to the distal portion 6140.

[0112] As such, the normal frictional force exerted by the contact surface or edge of the sealing member 6147 against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube can be less in the direction in which less deformation is achieved or likely to occur under the same or similar frictional force than in the direction in which more deformation is achieved or likely to occur under the same or similar frictional force. In other words, the sealing member 6147 can deform under compression to contribute to or cause the differential force required to insert the sealing member 614 compared to removing the sealing member from the receiving tube.

[0113] In some embodiments, the radial distance between the outer diameter of the body of the sealing member 614 and the inner diameter at the corresponding point of the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube and the gap volume can be greater than a predetermined threshold that is sufficient to retain the sealing member 614 within the receiving tube by allowing the engagement elements 6147 to fold and compress into the gap to propagate the seal and hold the sealing member 614 in place. In other words, in some embodiments, when the volume of the gap between the sealing member 614 and the receiving tube is less than the volume of the engagement elements 6147, e.g., the sealing member 614 will tend to be removed from the receiving tube under normal operating pressures, whereas when the volume of the gap between the sealing member 614 and the receiving tube is greater than the volume of the engagement elements 6147, e.g., the sealing member 614 will tend to remain within the receiving tube under normal operating pressures, at least in part because the engagement elements 6147 can deform (e.g., fold, compress, etc.) into the volume of the gap and the normal compression force of the sealing member 614 against the inner surface of the receiving tube will be maintained.

[0114] Referring now to Figure 10 , a sealing member 714 for use with a sensor assembly (e.g., sensor assembly 105) in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can be engaged with (e.g., via a receiving collar) a substrate (e.g., substrate 110) of a sensor assembly. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can be specifically configured and sized to be disposed around, partially around, or around a portion of a receiving collar, such as the receiving collars discussed herein. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can be specifically configured and sized such that when the sealing member 714 is disposed around, partially around, or around a portion of a receiving collar, the difference in diameter at the interface between the sealing member 714 and the receiving collar is small enough for the sealing member 714 to remain on the receiving collar during use of the sensor assembly.

[0115] In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can include a distal portion 7140, an intermediate portion 5141, and a proximal portion 7142. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can define a bore at the distal portion 7140 and a bore at the proximal portion 7142. In some embodiments, the distal portion 7140, the intermediate portion 7141, and / or the proximal portion 7142 can be axially aligned along the sealing member 714. In some embodiments, the distal portion 7140, the intermediate portion 7141, and / or the proximal portion 7142 can at least partially define an axial bore (not shown) that is axially aligned along the sealing member 714. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can include a flange 7143 defined at an edge of the bore in the distal portion 7140 of the sealing member 714. In some embodiments, the proximal portion 7142 can be configured to abut, couple to, fasten to, adhere to, or be integrally formed with a portion of the substrate.

[0116] In some embodiments, the engagement member can engage with the substrate such that the engagement member 714 is disposed about the sensor (e.g., the sensor 112). The axial bore can be at least partially defined by an inner cylindrical surface (not shown). In some embodiments, the engagement member can be configured and dimensioned to be disposed about the sensor and to couple to the substrate and to hold the one or more media in place about the sensor. In some embodiments, the engagement member can include the sealing member 714 disposed about at least a portion of the receiving collar that is coupled to the substrate. In other words, while the receiving collar is generally coupled to the substrate, the sealing member 714 can be disposed only about a distal portion of the receiving collar or about an intermediate portion of the receiving collar, and in this way, the sealing member 714 can be disposed about a portion of the receiving collar without abutting or coupling to the substrate. In some embodiments, the receiving collar can define a first axial bore having a volume approximately equal to an inner diameter and a length through an orifice of the receiving collar. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can define a second axial bore having a volume approximately equal to an inner diameter and a length through an orifice of the sealing member 714. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the sealing member 714 can be substantially similar to or equal to an outer diameter of the receiving collar. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can have a contact surface at a proximal end of the sealing member 714. In some embodiments, the contact surface can be configured to engage with or couple to the substrate. In some embodiments, for example, when the sealing member 714 is disposed completely or substantially about the receiving collar, the contact surface can not engage with or couple to the substrate 110 at any point or location.

[0117] In some embodiments, the engagement member can be or include a generally cylindrical sealing member 714 configured to engage a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can include an outer sealing surface having one or more surface features or other such engagement elements disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 714. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can include a first engagement element 7147 disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 714. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 7147 can include a ramped surface 7148 positioned as a distal leading edge of the first engagement element 7147. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can further include a second engagement element 7151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 7151 can be disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 714 proximate the first engagement element 7147. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 7151 can include a ramped surface 7150 positioned as a distal leading edge of the second engagement element 7151. In some embodiments, the sealing member 514 can include additional engagement members or other such elements configured to fastenably engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 7147 can further include a proximal surface 7151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 7151 can further include a proximal surface 7154.

[0118] In some embodiments, the first engagement element 7147 and / or the second engagement element 7151 can be sized and configured to extend circumferentially around a diameter of the sealing member 714. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 7147 and the second engagement element 7151 can be configured to engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube to resist removal of the sensor during operation. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 7147 and the second engagement element 7151 can be sized and configured to generate an asymmetric frictional force against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube such that the frictional force between the engagement member 714 and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube is greater during application of a force to the engagement member 714 in a removal direction defined from the distal end 7140 toward the proximal end 7142 than during application of a force to the engagement member 714 in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end 7142 toward the distal end 7140.

[0119] In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can be generally cylindrical and can be configured to fastenably engage a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can include one or more surface features, such as a first engagement element 7147 and a second engagement element 7151 disposed on or integrally formed with an outer surface of the sealing member 714, e.g., the middle portion 7141. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can include the first engagement element 7147 disposed on or integrally formed with an outer surface of the sealing member 714, in any case a portion of the outer surface. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 7147 can include a beveled surface 7148 positioned as a distal leading edge of the first engagement element 7147. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 7147 can include a middle surface 7149 that can partially, primarily, or solely function as a contact surface when the sealing member 714 is disposed within a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can also include the second engagement element 7151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 7151 can be disposed on or integrally formed with an outer surface of the sealing member 714 proximate the first engagement element 7147. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 7151 can include a beveled surface 7152 positioned as a distal leading edge of the second engagement member 7151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 7151 can include a middle surface 7153 that can partially, primarily, or solely function as a contact surface when the sealing member 714 is disposed within a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can include additional engagement elements or other such elements configured to fastenably engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 7147 can also include a proximal surface 7151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 7151 can also include a proximal surface 7152.

[0120] In some embodiments, for the first engagement element 7147, the middle surface 7149 can be generally flat in the axial direction and extend around the generally cylindrical sealing member 714 in the circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the proximal surface 7150 can be generally adjacent the middle surface 7149 in the proximal direction and can extend around the generally cylindrical sealing member 714 in the circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the intersection of the middle surface 7149 and the proximal portion 7150 can define a first acute angle. In some embodiments, the distal surface 7148 can be generally adjacent the middle surface 7149 in the distal direction and can extend around the generally cylindrical sealing member 714 in the circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the intersection of the middle surface 7149 and the distal surface 7148 can define a second acute angle that is less than the first acute angle.

[0121] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the intermediate surface 7153 can be generally flat in the axial direction and extend in a circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 714. In some embodiments, the proximal surface 7154 can be generally adjacent to the intermediate surface 7153 in the proximal direction and can extend in a circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 714. In some embodiments, the intersection of the intermediate surface 7153 and the proximal portion 7154 can define a first reflex angle. In some embodiments, the distal surface 7152 can be generally adjacent to the intermediate surface 7153 in the distal direction and can extend in a circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 714. In some embodiments, the intersection of the intermediate surface 7153 and the distal surface 7152 can define a second reflex angle that is less than the first reflex angle.

[0122] like Figure 10 As shown, the first engagement element 7147 has a first radial axis I that is associated with the axial length of the attachment of the first engagement element 7147 and the body 7155 of the sealing member 714. In some embodiments, the sealing member 714 can include a distal portion 7140, a middle portion 7141, and a proximal portion 7142 aligned along the axial direction. Similarly, the first engagement element 7147 is shown as having a second radial axis J associated with the radial center of mass of the first engagement element 7147. As shown, the second radial axis J is positioned proximal to the first radial axis I due, at least in part, to the specific size and configuration of the first engagement element 7147. In other words, in some embodiments, the center of mass of the first engagement element 7147 (shown as radial axis J) is lower than the center of the attachment length (shown as radial axis I). Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, this may contribute to the asymmetric frictional force applied by the sealing member 714 or its components against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube.

[0123] In some embodiments, the frictional force between the sealing member 714 and / or the first engagement element 7147 and the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube can be greater during application of a force to the sealing member 714 in a removal direction defined from the distal end toward the proximal end than during application of a force to the sealing member 714 in an insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the particular shape or shape features of the first engagement element 7147 can also or alternatively contribute to the asymmetric frictional forces exhibited by the sealing member 714 and / or the first engagement element 7147. In other words, in some embodiments, when the first engagement element 7147 includes a tapered surface 7148 that is sufficiently long relative to the non-tapered front surface 7151, the first engagement element 7147 can exhibit different mechanical properties depending on the direction of the deforming frictional force applied to the first engagement element 7147. Depending on the direction of the deforming frictional force applied, the deforming frictional force can cause more or less deformation of the first engagement element 7147. In other words, in some embodiments, the first engagement element 7147 can experience a first deformation when a frictional force is applied in a direction from the distal portion 7140 to the proximal portion 7142, and can experience a second deformation that is less than the first deformation when a frictional force is applied in a direction from the proximal portion 7142 to the distal portion 7140.

[0124] As such, the normal frictional force applied by the contact surface or edge of the first engagement element 7147 against the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube can be less in the direction in which less deformation is achieved or likely to occur at the same or similar frictional force than in the direction in which more deformation is achieved or likely to occur at the same or similar frictional force. In other words, the first engagement element 7147 can deform to facilitate or cause the differential force required to insert the sealing member 714 as compared to removing the sealing member from the receiving tube.

[0125] In some embodiments, the second engagement element 7151 can work in the same or similar manner as the first engagement element 7147. However, while Figure 10 While the second engagement element 7151 is shown to be similar in size to the first engagement element 7147, the second engagement element 7151 can instead be sized and configured in any other suitable manner, despite being positioned proximate to the first engagement element 7147. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the sealing member 714 can not include the second engagement element 7151, and / or the first engagement element 7147 can be sized, configured, shaped, positioned, and / or react to applied frictional forces in any other suitable manner.

[0126] In some embodiments, the radial distance and gap volume between the outer diameter of the body of the sealing member 714 and the inner diameter at corresponding points on the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube can be greater than a predetermined threshold value sufficient to retain the sealing member 714 within the receiving tube by allowing the joining elements 7147, 7151 to fold and compress into the gap to propagate the seal and hold the sealing member 714 in place. In other words, in some embodiments, when the volume of the gap between the sealing member 714 and the receiving tube is less than the volume of the joining elements 7147, 7151, for example, the sealing member 714 will tend to be removed from the receiving tube under normal operating pressure, but when the volume of the gap between the sealing member 714 and the receiving tube is greater than the volume of the joining elements 7147, 7151, for example, the sealing member 714 will tend to remain within the receiving tube under normal operating pressure, which is at least in part because one or more of the joining elements 7147, 7151 can be deformed (e.g., folded, compressed, etc.) into the volume of the gap and the normal compressive force of the sealing member 714 against the inner surface of the receiving tube will be maintained.

[0127] Go to Figure 11 , shows a cross-sectional view of a sensing device 805 for a pressure reading assembly (e.g., 100) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, a sealing member 814 is shown disposed around a portion of a receiving collar 816, each of which is disposed around a sensor 812 on a substrate 810. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 816 may be similar to the one described above with respect to the pressure reading assembly 100. Figure 1 The receiving collar 116 described above is similar or substantially the same. Figure 11 As shown, the receiving collar 816 can have or include or define more than one layer of material and / or more than one component. For example, the receiving collar 816 can include a generally cylindrical portion 816A that defines an axial bore 822 defined therein, etc., and the generally cylindrical portion 816A can be disposed on, in, partially coupled to, or secured to a base portion 816B, as shown. Figure 11 In some embodiments, the base portion 816B can be used to stabilize or increase the rigidity of one or more of the generally cylindrical portion 816A of the receiving collar 816 and the sealing member 814 .

[0128] In some embodiments, the sensing device 805 may also include electronics 811 (such as a circuit board or processing circuitry) configured to transmit / receive power, signals, information, etc. to and from the sensor 812 in order to power the sensor 812 and / or retrieve and process sensor signal data related to pressure / force indirectly applied by a sensing fluid on the sensor 812. The medium 818 is shown as disposed within an axial bore 822 that is at least partially defined by the inner volume of one or both of the receiving collar 816 and the sealing member 814.

[0129] In some embodiments, the sealing member 814 can include one or more surface features, such as a first engagement element 8147 and a second engagement element 8151 disposed on or integrally formed with an outer surface of the sealing member 814 (e.g., the intermediate portion 8141). In some embodiments, the first engagement element 8147 can be disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 814, in any case as part of the outer surface. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 8147 can include a beveled surface 8148 positioned as a distal leading edge of the first engagement element 8147. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 8147 can include an intermediate surface 8149 that can partially, primarily, or solely function as a contact surface when the sealing member 214 is disposed within a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 814 can further include a second engagement element 8151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 8151 can be disposed on or integrally formed with the outer surface of the sealing member 814 proximate the first engagement element 8147. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 8151 can include a beveled surface 8152 positioned as a distal leading edge of the second engagement member 8151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 8151 can include an intermediate surface 8153 that can partially, primarily, or solely function as a contact surface when the sealing member 814 is disposed within a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the sealing member 814 can include additional engagement elements or other such elements configured to fastenably engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the first engagement element 8147 can further include a proximal surface 8151. In some embodiments, the second engagement element 8151 can further include a proximal surface 8152.

[0130] In some embodiments, for the first engagement element 8147, the intermediate surface 8149 can be generally planar in the axial direction and extend around the generally cylindrical sealing member 814 in the circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the proximal surface 8150 can be generally adjacent the intermediate surface 8149 in the proximal direction and can extend around the generally cylindrical sealing member 814 in the circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the intersection of the intermediate surface 8149 and the proximal portion 8150 can define a first acute angle. In some embodiments, the distal surface 8148 can be generally adjacent the intermediate surface 8149 in the distal direction and can extend around the generally cylindrical sealing member 814 in the circumferential direction. In some embodiments, the intersection of the intermediate surface 8149 and the distal surface 8148 can define a second acute angle that is less than the first acute angle.

[0131] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the intermediate surface 8153 can be generally planar in the axial direction and extend in the circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 814. In some embodiments, the proximal surface 8154 can be generally adjacent the intermediate surface 8153 in the proximal direction and can extend in the circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 814. In some embodiments, the intersection of the intermediate surface 8153 and the proximal portion 8154 can define a first acute angle. In some embodiments, the distal surface 8152 can be generally adjacent the intermediate surface 8153 in the distal direction and can extend in the circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member 814. In some embodiments, the intersection of the intermediate surface 8153 and the distal surface 8152 can define a second acute angle that is less than the first acute angle.

[0132] The sealing member 814 is shown as having a flange 8143 at the distal end 8140 of the sealing member 814, which is operable to reduce bubble formation in the sensed fluid during operation of the pressure reading assembly. In some embodiments, the receiving collar 816 can extend to the underside of the flange 8143 to provide some degree of rigidity to the sealing member 814. Any of the engagement elements discussed herein (e.g., any of the engagement elements 2147, 2151, 3147, 3151, 4147, 4151, 5147, 5151, 6147, 7147, or 7151) and other sensing components can be interchanged with the components depicted. Figure 11 The components depicted are interchangeable.

[0133] In some embodiments, any of the components described herein (including but not limited to the sealing member, the substrate, the engagement element, the receiving collar, the receiving tube, the housing, or other components) can be formed from any suitable material without limitation. By way of example only, the sealing member and / or its engagement element can include rubber or silicone-containing materials or any other suitably compliant and / or deformable material. In some embodiments, the sealing member and / or its engagement element can include silicone for biocompatibility. In some embodiments, the material(s) forming the sealing member and / or its engagement element can be carefully selected such that the sealing member and / or its engagement element can compress or deform to create high stress for sealing the sealing member and / or its engagement element against the inner surface of the receiving tube. In some embodiments, the receiving collar can include any plastic material (such as polyphenylene sulfide, polypropylene, liquid crystal polymer, polyolefin, polyether, polypropylene, etc.), or any suitable metallic material (such as 304 stainless steel). In some embodiments, the receiving collar material can be selected and the receiving collar can be formed such that the receiving collar has sufficient rigidity to force compression of the sealing member and / or its sealing element, and / or to cause compression or deformation of the sealing member and / or its engagement element to create high stress for sealing the sealing member and / or its engagement element against the inner surface of the receiving tube. In some embodiments, the substrate can be formed from a ceramic material, a glass-reinforced epoxy laminate material (such as FR-4), an OCB printed circuit board material, etc. In some embodiments, the substrate or its materials or components can be dimensioned and configured to have an electrical path through which to conduct electricity, while the substrate should also be sufficiently rigid and durable to support the sensor, the receiving collar, and the sealing member during manufacturing and assembly, and under normal operating pressures and conditions.

[0134] Referring now to Figure 12 , a method 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least at 11, providing a sensing device including a sensor disposed on a substrate and a sealing member connected to the substrate about the sensor, the sealing member including a generally cylindrical sealing member configured to engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube. In some embodiments, the method 10 can further include at 12, communicating a volume of a medium into an axial bore defined by the generally cylindrical sealing member. In some embodiments, the method 10 can further include at 13, slidably disposing at least a portion of the sealing member into the receiving tube of a housing such that the medium is placed in fluid contact with a flow of bodily fluid communicated through a radial passage defined within the housing.

[0135] In some example embodiments, certain operations herein can be modified or further amplified as follows. Additionally, in some embodiments, additional optional operations can also be included. It should be understood that each of the modifications, optional additions or amplifications described herein can be included in the operations herein, either alone or in combination with any others among the features described herein.

[0136] At least some of the embodiments described herein provide improvements or advantages over less preferred methods of forming an adhesive joint between a sensor assembly and a housing. Some, but not all, of the advantages are described herein. An adhesive-based method for joining a sensor assembly and a catheter housing so that the sensor can sense the pressure of a fluid such as a bodily fluid in the catheter includes dispensing adhesive on one or more components of the assembly or housing, joining the sensor assembly with the catheter housing by inserting the sensor assembly into a receiving tube, curing the adhesive (e.g., using ultraviolet radiation, etc.), and inspecting the adhesive joint to ensure that there is no excess adhesive in the catheter, on the sensing surface, or elsewhere (especially in medical applications). In contrast, in some embodiments described in this application, the process includes only one step of inserting the sensor assembly into a receiving tube of the catheter housing to non-adhesively join the sensor assembly with the housing. Since there are fewer steps, the cost and time intensity of assembly is reduced, and the reliability of the seal is improved since assembly does not depend on inserting adhesive into the device. Since no adhesive is used to join the joining member (e.g., radial seal) with the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube, the likelihood of the final component failing inspection and having to be scrapped is reduced. With respect to the cleanliness required in many medical applications, the fact that the pre-sterilized sensor assembly can be removed from a clean, sealed package and directly joined with the housing means that less time and handling is required and there is less opportunity for contamination.

[0137] The foregoing method descriptions and the process flow diagrams are provided merely as illustrative examples and are not intended to require or imply that the steps of the various embodiments must be performed in the order presented. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the order of steps in the foregoing embodiments can be performed in any order. Words such as "thereafter," "then," "next," etc. are used merely to guide the reader through the description of the methods. Additionally, any reference to claim elements in the singular, for example, using the articles "one," "a" or "the" is not supplied to mean "one and only one" unless specifically so stated in such claim element..

[0138] Many modifications and other embodiments of the applications set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these applications pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Although the drawings depict only certain aspects of the devices and systems described herein, it is to be understood that various other aspects can be utilized in conjunction with the supply management system. Therefore, it is to be understood that the applications are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, the steps in the above-described methods can not necessarily be in the same order as shown in the drawings, and in some cases one or more of the steps depicted can occur substantially concurrently, or additional steps can be involved. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A sensing device comprising: A sensor is provided on the substrate; and an engagement member connected to the substrate around the sensor, the engagement member including a generally cylindrical sealing member configured to engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube, wherein the generally cylindrical sealing member defines an axial bore extending from a proximal end to a distal end, wherein the generally cylindrical sealing member is configured to receive one or more media in the axial bore, such that the sensor is configured to detect a force applied to the one or more media at or near the distal end, wherein the generally cylindrical sealing member includes an outer sealing surface defining one or more engagement elements extending circumferentially about a diameter of the generally cylindrical sealing member, wherein the one or more engagement elements are configured to engage the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube to resist removal of the sensing device during operation, The coupling member further comprises a generally cylindrical receiving collar coupled to the substrate and positioned around the sensor, at least a portion of the generally cylindrical sealing member being configured to be disposed around at least a portion of the generally cylindrical receiving collar such that at least a portion of the generally cylindrical receiving collar is configured to be disposed within an axial bore of the generally cylindrical sealing member. 2 . The sensing device of claim 1 , wherein the one or more engagement elements protrude from at least a portion of the outer sealing surface of the generally cylindrical sealing member and define an asymmetric shape relative to an insertion direction.

3. The sensing device of claim 2, wherein at least one of the one or more engagement elements comprises: a middle portion that is flat in the axial direction and extends circumferentially around the generally cylindrical sealing member; a proximal portion proximally adjacent the intermediate portion and extending in the circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member, wherein an intersection of the intermediate portion and the proximal portion defines a first reflex angle; and A distal portion is distally adjacent the intermediate portion and extends in the circumferential direction around the generally cylindrical sealing member, wherein an intersection of the intermediate portion and the distal portion defines a second reflex angle that is less than the first reflex angle.

4. The sensing device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein one of the one or more engagement elements defines an inclined surface at the distal end of the generally cylindrical sealing member that is circumferentially defined around a distal opening of the axial bore.

5. A sensing device according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the outer sealing surface of the generally cylindrical sealing member is configured to form an adhesive-free interface with the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube, so that the engagement of the outer sealing surface with the inner cylindrical surface is configured to support forces applied to one or more media.

6. A sensing device according to claim 2, wherein the one or more engaging elements are configured to generate an asymmetric friction force against the inner cylindrical surface, so that the friction force between the generally cylindrical sealing member and the inner cylindrical surface is greater during the application of force to the generally cylindrical sealing member along the removal direction defined from the distal end toward the proximal end than during the application of force to the generally cylindrical sealing member along the insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end.

7. The sensing device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the one or more engagement elements comprise one or more protrusions extending radially outward and angled at least partially toward the proximal end.

8. A system comprising: The sensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7; as well as A housing comprising a conduit defining a radial passage configured to allow fluid to flow therethrough, the housing further comprising a receiving tube having a first opening, a second opening in a wall of the conduit, an axial receiving bore extending from the first opening to the second opening, and an inner cylindrical surface defining at least a portion of the axial receiving bore, wherein the receiving tube of the housing is configured to receive at least a portion of the sensing device.

9. A method comprising: Providing a sensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7; delivering a volume of one or more media into an axial bore defined by a generally cylindrical sealing member; as well as At least a portion of the engagement member is slidably disposed within the receiving tube of the housing such that the medium is configured to be in fluid contact with a bodily fluid conveyed through a radial passage defined within the housing.

10. A method according to claim 9, wherein the one or more engaging elements are configured to generate an asymmetric friction force against the inner cylindrical surface, so that the asymmetric friction force between the generally cylindrical sealing member and the inner cylindrical surface is greater during the application of force to the generally cylindrical sealing member along a removal direction defined from the distal end toward the proximal end than during the application of force to the generally cylindrical sealing member along an insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end.

11. A pressure reading assembly comprising: A housing that defines: a conduit configured to allow passage of a fluid, the conduit defining a conduit wall; as well as a receiving tube having a first opening, a second opening in the conduit wall, an axial receiving bore extending from the first opening to the second opening, and an inner cylindrical surface defining at least a portion of the axial receiving bore; as well as Sensing device, including a pressure sensor, wherein the pressure sensor is disposed on the substrate; as well as an engagement member connected to the substrate around the sensor, the engagement member including a generally cylindrical sealing member configured to engage an inner cylindrical surface of a receiving tube, wherein the generally cylindrical sealing member defines an axial bore extending from a proximal end to a distal end, wherein the generally cylindrical sealing member is configured to receive one or more media in the axial bore such that the sensor is configured to detect a force applied to the media at or near the distal end caused by the fluid in the conduit, wherein the generally cylindrical sealing member includes an outer sealing surface defining one or more engagement elements extending circumferentially about a diameter of the generally cylindrical sealing member, wherein the one or more engagement elements are configured to engage the inner cylindrical surface of the receiving tube to resist removal of the pressure reading assembly from the receiving tube during operation, A generally cylindrical receiving collar is coupled to the substrate and positioned around the sensor, and at least a portion of the generally cylindrical sealing member is configured to be disposed around at least a portion of the generally cylindrical receiving collar such that at least a portion of the generally cylindrical receiving collar is configured to be disposed within an axial bore of the generally cylindrical receiving collar.

12. An assembly according to claim 11, wherein the one or more engaging elements are configured to generate an asymmetric friction force against the inner cylindrical surface, so that the friction force between the generally cylindrical sealing member and the inner cylindrical surface is greater during the application of force to the generally cylindrical sealing member along a removal direction defined from the distal end toward the proximal end than during the application of force to the generally cylindrical sealing member along an insertion direction defined from the proximal end toward the distal end.

13. An assembly according to claim 12, wherein the generally cylindrical sealing member further includes a flange at the distal opening of the axial bore, the flange defining an orifice at the distal end of the generally cylindrical sealing member, the flange being configured to have a certain width in an inward radial direction such that a portion of the flange forms a partial covering for the axial bore of the generally cylindrical sealing member.

14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein the axial bore is oriented perpendicular to a flow direction of the conduit such that a fluid sealant is configured to be in fluid communication with the fluid via the bore.

15. The assembly of claim 14, wherein engaging a portion of the generally cylindrical engagement element with the receiving tube of the housing forms an adhesive-free interface therebetween such that engagement of the outer sealing surface with the inner cylindrical surface is configured to support forces applied to the media.

16. The assembly of claim 11, wherein at least one of the one or more engagement elements is positioned at or near a distal end of the generally cylindrical sealing member.

17. The assembly of claim 11, wherein: At least a portion of the generally cylindrical sealing member is slidably disposed about at least a portion of the generally cylindrical receiving collar, forming an adhesive-free interface therebetween.

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