Needleless connector with check valve having concave flow surface

Abstract

A needleless connector can include a housing having an inlet port, an outlet port, and an inner surface defining an internal cavity extending between the inlet port and the outlet port, and a compressible valve reciprocally disposed in the internal cavity. In a closed state, a top section of a head portion of the compressible valve can have a planar shape configured to contact and seal against the inner surface of the housing. In an open state of the compressible valve subject to an axial force, the top section of the head portion can be trapped between two pinch points between opposing walls of an inwardly sloped portion of the inner surface. Further, in the open state, the top section of the head portion can have a non-planar shape defining a fluid path extending at least partially between opposing walls on an outwardly sloped portion of the inner surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention disclosure generally relates to pinless connectors, and more particularly to pinless connectors having a valve member that defines a fluid path having a concave flow surface. Background Technology

[0002] Medical treatments typically involve infusing medical fluids (e.g., saline solutions or liquid medications) into a patient using an intravenous (IV) catheter connected to a fluid source, such as an IV bag, via an arrangement of flexible tubing and fittings (often referred to as an "IV kit"). Certain needleless connectors can be used in IV kits and may have self-sealing ports to prevent fluid leakage when a mated medical device is disconnected from such a needleless connector. Furthermore, needleless connectors may include mechanical valves, such as foldable valves incorporating flexible materials, to provide self-sealing ports and control fluid flow within the IV kit.

[0003] Due to the nature of the geometry of existing and / or prior art needleless valves, fluid often deposits on the face of the valve head when the medical device (e.g., a mating male Luer connector) used to apply axial force to place the valve member in the open position is removed. In these existing needleless valves, the fluid deposited on the valve head may occasionally escape from the valve member and flow into the fluid path used for drug administration to the patient, causing anxiety and potential blood flow disorders.

[0004] The descriptions provided in the Background section should not be considered prior art simply because they are mentioned in or associated with the Background section. The Background section may include information describing one or more aspects of the subject matter art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure provides a pinless connector including a housing and a compressible valve. The housing may have a proximal end defining an inlet port of the housing, a distal end including a base defining an outlet port of the housing, and an inner surface defining an internal cavity extending between the inlet and outlet ports. The compressible valve may be reciprocally disposed within the internal cavity of the housing and may be configured to contact at least a portion of the inner surface. The compressible valve may include a head portion and a compressible body portion extending distally from the head portion. In a closed state, a top section of the head portion of the compressible valve may have a planar shape configured to contact and seal against the inner surface of the housing, and wherein in an open state where the compressible valve is subjected to an axial force, the top section of the head portion may engage between two clamping points between opposing walls of an inwardly inclined portion of the inner surface, and the top section of the head portion may have a non-planar shape defining a fluid path extending at least partially between opposing walls on an outwardly inclined portion of the inner surface.

[0006] Some embodiments of this disclosure provide a pinless connector including a housing and a compressible valve. The housing may have a body including an inlet to the housing, a base including an outlet to the housing, and an internal cavity defined by an inner surface of the body. The compressible valve may be disposed within the internal cavity and may include a head portion and a compressible body portion. The head portion may include a top section and a top surface. The top section may have an outer periphery configured to contact and seal against the inner surface in a closed state, and to clamp between opposing walls of the inner surface within the inlet when the head portion is subjected to an axial force. The top surface may form an upper boundary of the top section, defining a fluid path extending between the clamping points when the head portion is subjected to an axial force. The compressible body portion may extend distally from the head portion.

[0007] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory, and are intended to provide further explanation of the claimed subject matter. It should also be understood that other aspects may be utilized and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this subject matter. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The accompanying drawings are included to illustrate certain aspects of the embodiments and should not be considered as exclusive embodiments. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure, the disclosed subject matter is capable of considerable modifications, alterations, combinations, and equivalents in form and function.

[0009] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the housing of a pinless connector according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 2A According to some embodiments of this disclosure Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the housing of a pinless connector.

[0011] Figure 2B The following is shown: rotated 90 degrees according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the shell.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a perspective view illustrating an example of a compressible valve for a pinless connector according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 4A According to some embodiments of this disclosure Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a compressible valve.

[0014] Figure 4B The following is shown: rotated 90 degrees according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of a compressible valve.

[0015] Figure 5A This is a partially sectional perspective view of a housing of a pinless connector according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing having a compressible valve mounted therein in a closed position.

[0016] Figure 5B According to some embodiments of this disclosure Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of the assembled pinless connector housing and compressible valve.

[0017] Figure 5C It is a 90-degree rotation according to some embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 5B A cross-sectional view of the assembled pinless connector housing and compressible valve.

[0018] Figure 6A This is a partially cut-away perspective view of a housing of a pinless connector according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing having a compressible valve mounted therein, wherein an axial force is applied to place the valve in an open position.

[0019] Figure 6B According to some embodiments of this disclosure Figure 6A A cross-sectional view of the assembled pinless connector housing and compressible valve.

[0020] Figure 6C According to some embodiments of this disclosure Figure 6B A magnified partial view of the top surface of the compressible valve.

[0021] Figure 6D It is a 90-degree rotation according to some embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 6B A cross-sectional view of the assembled pinless connector housing and compressible valve.

[0022] Figure 6E According to some embodiments of this disclosure Figure 6D A magnified partial view of the top surface of the compressible valve. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The detailed description below illustrates various configurations of the subject matter and is not intended to represent the only configuration in which the subject matter can be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details intended to provide a thorough understanding of the subject matter. Therefore, dimensions regarding certain aspects may be provided as non-limiting examples. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In some cases, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject matter.

[0024] It should be understood that this disclosure includes examples of the subject matter and does not limit the scope of the appended claims. Various aspects of the subject matter will now be disclosed based on specific, but not limiting, examples. The various embodiments described in this disclosure can be implemented in different ways and variations and according to the desired application or implementation.

[0025] Various embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to a self-sealing needleless connector comprising a flexible compressible valve disposed within a connector housing, wherein opening of a fluid path for administering a drug fluid to a patient is independent of tilting or folding of the valve head. More specifically, various embodiments of this disclosure relate to a needleless connector having a housing and a compressible valve configured such that, when subjected to an axial force, tilting of the head portion of the compressible valve (which forms a fluid flow path in conventional needleless connectors) is eliminated. Instead, in various embodiments of this disclosure, when subjected to an axial force, a concave flow surface defining at least a portion of the fluid flow path is formed on the top surface of the head portion. When the axial force is removed, the top surface of the head portion (valve head) returns to a substantially flat or planar configuration, thereby forming a “face seal” before the axial force is completely removed.

[0026] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, when subjected to axial force, the compressible valve is designed to allow two portions of the outer periphery of the top surface of the head portion (valve head) to be clamped or otherwise engaged between two points on opposing inwardly inclined inner walls of the housing. These two portions, and correspondingly the two points on the housing (referred to herein as "clamping points"), can be positioned approximately 180 degrees apart from each other. Therefore, the housing inner diameter is designed to clamp the compressible valve at the two "clamping points" and open a flow path oriented 90 degrees to each clamping point without tilting or otherwise compressing the valve head. In particular, the housing can be further configured to have a section of opposing outwardly inclined inner wall such that when the compressible valve is subjected to axial force and is in the open position, a gap can be opened between the top section of the valve head and the outwardly inclined inner wall. This gap completes the fluid flow path by allowing a concave flow surface to fluidly communicate with the interior of the housing.

[0027] To prevent the valve head from tilting or otherwise compressing, the valve member of the various embodiments described herein may advantageously include a core member disposed axially along at least a portion of the length of the compressible valve. The core member may be disposed in the valve head, extending along the central longitudinal axis of the pinless connector housing, and in some embodiments terminates at the compressible portion of the compressible valve. Thus, the core member can serve as a support post to prevent the valve head from tilting or otherwise deforming when an axial force is applied to it.

[0028] When the two portions of the head are clamped between two points on the opposing inwardly sloping inner walls of the housing, the top surface of the valve head changes from a generally flat surface to a concave recess or depression. The flow path can be defined by the concave recess or depression and the gap present between the top section of the valve head and the outwardly sloping inner walls. Therefore, the flow path is formed without tilting or compressing the head portion of the compressible valve (valve head).

[0029] When the medical device (e.g., a mating male Luer connector) is removed from the housing, the top surface of the valve head returns to a substantially flat or planar construction, thus forming a “face seal” before the medical device is completely removed. The flat or planar shape of the top surface of the valve head advantageously minimizes the amount of fluid that can deposit on the surface, thereby preventing anxiety and potential blood flow disorders typically associated with fluid deposits on the face (top surface) of the valve head.

[0030] While the following description pertains to the administration of medical fluids to a patient by a healthcare professional using the disclosed needleless connector, it should be understood that the description is merely an example of use and does not limit the scope of the claims.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a housing 100 of a pinless connector according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the housing 100 may have a proximal end 105 defining an inlet port 112 of the housing 100 and a base 160 including an outlet port 123 defining the housing 100 (e.g., Figure 5A and 5B The distal end 120 (shown). In some embodiments, the housing 100 may further include an inner surface 130 defining an internal cavity 133 extending at least partially between the proximal end 105 and the distal end 120. The housing 100 may be formed of a body portion 115 and a base portion 160. However, in some embodiments, the housing may be formed of a combination of other workpieces or parts of similar dimensions to accommodate the compressible valve 200 therein. In operation, for example, a fluid passage from the inlet port 112 to the outlet port 123 can be established through a pinless connector.

[0032] Figure 2A According to some embodiments of this disclosure Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the housing 100 of the pinless connector. Figure 2B The following is shown: rotated 90 degrees according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the housing. As shown, housing 100 may include a connector for use with medical devices (e.g., male Luer connector 300, such as...) Figures 6A-6E The inlet port 112, which is shown, engages with the base 160 of the housing 100 (as shown). Figure 5AThe opening 155 is connected to the housing 100. As shown, the body portion 115 of the housing 100 may include one or more fluid flow channels 145 and one or more internal support pillars 147. The lower section of the body portion 115 (e.g., the section near the opening 155) may have an increased diameter and include one or more internal contact protrusions 165. When assembled in a pinless connector, one or more internal contact protrusions 165 are connected to a compressible valve (e.g., Figure 3 The compressible valve 200 shown provides a radial force substantially orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis X on its flange portion, which is arranged on the valve mount of the base portion 160.

[0033] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, inlet port 112 may include a top port surface 114 and a channel defined in an internal cavity 133. Inlet port 112 may include engagement features 135 for coupling to another device (e.g., a fluid delivery assembly). For example, engagement feature 135 may include mating mechanical elements (such as internal or external surface threads, jaws, bayonet-type locking elements, etc.) and other surface constructions (such as tapered Luer connector surfaces for friction engagement). In some embodiments, inlet port 112 may define a female Luer connector with Luer locking threads 135.

[0034] The inner surface 130 and the internal cavity 133 defined therein can extend longitudinally from the opening of the top port surface 114 of the inlet port 112 into the body portion 115 of the housing 100. In some embodiments, such as Figure 2A As shown, the inner surface 130 may be formed by a first segment of inwardly inclined opposing wall 110. Specifically, the wall 110 may extend distally from the proximal end 105 of the housing 100 at an angle that is inwardly inclined toward the central longitudinal axis X of the housing 100. As described herein, proximal refers to the orientation toward the top port surface 114 of the housing 100, while distal refers to the orientation toward the base portion 160 or bottom of the housing 100 (opposite to the top port surface 114).

[0035] The opposing wall 110 can be used as an inwardly inclined portion of the inner surface 130. When subjected to an axial force F, the top section 215 of the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 can be engaged between these inwardly inclined portions, as will be referred to below. Figures 6A-6C As shown and further described.

[0036] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2BAs shown, the inner surface 130 can be further formed by a second outwardly inclined opposing wall 111. Specifically, the wall 111 can extend distally from the proximal end 105 of the housing 100 at an angle deflected outwards away from the central longitudinal axis X of the housing 100. The opposing wall 111 can serve as the outwardly inclined portion of the inner surface 130, thereby creating a gap between the top section 215 of the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 and the inner surface 130 when the compressible valve 200 is subjected to axial force and is in the open state, as described below regarding... Figure 6D and 6E As shown and will be described further. In this open state of the compressible valve, the gap serves as a flow path 150 through which fluid flows into the cavity 130 within the body portion 115 of the housing and out through the outlet 123, which will be described further below.

[0037] According to some embodiments, such as Figure 2B As shown, the opposing walls 111 on the outwardly inclined portion of the inner surface 130 can each be spaced approximately 90 degrees from the opposing walls 110 on the inwardly inclined portion of the inner surface 130, with clamping point P (as shown). Figures 6A-6C (As shown) is located on the opposing wall of the inwardly inclined portion. As described herein, the term "clamping point" refers to a location on the housing 100 where, when the compressible valve 200 is subjected to an axial force F that displaces the compressible valve 200 distally, the compressible valve 200 is engaged or otherwise "clamped" between the inwardly inclined walls 110 of the housing 100. Because the diameter of the internal cavity 130 decreases at the inwardly inclined walls 110, the gap between the compressible valve 200 and the opposing inwardly inclined walls 110 on which the clamping point P is located decreases, such that the top section 215 of the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 is engaged or otherwise "clamped" between the inclined opposing walls 110. The location on the inwardly inclined walls 110 (where the top section 215 of the head portion is "clamped") is referred to herein as the "clamping point". When the top section 215 is "clamped" between the opposing walls 110, continued application of axial force to the top surface 205 of the head portion causes the top surface 205 to twist, bend, or otherwise reversibly or elastically deform into the shape of a concave groove, recess, or depression 260, which forms part of the flow path 150, which will refer to Figures 6A-6E Further detailed description.

[0038] In some embodiments, the internal sealing edge 170 may be defined on the inner surface 130 of the housing 100. The internal sealing edge 170 may be a circumferential edge and is configured to allow the compressible valve 200 (e.g., Figure 3 (As shown) Retained within the internal cavity 133 of the assembled pinless connector (as shown) Figures 5A-5C(As shown). In operation, the inner sealing edge 170 can be arranged to provide a barrier to fluid flow together with the main sealing portion of the compressible valve 200.

[0039] As shown, the fluid flow channel 145 may alternate with the internal support column 147. In some embodiments, the fluid flow channel 145 may be smaller than the internal support column 147. Furthermore, the fluid flow channel 145 may extend further into the lower portion of the body portion 115 between adjacent internal contact protrusions 165. At this point, the fluid path may extend to the base portion 160 of the housing 100 coupled to the body portion 115, and further to the outlet port 123 (e.g., Figure 5A and 5B (As shown).

[0040] Figure 3 This is a perspective view illustrating an example of a compressible valve for a pinless connector according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 4A According to some embodiments of this disclosure Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a compressible valve. Figure 4B The following is shown: rotated 90 degrees according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of a compressible valve.

[0041] Figures 3 to 4B An exemplary compressible valve 200 is shown separately. The compressible valve 200 may include a head portion 220 and a compressible body portion 230 extending distally from the head portion 220. In some embodiments, the head portion 220 includes a columnar segment 222 having an axial center C that substantially corresponds to the central longitudinal axis X of the pinless connector housing 100 when the compressible valve is assembled in the pinless connector housing. The central longitudinal axis C may extend longitudinally through the head portion 220 and the body portion 230 of the compressible valve 200. As shown, the body portion 230 of the compressible valve 200 may have the same axial center as the head portion or other portions of the compressible valve 200. Furthermore, in a non-actuated state (e.g., alone or within the connector but not displaced by a medical device) and an actuated state (e.g., when using a medical device such as a male Luer connector 300 (e.g.)... Figures 6A-6DWhen an axial force is applied to the compressible valve 200 (as shown), the axial center of the compressible valve section can be substantially aligned with the central longitudinal axis X of the needleless connector housing 100. In conventional compressible valves, when the compressible valve is actuated by a medical device, the axial center of the compressible valve section changes and pivots relative to the central longitudinal axis. Unlike conventional compressible valves, the compressible valve 200 of the various embodiments described herein is configured to maintain the axial center C of the compressible valve 200 aligned with the central longitudinal axis X of the needleless connector housing 100. In particular, to achieve this configuration, the compressible valve 200 includes a core member 250 disposed axially along at least a portion of the length of the compressible valve 200. As shown, the core member 250 is disposed in the head portion 220, extends along the central longitudinal axis X of the needleless connector housing 100, and terminates in the compressible portion 255 of the compressible valve 200. Therefore, the core member 250 can serve as a support post to prevent the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 from tilting or otherwise deforming when an axial force is applied thereto.

[0042] According to some embodiments, the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 may have a top section 215 including a top surface 205. The top section 215 may be in the form of a circumferential lip or a similar protrusion for slidably and sealingly engaging with the inlet port 112 of the pinless connector housing 100. Figure 5A and 5B As shown, in the assembled configuration of the compressible valve 200 and the housing 100, the top surface 205 may be oriented at a vertical plane angle relative to the central longitudinal axis X. In some embodiments, the head portion 200 includes at least one notch 210 disposed along its exterior, adjacent to and located distal to the top section 215. For example, as shown, the head portion 220 may include two notches 210 disposed on opposite sides of the outer side of the columnar section 222 of the body portion 220. The notches 210 may be configured as arcuate recesses within the columnar section 222. However, it should be understood that embodiments of the notches may include various shapes and sizes, such as, but not limited to, notches having arcuate, triangular, polygonal, or various geometric cross-sectional shapes. When the head portion 220 is subjected to an axial force and the opposite ends of the top section 215 are clamped between and within the inner surfaces 133 of the housing 100, the above-described configuration of the notches 210 on the head portion 200 allows the top surface 205 of the compressible valve member 200 to bend distally. Therefore, when the head portion 220 is subjected to axial force, a concave flow channel can be formed or otherwise defined on the top surface 205, which will refer to Figures 6A-6D Further detailed description.

[0043] However, in some embodiments, the columnar section 222 of the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 may not include the notch 210, but may instead have a discontinuous section disposed thereon, which operates in a similar manner to the notch 210. For example, one side or a portion of each side of the head portion 220 may be formed of a different material (or the same material with a different hardness value) than the rest of the head portion 220.

[0044] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, the body portion 230 of the compressible valve 200 may be in the form of an elongated, compressible cylindrical body including a series of concentrically arranged compressible segments 235. The concentrically arranged compressible segments 235 are configured such that when an axial force is applied to the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200, the compressible segments 235 compress to allow the compressible valve 200 to displace downwards (i.e., distally). Therefore, a flow path fluidly connecting the inlet port 112 and the outlet port 123 can be opened, which will refer to... Figure 6D and 6E Further detailed description. In some embodiments, the body portion 230 may be further coupled to or otherwise integrally formed with the flange portion in order to secure the compressible valve 200 within the housing 100. As shown, the flange portion 240 may be disposed along the compressible body portion 230 of the compressible valve.

[0045] The compressible valve 200 described herein, in various embodiments, offers several advantages over prior art or other existing compressible valves, in which, when an axial force is applied, the head portion further compresses, collapses, tilts, and / or folds in response to the axial force to open a flow path. Due to the compression, collapse, tilting, and / or folding configuration of the head portion of prior art compressible valves, it is impossible to maintain coaxial alignment between the axial center C of the compressible valve 200 and the central longitudinal axis X of the needleless connector housing 100. Therefore, due to the geometry of existing needleless valves, when an axial force is applied to a prior art compressible valve, the deformation and compression of the head portion prevents the valve head portion from clamping between the opposing walls to form a concave flow channel. Instead, a flow channel is formed in existing needleless valves due to the tilting, collapse, and compression of the compressible valve. Because the head of a prior art compressible valve requires additional time to decompress and return to its undeformed state after the axial force is removed, prior art compressible valves suffer from a drawback: during the decompression time, fluid accumulates and deposits on the top surface of the valve head. Deposition of fluid on the valve head is detrimental because the deposited fluid can sometimes leave the valve and enter the fluid used to administer medication to the patient, leading to anxiety and potential blood flow disorders.

[0046] In contrast, when a medical device (e.g., a male Luer connector) subjected to an axial force F is removed from the housing 100 of the needleless connector of the various embodiments described herein, the top surface 205 of the valve head returns to a generally flat or planar configuration before the medical device is even completely removed, thereby advantageously forming a face seal before fluid deposits on the top surface 205. The flat or planar shape of the top surface of the valve head forming the face seal advantageously minimizes the amount of fluid that can deposit on the surface. Therefore, the anxiety and potential blood flow disorders typically associated with fluid deposited on the face (top surface) of the valve head can be minimized or otherwise prevented.

[0047] Therefore, the pinless connector 500 of the various embodiments described herein is configured such that tilting of the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 is eliminated when subjected to an axial force F. Specifically, when subjected to an axial force F, the compressible valve 200 of the various embodiments described herein is designed to allow two portions of the outer periphery of the top surface 205 of the head portion (or valve head) 220 to be clamped or otherwise engaged between two clamping points on opposing inwardly inclined inner walls of the housing 100. Thus, the inner diameter of the housing 100 is designed to clamp the compressible valve at the two clamping points and also open a flow path oriented 90 degrees to each clamping point without tilting or otherwise compressing the head portion 220. The housing 100 may be further configured to have a section of opposing outwardly inclined inner wall such that when the compressible valve 200 is subjected to an axial force and is in the open state, a gap can be opened between the top section 215 of the head portion and the outwardly inclined inner wall 111, forming part of the flow path 150.

[0048] Figure 5A This is a partially cutaway perspective view of a housing of a pinless connector 500 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing having a compressible valve 200 installed therein in a closed state. Figure 5B According to some embodiments of this disclosure Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of the assembled pinless connector housing and compressible valve. Figure 5C It is a 90-degree rotation according to some embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 5B A cross-sectional view of the assembled pinless connector housing and compressible valve.

[0049] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, as described above, the distal end of the base 160 of the housing 100 may include an outlet port 123 for engagement with a medical device and a valve mount 175. The valve mount 175 may include an edge 180 defining a recess having one or more air passages. The base 160 may further include one or more fluid passages 145 to complete a fluid flow path from the internal cavity 133 of the housing 100 to the outlet port 123 of the base 160.

[0050] The base portion 160 may be sized to engage with or otherwise integrally form with the body portion 115 to form the housing 100 of the pinless connector 500. In some embodiments, the outlet port 123 may include engagement features for coupling to another device or to an interconnect fitting. For example, the outlet port 123 may include a male Luer taper fitting and a Luer lock thread (not shown) for medical device interconnection. However, the engagement features of the outlet port 123 may include other mating mechanical elements.

[0051] Figures 5A-5C A longitudinal sectional view of the pinless connector 500 is provided, showing a compressible valve 200 within a housing 100 formed by a body portion 115 and a base portion 160. (As shown) Figures 5A-5C The assembled pinless connector 500 shown is in a sealed configuration such that any fluid from the interconnected fluid path coupled to the outlet port 123 is sealed from the inlet port 112. In some embodiments, the pinless connector 500 may be assembled such that the flange portion 240 of the compressible valve 200 is coupled, snapped, or otherwise attached to the valve mount 175 of the base portion 160.

[0052] The internal cavity 133 of the housing 100 can be arranged on top of the compressible valve 200 connected to the base portion 160, such that the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 is aligned and disposed within the inlet port 112. During assembly, when the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 engages within the inlet port 112 of the housing 100, the top surface 205 of the head portion 220 can have a plane substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis X or the axial center of the columnar segment 222 of the head portion 220. Additionally, one or more internal contact protrusions 165 (in...) are provided on the lower section of the body portion 115. Figure 2A (As shown in the diagram) Pressure is applied to the sidewalls surrounding the flange portion 240 to secure and / or anchor the compressible valve 200 within the housing 100. In operation, when an axial force is applied to the top surface 205 of the compressible valve 200, the resilient valve 200 of the pinless connector can compress and collapse, and when the axial force is removed, the resilient valve can expand and realign, as will be described in further detail below.

[0053] Therefore, one or more internal contact protrusions 165 can provide radial forces substantially orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis X on the sidewalls of the flange portion 240. In this respect, the effect of any final axial force applied to the base 120 of the housing 100 by the compressible valve 200 when an axial force is applied to the top surface 205 of the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 is reduced, even if not eliminated. This final axial force applied to the base 120 can adversely affect or damage, for example, the fusion joint between the base 120 and the body portion 115, and may adversely lead to breakage and / or separation of the fusion joint over time.

[0054] Figures 5A-5C The pinless connector 500 is depicted in a closed state, for example before an axial force F is applied to the top surface 205 of the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200, or in some embodiments, after the applied axial force F has been released from the top surface 205 of the head portion 220 and the top surface 205 has been realigned with the opening of the inlet 112.

[0055] like Figure 5A and 5B As shown, the inner surface 130 can be sized to properly accommodate the compressible valve 200 therein. Specifically, the inner surface 130 at the inlet 112 of the housing 100 can be sized to slidably accommodate the top section 215 within the housing 100. In some embodiments, the top section 215 of the compressible valve member 200 can be configured such that when the pinless connector 500 is in... Figures 5A-5C In the closed state, a seal is formed between the inner surface 130 of the housing and the outer periphery of the head portion 220. Specifically, in the closed state of the compressible valve 200, the top section 215 of the head portion 220 may have a planar or otherwise substantially flat shape, configured to contact and seal against the inner surface 130 of the housing 100. Therefore, fluid flow between the inlet port 112 and the outlet port 123 can be blocked.

[0056] Figures 6A-6E The pinless connector 500 is depicted in an open state, for example, when an axial force is applied to the top surface 205 of the head portion 220 of a compressible valve. Figure 6A This is a partially cut-away perspective view of a housing 100 of a pinless connector 500 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing having a compressible valve 200 mounted therein, wherein an axial force is applied to place the valve 200 in an open state. Figure 6B According to some embodiments of this disclosure Figure 6A A cross-sectional view of the assembled pinless connector housing and compressible valve. Figure 6C According to some embodiments of this disclosure Figure 6B A magnified partial view of the top surface of the compressible valve.

[0057] Figures 6A-6C A longitudinal sectional view of the needleless connector 500 is provided, showing the compressible valve 200 when the medical device 300 is initially inserted into the inlet port 112. As the medical device 300 (e.g., a male Luer connector with a central channel 310, a syringe, or any other medical device capable of delivering fluid to the needleless connector 500) is inserted into the inlet port 112 of the needleless connector 500, an axial force F from the medical device 300 is applied to the compressible valve 200, causing the compressible valve 200 to be displaced distally within the housing 100. As the compressible valve 200 is displaced distally, the outer periphery of the top section 215 of the head portion 220 can be engaged at the clamping point P between opposing walls 110 extending distally from the proximal end 105 of the housing 100 at an angle that is tilted inward toward the central longitudinal axis X of the housing 100. As the top section 215 is engaged between the clamping points P of the opposing walls 110, and the axial force continues to displace the compressible valve 200 distally, the top section 215 of the head portion 220 may bend slightly distally, such as... Figure 6B and 6C The top surface 205 of the top section 215 of the compressible valve 200 is shown. As a result, the top surface 205 of the top section 215 of the compressible valve 200 can deform from a planar shape (without an applied axial force F) to a non-planar shape 260. According to some embodiments, the non-planar shape 260 can define at least a portion of a fluid path 150 that extends at least partially between opposing walls 111 on the outwardly inclined portion of the inner surface 130, as will be shown in reference to... Figure 6D and 6E Further description.

[0058] Specifically, the non-planar shape 260 of the top section 215 defining at least a portion of the flow path 150 can be the shape of a concave groove, recess, or depression 260 leading to the flow path 150, as shown in the reference. Figures 6A-6E As described in further detail, the flow path 150 may be defined by a concave groove, recess, or recess of a non-planar shape 260 and a gap between the top section 215 of the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 and the inner surface 130 when the compressible valve 200 is open.

[0059] As shown in the figure, during the application of an axial force F, the core member 250, which is axially arranged along the length of the head portion 220, maintains the axial alignment of the central longitudinal axis of the compressible valve member and the central longitudinal axis of the housing when the axial force is applied. In particular, the core member 250 ensures that the head portion will not deform or collapse in any other way due to the axial force F, except for bending or deflection of the top surface 205 of the top section 215 of the concave recess 260 that forms the fluid flow path 150.

[0060] In some embodiments, the clamping points P may be spaced apart from each other. Specifically, as described above, each clamping point P may be located on opposite sides of the opposing walls 110, such as... Figure 6B and 6C As shown. Therefore, in some embodiments, the clamping points P can be positioned on the opposing walls 110 at angles approximately 180 degrees apart. For example, as Figure 6C As shown, clamping points P can be positioned relative to each other and across a common axis Y extending through clamping points P.

[0061] Figure 6D It is a 90-degree rotation according to some embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 6B A cross-sectional view of the assembled pinless connector housing 100 and compressible valve 200. Figure 6E According to some embodiments of this disclosure Figure 6D A magnified partial view of the top surface 205 of the compressible valve 200. Figure 6D and 6E The illustration provides a longitudinal sectional view of the needleless connector 500, showing the compressible valve 200 when the medical device 300 is initially inserted into the inlet port 112.

[0062] As referenced above Figures 6A-6C As described, due to the application of an axial force F and the clamping point P between the top section 215 and the opposing walls 110 of the housing, the recess defined by the non-planar shape 260 formed on the top surface 205 of the head portion 220 can define a portion of the fluid path 150, which extends at least partially between the opposing walls 111 on the outwardly inclined portion of the inner surface 130. Figure 6D and 6E Provided from Figures 6A-6CThe view shown is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the needleless connector 500 rotated 90 degrees. As previously described, the medical device 300 can be used to apply an axial force F to displace the compressible valve 200 distally within the housing 100. As the compressible valve 200 is displaced distally, the outer periphery of the top section 215 of the head portion 220 becomes engaged at clamping points P on the opposing inwardly inclined wall 110, with a fluid path (indicated by arrows) defined by the non-planar shape of the top section 205 of the head portion between clamping points P leading to the internal cavity 133 of the housing 100. As previously described, the opposing wall 111 can serve as an outwardly inclined portion of the inner surface 130, in which case a gap may exist between the top section 215 of the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 and the inner surface 130 when the compressible valve 200 is subjected to an axial force and is in the open state. In this open state of the compressible valve, the gap serves as a path through which fluid can flow into the cavity 130 within the body portion 115 of the housing and out through the outlet 123. According to some embodiments, as previously discussed... Figure 2B The opposing walls 111 on the outwardly inclined portion of the inner surface 130 can each be clamped to a clamping point P (e.g., ...). Figures 6A-6C The opposing walls 110 of the inwardly inclined portion of the inner surface 130 (as shown) are spaced apart by approximately 90 degrees. Therefore, in the open state of the compressible valve 200, the flow path 150 defined by the concave groove, recess or recess 260 and the gap between the top section 215 of the head portion 220 of the compressible valve 200 and the inner surface 130 can be orthogonal to the common axis Y extending through the clamping point P.

[0063] As shown in the figure, with the compressible valve 200 open, fluid can flow from the central channel 310 of the medical device 300 located in the inlet 112 to the concave recess 260 of the flow path 150 in the cavity 133, and then out through the outlet port 123. Therefore, medical fluid can be applied to the patient through the outlet port 123 of the housing 100.

[0064] In some embodiments, once the axial force F is removed and the compressible valve 200 changes back to the closed state, the clamping force between the inner surface 130 of the housing 100 and the top section 215 of the head portion 220 at each clamping point can be released, and the top section 215 of the concave-shaped recess 260 defining the fluid path 150 can change from the concave shape back to the planar shape.

[0065] Therefore, the construction of the pinless connector 500 in the various embodiments described herein is advantageously designed to clamp the compressible valve 200 at two "clamping points" of the housing 100 to open a flow path oriented 90 degrees to each clamping point without tilting or otherwise compressing the valve head. To prevent tilting or other compression of the valve head, the core member 250 is axially disposed along at least a portion of the length of the compressible valve, extends along the central longitudinal axis of the pinless connector housing, and terminates at the compressible portion of the compressible valve in some embodiments. Advantageously, the core member can serve as a support post to prevent the valve head from tilting or otherwise compressing or deforming when subjected to an axial force F. As previously described, when the two portions of the head portion 220 are clamped between the two clamping points P, the top surface 205 of the valve head changes from a substantially flat planar surface to a concave recess or depression. Thus, the flow path can be defined by the concave recess or depression and the gap present between the top section of the valve head and the outwardly sloping inner wall. Therefore, unlike some compressible valves, the flow path is not formed due to the tilting or compression of the head portion (valve head) of the compressible valve, but due to the clamping and the formation of a concave recess on the top surface 205.

[0066] As the medical device 300, under applied axial force F, is removed from the housing 100, the top surface 205 of the valve head can return to a substantially flat or planar configuration, thereby advantageously forming a face seal before the axial force is even completely removed from the housing 100. The flat or planar shape of the top surface 205 of the head portion 220, which forms the face seal, advantageously minimizes the amount of fluid that can deposit on the top surface 205 (i.e., the valve face). Therefore, the anxiety and potential blood flow disorders typically associated with fluid deposited on the face (top surface) of the valve head can be minimized or otherwise prevented.

[0067] For example, the subject matter technique is illustrated by the various aspects described below. For convenience, examples of the various aspects of the subject matter technique are described according to the numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided as examples and do not limit the subject matter technique. It should be noted that any dependent clauses may be combined in any combination and placed in the corresponding independent clauses, such as clause 1 or clause 5. Other clauses may be presented in a similar manner.

[0068] Clause 1. A pinless connector comprising: a housing having a proximal end defining an inlet port of the housing, a distal end including a base defining an outlet port of the housing, and an inner surface defining an internal cavity extending between the inlet port and the outlet port; and a compressible valve reciprocally disposed in the internal cavity and configured to contact at least a portion of the inner surface, the compressible valve including a head portion and a compressible body portion extending distally from the head portion, wherein: in a closed state, a top section of the head portion of the compressible valve has a planar shape and is configured to contact and seal against the inner surface of the housing; and in an open state where the compressible valve is subjected to an axial force: the top section of the head portion is engaged between two clamping points between opposing walls of an inwardly inclined portion of the inner surface; and the top section of the head portion has a non-planar shape defining a fluid path extending at least partially between opposing walls on an outwardly inclined portion of the inner surface.

[0069] Clause 2. The pinless connector as described in Clause 1, wherein the two clamping points are spaced approximately 180 degrees apart from each other.

[0070] Clause 3. The pinless connector according to Clause 2, wherein the opposing walls on the outwardly inclined portion of the inner surface are each spaced approximately 90 degrees from the opposing walls on the inwardly inclined portion of the inner surface.

[0071] Clause 4. The pinless connector as described in Clause 2, wherein the fluid path is orthogonal to a common axis extending through the clamping point.

[0072] Clause 5. The pinless connector as described in Clause 2, wherein the non-planar shape of the top section of the head portion defining the fluid path includes a concave shape.

[0073] Clause 6. The pinless connector as described in Clause 5, wherein when the axial force is removed, the clamping force between the inner surface of the housing and the head portion at each clamping point is released, and the top section defining the fluid path changes from a concave shape back to a planar shape.

[0074] Clause 7. The pinless connector according to Clause 6, wherein the planar top surface of the head portion forms a face seal between the head portion and the inner surface of the housing.

[0075] Clause 8. The pinless connector according to any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein the compressible valve further includes a core member disposed axially along at least a portion of the length of the compressible valve, the core member being configured to maintain the central longitudinal axis of the compressible valve axially aligned with the central longitudinal axis of the housing when an axial force is applied.

[0076] Clause 9. The pinless connector according to any one of Clauses 1 to 8, wherein the head portion includes at least one notch disposed along the outer side of the head portion.

[0077] Clause 10. The pinless connector according to any one of Clauses 1 to 9, wherein the compressible valve further includes a flange portion disposed along the body portion for securing the compressible valve within the housing.

[0078] Clause 11. A pinless connector comprising: a housing having a body including an inlet of the housing, a base including an outlet of the housing, and an internal cavity defined by an inner surface of the body; and a compressible valve disposed within the internal cavity, the compressible valve including a head portion and a compressible body portion extending distally from the head portion, the head portion including: a top section having an outer periphery configured to (i) contact and seal against an inner surface in a closed state, and (ii) clamp between opposing walls of the inner surface within the inlet when the head portion is subjected to an axial force; and a top surface forming an upper boundary of the top section, the top surface defining a fluid path extending between the clamping points when the head portion is subjected to an axial force.

[0079] Clause 12. The pinless connector as described in Clause 11, wherein the clamping points are spaced approximately 180 degrees apart from each other.

[0080] Clause 13. The pinless connector according to any one of Clauses 11 or 12, wherein the opposing walls of the inner surfaces where the clamping points are located are inclined inward toward each other.

[0081] Clause 14. The pinless connector according to any one of Clauses 1 to 13, wherein the top surface of the head portion has a planar shape and is configured to contact and seal against the inner surface of the housing when the head portion is not subjected to axial force.

[0082] Clause 15. The pinless connector according to any one of Clauses 1 to 14, wherein the fluid path is defined between opposing walls of the inner surface that are inclined outwards from each other.

[0083] Clause 16. The pinless connector as described in Clause 15, wherein the outwardly inclined opposing walls on the inner surface are each spaced approximately 90 degrees from the clamping point.

[0084] Clause 17. The pinless connector according to Clause 15, wherein when the compressible valve subjected to axial force is in the open state, the top surface of the head portion defining the fluid path has a non-planar shape.

[0085] Clause 18. The pinless connector as described in Clause 17, wherein the non-planar shape of the top section defining the fluid path of the head portion includes a concave shape.

[0086] Clause 19. The pinless connector as described in Clause 18, wherein when the axial force is removed, the clamping force between the inner surface of the housing and the head portion at each clamping point is released, and the top surface defining the fluid path changes from a concave shape to a planar shape.

[0087] Clause 20. The pinless connector according to any one of Clauses 1 to 18, wherein the fluid path is orthogonal to a common axis extending through the clamping point.

[0088] In some embodiments, any of the terms herein may be subordinate to any of the independent or dependent terms. In one aspect, any term (e.g., dependent or independent) may be combined with any other one or more terms (e.g., dependent or independent terms). In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, operations, methods, or components) referenced in a term, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words referenced in one or more terms, sentences, phrases, or paragraphs. In one aspect, some words in each term, sentence, phrase, or paragraph may be removed. In one aspect, additional words or elements may be added to a term, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, the subject matter may be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements, functions, or operations described herein. In one aspect, the subject matter may be implemented using additional components, elements, functions, or operations.

[0089] This disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. This disclosure provides various examples of the subject matter, and the subject matter is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects.

[0090] Unless otherwise specified, elements involving the singular form are not intended to mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more." Unless otherwise specified, the term "some" refers to one or more. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter pronouns (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. Titles and subtitles, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

[0091] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example or illustration.” Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as being better or more advantageous than other aspects or designs. In one respect, the various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0092] As used herein, the phrase "at least one" preceding a series of items, where any item is separated by the term "or," modifies the entire list as a whole, rather than each item in the list. The phrase "at least one" does not require the selection of at least one item; rather, the phrase allows for the inclusion of at least one of any one item, and / or at least one of any combination of items, and / or at least one of each item. For example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, or C" could refer to: only A, only B, or only C; or any combination of A, B, and C.

[0093] For example, phrases like "aspect" do not imply that such an aspect is necessary for the present subject matter, or that such an aspect applies to all configurations of the present subject matter. Disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. For example, phrases like "aspect" may refer to one or more aspects, or vice versa. Similarly, phrases like "embodiment" do not imply that such an embodiment is necessary for the present subject matter, or that such an embodiment applies to all configurations of the present subject matter. Disclosure relating to an embodiment may apply to all embodiments, or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. For example, phrases like "embodiment" may refer to one or more embodiments, or vice versa. For example, phrases like "configuration" do not imply that such a configuration is necessary for the present subject matter, or that such a configuration applies to all configurations of the present subject matter. Disclosure relating to a configuration may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. For example, phrases like "configuration" may refer to one or more configurations, or vice versa.

[0094] In one respect, unless otherwise stated, all measurements, numerical values, ratings, positions, sizes, dimensions, and other specifications set forth in this specification, including in the appended claims, are approximate and not precise. In another respect, they are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the functions they address and the conventions of the art to which they pertain.

[0095] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps or operations in the disclosed process or method is an illustration of an exemplary method. Depending on implementation preferences or scenarios, it should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps, operations, or processes can be rearranged. Some steps, operations, or processes may be performed simultaneously. In some implementation preferences or scenarios, some operations may be performed or not. Some or all of the steps, operations, or processes can be performed automatically without user intervention. The appended method claims present elements of various steps, operations, or processes in an exemplary order and are not intended to limit one to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0096] All structural and functional equivalents of elements throughout the various aspects described in this disclosure, known or to be known by one of ordinary skill in the art, are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. Furthermore, the disclosure herein is not intended to be made public, whether or not such disclosure is expressly stated in the claims. No element of a claim is construed under 35 U.S.SC §112(f) unless the phrase “means for…” is used to expressly state an element of the claim, or, in the case of a method claim, the phrase “steps for…” is used to state an element of the claim. Furthermore, the scope of terms such as “comprising,” “having,” etc., is intended to be open-ended in a manner similar to the term “including,” as interpreted when “comprising” is used as a transitional word in a claim.

[0097] The title, background, overview, drawings, brief description, and abstract of this disclosure are incorporated herein by reference and are provided as illustrative examples rather than as limiting descriptions. It should be understood upon filing this application that they are not intended to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, as will be apparent in the detailed description, which provides illustrative examples, various features are combined in different embodiments for the purpose of simplification. The approach of this disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than are expressly stated in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the appended claims, the inventive subject matter lies in all features of fewer than those in a single disclosure configuration or operation. The appended claims are thus incorporated into the detailed description, wherein each claim is independently claimed as a separate subject matter.

[0098] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but rather to conform to the full scope consistent with the language of the claims and to cover all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, none of the claims are intended to include subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirements of 35 U.S.SC § 101, 102, or 103, nor should they be interpreted in this manner.

Claims

1. A pinless connector, comprising: A housing having a proximal end defining an inlet port of the housing, a distal end including a base defining an outlet port of the housing, and an inner surface defining an internal cavity extending between the inlet port and the outlet port; as well as A compressible valve, reciprocatingly disposed within the internal cavity and configured to contact at least a portion of the internal surface, the compressible valve comprising a head portion and a compressible body portion extending distally from the head portion, wherein: In the closed state of the compressible valve, the top section of the head portion of the compressible valve has a planar shape and is configured to contact and seal against the inner surface of the housing; and In the open state where the compressible valve is subjected to axial force: The top section of the head portion is clamped between two clamping points between the opposing walls of the inwardly inclined portion of the inner surface; and The top section of the head portion has a non-planar shape, defining a fluid path extending at least partially between opposing walls on the outwardly inclined portion of the inner surface.

2. The pinless connector according to claim 1, wherein, The two clamping points are spaced approximately 180 degrees apart.

3. The pinless connector according to claim 2, wherein, The opposing walls on the outwardly inclined portion of the inner surface are each spaced approximately 90 degrees from the opposing walls on the inwardly inclined portion of the inner surface.

4. The pinless connector according to claim 2, wherein, The fluid path is orthogonal to a common axis extending through the clamping point.

5. The pinless connector according to claim 2, wherein, The non-planar shape of the top section of the head portion that defines the fluid path includes a concave shape.

6. The pinless connector according to claim 5, wherein, When the axial force is removed, the clamping force between the inner surface of the housing and the head portion at each clamping point is released, and the top section defining the fluid path changes from a concave shape back to a planar shape.

7. The pinless connector according to claim 6, wherein, The planar top surface of the head portion forms a surface seal between the head portion and the inner surface of the housing.

8. The pinless connector according to claim 1, wherein, The compressible valve further includes a core member axially disposed along at least a portion of the length of the compressible valve, the core member being configured to maintain the central longitudinal axis of the compressible valve axially aligned with the central longitudinal axis of the housing when an axial force is applied.

9. The pinless connector according to claim 1, wherein, The head portion includes at least one notch disposed along the outer side of the head portion.

10. The pinless connector according to claim 1, wherein, The compressible valve further includes a flange portion disposed along the body portion for securing the compressible valve within the housing.

11. A pinless connector, comprising: A housing having a body including an inlet of the housing, a base including an outlet of the housing, and an internal cavity defined by an inner surface of the body; as well as A compressible valve disposed in the internal cavity, the compressible valve comprising: The head portion includes: A top section having an outer periphery is configured to (i) contact and seal against the inner surface in the closed state, and (ii) clamp between opposing walls of the inner surface within the inlet when the head portion is subjected to axial force; and A top surface forming the upper boundary of the top section, which, when the head portion is subjected to an axial force, forms part of a fluid path extending from the top surface and between the clamping points; and A compressible body portion extending distally from the head portion.

12. The pinless connector according to claim 11, wherein, The clamping points are spaced approximately 180 degrees apart.

13. The pinless connector according to claim 11, wherein, The opposing walls of the inner surface where the clamping point is located are inclined inward toward each other.

14. The pinless connector according to claim 11, wherein, The top surface of the head portion has a planar shape and is configured to contact and seal against the inner surface of the housing when the head portion is not subjected to axial force.

15. The pinless connector according to claim 11, wherein, The fluid path is defined between the opposing walls on the inner surface that are inclined outwards from each other.

16. The pinless connector according to claim 15, wherein, The outwardly inclined opposing walls on the inner surface are each spaced approximately 90 degrees from the contact and clamping point.

17. The pinless connector according to claim 15, wherein, When subjected to axial force and the compressible valve is in the open state, the top surface of the head portion defining the fluid path has a non-planar shape.

18. The pinless connector according to claim 17, wherein, The non-planar shape of the top section of the defined fluid path of the head portion includes a concave shape.

19. The pinless connector according to claim 18, wherein, When the axial force is removed, the clamping force between the inner surface of the housing and the head portion at each clamping point is released, and the top surface defining the contact and fluid path changes from a concave shape to a planar shape.

20. The pinless connector according to claim 11, wherein, The fluid path is orthogonal to a common axis extending through the clamping point.

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