Fluid connector with slidable member

Abstract

A connector is provided that includes first and second hollow bodies having fluid transfer members that are slidably disposed between the first and second hollow connector bodies.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to fluid connectors having sliding members. Background Technology

[0002] Connectors for fluid handling systems and fluid handling (such as liquid products used in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries) are known. However, improved connectors are needed. The present invention at least mitigates some of the disadvantages of the prior art. These and other advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One aspect of the present invention provides a connector comprising: (a) a first hollow connector body having an inner surface including a slot and an outer surface, the first hollow connector body having an orifice through the inner surface and the outer surface; (b) a second hollow connector body having an inner surface including a slot and an outer surface, the second hollow connector body having an orifice through the inner surface and the outer surface; and (c) a fluid transfer member inserted between the first hollow connector body and the second hollow connector body, wherein the fluid transfer member is slidably arranged in a slot in the inner surface of the first hollow body and a slot in the inner surface of the second hollow body to provide slidable movement between a first fluid transfer position and a second fluid transfer position, the fluid transfer member having a face toward the first hollow body. The fluid transmission member has a first surface of a groove on its inner surface and a second surface of a groove on the inner surface of the second hollow body, and has a first fluid transmission orifice through the first surface and a second fluid transmission orifice through the first and second surfaces; the fluid transmission member has a first open end and a second closed end, wherein the first open end is in fluid communication with the first fluid transmission orifice and not in fluid communication with the second fluid transmission orifice, and provides a first fluid flow path through the first open end and the first fluid transmission orifice when the fluid transmission member is in the first fluid transmission position; and provides a second fluid flow path through the orifice of the first hollow connector body, the second fluid transmission orifice of the fluid transmission member and the second orifice of the hollow connector body when the fluid transmission member is in the second fluid transmission position.

[0004] In a preferred aspect of the connector, the outer surface of the first hollow connector body includes: an integrally formed locking mechanism; the integrally formed locking mechanism includes at least one protrusion having a groove and at least one bevel; and an anti-actuation component engagement portion, which includes at least one recess and / or at least one protrusion; and the outer surface of the second hollow connector body includes: an integrally formed locking mechanism; the integrally formed locking mechanism includes at least one protrusion having a groove and at least one bevel; and an anti-actuation component engagement portion, which includes at least one recess and / or at least one protrusion.

[0005] In another aspect, a connector assembly is provided, including one aspect of the connector, further comprising: a first removable cover engaging with a first hollow connector body, wherein a removable anti-actuation component is inserted between the first removable cover and the first hollow connector body, the first removable cover covering an outer surface of the first hollow connector body; and a second removable cover engaging with a second hollow connector body, wherein a removable anti-actuation component is inserted between the second removable cover and the second hollow connector body, the second removable cover covering an outer surface of the second hollow connector body.

[0006] According to other aspects of the present invention, methods for making fluid connections and methods for processing fluids are provided. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of a first connector in a first fluid transfer position according to one aspect of the invention is shown (also showing an anti-actuator sub-assembly and a strip connected to the outer surfaces of the first and second hollow connector bodies), wherein the fluid transfer member is slidably arranged between the first and second hollow connector bodies; Figure 1B An aspect of the invention is shown. Figure 1A The first connector shown is in a cross-sectional view at the second fluid transfer position (with the anti-actuator sub-assembly and strip removed); Figure 1C A cross-sectional view of the first and second connectors of a connection according to one aspect of the invention is shown, wherein the first connector is located in... Figure 1B The second fluid transfer position is shown, while the second connector is in the first fluid transfer position (the second connector has an anti-actuation sub-assembly and a peel strip).

[0008] Figure 2A It shows Figure 1A Side perspective view of the first connector shown; Figure 2B It shows Figure 1B Side view of the first connector shown; Figure 2C It shows Figure 1C Rear perspective view of the first and second connectors connected as shown; Figure 2D It shows Figure 2C Front view of the first and second connectors shown in the diagram.

[0009] Figure 3A It shows Figure 2A The rear perspective view of the first connector shown illustrates the hollow connector outer body surface with the anti-actuator sub-assemblies and strips removed from each outer body surface. Figure 3B A perspective view of an anti-actuation sub-assembly of an anti-actuation assembly is shown, which includes a protrusion and a peelable strip that can be arranged between the connectors. Another sub-assembly of the anti-actuation assembly used when the first and second connectors are connected is also shown.

[0010] Figure 4A It shows Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the fluid transport component shown; Figure 4B A top view of the fluid transport component is shown; Figure 4C A bottom view of the fluid transport component is shown; Figure 4D It shows Figure 4C The bottom perspective view of the fluid transport component shown; Figure 4E An end view of the first opening end of the fluid transport member is shown. Figure 4F An end view of the second closed end of the fluid transport member is shown.

[0011] Figure 5A A perspective view of the inner surface of the hollow connector body of the first connector is shown, as well as an anti-actuator sub-assembly and a strip connected to the outer surface of the hollow connector body. Figure 5B It shows Figure 5A A top view of the inner surface of the hollow connector body of the first connector shown; Figure 5C It shows Figure 5A The first connector shown is a perspective view of the outer surface of the hollow connector body.

[0012] Figure 6A and 6B They are shown respectively Figure 2A The top and bottom views of the first connector are shown.

[0013] Figure 7A An illustration of one aspect of the invention includes Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the first connector assembly of the first connector shown (also showing the integrally formed locking mechanism and removable cover); Figure 7B It shows Figure 7A Front perspective view of the first connector assembly shown. Detailed Implementation

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, a connector is provided, comprising: (a) a first hollow connector body having an inner surface including a slot and an outer surface, the first hollow connector body having an orifice through the inner surface and the outer surface; (b) a second hollow connector body having an inner surface including a slot and an outer surface, the second hollow connector body having an orifice through the inner surface and the outer surface; and (c) a fluid transfer member inserted between the first hollow connector body and the second hollow connector body, wherein the fluid transfer member is slidably arranged in a slot in the inner surface of the first hollow connector body and a slot in the inner surface of the second hollow connector body to provide slidable movement between a first fluid transfer position and a second fluid transfer position, the fluid transfer member having a face facing the first hollow connector body. The body has a first surface of a groove on its inner surface and a second surface of a groove facing the inner surface of the second hollow body, and has a first fluid transmission orifice through the first surface and a second fluid transmission orifice through the first and second surfaces; the fluid transmission member has a first open end and a second closed end, wherein the first open end is in fluid communication with the first fluid transmission orifice and not in fluid communication with the second fluid transmission orifice, and provides a first fluid flow path through the first open end and the first fluid transmission orifice when the fluid transmission member is in the first fluid transmission position; and provides a second fluid flow path through the orifice of the first hollow connector body, the second fluid transmission orifice of the fluid transmission member and the second orifice of the hollow connector body when the fluid transmission member is in the second fluid transmission position.

[0015] In a preferred aspect of the connector, the outer surface of the first hollow connector body includes a first annular groove, and a first elastically deformable annular seal is arranged in the first annular groove around the orifice; the outer surface of the second hollow connector body includes a second annular groove, and a second elastically deformable annular seal is arranged in the second annular groove around the orifice.

[0016] In some aspects of the connector, the first resilient annular seal in the first annular groove and the second resilient annular seal in the second annular groove both have a lip around the central orifice.

[0017] In a preferred aspect of the connector, the outer surface of the first hollow connector body includes: an integrally formed locking mechanism; the integrally formed locking mechanism includes at least one protrusion having a groove and at least one bevel; and an anti-actuation component engagement portion, which includes at least one recess and / or at least one protrusion; and the outer surface of the second hollow connector body includes: an integrally formed locking mechanism; the integrally formed locking mechanism includes at least one protrusion having a groove and at least one bevel; and an anti-actuation component engagement portion, which includes at least one recess and / or at least one protrusion.

[0018] In another aspect, a connector assembly is provided, including one aspect of the connector, further comprising: a first removable cover engaging with a first hollow connector body, wherein a removable anti-actuation component is inserted between the first removable cover and the first hollow connector body, the first removable cover covering an outer surface of the first hollow connector body; and a second removable cover engaging with a second hollow connector body, wherein a removable anti-actuation component is inserted between the second removable cover and the second hollow connector body, the second removable cover covering an outer surface of the second hollow connector body.

[0019] According to another aspect of the invention, a method for fluid connection is provided, the method comprising: placing (A) a first connector in contact with (B) a second connector, the first connector comprising: (a) a first hollow connector body having an inner surface and an outer surface including a slot, the first hollow connector body having an orifice through the inner surface and the outer surface; (b) a second hollow connector body having an inner surface and an outer surface including a slot, the second hollow connector body having an orifice through the inner surface and the outer surface; and (c) a fluid transfer member inserted between the first hollow connector body and the second hollow connector body, wherein the fluid transfer member is slidably arranged in the slot of the inner surface of the first hollow body and the second hollow connector body. The fluid transfer member has a first surface facing the inner surface of the first hollow body and a second surface facing the inner surface of the second hollow body, and has a first fluid transfer orifice through the first surface and a second fluid transfer orifice through the first and second surfaces. The fluid transfer member has a first open end and a second closed end, wherein the first open end is in fluid communication with the first fluid transfer orifice but not with the second fluid transfer orifice. When the fluid transfer member is in the first fluid transfer position, it provides a first fluid flow path through the first open end and the first fluid transfer orifice; when the fluid transfer member is in the second fluid transfer position... At the second fluid transfer position, a second fluid flow path is provided through the orifice of the first hollow connector body, the second fluid transfer orifice of the fluid transfer member, and the orifice of the second hollow connector body; the second connector includes: (a') a first hollow connector body having an inner surface and an outer surface including a groove, the first hollow connector body having an orifice passing through the inner surface and the outer surface; (b') a second hollow connector body having an inner surface and an outer surface including a groove, the second hollow connector body having an orifice passing through the inner surface and the outer surface; and (c') a fluid transfer member inserted between the first hollow connector body and the second hollow connector body, wherein the fluid transfer member is slidably arranged inside the first hollow body. The fluid transfer member has a first surface facing the groove of the inner surface of the first hollow body and a second surface facing the groove of the inner surface of the second hollow body, so as to provide slidable movement between a first fluid transfer position and a second fluid transfer position. It also has a first fluid transfer orifice through the first surface and a second fluid transfer orifice through the first and second surfaces. The fluid transfer member has a first open end and a second closed end, wherein the first open end is in fluid communication with the first fluid transfer orifice but not with the second fluid transfer orifice. When the fluid transfer member is in the first fluid transfer position, it provides a first fluid flow path through the first open end and the first fluid transfer orifice.When the fluid transfer member is in the second fluid transfer position, a second fluid flow path is provided through the orifice of the first hollow connector body, the second fluid transfer orifice of the fluid transfer member, and the orifice of the second hollow connector body. The method further includes: contacting the outer surface of the first hollow connector body of the second connector with the outer surface of the second hollow connector body of the first connector to provide a first contact position; twisting the first hollow connector body of the second connector and / or the second hollow connector body of the first connector to provide a second contact position; and providing an activation position, causing the fluid transfer member to slide in the first connector to the second fluid transfer position, while the fluid transfer member in the second connector is in the first fluid transfer position.

[0020] In a preferred aspect of the method, the method further includes causing fluid to pass along a second fluid flow path through a first connector and through a second connector via a first fluid flow path. Various aspects of the method for handling the fluid may include causing fluid to pass through connectors and / or connector assemblies of any number of connections.

[0021] Advantageously, according to various aspects of the invention, two or more connectors and / or connector assemblies can be connected to extend the number of operations (multiple aseptic connections via the same initial connection). Therefore, the number of potential leak points in the flow path is reduced (no need to replace the manifold, fewer connection points for the same number of connections), and the overall complexity of the manifold is also reduced. Operators can choose to use any number of connector assemblies required by the process without relying on complex arrangements of connectors, catheters, T- and Y-connectors, and external hardware such as valves and / or controllers.

[0022] Preferably, the connector or connector assembly is a genderless connector assembly, i.e., it does not require male and female connector connections. Advantageously, the connector or connector assembly can be connected to another connector or connector assembly, such as the connector assembly described herein, or the connector assembly described in U.S. Patent 10,247,342.

[0023] In a preferred aspect, the method of treating the fluid includes passing the fluid through the connected connector and / or connector assembly.

[0024] All aspects of this invention are also applicable to the application of single-use technology (SUT).

[0025] Each component of the invention will now be described in more detail below, wherein similar components have similar reference numerals.

[0026] Figure 1A and 1BOne aspect of connector 1000 is shown, which includes: (a) a first hollow connector body 100 having an inner surface 110 including a groove 155 and an annular groove 142 for receiving a seal 143 (see also) Figures 5A-5B ) and including a receiving resilient seal 123 (preferably, including a flexible lip 123a; see also Figure 1C (including chamber 123b for the lip margin 123a) and Figures 3A-3B (a) the outer surface 120 of the annular groove 122, the first hollow connector body having an opening 190 (surrounded by annular grooves 143 and 122) through the inner and outer surfaces; (b) the second hollow connector body 200 having an inner surface 210 including a groove 255 and an annular groove 242 for receiving a seal 243 (see also) Figures 5A-5B ) and including a resilient seal 223 (preferably, including a flexible lip 223A; see also Figure 1C (including chamber 223b for the lip border 223A) and Figures 3A-3B The outer surface 220 of the annular groove 222 of the first hollow connector body; the second hollow connector body having an opening 290 (surrounded by annular grooves 243 and 222) through the inner and outer surfaces; the end 125 of the first hollow connector body sealingly contacts the end 225 of the second connector body; and (c) a fluid transfer member 300, which is inserted between the first hollow connector body and the second hollow connector body, wherein the fluid transfer member is slidably arranged in a groove in the inner surface of the first hollow body and a groove in the inner surface of the second hollow body, so as to a first fluid transfer position 1 ( Figure 1A ) and the second fluid transfer position 2 ( Figure 1B The fluid transfer member provides slidable movement between the two surfaces. It has a first surface 310A with a groove facing the inner surface of the first hollow body and a second surface 310B with a groove facing the inner surface of the second hollow body. It also has a first fluid transfer orifice 311 passing through the first surface and a second fluid transfer orifice 322 passing through the first and second surfaces. The fluid transfer member has a first open end 301 and a second closed end 302, wherein the first open end is in fluid communication with the first fluid transfer orifice but not with the second fluid transfer orifice (blocked by the solid wall 313 and the solid segment 314). When the fluid transfer member is in the first fluid transfer position, it provides a first fluid flow path 1A through the first open end and the first fluid transfer orifice. Figure 1A ); and when the fluid transfer member is in the second fluid transfer position, a second fluid flow path 2A is provided through the orifice of the first hollow connector body, the second fluid transfer orifice of the fluid transfer member, and the orifice of the second hollow connector body. Figure 1B ).

[0027] Typically, the first and second hollow connector bodies 100 and 200 are identical, thereby reducing costs.

[0028] After the first connector and the additional (second) connector are connected and the pull bars 520A and 520B are removed, the second fluid transfer position 2 and the second fluid flow path 2A are utilized relative to the first connector (see...). Figure 1A and 1C , among which, Figure 1C In the second connector 2000, the structure marked with "'" corresponds to the structure in the first connector 1000 that does not have "'". The first connector includes an inlet connector 1010 with an air inlet port 1010a to allow the use of the next first fluid transfer position 1' and the next first fluid flow path 1A' relative to the second connector.

[0029] As discussed in more detail below, when the first connector is connected to the second connector, the locking mechanism on the outer surface of the second hollow connector body of the first connector contacts the locking mechanism on the outer surface of the first hollow connector body of the second connector, such that the locking mechanisms are in a first contact position. Preferably, an anti-actuation assembly 500 including at least one peel strip is inserted between the locking mechanisms (more preferably, the anti-actuation assembly includes a sub-assembly 500A associated with one hollow connector body and a sub-assembly 500B associated with another contact hollow connector body), and this assembly is removed. Subsequently, the second hollow connector body of the first connector and / or the first hollow connector body of the second connector are twisted, such that the corresponding resilient seal seals against the hollow connector body at the second contact position (including the actuated position).

[0030] The hollow connector bodies can be interconnected, including using a locking mechanism and rotating from a first contact position to a second contact (actuated or enabled) position, as disclosed in U.S. Patent 10,247,342.

[0031] Any number of connectors and / or connector assemblies can be connected, each additional connector or connector assembly initially utilized with a first fluid transfer location and a first fluid flow path, and utilized via a second fluid transfer location and a second fluid flow path after being connected to a new (additional) connector or connector assembly. Thus, for example, using... Figure 1C and 2CFor reference, an additional (e.g., third) connector may be attached to the outer surface 200' of the second connector 2000 and, after the hollow body is placed in the actuated position, and subsequently after the fluid transfer member 300' is moved to the second fluid transfer position, receive fluid from the second connector along the second fluid flow path, and, when the fluid transfer member in the third connector is in the first position, transfer fluid along the first flow path.

[0032] by Figure 4B-4D Referring to the aspect shown in 5A, the fluid transfer member 300 has pins 315A, 315B that prevent further sliding movement in the grooves 155, 255 in the first and second positions when in contact with the ends 161A, 261A, 162B, 262B of the wall sections 160, 260 in a first position and when in contact with the ends 181A, 281A, 181B, 281B of the wall sections 170, 270, 180, 280 in a second position.

[0033] In a preferred aspect of the connector (see...) Figure 2A 3 (especially), 5A and 5C), the outer surfaces 110 and 220 of the first and second hollow connector bodies each include a corresponding locking mechanism (first locking mechanism 150; second locking mechanism 250), the corresponding locking mechanism including: protrusions 151 and 251 extending above the surface, the protrusions including grooves 152 and 252 and guides 153 and 253; and inclined surfaces 155 and 255 extending below the surface. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes guides 153 and 253 on the protrusions and spring arms 159 and 259. Figures 3A-3B In the aspects shown, the first connector body includes first locking mechanisms 150A and 150B, which include protrusions 151A and 151B, grooves 152A and 152B, guides 153A and 153B, bevels 155A and 155B, and spring arms 159A and 159B; the second connector body includes second locking mechanisms 250A and 250B, which include protrusions 251A and 251B, grooves 252A and 252B, guides 253A and 253B, bevels 255A and 255B, and spring arms 259A and 259B. The locking mechanisms are integrally formed with the body, therefore, when the body moves from the first position to the second position, the locking mechanisms will not move separately from the other parts of the body. It should be understood that, for ease of reference, although... Figure 1A , 2AFigures 1 and 3 show locking mechanisms 150, 250 and sub-assemblies 500A, 500B on the outer surfaces of the first and second hollow bodies of the first connector 1000, but when the two connectors are connected together, the locking mechanism of the hollow body of one connector contacts the locking mechanism of the hollow body of the other connector, and the anti-actuation assembly 500 (sub-assemblies 500A, 500B include corresponding strips 520A, 520B) is inserted between the locking mechanisms.

[0034] An anti-actuation component (when present) prevents the formation of an actuating position between the connector or connector assembly, while allowing the formation of an actuating position between the connector or connector assembly when removed. This component, or each sub-assembly, may include a pull ring if desired.

[0035] After removing the anti-actuation component 500, any one or both contact hollow connector bodies can be rotated from the first position such that the bevel of the locking mechanism of one hollow connector body engages with the groove in the protrusion of the locking mechanism of the other hollow connector body, until the hollow body is in the second (actuated) position. Once the hollow connector body is in the actuated position, the interior of the connector body will circulate fluidly through the corresponding coaxially aligned orifices 290, 190', preferably in a sterile manner without any external contamination.

[0036] Optionally, (a) the surface of the bevel and the surface of the groove that will contact the surface of the bevel have an initial angle, and are then leveled such that when the connector body is in the actuated position, the protrusion rests on the horizontal surface, providing the required amount of pressure to the body of the seal, and / or (b) particularly as Figures 3A-3B As shown in Figure 5B, the locking mechanism has spring arms 159 (159A, 159B) and 259 (259A, 259B) that bend to deflect bump guides 153 (153A, 153B) and 253 (253A, 253B). Once the bump has passed, the bump guides return to hold the bump in the actuated position, preferably providing a tactile and / or audible "click" sound simultaneously. Figure 3A For reference, "A" and "B" indicate the position of the spring arm after bending, providing a tactile and / or audible "click" sound.

[0037] In some embodiments, each connector or connector assembly includes an alignment arrangement for mating an anti-actuation component with a first connector hollow body and a second connector hollow body, the alignment arrangement including a protrusion and a recess; wherein the first and second surfaces of the anti-actuation component, the first end of the first hollow connector body, and the first end of the second hollow connector body each have at least one protrusion and / or at least one recess, such that the first surface of the anti-actuation component mates with the first hollow connector body surface, and the second surface of the anti-actuation component mates with the second hollow connector body surface.

[0038] For example, in Figure 3A and 3B In the illustrated aspect, the connector further includes an alignment arrangement structure 800 comprising a recess 801 (illustrated recess having two slots, (801a and 802b)) in a face 110 of a first hollow connector body and a protrusion 810 (shown as having two hooks 810' and a pin 810) on a first surface 511 of an anti-actuation protrusion 501, the protrusion engaging with the recess 801 (wherein the second connector hollow body has the same structure). As described below, in the aspect including the pin, the engagement of the pin with the recess further reduces bending / movement when the sub-assembly engages with the corresponding hollow body.

[0039] If necessary, each sub-assembly 500A, 500B may include a bonding arrangement structure comprising at least one protrusion and at least one recess, such that when the hollow connector bodies are in contact with each other in a first position, the first anti-actuation sub-assembly and the second anti-actuation sub-assembly can mate together. For example, as Figure 5C As shown, subassemblies 500A and 500B include corresponding bonding arrangements 550A and 550B, which include protrusions 551A and 551B and recesses 552A and 552B, wherein protrusion 551A mates with recess 552B, and protrusion 551B mates with recess 551A. Advantageously, this allows the operator to pull any one or both subassemblies and / or any one or both peelable strips 520A and 520B, and to remove the anti-actuation component from the connector or connector assembly, enabling the hollow connector body to be placed in the actuated position.

[0040] In some respects, the integrally formed locking mechanism and anti-actuation components and their operation can be as described in U.S. Patent 10,247,342.

[0041] To improve the sterility of the connector body's interior, the strip (sealing layer) is preferably arranged to cover the opening at the outer surface of the hollow connector body. The strip can have different configurations. Typically, the strip is attached (e.g., welded, captured, or clamped) to the anti-actuation component protrusion and / or the surface of the hollow connector body. Preferably, the strip is attached to the corresponding sub-component protrusion and the hollow connector body surface (also covering the seal and contacting the sealing lip). In many embodiments, the strip may also cover all or at least a portion of the face seal without being attached to the seal. For example, each strip may completely cover at least the seal closest to the opening. The strip may not be attached to the seal itself, but may be attached to the surface of the face surrounding each seal.

[0042] The release strip may be made of an impermeable material or a permeable material that resists the passage of contaminants, including bioinhibitors. These materials include, but are not limited to, elastic sheets, polymer films, and metal foils, such as aluminum foil, any of which may further include reinforcing materials. Furthermore, the release strip may be coated and / or impregnated with a biocide. Preferably, the release strip is a sterile porous or microporous membrane that allows steam to pass through during autoclaving and has a minimum tensile strength of about 60 N in some respects.

[0043] Any of a variety of seals can be provided on the surface, including, for example, gaskets, resilient sealing members, or O-rings. Preferably, the seal comprises soft rubber or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) (e.g., Shore A hardness of about 50 to about 65). Flexible sealing lips 123A, 223A (if present) help prevent environmental contaminants from entering the connector assembly when the anti-actuation component is removed. Because the lips can bend and spring back, the stripper strip can be removed with less force, and the lips can quickly close the gap. When the hollow connector body moves (e.g., twists) to the actuation position, the flexible lips 123a, 223a (preferably narrow) quickly fold into recesses in each hollow connector body surface (123b, 223b), where the lips and sealing bodies (sealing rhombuses) contact each other, providing a more robust face seal. The contact between the rhombuses provides a face-to-face seal, preventing fluid leakage even under increased pressure (e.g., pressures up to about 4 barg).

[0044] In another aspect, a connector assembly is provided, including one aspect of the connector, further comprising: a first removable cover engaging with a first hollow connector body, wherein a removable anti-actuation component is inserted between the first removable cover and the first hollow connector body, the first removable cover covering an outer surface of the first hollow connector body; and a second removable cover engaging with a second hollow connector body, wherein a removable anti-actuation component is inserted between the second removable cover and the second hollow connector body, the second removable cover covering an outer surface of the second hollow connector body.

[0045] To prevent accidental removal or damage to the stripper strip, each connector body may further include a removable cover that at least covers a large portion of the stripper strip and a first end of the connector body. The cover may be fitted onto the connector body at the first end, for example, via a friction fit or a snap-fit, and may have any of a variety of different configurations. For example, as... Figure 7A and 7BAs shown, each cover 600 (the cover 700 on the second connector assembly will have the same structure) may have a rigid top 601 protecting at least a portion of the stripping strip and a skirt 602 fitted along the edge of the connector bodies 100, 200. The cover 600 may also include a handle 610 as part of the skirt or a handle extending axially below the skirt 602. Preferably, as Figure 7B As shown, the cover includes a tear strip 615 having a tear strip handle 616 to allow an operator to grasp the tear strip handle and tear the tear strip, making it easier to remove the cover from the connector body. A peel strip 520 (520A) can be axially bent under the handle 610, and the handle can extend along all or at least a portion of the peel strip 520 (520A). The handle, tear strip, and / or tear strip handle can be used to lift the cover 600 from the connector body 100 and also to prevent unintentional manipulation of the anti-actuation component protrusion 501 and / or the peel strip.

[0046] The connectors and the components of the connector assembly can be sterilized in a manner known in the art (e.g., autoclaving, gamma irradiation, etc.).

[0047] The connector and its components can be formed from a variety of materials. For example, any one or more of the following—the hollow connector body, locking mechanism, anti-actuation component, and cover—can be made of any metallic and / or polymeric material compatible with the fluid that will flow through the connector assembly. Preferably, the connector body, locking mechanism, and cover are made of a polymeric material, which may include, but is not limited to, one or more of polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethersulfone, polyvinylidene fluoride, or polysulfone. For some embodiments, transparent or translucent polymeric materials may be selected. Typically, the hollow body, hollow tube, protrusion, and connector body cover are formed of rigid injection-molded plastic, preferably BPA-free plastics such as polyethersulfone (PES), polycarbonate (PC), polysulfone (PSU), and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), while the cover is made of low-density injection-molded plastic, such as TPE or polypropylene (PP).

[0048] These components can be manufactured in various ways, including molding, machining, pressing and stamping, and can be shaped into sub-assemblies.

[0049] Alternatively or additionally, certain components according to various aspects of the invention may be integral, for example, manufactured by additive manufacturing (sometimes referred to as "additive layer manufacturing" or "3D printing"). They are typically formed by repeatedly depositing metal powder bonded together with an activatable binder (e.g., binder jetting, sometimes also referred to as "droplet deposition on powder"), typically followed by agglomeration of the powder, for example, by sintering. Certain components may be manufactured together substantially simultaneously in a continuous operation via additive manufacturing.

[0050] Any suitable additive manufacturing equipment can be used, and various production 3D printers are suitable and available on the market.

[0051] All references cited in this article, including publications, patent applications and patents, are incorporated herein by reference as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated as incorporated herein by reference and described in its entirety.

[0052] In the context of describing the invention (particularly in the context of the appended claims), the terms “a” and “the,” “the,” and “at least one,” and similar designations, should be interpreted as encompassing both singular and plural aspects, unless otherwise stated herein or obviously contradicted by the context. A list of one or more items following the term “at least one” (e.g., “at least one of A and B”) should be understood to refer to one item selected from the listed items (A or B), or any combination of two or more listed items (A and B), unless otherwise stated herein or obviously contradicted by the context. Unless otherwise stated, the terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “with” should be interpreted as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including but not limited to”). Unless otherwise indicated herein, the enumeration of numerical ranges herein is intended only as a way of abbreviating each individual value falling within that range, and each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were separately described herein. Unless otherwise indicated herein or obviously contradicted by the context, all methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order. Unless otherwise required, the use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein is intended only to better illustrate the invention and does not constitute a limitation on the scope of the invention. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating that any unclaimed element is essential for carrying out the invention.

[0053] This document describes preferred aspects of the invention, including the best modes known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Variations of those preferred aspects will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect those skilled in the art to appropriately employ such variations, and the inventors wish to practice the invention in ways other than those specifically described herein. Therefore, the invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter set forth in the appended claims as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by the context, the invention covers any combination of the foregoing elements in all possible variations.

Claims

1. A connector comprising: A first hollow connector body has an inner surface and an outer surface including a slot, and the first hollow connector body has an opening through the inner surface and the outer surface. The second hollow connector body has an inner surface and an outer surface including a slot, and the second hollow connector body has an opening through the inner surface and the outer surface. The outer surface of the first hollow connector body includes a first annular groove, and a first elastically deformable annular seal is arranged in the first annular groove around the orifice; and the outer surface of the second hollow connector body includes a second annular groove, and a second elastically deformable annular seal is arranged in the second annular groove around the orifice. as well as A fluid transfer member is inserted between a first hollow connector body and a second hollow connector body, wherein the fluid transfer member is slidably arranged in a groove on the inner surface of the first hollow connector body and a groove on the inner surface of the second hollow connector body to provide slidable movement between a first fluid transfer position and a second fluid transfer position. The fluid transmission member has a first surface with a groove facing the inner surface of the first hollow connector body and a second surface with a groove facing the inner surface of the second hollow connector body, and has a first fluid transmission orifice through the first surface and a second fluid transmission orifice through the first surface and the second surface. The fluid transmission member has a first open end and a second closed end, wherein the first open end is in fluid communication with a first fluid transmission orifice and not in fluid communication with a second fluid transmission orifice. When the fluid transmission member is in the first fluid transmission position, it provides a first fluid flow path through the first open end and the first fluid transmission orifice; and when the fluid transmission member is in the second fluid transmission position, it provides a second fluid flow path through the orifice of the first hollow connector body, the second fluid transmission orifice of the fluid transmission member, and the orifice of the second hollow connector body.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the first elastic annular seal in the first annular groove and the second elastic annular seal in the second annular groove both have flexible lips.

3. The connector according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the outer surface of the first hollow connector body comprises: An integrated locking mechanism; The integrally formed locking mechanism includes at least one protrusion with a groove and at least one bevel; And the anti-actuation component engagement portion, which includes at least one recess and / or at least one protrusion; and The outer surface of the second hollow connector body includes: an integrally formed locking mechanism; the integrally formed locking mechanism includes at least one protrusion with a groove and at least one bevel; and an anti-actuation component engagement portion, which includes at least one recess and / or at least one protrusion.

4. A connector assembly comprising the connector according to claim 3, comprising: A first removable cover engages with a first hollow connector body, wherein a removable anti-actuation component is inserted between the first removable cover and the first hollow connector body, and the first removable cover covers the outer surface of the first hollow connector body. as well as A second removable cover engages with a second hollow connector body, wherein a removable anti-actuation component is inserted between the second removable cover and the second hollow connector body, and the second removable cover covers the outer surface of the second hollow connector body.

5. A method for fluid connection, the method comprising: Position the first connector to contact the second connector. The first connector includes: a first hollow connector body having an inner surface and an outer surface including a slot, the first hollow connector body having an orifice through the inner surface and the outer surface; a second hollow connector body having an inner surface and an outer surface including a slot, the second hollow connector body having an orifice through the inner surface and the outer surface; and a first fluid transfer member inserted between the first hollow connector body and the second hollow connector body, wherein the first fluid transfer member is slidably arranged in a slot in the inner surface of the first hollow connector body and a slot in the inner surface of the second hollow connector body to provide slidable movement between a first fluid transfer position and a second fluid transfer position, the first fluid transfer member having a first slot facing the inner surface of the first hollow connector body. The first fluid transmission member has a first open end and a second closed end, wherein the first open end is in fluid communication with the first fluid transmission orifice and not in fluid communication with the second fluid transmission orifice, and provides a first fluid flow path through the first open end and the first fluid transmission orifice when the first fluid transmission member is in the first fluid transmission position; and provides a second fluid flow path through the orifice of the first hollow connector body, the second fluid transmission orifice of the first fluid transmission member, and the second fluid flow path through the orifice of the second hollow connector body when the first fluid transmission member is in the second fluid transmission position. The second connector includes: a third hollow connector body having an inner surface and an outer surface including a slot, the third hollow connector body having an orifice through the inner surface and the outer surface; a fourth hollow connector body having an inner surface and an outer surface including a slot, the fourth hollow connector body having an orifice through the inner surface and the outer surface; and a second fluid transfer member inserted between the third hollow connector body and the fourth hollow connector body, wherein the second fluid transfer member is slidably arranged in the slot of the inner surface of the third hollow connector body and the slot of the inner surface of the fourth hollow connector body to provide slidable movement between a third fluid transfer position and a fourth fluid transfer position, the second fluid transfer member having a third... The third fluid transmission member has a third fluid transmission orifice through the third surface and a fourth fluid transmission orifice through the third and fourth surfaces; the second fluid transmission member has a third open end and a fourth closed end, wherein the third open end is in fluid communication with the third fluid transmission orifice but not in fluid communication with the fourth fluid transmission orifice, providing a third fluid flow path through the third open end and the third fluid transmission orifice when the second fluid transmission member is in the third fluid transmission position; and providing a fourth fluid flow path through the orifice of the third hollow connector body, the fourth fluid transmission orifice of the second fluid transmission member, and the orifice of the fourth hollow connector body when the second fluid transmission member is in the fourth fluid transmission position. The method further includes: The outer surface of the third hollow connector body of the second connector is brought into contact with the outer surface of the second hollow connector body of the first connector to provide a first contact position. The third hollow connector body of the second connector and / or the second hollow connector body of the first connector are twisted to provide a second contact position to provide an enabled position, so that the first fluid transmission member slides in the first connector to the second fluid transmission position, while the second fluid transmission member in the second connector is in the third fluid transmission position.

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising a third fluid flow path through the first connector and through the second connector along a second fluid flow path.

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