Cryosystem connector

Abstract

A cryogenic system connector. A cryogenic device includes a connector having a connector base configured for connection to a conduit carrying a cryogen and a slit extending through the base. The device has a plug configured for insertion into an opening in the base. The device also has a latch plate configured to slide within the slit between a first position in which the plug is inserted into the opening through an aperture in the latch plate and a second position in which a cryogenic probe is inserted into the opening through the aperture and in fluid communication with the opening. A sensor is coupled to control the flow of cryogen through the conduit by detecting whether the latch plate is in the first position or the second position.

Description

Invention Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to cryogenics, and more specifically, to the connection of entities to be used in cryogenic systems. Background of the Invention

[0002] Entities used in cryogenic systems (such as Dewar flasks or medical probes) are typically well-insulated to reduce refrigerant evaporation and are usually also well-sealed to prevent the ingress of elements such as moisture. For connecting entities, any connector should provide the same good insulation and sealing properties while allowing the entities to be connected and disconnected.

[0003] US Patent 3,845,974, granted to Pelloux, describes a coupling device for a pipeline conduit used to transport cryogenic liquids. The device is stated to be of the type that is easy to manufacture and break, and includes two connectable coupling bodies.

[0004] US Patent 3,988,029, granted to Gibson, describes a coupling device for cryogenic fluids that allows liquids and vapors to pass simultaneously through a coaxially arranged assembly. The device is stated to have a low-thermal-transfer insulation integral with the coupling and the ability to connect and disconnect without tools.

[0005] US Patent 4,107,946, granted to Potter, describes an interface for a magnetic Dewar flask that includes a low-leakage disconnect fitting that maintains the vacuum integrity of both the Dewar flask and the connected transmission line.

[0006] US Patent 5,363,879, granted to Rhoades, describes a coupling assembly for distributing cryogenic fluid. The assembly has an upstream terminal coupled to a cryogenic fluid source and a downstream terminal connected to a container for receiving the cryogenic fluid. A lift valve assembly is located at the upstream distribution terminal.

[0007] US Patent 5,429,155, granted to Brzyski et al., describes a cryogenic fluid connection having a male half and a female half. Each half has a lift valve arranged to move toward and away from a valve seat. The male half has an outer sleeve adapted to guide the initial engagement of the distal end of the female half.

[0008] US Patent 5,452,582, granted to Longsworth, describes a cryogenic probe in which refrigerant is supplied by a high-pressure room-temperature supply. The refrigerant flows through a pre-cooled heat exchanger in the probe and through a flow restrictor, where the pressure drops.

[0009] US Patent 5,946,920, granted to Clarke, describes controlling the flow rate of a liquid refrigerant by variably controlling the pressure of the propellant gas acting directly or indirectly on the liquid refrigerant.

[0010] US Patent 5,957,918, granted to Griswold, describes a cryosurgery instrument having a Dewar flask and a cap threadedly connected to the Dewar flask during use, wherein a main valve portion is threadedly secured to the cap. The handedness of the threads on the main valve portion is opposite to that of the cap threads.

[0011] US Patent 6,035,646, granted to Griswold, describes a liquid refrigerant extraction device that includes a stopper for inserting in an airtight manner into the neck of a Dewar flask containing refrigerant.

[0012] US Patent 6,082,400, granted to Tocha, describes a connector for connecting the ends of a vacuum-insulated line via a coupling socket and a coupling plug. The socket and plug are configured to deliver cryogenic media and have a closing element.

[0013] US Patent 6,145,322, granted to Odashima, describes a cryogenic connector comprising a socket and a plug removably insertable into the socket. The socket and plug have channels for allowing cryogenic media to pass through them, and are provided with valves for blocking the respective channels when the plug is disconnected from the socket.

[0014] US Patent 6,183,019, granted to Owen, describes a coupling device capable of connecting two cryogenic fluid conduits in a fluidly communicating manner without causing temperature changes. The coupling device is stated to have a fluid flow path with a substantially constant cross-sectional area. The coupling device is stated to be designed for easy connection and disconnection and to provide a secure connection, particularly at cryogenic temperatures.

[0015] US Patent 6,945,477, granted to Lambert et al., describes a cryogenic coupling device comprising a valved container and a valved nozzle. Rollers in the outer ring of the container are received in helical channels along the ring of the nozzle. Notches or detents in each channel provide a discharge position for fluid to be discharged before the nozzle is completely disconnected from the container.

[0016] US Patent 7,128,347, granted to Kerin, describes a quick connector coupling for forming a joint in a fluid pipeline system. The quick connector coupling has a female connector body, a male member, and a latch that engages with the connector body.

[0017] US Patent 7,189,228, granted to Eum et al., describes a disposable probe assembly including a detachable collar. When twisted, the collar activates a finger locking element.

[0018] US Patent 7,381,207, granted to Duong et al., describes a quick-disconnect assembly that includes a reusable component having a distal end with a male lip. Disposable components exist that, when used in conjunction with the reusable component, have quick-disconnect capability.

[0019] US Patent 7,469,718, granted to Lambert et al., describes a cylindrical quick-disconnect female cryogenic connector for interconnection with a cryogenic fluid transfer device. The connector includes a connector body and an adapter. The connector body has a first cavity accommodating a laterally cut tubular bushing, and the adapter has one end attached to the connector body and the other end attached to the device.

[0020] US Patent 8,092,448, granted to DeLonzor, describes a liquid refrigerant fluid system for supplying cryogenic liquid to a cryogenic probe. The refrigerant flow from the refrigerant source to the cryogenic probe is induced by pressurizing the refrigerant source with air supplied by a pressurized pump.

[0021] US Patent 8,517,749, granted to Marshall, describes a device capable of enabling rapid disconnection, termination, or connection for cryogenic transmission lines. This device is a connector that allows two lines to be connected and coupled to simultaneously allow fluid flow and subsequently electrical communication. The connection and termination are stated to occur successfully under pressure.

[0022] US Patent 8,784,409, granted to Robillotto et al., describes a cryogenic medical device for delivering supercooled liquid cryoprotectant to cryogenic probes of various configurations. The device is a closed or semi-closed system in which the liquid cryoprotectant is present in both supply and return phases.

[0023] U.S. Patent 10,022,175 to Abboud et al. describes a first pliable element and a second pliable element, the first pliable element defining a cooling chamber, and a second pliable element partially enclosing the first pliable element, thereby defining a joint between the first and second pliable elements. A check valve in fluid communication with the joint is included.

[0024] U.S. Patent 10,054,262 to Baust et al. describes a cryogenic system comprising a reservoir containing a liquid refrigerant and a subcooling coil immersed in the liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant is supplied to the subcooling coil and cooled under pressure to generate a pressurized mixed-phase refrigerant within the subcooling coil. This pressurized mixed-phase refrigerant is supplied to a cryogenic apparatus via a supply line for the apparatus's use.

[0025] US Patent 10,159,522, granted to Littrup et al., describes a device for freezing body tissues, which has a main drive system capable of generating nitrogen under physical conditions close to the critical point of a liquid-vapor system for nitrogen.

[0026] US Patent 10,531,656, granted to Schryver, describes a liquid nitrogen delivery and flow control system for regulating cold chamber temperature. Liquid nitrogen is delivered from a storage Dewar flask to a liquid nitrogen boiler. The Dewar flask is filled via a connector attached to the feed line into the manifold. The flow of liquid nitrogen into the Dewar flask is regulated by an electrically controlled valve that receives a signal from a control panel on a control line. During the Dewar flask filling cycle, the internal back pressure in the Dewar flask is released via an electrically controlled gas release valve operated by a signal control line.

[0027] US Patent 10,859,211, granted to Bollinger, describes a steam stopper that partially seals the opening of a Dewar flask. The steam stopper includes a steam stopper cap configured to cover the opening of the Dewar flask. The steam stopper includes a neck formed of a plurality of discs and a plurality of sheets. The steam stopper includes fasteners connecting the plurality of discs, the plurality of sheets, and the steam stopper cap.

[0028] U.S. Patent Application US2004 / 0024392, granted to Lewis et al., describes a device for delivering cryogenic surgical fluids in surgical or other medical settings. The device includes a multilayer expanded polytetrafluoroethylene conduit having a low profile, low thermal conductivity, and is stated to provide exceptional flexibility.

[0029] U.S. Patent Application US2019 / 0390822, granted to Brothers, describes a supply line for supplying cryogenic liquid to multiple cryogenic freezers. A filling line with a diameter larger than the supply line allows for filling of storage tanks at a greater rate than filling through the supply line, and allows for filling of storage tanks simultaneously with the supply of cryogenic liquid to the cryogenic freezers.

[0030] Chinese patent CN203641719U, granted to Wu Jiannan, describes a connector for connecting a gas storage tank and a Dewar flask. The connector has a threaded sleeve for connecting the fluid outlet of the gas storage tank. A corresponding connector body exists for filling the Dewar flask.

[0031] UK patent GB2321531A, granted to Cutler, describes an infrared radiation detector with a Dewar-type container. The detector has a connector attached to the container wall. The connector includes an optical fiber that transmits infrared radiation, and the optical fiber terminates near the detector located within the Dewar-type container. Invention Overview

[0032] An embodiment of the present invention provides a cryogenic device, comprising:

[0033] Connector, the connector having:

[0034] Connector substrate, the connector substrate being configured for connection to a conductor carrying refrigerant.

[0035] pipe; and

[0036] Extending through the slit in the substrate;

[0037] A plug configured for insertion into an opening in a substrate;

[0038] A latch plate configured to slide within a slit between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position a plug is inserted into an opening through a hole in the latch plate, and in the second position a cryogenic probe is inserted into the opening through a hole and in fluid communication with the opening; and

[0039] A sensor is connected to control the flow of refrigerant through the conduit by detecting whether the latch plate is in a first or second position.

[0040] In the disclosed embodiment, the plug has a groove, and when the plug is inserted through the hole, the hole clamps the groove so as to lock the plug to the latch plate.

[0041] In another disclosed embodiment, the cryogenic probe has a groove, and when the probe is inserted through a hole, the hole clamps the groove to lock the probe to a latch plate.

[0042] In yet another disclosed embodiment, there is a control lever that penetrates another hole in the latch plate, and the control lever is configured to operate a sensor.

[0043] In an alternative embodiment, there is a control lever that penetrates another hole in the latch plate, and when the latch plate is in a first position, the control lever is in a first control lever position that deactivates the sensor to prevent refrigerant flow, and when the latch plate is in a second position, the control lever is in a second control lever position that activates the sensor to allow refrigerant flow.

[0044] In another alternative embodiment, a control lever is present that penetrates another hole in the latch plate, and when the latch plate is in a first position, the control lever is in a first control lever position that prevents the latch plate from moving from the first position, and when the latch plate is in a second position, the control lever is in a second control lever position that prevents the latch plate from moving from the second position. Typically, when the control lever is translated from the first control lever position, the control lever allows the latch plate to move from the first control lever position, and when the control lever is translated from the second control lever position, the control lever allows the latch plate to move from the second control lever position.

[0045] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method is also provided, the method comprising:

[0046] A connector is provided, which has:

[0047] A connector substrate configured for connection to a conduit carrying a refrigerant; and

[0048] Extending through the slit in the substrate;

[0049] The plug is configured to be inserted into an opening in the substrate;

[0050] The latch plate slides within the slit between a first position and a second position. In the first position, a plug is inserted into the opening through a hole in the latch plate. In the second position, a cryogenic probe is inserted into the opening through a hole and is in fluid communication with the opening.

[0051] Connect a sensor to control the flow of refrigerant through the conduit by detecting whether the latch plate is in the first or second position.

[0052] This disclosure will be more fully understood through the following detailed description of embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Brief description of the attached diagram

[0053] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a device used in cryomedical surgery according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 2A and Figure 2BThis is a schematic diagram of the connector of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing the connector when the proximal end of the probe is inserted into the connector; and

[0056] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a connector when the sealing plug is inserted into the connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Detailed description of the embodiments

[0058] Overview

[0059] In medical cryosurgical procedures, from a safety perspective, it is important to keep the cryoprotectant isolated and sealed from the surgeon performing the procedure and the patient receiving the procedure, so that neither the patient nor the physician is directly exposed to the cryoprotectant. The procedure typically involves connecting and disconnecting a probe used in the procedure (which in some embodiments may be a sterile, disposable probe) from a Dewar flask storing the cryoprotectant, and leakage of the cryoprotectant is possible at both times. Furthermore, when the probe is disconnected from the Dewar flask, it is important to seal the connection to the Dewar flask to reduce cryoprotectant evaporation, prevent ice formation at the connection, and prevent cryoprotectant leakage from the Dewar flask. While speed and simplicity of operation are important for connecting and disconnecting the probe and sealing the connection, it is equally important (if not more important) that these actions must not occur unintentionally.

[0060] Embodiments of the invention address these considerations by providing a connector to a Dewar flask storage unit having a pump for storing refrigerant. The connector, together with a latch coupled within it, has three states: a sealed state with a sealing plug in the connector; an active state with a probe in the connector; and an intermediate state when neither the sealing plug nor the probe is in the connector. The transition from the intermediate state to the sealed or active state is quick and simple by inserting either the sealing plug or the probe into the connector, and can be accomplished with just one hand. Once inserted, the latch locks the probe or plug in place, making accidental removal impossible.

[0061] In addition, for safety reasons, an actuation mechanism attached to the latch is present, requiring the removal of the stopper or probe to first operate the mechanism with two fingers of one hand to loosen the stopper or probe. Once loosened, the other hand can pull out the stopper or probe. Also for safety, the mechanism is configured to detect the presence of the stopper or probe by activating a corresponding sensor indicating its presence when the stopper or probe is inserted into the connector. Detection of the stopper's presence disables the Dewar flask pump, but the pump can operate when the presence of the probe is detected. Detailed description

[0062] In the following description, the same elements in the figures are identified by the same numbers. Furthermore, all directional references (e.g., up, down, upward, downward, left, right, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, and horizontal) are used for identification purposes only to aid the reader's understanding of the invention and do not impose limitations, in particular, on the positioning, orientation, or use of embodiments of the invention.

[0063] For reference Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a device 20 used in a cryomedical procedure according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, the procedure presented in the following description is for a breast tumor; however, it should be understood that the device 20 can be used for other procedures, such as for prostate tumors or kidney tumors, and all such procedures are considered to be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0064] The procedure is performed by a physician 24 on a patient 28, and the physician has inserted the distal end 52 of probe 60 into the patient's body. Typically, probe 60 is not disposable, as assumed in the description below. In some embodiments, probe 60 comprises a sterile, disposable probe, and those skilled in the art will be able to adapt this type of probe to the following description with the necessary modifications. The physician can view images of the procedure on screen 32.

[0065] The proximal end 56 of the probe is inserted into the opening 70 in the connector 68 of the refrigerant storage unit 64. The storage unit 64 is operated by the processor 36 and includes, in particular, a refrigerant pump 40 and a refrigerant delivery section 66, both under the control of the processor. In one embodiment, the delivery section 66 includes a cylindrical inner cavity 67 (also referred to herein as conduit 67) having multiple different diameters. The section 66 and the conduit 67... Figure 2B As shown in the image.

[0066] The distal end of terminal 56 is configured to mate with conduit 67, which serves as the male section and the lumen as the female section. Once mated, this assembly forms a cylindrical supply lumen 67S and a tubular return lumen 67R, both of which can be used for the delivery and return of refrigerant. (Lumens 67S and 67R are in...) Figure 3 (As shown in the diagram.) Therefore, the refrigerant 72 contained in the storage unit can be delivered to the distal end via a probe through the supply cavity 66S and the proximal end. The refrigerant returns from the distal end to the storage unit via the probe and the proximal end, as well as the return cavity 66R.

[0067] During the procedure, it is important not to remove the proximal terminal 56 from connector 68. Such removal is usually unintentional and could result in the leakage of cryotherapy from lumens 66S and 66R and / or the proximal terminal 56. Such leakage is a safety hazard. To prevent unintentional removal, once the proximal terminal has been inserted into the connector and engaged with the lumen, the latch plate 76 in the connector automatically locks the proximal terminal to the connector. As a further safety feature, the proximal terminal can be unlocked from the connector to allow removal, but only actively by the simultaneous actuation of button 80 and latch plate retainer 84, which is securely attached to the latch plate. The following section discusses... Figure 2A , Figure 2B The construction and operation of the latch plate in connector 68 are described in more detail.

[0068] Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is a schematic diagram of connector 68 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The figures show the connector in several different views, with the proximal terminal 56 not inserted into the connector. Illustration "A" also shows two opposing faces 76A, 76B of the latch plate 76, and Figure "B" shows a front view of the latch.

[0069] For clarity of description herein, it is assumed that connector 68 is drawn on a set of orthogonal xyz axes. In the disclosed embodiment, it is assumed that the z-axis is collinear with the axis of symmetry of the cavity 67 and extends proximally and horizontally from segment 66. In the disclosed embodiment, latch plate 76 is formed as a generally rectangular plate orthogonal to the z-axis and has edges assumed to be vertical and horizontal. It is assumed that the positive y-axis is parallel to the vertical edge of plate 76 and points upward; it is assumed that the positive x-axis is parallel to the horizontal edge of the plate and points to the right when viewed from the distal side along the z-axis. It is assumed that the origin of the axes is located in the center of the plate. It should be understood that the orientations described herein are for clarity and by way of example, and embodiments of the invention can function in substantially any orientation.

[0070] A latch plate 76 is held between a connector base plate 88 (located in the xy plane) and a connector cover 92. Two shoulders 96A and 96B are located in the base plate 88, both parallel to the y-axis and projecting from the plate in the positive z-direction. These shoulders are separated by the width of the latch plate, which is positioned between the shoulders. The shoulders constrain the plate to move parallel to the y-axis within a slit 98 between the shoulders. (Because a plate holder 84 is attached to the plate 76, the plate holder 84 also moves parallel to the y-axis.)

[0071] The latch plate 76 has two holes formed within the plate: a generally slit-shaped hole 100 parallel to the y-axis and a generally elliptical hole 104 penetrated by the z-axis. Further details regarding the structure and function of the holes are given below.

[0072] A cylindrical rod 108 (also shown in cross-section in the figure) formed as multiple solid cylinders 108A, 108B, and 108C of different diameters penetrates a slit-like hole 100. Cylinder 108A has two circular grooves 108A1 and 108A2 formed within it. A shoulder 146 is provided between cylinders 108A and 108B, and a shoulder 144 is provided between cylinders 108B and 108C.

[0073] Hole 100 has two different slits 102 and 106, each slit having a depth half the thickness of plate 76. Slit 102 has two different widths: the upper portion 110 and the lower portion 114 have widths corresponding to the diameter of cylinder 108C, and the central portion 122 has a width corresponding to the diameter of cylinder 108B. Slit 106 is divided into four different sections: the upper section 126 and the lower section 130 both terminate in a semicircle and have a width corresponding to the diameter of cylinder 108C; the upper middle section 134 has the diameter of cylinder 108B; and the partially circular lower middle section 138 has a diameter equal to the diameter of cylinder 108A. Plate 76 has an inner surface 142 formed by the two slits of different widths.

[0074] Button 80 is connected to the proximal end of cylindrical rod 108. The distal end of the rod is held within rod holder 112, which is fixed to base plate 88. Rod holder has blind hole 116, the diameter of which corresponds to the diameter of cylinder 108A of rod 108, and a spring 118 is provided within the blind hole to contact the distal end of the rod, the spring pushing the rod in the positive z-direction. It should be understood that rod 108 is capable of sliding in hole 116 in the z-direction.

[0075] Rod holder 112 serves as a support for two printed circuit board (PC) boards PC1 and PC2. Board PC1 has two pairs of radiating emitters TX1A, TX1B and TX2A, TX2B (assumed herein by way of example to include infrared emitters). Board PC2 has two pairs of receivers RX1A, RX1B and RX2A, RX2B configured to receive radiation emitted by the emitters. As an example herein, it is assumed that the receivers include phototransistors. There are four channels C1A, C1B, C2A, C2B in holder 112, and the emitters TX1A, TX1B, TX2A, TX2B are each aligned with a channel C1A, C1B, C2A, C2B and a receiver RX1A, RX1B and RX2A, RX2B. Therefore, in the absence of any obstructions in the channels, radiation from the emitters is received by the receivers and activates them.

[0076] As described below, cylinder 108A will block the channel unless groove 108A1 or 108A2 is aligned with the channel.

[0077] As explained further below, receivers RX1A, RX1B, RX2A, and RX2B are used as sensors and are also referred to herein as sensors RX1A, RX1B, RX2A, and RX2B. Sensors RX1A, RX1B, RX2A, and RX2B specifically detect the position of latch plate 76 in slit 98.

[0078] As described above, the latch plate 76 is restricted by shoulders 96A and 96B to move in the y-direction within the slit 98. The plate is pushed in the positive y-direction by a spring 120, which is held between the plate retainer 84 and the cover 92. Figure 2A and Figure 2B In the indicated state (i.e., when the proximal terminal 56 is not in the connector), movement of the plate in the y-direction is prevented by contacting the semi-circular section 124 of the hole 104 of the circular split lip 128 protruding from the latch disc 132 in the z-direction. The disc 132 and the split lip 128 are held in contact with the plate 76 by a spring 136, which pushes the disc in the positive z-direction and allows the disc to move along the z-axis.

[0079] exist Figure 2A and Figure 2B In the illustrated configuration, latch plate 76 is in its lowest possible y-position. In the illustrated configuration, the upper semi-circular segment 140 of section 126 engages with the cylinder 108C of rod 108. Furthermore, due to the force exerted on rod 108 by spring 118 along the positive z-direction, shoulder 144 between cylinders 108B and 108C is pushed against surface 76B of plate 76. Therefore, rod 108 is fixed in a position where it cannot move parallel to the z-axis. In this position, neither grooves 108A1 nor grooves 108A2 are aligned with any of channels C1A, C1B, C2A, or C2B. Instead, the channels are blocked by cylinder 108A, preventing any of sensors RX1A, RX1B, RX2A, or RX2B from being activated.

[0080] As described below, in embodiments of the present invention, plate 76 and rod 108 are in other positions, but in Figure 2A and Figure 2B In the case shown (where nothing is inserted into the hole 104), the latch plate 76 is in its lowest possible y position, and the lever 108 is in its farthest position measured parallel to the z-axis.

[0081] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of connector 68 when the proximal terminal 56 of probe 60 is inserted into the connector according to an embodiment of the present invention. The figure is in perspective (basically as shown). Figure 1The figure shows the connector and terminal in a cross-sectional view (as shown). The connector is also shown in a perspective view.

[0082] Terminal 56 fits within conduit 67, forming a cylindrical supply lumen 67S and connecting to a tubular return lumen 67R. Terminal 56 has an axis of symmetry that is collinear with the z-axis when it is in conduit 67. When terminal 56 is inserted into opening 70, it abuts against spring 136 in the negative z-direction, pushing lip 128 and its latching liner 132, causing the lip to disengage from the semi-circular opening 124. This disengagement allows latching plate 76 to move in the y-direction, and spring 120 pushes the plate in the positive y-direction.

[0083] The latch plate 76 moves along the positive y-direction until the opening 124 engages with the circular groove 150 in the terminal 56. This engagement clamps and locks the terminal in place so that it cannot be removed from the opening 70 except as described below. The groove 150 has a radius R1, and it should be understood that the value of R1 determines the position of the latch plate 76 when the terminal 56 is in place, and thus determines the distance the latch plate moves when the terminal is inserted into the opening 70.

[0084] The vertical movement of the latch plate 76 causes the shoulder 144 of the lever 108 to slide against the surface 76B of the latch plate within the slit-shaped hole 100. As the shoulder 144 slides against the surface 76B, the sliding continues until the slit containing the lever 108 widens at section 134. Figure 2A At this point, the spring 118 pushes the rod 108 in the positive z direction until the shoulder 144 contacts the inner surface 142.

[0085] Movement of rod 108 in the positive z-direction aligns groove 108A2 with channels C2A and C2B, thus preventing channel obstruction. (Channels C1A and C1B are blocked by cylinder 108A.) Therefore, transmitters TX2A and TX2B activate their respective sensors RX2A and RX2B. Sensor activation serves as a positive indication that terminal 56 has been inserted into opening 70. This positive indication from the sensors can be used by delivery section 66 to identify that it is safe to allow refrigerant to flow from storage unit 64, and thus activates the delivery section. Sensor deactivation, as further described below, prevents refrigerant flow.

[0086] In order to remove terminal 56 from opening 70, terminal must disengage from latch plate 76. Disengagement requires latch plate to move downward so that circular groove 150 is no longer held by latch plate, but in Figure 3 In the state shown, this is impossible because cylinder 108B contacts the upper part of the middle section 134.

[0087] Embodiments of the present invention provide a two-step method for removing terminal 56. As a first step, button 80 is typically pushed in by a finger or thumb of the physician 24 so that cylinder 108B no longer contacts the upper part of the upper intermediate section 134. Spring 120 still holds latch plate clamping groove 150, but removing contact between cylinder 108B and section 134 allows for the second step.

[0088] In the second step, the doctor uses his / her second finger to press down on the plate retainer 84, causing the latch plate 76 to move in the negative y direction and disengage from the recess 150 of the terminal. The doctor can then remove the terminal.

[0089] It should be understood that the first step of pushing button 80 deactivates sensors RX2A and RX2B by blocking the channels to the sensors. Sensor deactivation can be used to deactivate the refrigerant delivery section 66 of the refrigerant unit 64 and the operation of pump 40 performed by processor 36, thereby preventing refrigerant from flowing from the section and from the unit. It should also be understood that accidentally pushing button 80 and pressing retainer 84 will deactivate sensors RX2A and RX2B, and thus stop refrigerant flow by deactivating delivery section 66 and pump 40.

[0090] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of connector 68 when the sealing plug 200 is inserted into the connector according to an embodiment of the present invention. The figure is in perspective view (basically as shown). Figure 1 The figure shows the connector and plug in a cross-sectional view (as shown). The connector is also shown in a perspective view.

[0091] When probe 60 is not in use, refrigerant unit 64 can be sealed by plug 200 to prevent air and / or moisture from entering the unit, as well as to reduce any evaporation of refrigerant in the unit and prevent any uncontrolled release of refrigerant.

[0092] The plug 200 fits within the cavity 67 and is held within the cavity by an O-ring 204. The plug has an axis of symmetry that is collinear with the z-axis when the plug 200 is in the cavity. When the plug 200 is inserted into the opening 70, the plug pushes against the spring 136 in the negative z-direction, causing the lip 128 and its latching plate 132 to disengage from the semi-circular opening 124. This disengagement allows the latching plate 76 to move in the y-direction, and the spring 120 pushes the plate in the positive y-direction.

[0093] The latch plate 76 moves in the positive y-direction until the opening 124 engages the circular recess 208 in the plug 200. This engagement clamps the plug and locks the plug in place such that the plug cannot be removed from the opening 70 except as described below. The recess 208 has a radius R2, and it should be understood that when the plug 200 is in place, the value of R2 determines the position of the latch plate 76, and thus the distance the latch plate travels when the plug is inserted into the opening 70. In an embodiment of the present invention, R1 and R2 are configured to be different, and in the disclosed embodiment, R2<R1.

[0094] For the case where R2<R1, the shoulder 144 initially slides as described above with respect to the terminal 56( Figure 3 ). Because R2<R1, the possible vertical movement of the latch plate is greater than in the case using the terminal. Accordingly, the latch plate 76 continues to move vertically upward until the rod 108 can enter the central portion 122 of the slot 102( Figure 2A ). When the rod 108 enters the central section, the spring 118 pushes the rod in the positive z-direction until the shoulder 146 contacts the face 76B of the latch plate. In this case, the cylinder 108B contacts the upper portion of the central section 122, and this contact prevents the latch plate from moving downward.

[0095] Movement of the rod 108 in the positive z-direction aligns the recess 108A1 with the channels C1A and C1B, so that the channels are not blocked. (Channels C2A and C2B are now blocked by the cylinder 108A.) Thus, the transmitters TX1A and TX1B activate the corresponding sensors RX1A and RX1B. Sensor activation serves as a positive indication that the plug 200 has been inserted into the opening 70.

[0096] Typically, when the device 20 is powered on, the processor 36 uses the sensors RX1A and RX1B to verify that the plug 200 is already in place, so that after the plug is removed, the terminal 56 of the probe 60 can be inserted into the connector. Furthermore, upon shutdown, the processor 36 may use the sensors to verify that the plug 200 is in place to enable an orderly shutdown.

[0097] As with the terminal 56, embodiments of the present invention provide a two-step method for removing the plug 200. For the terminal 56, the first step is typically that the physician 24 pushes in the button 80 using one of his / her fingers. In the second step (which is now permitted because the first step enables the latch plate to move vertically), the physician uses a second finger to press down on the plate holder 84, causing the latch plate 76 to move in the negative y-direction and disengage from the recess 208 of the plug. The physician may then remove the plug.

[0098] It should be understood that the first step of pushing button 80 is to disable sensors RX1A and RX1B by blocking the channel to the receiver.

[0099] It should be understood that the embodiments described above are illustrated by way of example, and the invention is not limited to those specifically shown and described above. Rather, the scope of the invention includes combinations and sub-combinations of the various features described above, as well as variations and modifications of these combinations and sub-combinations that would occur to those skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description and that are not disclosed in the prior art.

Claims

1. A cryogenic device, comprising: - A connector, the connector comprising: -- A connector substrate, the substrate being configured for connection to a conduit carrying a refrigerant; -- A slit extending through the substrate; and -- A connector cover, the connector cover including a first cover opening and a second cover opening, the connector cover being coupled to the substrate; - A plug, the plug being configured for insertion into an opening in the substrate via the first cap opening; - A latch plate configured to slide within the slit between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the plug is inserted into the opening through a hole in the latch plate, and in the second position a cryogenic probe is inserted into the opening through the hole via the first cap opening and is in fluid communication with the opening; and - A sensor, which is coupled to control the flow of refrigerant through the conduit by detecting whether the latch plate is in the first position or the second position; - A control lever that penetrates the second cover opening and another hole in the latch plate, and the control lever is configured to operate the sensor; and - A button, which is attached to the proximal end of the control lever so as to be located outside the connector cover.

2. The cryogenic equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The plug includes a groove, and wherein, when the plug is inserted through the hole, the hole clamps the groove, thereby locking the plug to the latch plate.

3. The cryogenic equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The cryogenic probe includes a groove, and wherein, when the probe is inserted through the hole, the hole clamps the groove, thereby locking the probe to the latch plate.

4. The cryogenic device according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the connector cover further includes a third cover opening, and the cryogenic device further includes a latch plate retainer fixedly attached to the latch plate and protruding through the third cover opening.

5. The cryogenic equipment according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, When the latch plate is in the first position, the control lever is in a first control lever position that deactivates the sensor to prevent the refrigerant from flowing, and when the latch plate is in the second position, the control lever is in a second control lever position that activates the sensor to allow the refrigerant to flow.

6. The cryogenic device according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, When the latch plate is in the first position, the control lever is in a first control lever position that prevents the latch plate from moving from the first position, and when the latch plate is in the second position, the control lever is in a second control lever position that prevents the latch plate from moving from the second position.

7. The cryogenic device according to claim 6, wherein, The control lever allows the latch plate to move from the first position when translated from the first control lever position, and allows the latch plate to move from the second position when translated from the second control lever position.

8. A method comprising: - Provide a connector, said connector comprising: -- A connector substrate, the substrate being configured for connection to a conduit carrying a refrigerant; -- A slit extending through the substrate; and -- A connector cover, the connector cover including a first cover opening and a second cover opening, the cover being coupled to the substrate; - The plug is configured to be inserted into the substrate through the first cap opening; - The latch plate is slid within the slit between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the plug is inserted into the opening through a hole in the latch plate. In the second position, a cryogenic probe is inserted into the opening through the hole via the first cover opening and is in fluid communication with the opening. - Connect a sensor to control the flow of refrigerant through the conduit by detecting whether the latch plate is in the first position or the second position; - A control lever is provided, which penetrates the second cover opening and another hole in the latch plate, and the control lever is configured to operate the sensor; and - Attach the button to the proximal end of the control lever so that it is located outside the connector cover.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The plug includes a groove, and wherein, when the plug is inserted through the hole, the hole clamps the groove, thereby locking the plug to the latch plate.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The cryogenic probe includes a groove, and wherein, when the probe is inserted through the hole, the hole clamps the groove, thereby locking the probe to the latch plate.

11. The method according to any one of claims 8-10, wherein, The connector cover also includes a third cover opening, and the method further includes securingly attaching a latch plate retainer to the latch plate such that it protrudes through the third cover opening.

12. The method according to any one of claims 8-10, wherein, When the latch plate is in the first position, the control lever is in a first control lever position that deactivates the sensor to prevent the refrigerant from flowing, and when the latch plate is in the second position, the control lever is in a second control lever position that activates the sensor to allow the refrigerant to flow.

13. The method according to any one of claims 8-10, wherein, When the latch plate is in the first position, the control lever is in a first control lever position that prevents the latch plate from moving from the first position, and when the latch plate is in the second position, the control lever is in a second control lever position that prevents the latch plate from moving from the second position.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The control lever allows the latch plate to move from the first position when translated from the first control lever position, and allows the latch plate to move from the second position when translated from the second control lever position.

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