Coupling device with coating
By using sealing elements with antimicrobial coatings in the coupling device, the problems of insufficient sealing and microbial infection are solved, achieving sealing and antimicrobial properties during the connection and disconnection of the coupling device, thus improving safety.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- INTERLINKED CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2022-06-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-07
AI Technical Summary
Existing medical connection devices have risks of insufficient sealing, leakage, pipe displacement, and microbial infection during use, and may cause fluid leakage and patient injury if accidentally pulled.
A connection device has been designed, comprising a sealing element with an antimicrobial coating, which can form a sealed space when connecting and disconnecting, and kill bacteria by contacting the fluid through the antimicrobial coating, ensuring both sealing and antimicrobial properties.
It achieves sealing and leak-proof performance during connection and disconnection, while providing antimicrobial protection, reducing bacterial adhesion and fluid contamination, and improving the safety of patients and medical staff.
Smart Images
Figure CN117677421B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention generally relates to the field of medical devices. More specifically, this invention relates to a coupling device for transferring fluid. Background Technology
[0002] During patient treatment, it may be necessary to deliver one or more fluids (blood, blood products, one or more medications, etc.) to and / or deliver one or more fluids from the patient. Since fluids are often supplied via components (e.g., needles, cannulas, catheters, trocars, etc.) inserted into the patient during this type of treatment, it is desirable that the component remain relatively fixed after insertion. If the patient or any healthcare worker accidentally pulls on the tubing connected to the component after insertion, unintentional displacement and / or movement of the component may occur. Furthermore, accidents involving the patient and / or healthcare worker tripping over the tubing connected to the component can also lead to component displacement. It should be understood that this type of component displacement can not only cause pain to the patient, but may also lead to treatment consequences if fluid delivery is not performed correctly due to component displacement. Additionally, it should be noted that forcefully pulling on a component inserted into the patient may damage the patient's blood vessels. Furthermore, in patients with compromised immune systems, injured blood vessels can lead to serious infections.
[0003] Furthermore, in the event of accidental rupture of the tubing used to deliver fluid to a patient, it is desirable to mitigate any leakage of the fluid. For example, if the infused fluid is toxic, any leakage caused by a broken tube could be particularly dangerous.
[0004] WO 2018 / 087153 A1 discloses a coupling device for medical purposes. The coupling device provides sealing and leak-proof properties during fluid transfer through the device and during interruptions in fluid flow due to disconnection or separation of the device. Furthermore, the coupling device mitigates the effects of stress (e.g., tensile forces) on the tubing, particularly when the tubing is connected to elements used to transfer fluid to / from a patient.
[0005] Generally, bacterial colony attachment and / or biofilm formation are potential risk sources for medical devices, as patients may become infected via the device during treatment. Therefore, it is desirable to mitigate this risk for connecting devices used to deliver fluids to and / or from patients.
[0006] Therefore, it is desirable to provide alternatives to existing coupling devices. More specifically, it is desirable to provide coupling devices that have excellent sealing and leak-proof properties, and are able to mitigate the effects of stress (e.g., tension) on the tubing when it is used to deliver fluid to / from a patient, while also providing antimicrobial properties. Summary of the Invention
[0007] The object of the present invention is to alleviate one or more of the aforementioned problems and to provide a device for medical purposes that can conveniently reduce the effects of stress (e.g., tension) on tubes, particularly when the tubes are connected to elements for delivering fluid to / from a patient, wherein the device also has excellent sealing and leak-proof properties and provides antimicrobial properties to improve the safety of patients and / or medical personnel.
[0008] This and other objectives are achieved by providing a connecting device having the features of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.
[0009] Therefore, according to a first aspect of the invention, a coupling device for transferring fluid is provided. The coupling device includes a first housing extending along a main axis A. The first housing includes a first opening at its rear end portion and a second opening at its front end portion. Furthermore, the coupling device includes a tube extending along the main axis A from the first opening into the first housing. The first housing includes a first sealing element. Furthermore, the coupling device includes a second housing including a channel passing through the second housing and a second sealing element arranged to seal the channel. At least one of the first and second sealing elements includes an antimicrobial coating. In a first stage of connection, the second housing can be inserted into the first housing via a second opening of the first housing, wherein the first and second sealing elements are configured to abut against each other and sealably separate the tube and the channel. Here, the term "sealably separate" means that the first and second sealing elements seal the tube and the channel so that no fluid can pass between the tube and the channel. In a second stage of connection, the tube protrudes through the first and second sealing elements to connect with the channel, thereby enabling fluid transfer through the coupling device. In the first stage of disconnection of the coupling device, the tube retracts through the first and second sealing elements and the end portion of the tube is sealed by the second sealing element. The tube and the second sealing element are configured to define a first space at the end portion of the tube, wherein the first space is at least partially filled with fluid. In the second stage of disconnection of the coupling device, the tube retracts through the first sealing element and the end portion of the tube is near the second sealing element. The tube, the first sealing element, and the second sealing element are configured to define a second space at the end portion of the tube. Fluid in the first space is released into the second space when the first space contracts, and the fluid in the first space comes into contact with at least one of the following: at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the first sealing element and at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the second sealing element. The antimicrobial coating is configured to provide antimicrobial activity upon contact with the fluid.
[0010] According to a second aspect of the invention, a coupling device for transferring fluid is provided. The coupling device includes a first housing extending along a main axis A. The first housing includes a first opening at its rear end portion and a second opening at its front end portion. Furthermore, the coupling device includes a tube extending along the main axis A from the first opening into the first housing. The first housing includes a first sealing element. Additionally, the coupling device includes a second housing including a channel through the second housing and a second sealing element arranged to seal the channel. At least one of the first and second sealing elements includes an antimicrobial coating and a cavity on the front side of the respective first and second sealing elements. In a first stage of connection, the second housing can be inserted into the first housing via a second opening of the first housing, wherein the first and second sealing elements are configured to abut against each other and sealably separate the tube and the channel, wherein the cavity of at least one of the first and second sealing elements defines a first space when in contact between the first and second sealing elements. In a second stage of connection, the tube protrudes through the first and second sealing elements to connect with the channel, thereby enabling fluid transfer through the coupling device. In the first stage of disconnection of the coupling device, the tube retracts through the first and second sealing elements and the end portion of the tube is sealed by the second sealing element. The tube and the second sealing element are configured to define a second space at the end portion of the tube, wherein the second space is at least partially filled with fluid. In the second stage of disconnection of the coupling device, the tube retracts through the first sealing element and the end portion of the tube is near the second sealing element. Fluid in the second space is released into the first space as the second space contracts, and wherein the fluid in the first space comes into contact with at least one of: at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the first sealing element and at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the second sealing element. The antimicrobial coating is configured to provide antimicrobial activity upon contact with the fluid.
[0011] Therefore, the concept upon which this invention is based is to provide a connecting device for transferring fluid, wherein the connecting device enables fluid transfer through the connecting device, is sealed to the external environment when the connecting device is connected, and can leak-free interruption of fluid transfer when the connecting device is disconnected. More specifically, according to a first aspect of the invention, when the connecting device is connected, i.e., in the first stage of connection, a first sealing element and a second sealing element provide a seal when they abut against each other. According to a second aspect of the invention, cavities on the front sides of the first and second sealing elements define a first space when they contact each other. Thereafter, in the second stage of connection, the tube of the connecting device protrudes through (penetrates) the first and second sealing elements, thereby enabling fluid transfer. When the connecting device is disconnected, i.e., in the first stage of disconnection (which can be triggered by applying a pulling force to the connecting device), the tube retracts through the first and second sealing elements and the end portion of the tube is sealed by the second sealing element. According to a first aspect of the invention, in this first stage, the tube and the second sealing element are configured to define a first space at the end portion of the tube, wherein the first space is at least partially filled with fluid. Therefore, the volume of the first space depends on the properties of the tube and the second sealing element. Alternatively, according to a second aspect of the invention, in this first stage, the tube and the second sealing element are configured to define a second space at the end portion of the tube, wherein the second space is at least partially filled with fluid.
[0012] In the second stage of disconnection of the connecting device, the tube has retracted through the first sealing element, and the end portion of the tube is near the second sealing element. According to a first aspect of the invention, in this second stage, the tube, the first sealing element, and the second sealing element are configured to define a second space at the end portion of the tube. Therefore, the volume of the second space depends on the nature of the tube and the first sealing element. As the tube has retracted through the first sealing element, the first space has contracted (in contraction), and because the first space and the second space are fluidly connected when the first space contracts, fluid from the first space is released into the second space. The fluid in the first space is thus released into the second space and comes into contact with at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the first sealing element and / or at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the second sealing element.
[0013] According to a second aspect of the invention, in the second stage, because the first space and the second space are fluidly connected when the second space contracts, fluid in the second space is released into the first space. The fluid in the first space comes into contact with at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the first sealing element and / or at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the second sealing element.
[0014] The function of antimicrobial coatings is to achieve disinfection by killing bacteria and / or fungi when in contact with fluids.
[0015] Therefore, after the coupling device is disconnected (i.e., including the first and second stages of disconnection), the coupling device is subsequently resealed by the first and second sealing elements. In other words, the corresponding first and second sealing elements can conveniently stop the flow on both sides of the respective sealing elements when the coupling device is disconnected / separated. Furthermore, the contact between the fluid and the antimicrobial coating of the first and second sealing elements reduces the growth and / or attachment of bacterial and fungal colonies on the first and / or second sealing elements, and / or reduces the formation of biofilms on the first and / or second sealing elements. Therefore, the coupling device of the present invention provides excellent sealing and prevents leakage during fluid transfer through the coupling device and during interruption of fluid flow through the coupling device due to disconnection or separation, while also providing antimicrobial properties due to its antimicrobial coating.
[0016] Based on the foregoing, it should be noted that the first and second aspects of this invention are interconnected, thus forming a single overall inventive concept. In other words, the first and second aspects of this invention are alternative solutions to specific problems.
[0017] It should be understood that, for safety reasons, the ability of a coupling device to mitigate any fluid leakage is advantageous. For example, in cases where the coupling device is configured to deliver toxic liquids, any leakage caused by the coupling device can be particularly dangerous. Therefore, the coupling device of the present invention can significantly improve the safety of medical personnel and / or patients.
[0018] Furthermore, the connecting device of the present invention has the advantage of conserving fluid through its superior sealing performance. For example, if the connecting device is used to transfer blood, it can mitigate any blood loss and / or environmental contamination due to leakage in the event of separation of the connecting device. Moreover, the connecting device can mitigate any contamination of the fluid (e.g., blood) transferred through the (connected) connecting device through its excellent sealing performance.
[0019] A further advantage of the invention is that the coupling device provides convenient disconnection (unconnection). For example, if the coupling device is connected to a tube for medical purposes, pulling the tube, for example, can separate the second housing of the coupling device from the first housing, thereby relieving any further pulling on the tube at the other end. It should be understood that because the coupling device can constitute a “weak link” in the tube, it may be desirable to equip commonly used (medical) tubes in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, etc., with the coupling device of the invention. Therefore, if the tube is connected between a patient and a source (e.g., an infusion pump or bag) and further includes the coupling device according to the invention, the coupling device can constitute a “weak link” in the tube at a location where the tube might be “broken” due to pulling.
[0020] The connection device is particularly advantageous when it is incorporated into a medical tube that is further connected to an element inserted into a patient's body to deliver fluid to and / or from the patient. This is because displacement of the element can not only cause pain to the patient, but also potentially lead to adverse medical outcomes if fluid delivery is not performed correctly due to displacement. With the connection device of the present invention incorporated into a medical tube for medical purposes, it should be understood that devices connected to the tube, such as (infusion) elements, pumps, and / or bags, can be protected from damage caused by pulling on the medical tube.
[0021] With the connection device of the present invention disposed on the medical tubing, it should be understood that devices connected to the medical tubing, such as (infusion) elements, pumps and / or bags, can be protected from damage caused by pulling on the medical tubing.
[0022] A further advantage of the coupling device of the present invention is that it can mitigate the consequences associated with medical personnel and / or patients tripping and / or falling over medical tubes including one or more coupling devices.
[0023] A further advantage of the coupling device of the present invention is that it can be easily, conveniently, and efficiently reconnected if the connection is separated or broken. For example, if a medical tube including the coupling device according to the invention is pulled open, it may be desirable to be able to resume (infusion) treatment as quickly as possible. Due to the innovative configuration of the coupling device, the (re)connection of the coupling device can be performed quickly and intuitively, thus the coupling device meets this need.
[0024] Regarding the first aspect of the invention, a further advantage of the coupling device of the invention is that the creation of a first space in the second sealing element when the coupling device is disconnected in a first stage and the creation of a second space when the coupling device is disconnected in a second stage provide convenient operation allowing the antimicrobial coating of the first sealing element and / or the second sealing element to contact the fluid. Similarly, regarding the second aspect of the invention, an advantage of the coupling device of the invention is that the creation of a second space in the second sealing element when the coupling device is disconnected in a first stage and the provision of a first space defined by the cavity of the first sealing element and the second sealing element provide convenient operation allowing the antimicrobial coating of the first sealing element and / or the second sealing element to contact the fluid. It should be understood that this operation can be repeated, i.e., the coupling device according to the first and / or second aspects of the invention can be connected and disconnected several times, wherein the coating can contact the fluid.
[0025] A further advantage of the coupling device of the present invention is that the components of the coupling device (e.g., the first housing and / or the second housing, the first sealing element and the second sealing element, etc.) are designed to have relatively smooth outer surfaces, allowing these components to be cleaned and / or disinfected in a simple and efficient manner. For example, after cleaning and / or disinfecting the disassembled coupling device, the corresponding components of the coupling device can then be reassembled into the coupling device.
[0026] A further advantage of the coupling device of the present invention is that it is relatively inexpensive to manufacture and simple to assemble. Therefore, the coupling device can be primarily designed for single use, i.e., it can be used, for example, for one patient and one treatment (e.g., infusion).
[0027] A further advantage of the coupling device of the present invention is that its design minimizes dead zones in the fluid path through the coupling device, thereby mitigating the emergence of infectious pathogens. Furthermore, the inventive design of the coupling device reduces fluid leakage.
[0028] A further advantage of the coupling device of the present invention is that the fluid flow through the coupling device is linear along the main axis of the coupling device. In other words, the design of the coupling device can therefore avoid undesirable turbulence of the fluid during operation of the coupling device.
[0029] According to the present invention, an antimicrobial coating can be configured to provide antimicrobial action upon contact with a fluid. An advantage of this embodiment is that the antimicrobial action, i.e., killing of microorganisms, is conveniently triggered by contact between the antimicrobial agent and the fluid.
[0030] According to embodiments of the invention, the antimicrobial coating may include synthetic antimicrobial peptides. An advantage of this embodiment is that the antimicrobial effect is particularly effective by providing (synthetic) antimicrobial peptides. It should be noted that the antimicrobial peptides have broad-spectrum activity and are effective against drug-resistant pathogens. More specifically, through features of the coupling device, fluid in contact with the antimicrobial coating can cause the peptide to be released from the surface of the first sealing element and / or the second sealing element, thereby binding the microorganism and the peptide together. This allows the peptide to completely disrupt the membrane of the microorganism, thereby immediately killing the microorganism.
[0031] According to an embodiment of the invention, at least one of the first and second sealing elements may include a guide hole extending along the main axis A, wherein the guide hole is arranged to guide the tube through at least one of the first and second sealing elements. It should be understood that because the diameter of the guide hole is (very) small, the first and / or second sealing elements can retain their excellent sealing performance even with the guide hole, and fluid therefore cannot pass through the guide hole. An advantage of this embodiment is that the guide hole can prevent and / or mitigate wear on the first and / or second sealing elements during the tube's protrusion into and / or retraction from the first and / or second sealing elements, respectively. In other words, the guide hole can minimize and / or prevent tearing of the sealing element material, thus avoiding undesirable wear on the sealing elements(s) and / or contamination of the fluid during fluid flow through the connecting device.
[0032] According to an embodiment of the invention, at least one of the first and second sealing elements may include an elastic membrane, wherein the at least one elastic membrane may have a convex shape and be configured to flatten when the first sealing element abuts against the second sealing element. It should be understood that the elastic membrane(s) are configured to be arranged (clamped) between the first and second sealing elements when the second housing and the third housing are connected. If each of the first and second sealing elements includes an elastic, convex membrane, it should be understood that when the membranes are pressed against each other, the membranes can push away air and form an airtight seal, while also minimizing dead zones. An advantage of this embodiment is that when the second housing and the third housing are connected, the sealing elements(s) can provide an efficient seal between the second and third housings via the elastic membrane(s), thus preventing any leakage between the second and third housings. Therefore, this embodiment can even further improve the sealing performance of the coupling device. According to an example, the elastic membrane may include silicone resin. Silicone resin is particularly suitable for sealing purposes, thereby further improving the sealing of the coupling device. Furthermore, the advantage of using silicone for the membrane is that the tube can penetrate the membrane without (or at least minimize) tearing of the material, thereby avoiding undesirable wear of the membrane and / or contamination of the fluid as it flows through the connecting device.
[0033] According to an embodiment of the invention, the coupling device may further include at least one third housing, which is displaceably arranged within the first housing between a first position at the front end portion of the first housing and a second position at the rear end portion of the first housing along the main axis A, wherein the third housing encloses the first sealing element. Here, the term "displaceably arranged" means that the third housing can be arranged or installed within the first housing in a manner that allows the third housing to be displaced or moved within the first housing.
[0034] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second housing may be inserted between the first housing and the first sealing element.
[0035] According to an embodiment of the invention, the coupling device may further include a locking arrangement. The third housing is releasably connected to the first housing via the locking arrangement when in the second position. In other words, the third housing is releasably connected to the first housing when it is in its second retracted position within the first housing. It should be understood that this position of the third housing implies the ability to transfer fluid through the coupling device, and an advantage of this embodiment is that fluid can be transferred through the device while it is stationary, i.e., fluid can be transferred through the device without applying any pressure to one or more components of the coupling device.
[0036] According to an embodiment of the invention, when the force F applied along the main axis A toward the first position to the second housing connected to the third housing in the second position exceeds a predetermined threshold, the third housing is configured to release from the connection with the first housing in the second position, the third housing is configured to shift from the second position to the first position, and the second housing is configured to release from the connection with the third housing. Therefore, according to the disclosed arrangement, when the (tension) force applied to the second housing (or between the second and third housings) exceeds a predetermined threshold, the second housing is configured to separate (disconnect) from the third housing. An advantage of this embodiment is that the second and third housings of the connecting device are configured to separate only when the tension force applied to the second housing by the connecting device exceeds a predetermined threshold, thereby interrupting fluid transmission through the connecting device. In other words, the second and third housings are configured to separate from each other only when subjected to a relatively strong tension. Therefore, the second and third housings of the connecting device are configured to remain connected when the connecting device is subjected to a relatively weak force that does not exceed a predetermined threshold, allowing the connecting device to remain operational for fluid transmission.
[0037] If a tube for medical purposes is provided equipped with the coupling device of the present invention, it should be understood that a further advantage of the coupling device is that the coupling device can be disengaged before any relatively large force on a portion of the tube on one side of the coupling device is transmitted to another portion of the tube on the other side of the coupling device. For example, if an element is connected to the tube, the coupling device can alleviate any pulling, tugging, or jerking on the element.
[0038] A further advantage of the connecting device of the present invention is that it can mitigate the consequences of medical personnel and / or patients being tripped and / or falling by tubes including one or more connecting devices.
[0039] An advantage of this embodiment is that the threshold value of force F can be conveniently set or determined according to the purpose of the coupling device. For example, if the coupling device is used when a needle is inserted into a patient, the threshold value of force F can be determined to be relatively low. In contrast, if the coupling device is used when a urinary catheter is used, the threshold value of force F can be determined to be relatively high.
[0040] According to an embodiment of the invention, the coupling device may include a locking mechanism for releasably connecting the second housing to the third housing. An advantage of this embodiment is that the second housing can be conveniently connected to (or disconnected from) the third housing by means of locking elements(s).
[0041] According to an example of the invention, when the third housing is in the second position, the second and third housings can be connected by a locking mechanism. Therefore, when the third housing is in the second retracted position, as the tube protrudes through the first and second sealing elements and forms a passage for fluid transfer via the coupling device, the locking mechanism connects the third and second housings to each other. An advantage of this embodiment is that the locking mechanism provides a reliable connection between the third and second housings, enabling a sealed (leak-proof) fluid transfer via the coupling device.
[0042] According to an example of the invention, the second housing may include a first locking element of the locking mechanism, and the third housing may include a second locking element of the locking mechanism, wherein the first and second locking elements are configured to be releasably locked when the first and second locking elements are rotated relative to each other. For example, according to this embodiment or any previously disclosed embodiment, the locking mechanism for connecting the third housing and the second housing may include a convex-concave type connection portion. It should be understood that the convex-concave type locking mechanism may include at least one groove and at least one protrusion configured to project into at least one groove.
[0043] According to an embodiment of the invention, during the displacement of the third and second housings from the first position to the second position, the second locking element is configured to rotate relative to the first locking element to engage with it, such that the second and third housings are connected in the second position. During the displacement of the third and second housings from the second position to the first position, the second locking element is configured to rotate relative to the first locking element to disengage, such that the second and third housings are disconnected in the first extended position. In other words, when the third and second housings are pushed into the first housing of the coupling device from the first position to the second position, the third and second housings are connected via rotation of the first and second locking elements relative to each other. Similarly, when the third and second housings are pulled out of the first housing of the coupling device from the second position to the first position, the third and second housings are disconnected via rotation of the first and second locking elements relative to each other.
[0044] According to an example of the invention, at least one of the first and second sealing elements may include an elastic membrane, wherein at least one elastic membrane includes a guide hole, and wherein at least one elastic membrane is configured to be disposed in a corresponding adapter portion of the first and / or second sealing elements, the at least one elastic membrane being larger than the adapter portion such that the guide hole is configured to be compressed when at least one elastic membrane is disposed in the adapter portion. An advantage of this example is that the tube can be guided by the compressed guide hole when it protrudes through the sealing element. A further advantage of this example is that the compressed guide hole can prevent or at least minimize tearing of the membrane material when the tube penetrates the sealing element.
[0045] According to an example of the invention, the coupling device may further include an alarm arrangement configured to generate an alarm in the event of disconnection of the coupling device. For example, the alarm arrangement may be configured to generate an alarm in the event of disconnection of the third housing from the second housing. An advantage of this example is that the alarm arrangement can quickly and efficiently alert patients, medical personnel, and / or other personnel that the coupling device has been disconnected or separated, and that fluid delivery through the coupling device (and, if the coupling device is located in a medical tube, also through the medical tube) has been interrupted.
[0046] According to an example of the invention, the alarm may include at least one of a visual alarm and an audible alarm. This example is particularly advantageous when considering that patients may frequently suffer from visual and / or hearing impairment. A further advantage of this example is that the alarm can alert medical personnel who are not in the same room as the patient.
[0047] According to an example of the invention, the coupling device can be configured to provide tactile feedback to the operator when the second housing is in a second position. Here, the term "tactile feedback" refers to bodily sensations, alertness, etc., that the operator may experience while operating the coupling device. For example, the coupling device can be configured to provide tactile feedback to the operator when the coupling device is engaged, i.e., when the third housing is connected to the first housing in its second position. An advantage of this embodiment is that the operator can ensure, for example, that the coupling device is properly engaged or connected when the third housing is in a second retracted position, because the coupling device is configured to allow fluid to be transferred through it.
[0048] According to embodiments of the present invention, a medical tube is provided for delivering fluid to or from a patient, wherein the medical tube includes at least one coupling device according to any one of the foregoing embodiments. In other words, the medical tube may include a first tube portion and a second tube portion, wherein the coupling device may be disposed between the first tube portion and the second tube portion. Here, the term "medical tube" refers to virtually any tube used for medical purposes, such as an infusion tube or urinary catheter. An advantage of this embodiment is that the medical tube can be easily disconnected or separated via the coupling device. For example, pulling the medical tube, for instance, can separate the third housing of the coupling device from the second housing, thereby relieving any further pulling on the tube at the other end. Therefore, by means of the coupling device, the medical tube may include a "weak link," which is particularly advantageous for medical tubes used in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, etc. Furthermore, because the antimicrobial coating of the coupling device provides antimicrobial properties, the medical tube including the coupling device can provide enhanced safety for patients and / or medical personnel.
[0049] According to embodiments of the present invention, a medical kit is provided comprising at least one medical tube as described in a previous embodiment. The at least one medical tube includes at least one coupling arrangement disposed at at least one end thereto, and at least one element connected to the medical tube via the at least one coupling arrangement. It should be understood that the coupling arrangement can be of substantially any type, such as a standardized connector that can be coupled to many different types of elements. For example, the (multiple) (medical) elements can be elements arranged for insertion into a patient and configured to deliver fluid to or from the patient, such as needles, cannulas, catheters, trocars, etc. Alternatively or additionally, the (multiple) elements can be at least one container arranged to supply fluid to / from the patient via the medical tube. An advantage of this embodiment is that the medical kit can improve safety during medical procedures (e.g., infusion procedures). More specifically, the medical kit can conveniently mitigate the effects of forces on the medical tube, such as those exerted by the patient and / or healthcare personnel, particularly when the medical tube is connected to elements for delivering fluid to and / or from the patient.
[0050] Further objectives, features, and advantages of the invention will become clear upon studying the following detailed disclosure, drawings, and appended claims. Those skilled in the art will recognize that different features of the invention can be combined to create embodiments other than those described below. Attached Figure Description
[0051] The above and other aspects of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the invention.
[0052] Figure 1a and Figure 1b This is a schematic diagram of a connecting device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0053] Figures 2a to 2d This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0054] Figure 3a and Figure 3b This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a connecting device according to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.
[0055] Figures 4a to 4c This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention.
[0056] Figure 5a and Figure 5b The locking and unlocking operations of the coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention are schematically illustrated.
[0057] Figure 6 The schematic diagram illustrates the disconnection of the coupling device, and
[0058] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a medical kit according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation
[0059] Figure 1a and Figure 1b This is a schematic diagram of a coupling device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. It should be understood that... Figure 1a and Figure 1b This is intended to provide a preliminary description of the connecting device 100. A more detailed description of the nature and operation of the connecting device 100 is provided in the following figures and related text.
[0060] The coupling device 100 is configured to transfer fluid through the coupling device 100 when the coupling device 100 is in its connected state. Figure 1a In this process, the connection of the connecting device 100 has begun, and this connection will be described in more detail below and in the related figures. Figure 1b In the process, the disconnection of the connecting device 100 has begun. Finally, the connecting device 100 disconnects (separates), thereby interrupting the fluid transfer through the connecting device 100.
[0061] Figures 2a to 2d This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the coupling device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. It should be understood that... Figures 2a to 2dThese four figures disclose exemplary instantaneous positions of the connection of the coupling device 100 in order to improve understanding of the operation of the coupling device 100. Figure 3a and Figure 3b as well as Figures 4a to 4c The disconnection of the connecting device 100 is shown in the image.
[0062] Figure 2a This is a schematic diagram of a coupling device 100 for transferring fluid, showing the coupling device 100 in a disconnected state. The coupling device 100 includes a cylindrical first housing 110 with an elliptical cross-section, wherein the first housing 110 extends along a main axis A. The first housing 110 includes a first opening 120 at the center of a rear end portion (e.g., the bottom) of the first housing 110 and a second opening 130 at a front end portion of the first housing 110. The coupling device 100 further includes a tube 140 extending along the main axis A from the first opening 120 of the first housing 110 into the interior of the first housing 110. The end of the tube 140 pointing into the interior of the first housing 110 may be formed as sharp or pointed, and Figure 2a The end of the tube 140 illustrated is at an angle. However, the end of the tube 140 can alternatively be straight, i.e., without any sharp or pointed ends.
[0063] According to the example, the coupling device 100 may further include a third housing 200, which is enclosed by the first housing 110 and displaceably disposed within the first housing 110 along the main axis A. It should be understood that the third housing 200 can be adapted to be disposed within the first housing 110, for example, by means of a recess. Figure 2a In this configuration, the third housing 200 is positioned within the first housing 110 in a first (extended) position. For example, the first extended position may constitute a position facing (or at) the front end portion of the first housing 110. The coupling device 100 includes a first sealing element 220, wherein, according to... Figure 2a In the example, the first sealing element 220 is enclosed and / or disposed within the first housing and / or the third housing 200. The first sealing element 220 is illustrated as a gasket or pad-like element disposed at the end of the tube 140 of the first housing 110.
[0064] The coupling device 100 further includes a second housing 300, which, in the disconnected state, is separated from the first housing 110 of the coupling device 100 (and, by example, also from the third housing 200). The second housing 300 includes a channel 310 disposed through the second housing 300. The third housing 200 further includes a second sealing element 320, which is arranged to seal the second channel 310.
[0065] It should be understood that, such as Figure 1a As shown, when the connecting device 100 is disconnected, fluid cannot pass through the connecting device 100. More specifically, the first sealing element 220 seals the tube 140 so that fluid cannot pass through the third housing 200 or the first housing 110. Similarly, the second sealing element 320 seals the second channel 310 so that fluid cannot pass through the second housing 300.
[0066] For sealing purposes, the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320 may include or be composed of a corresponding elastic membrane 600. The membrane 600 may include or be composed of substantially any material suitable for sealing purposes (e.g., silicone resin). Furthermore, the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320 may have a convex shape. According to an alternative embodiment, the elastic membrane(s) 600 may include guide holes (i.e., through holes for guiding the tube 140), and the elastic membrane(s) 600 may be configured to be disposed in (not shown) multiple adapter portions of the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320. Thus, the size of the elastic membrane(s) 600 may be larger than the size of the adapter portions, such that the guide holes are configured to be compressed when the elastic membrane(s) 600 are disposed in the adapter portions.
[0067] The second housing 300 can be inserted into the first housing 110 through the second opening 130. Therefore, the first housing 110 can receive and house the second housing 300 within its second opening 130. The first housing 110 and the second housing 300 may have elliptical cross-sections, while the third housing 200 may have a circular cross-section. It should be understood that providing an elliptical cross-section can facilitate the connection between the housings. For example, the second housing 300 can be connected to the third housing 200 by a 0° or 180° relative arrangement between the second housing 300 and the third housing 200.
[0068] exist Figure 2a In an exemplary embodiment of the coupling device 100, the coupling device 100 includes a locking mechanism 500 for releasably connecting a second housing 300 to a third housing 200. The second housing 300 includes a first locking element 510 of the locking mechanism 500, wherein the first locking element 510 has the form of one or more hook-like members protruding from the second housing 300. The third housing 200 includes a second locking element (not shown) of the locking mechanism 500 for locking engagement with the first locking element 510 of the locking mechanism 500.
[0069] The coupling device 100 further includes a locking arrangement 405 for releasably locking and / or connecting the third housing 200 to the first housing 110. The locking arrangement 405 includes at least one recess 430 in the first housing 110, and a locking element of the third housing 200 is configured to engage matingly in the at least one recess (e.g., ...). Figure 3a (As shown). The locking arrangement 405 of the coupling device 100 can be configured to provide tactile feedback to the operator when the second housing 300 is in the second position. For example, the locking arrangement 405 can be configured to produce a click and / or tapping sensation when locked, so that the operator can know or be aware that the third housing 200 is connected to the first housing 110 when it is in the second position.
[0070] Figure 2b This is a schematic diagram of a connecting device 100 for transferring fluid, wherein, with Figure 2a In contrast, the second housing 300 has been inserted into the first housing 110 along the main axis A via the second opening 130. Furthermore, when the connecting device 100 is in this state or position, the first sealing element 220 of the first housing 110 and / or the third housing 200 abuts against the second sealing element 320 of the second housing 300. Here, both the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320 include a convex elastic membrane 600, such that the central portion of the respective element is initially configured to contact when the second housing 300 is inserted into the first housing 110. In this embodiment, the convex membranes of the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320 are configured to flatten when the first sealing element 220 abuts against the second sealing element 320. In this way, the first sealing element 230 and the second sealing element 320 can sealably separate the tube 140 of the first housing 110 and the channel 310 of the second housing 300.
[0071] Figure 2cThis is a schematic diagram of a coupling device 100 for fluid transfer, wherein a third housing 200 and a second housing 300 are displaced within a first housing 110. In this depicted current state, the convex membranes of the first and second sealing elements 220 and 320 have flattened due to the force between the first and second sealing elements 220 and 330, schematically indicating the original shape of the convex membranes. During the movement of the third housing 200 (and the second housing 300) from a first extended position to a second retracted position of the second housing, the tube 140 of the first housing 110 gradually protrudes through the first and second sealing elements 220 and 320 to connect with the channel 310, thereby enabling fluid transfer through the coupling device 100. Furthermore, during this movement, the second housing 300 and the third housing 200 are configured to engage and releasably lock via a locking mechanism when the first and second locking elements rotate relative to each other.
[0072] Figure 2d This is a schematic diagram of a coupling device 100 for transferring fluid, wherein a third housing 200 is positioned in a second position within a first housing 110, and a second housing 300 is connected to the third housing 200. In this position, the second housing 300 and the third housing 200 are connected by means of a locking mechanism (not shown). A tube 140 protrudes through or penetrates the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320. Furthermore, the tube 140 is adapted to be inserted into and extends into a channel 310 of the second housing 300. With this configuration of the coupling device 100, fluid can be transferred via the coupling device 100.
[0073] Figure 3a and Figure 3b This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a coupling device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention. It should be noted that, for simplicity, relative to... Figures 2a to 2d The described coupling device 100 has some features and / or reference numerals removed; see attached drawing for details. Figures 2a to 2d In order to improve understanding of the operation of the connecting device 100. It should be understood that, Figure 3a and Figure 3b These two figures illustrate exemplary instantaneous phases of disconnection of the coupling device 100 in order to improve the understanding of the operation of the coupling device 100.
[0074] Figure 3aThis is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the coupling device 100 in the first stage of disconnection according to a first aspect of the invention. In this first stage of disconnection (which can be triggered by applying a tensile force to the coupling device 100), the tube 140 retracts through the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320. Therefore, the tube 140 (in...) Figure 2d In this first stage, the tube (which is in fluid contact with channel 310 to facilitate fluid transfer through the coupling device 100 during the second stage of connection) has been retracted such that the end portion 380 of the tube 140 is enclosed by the second sealing element 320. The coupling device 100 includes a guide hole 420 in the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320, wherein the guide hole 420 is arranged to guide the tube through the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320. During this first stage, the tube 140 and the second sealing element 320 are configured to define a first space 400 at the end portion 380 of the tube 140. Figure 3a In this design, the first space 400 is illustrated as a tapered volume defined by the tube 140 (its end portion 380) and the second sealing element 320. It should be understood that the volume and / or shape of the first space 400 may depend on one or more properties of the second sealing element 320 and / or the tube 140, such as the material of the second sealing element 320, the material and / or shape of the tube 140, etc. For example, the volume and / or shape of the first space 400 may depend on the frictional force between the second sealing element 320 and the tube 140. Figure 3a In this configuration, the first space 400 is at least partially filled with fluid, which is the fluid that the connecting device 100 is arranged to transmit when the connecting device 100 is in a connected state. In other words, when the disconnection of the connecting device 100 is in the first stage, a portion of the fluid that the connecting device 100 is arranged to transmit when it is in a connected state is present in the first space 400 and at least partially fills the first space 400.
[0075] Figure 3b This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the coupling device 100 when the disconnection of the coupling device 100 is in the second stage according to the first aspect of the invention. Figure 3a Compared to the first stage shown, in this second stage when the connection of the coupling device 100 is disconnected, the tube 140 retracts through the first sealing element 220. Figure 3a compared to, Figure 3bThe tube 140 has been retracted through the second sealing element 320 such that the end portion 380 of the tube 140 is near the second sealing element 320 (its end face). The tube 140, the first sealing element 220, and the second sealing element 320 are configured to define a second space 410 at the end portion 380 of the tube 140. It should be understood that the volume and / or shape of the second space 410 may depend on one or more properties of the first sealing element 220 and / or the tube 140, such as the material of the first sealing element 220, the material and / or shape of the tube 140, etc. For example, the volume and / or shape of the second space 410 may depend on the frictional force between the first sealing element 220 and the tube 140. Figure 3a The first space 400 defined by the tube 140 and the second sealing element 320 is in Figure 3b The middle has already contracted after the tube 140 contracted. Therefore, in Figure 3b In this process, the second sealing element 320 has maintained its original unbiased state, and Figure 3a The fluid present in the first space 400 has entered (has been released into) the second space 410.
[0076] The first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320 may each include antimicrobial coatings 330a and 330b. The antimicrobial coatings 330a and 330b are arranged or configured to provide or achieve antimicrobial activity upon contact with a fluid. For example, the antimicrobial coatings 330a and 330b may include synthetic antimicrobial peptides. Through features of the coupling device 100, fluid in contact with the antimicrobial coatings 330a and 330b can cause the peptides to be released from the surfaces of the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320, thereby binding the microorganisms and the peptides together. This allows the peptides to completely disrupt the membrane of the microorganisms, thereby immediately killing them.
[0077] It should be understood that antimicrobial peptides possess broad-spectrum activity and are effective against drug-resistant pathogens. One fragment of this host defense peptide is lactoferrin (found in breast milk), also known as lactoferrin peptide. Through extensive structure-activity relationship studies, the antimicrobial pharmacodynamic properties have been utilized in the small molecule AMC-109, which can constitute the antimicrobial peptide according to embodiments of the present invention. AMC-109 can retain and amplify the antimicrobial characteristics of natural peptides while acquiring the properties required for industrially applicable products, such as long-term stability against metabolic degradation and ease of manufacture. AMC-109 is active against a variety of bacteria and fungi, such as Staphylococcus, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Streptococcus, Enterococcus, Corynebacterium, Pseudomonas, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, and Candida.
[0078] according to Figure 3b When the disconnection of the coupling device 100 is in the second stage, the fluid that has been released from the first space 400 and has entered the second space 410 comes into contact with at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating 330a of the first sealing element 220 and / or at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating 330b of the second sealing element 320.
[0079] Figures 4a to 4c This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a coupling device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention. It should be noted that, for simplicity, relative to... Figures 2a to 2d The described coupling device 100 has some features and / or reference numerals removed; see attached drawing for details. Figures 2a to 2d In order to improve understanding of the operation of the connecting device 100. It should be understood that, Figures 4a to 4c Exemplary instantaneous phases of connecting and disconnecting the coupling device 100 are disclosed to enhance the understanding of the operation of the coupling device 100 according to the second aspect of the invention.
[0080] Figure 4a The sealing elements 220, 320 of a portion of the coupling device 100 according to the second aspect of the invention are schematically disclosed. The coupling device 100 is in its disconnected state, thereby corresponding to... Figure 2aThe state of the connecting device 100 is shown. The connecting device 100 includes a guide hole 420 in the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320, wherein the guide hole 420 is arranged to allow the tube ( Figure 4a (Not shown to increase perspective / enhance understanding) Guided through the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320. The first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320 include an antimicrobial coating 330. The antimicrobial coating 330 is disposed on the front side 395a of the first sealing element 220 and / or the front side 395b of the second sealing element 320. The first sealing element 220 further includes a cavity 390a on its front side 395a, and the second sealing element 320 further includes a cavity 390b on its front side 395b. According to this example, the cavities 390a and 390b are (mirror) symmetrical, but other forms of cavities 390a and 390b are also possible. When the connection (not shown) of the coupling device 100 according to this second aspect of the invention is in the first stage, the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320 are thus configured to abut against each other, wherein the cavity 390a of the first sealing element 220 and / or the cavity 390b of the second sealing element 320 define a first space when the first sealing element and the second sealing element are in contact.
[0081] Figure 4b This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the coupling device 100 in the first stage of disconnection according to a second aspect of the invention. In this first stage of disconnection (which can be triggered by applying a tensile force to the coupling device 100), the tube 140 retracts through the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320. Therefore, the tube 140 (in...) Figure 2d In this first stage, the tube (which is in fluid contact with channel 310 to facilitate fluid transfer through the coupling device 100 when the connection of the coupling device 100 is in the second stage) has been retracted such that the end portion 380 of the tube 140 is surrounded by the second sealing element 320. In this first stage, the tube 140 and the second sealing element 320 are configured to define a second space 410 at the end portion 380 of the tube 140. Figure 4b In this design, the second space 410 is illustrated as a tapered volume defined by the tube 140 (its end portion 380) and the second sealing element 320. It should be understood that the volume and / or shape of the second space 410 may depend on one or more properties of the second sealing element 320 and / or the tube 140, such as the material of the second sealing element 320, the material and / or shape of the tube 140, etc. Figure 4b In this configuration, the second space 410 is at least partially filled with fluid. In other words, the connecting device 100 is arranged such that a portion of the fluid to be transferred exists in the second space 410 and at least partially fills the second space 410.
[0082] Figure 4c This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the coupling device 100 when the disconnection of the coupling device 100 is in a second stage according to a second aspect of the invention. In this second stage of disconnection, the tube 140 retracts through the first sealing element 220. Figure 4b compared to, Figure 4c The tube 140 has been retracted through the second sealing element 320 so that the end portion 380 of the tube 140 is near the second sealing element 320 (its end face). Figure 4b The second space 410 defined by the tube 140 and the second sealing element 320 is in Figure 4c The middle has already contracted after the tube 140 contracted. Therefore, in Figure 4c In this process, the second sealing element 320 has maintained its original unbiased state, and Figure 4b The fluid present in the second space 410 has entered (has been released into) the first space 400, which is defined by the cavity 390a on the front side 395a of the first sealing element 220 and the cavity 390b on the front side 395b of the second sealing element 320.
[0083] The first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320 may each include antimicrobial coatings 330a and 330b. The antimicrobial coatings 330a and 330b are arranged or configured to provide or achieve antimicrobial activity upon contact with a fluid. For example, the antimicrobial coatings 330a and 330b may include synthetic antimicrobial peptides. Figure 4c As illustrated, when the disconnection of the coupling device 100 according to the second aspect of the invention is in the second stage, the fluid that has been released from the second space 410 and has entered the first space 400 comes into contact with at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating 330a of the first sealing element 220 and / or at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating 330b of the second sealing element 320.
[0084] Figure 5a A simplified view of a portion of the coupling device 100 as previously described is shown schematically. Here, in order to understand the locking operation of the third housing 200 and the second housing 300, the third housing 200 and the second housing 300 have been removed from the coupling device 100. Figure 5a The locking mechanism includes a first locking element 510 in the second housing 300, wherein the first locking element 510 includes two protrusions, each of which includes a groove. Figure 5aThe locking mechanism further includes a second locking element 520 of the third housing 200, wherein the second locking element 520 includes two protrusions. As the second housing 300 moves toward the third housing 200 as indicated by arrow 535, the second locking element 520 is configured to rotate as indicated by arrow 545 due to guidance from a groove in the first housing (not shown). Thus, the second locking element 520 rotates relative to the first locking element 510 to engage in a mating engagement with the first locking element 510, thereby connecting the second housing 300 and the third housing 200 when the second housing 300 is in the second position. It should be understood that the third housing 200, when in the second position, is connected via at least one groove 430 (see...). Figure 2a The first housing 110 is releasably connected to the second locking element 520.
[0085] Similarly, Figure 5b A simplified view of a portion of the coupling device 100 as previously described is schematically shown, and the unlocking operation of the third housing 200 and the second housing 300 of the coupling device 100 is also schematically shown. During the displacement of the third housing 200 and the second housing 300 from a second retracted position to a first extended position as indicated by arrow 555, the second locking element 520 is configured to rotate relative to the first locking element 510 as indicated by arrow 565. Therefore, the second locking element 520 releases its mating engagement with the second housing 300. Consequently, the second locking element 520 rotates relative to the first locking element 510 such that the second housing 300 and the third housing 200 are disconnected when the third housing 200 is in the first position.
[0086] Figure 6 This schematically illustrates a situation where the force F applied to the second housing 300 along the main axis A exceeds a predetermined threshold F. T In this case, the coupling device 100 is disconnected. In this situation, the third housing (not shown) is configured to release from its connection with the first housing 110 when the third housing is in its second retracted position. Subsequently, the third housing and the second housing 300 are configured to shift from the second position to the first position, and the second housing 300 is configured to release from its connection with the third housing. Finally, the coupling device 100 is disconnected (separated), thereby interrupting fluid transmission through the coupling device 100.
[0087] It should be understood that the connection device 100 may also include an alarm arrangement (not shown). The alarm arrangement can be configured to generate an alarm in the event that the connection device 100 is disconnected. The alarm may include, for example, a visual alarm and / or an audible alarm. In addition, the alarm can be connected (wirelessly or wired) to any other device used by medical personnel to monitor (multiple) patients.
[0088] Figure 7 A medical kit 800 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The medical kit 800 includes a medical (e.g., infusion) tubing 700, which further includes a connector 100 schematically indicated. One or more elements can be connected to the medical tubing(s) via multiple connector arrangements disposed at the end portions of the medical tubing(s), wherein the multiple connector arrangements(s) can be of a standardized type for connection to different types of elements. For example, and as... Figure 7 As shown, element 810 is connected to the end portion of medical tubing 700, wherein element 810 is arranged to be inserted into the patient and configured to deliver fluid to and / or deliver fluid from the patient. Furthermore, at the other end of medical tubing 700, medical tubing 700 is coupled to container 820 (e.g., infusion bag), which is arranged to supply (infuse) fluid to the patient via medical tubing 700 and element 810. It should be understood that, although for simplicity... Figure 7 Only one coupling device 100 is shown in use, but the medical tube 700 may include multiple coupling devices 100. Each coupling device 100 may also include at least one coupling arrangement, for example, disposed at one or both ends of the coupling device 100, for coupling to different types of components. Furthermore, the coupling arrangements (multiple) can be of substantially any type, such as standardized couplings that can be coupled to many different types of components. For example, the coupling arrangements (multiple) may include Luer-locking and / or Luer-slip couplings.
[0089] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is by no means limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. For example, it should be understood that the drawings are merely schematic diagrams of the coupling device 100 according to an embodiment of the invention. Therefore, any element / component of the coupling device may have different dimensions, shapes, and / or sizes than those depicted and / or described.
Claims
1. A connecting device (100) for transferring fluid, comprising: A first housing (110) extending along the main axis A, the first housing comprising... The first opening (120) is located at the rear end portion of the first housing. The second opening (130) is located at the front end portion of the first housing. The tube (140) extends along the main axis A from the first opening into the first housing, and First sealing element (220), The second housing (300) includes Channel (310), which passes through the second housing, and A second sealing element (320) is arranged to seal the channel. in, At least one of the first sealing element and the second sealing element includes Antimicrobial coating (330), and The cavities (390a, 390b) on the front sides (395a, 395b) of the corresponding first and second sealing elements, Therefore, when the connection of the connecting device is in the first stage... The second housing can be inserted into the first housing through a second opening in the first housing, wherein the first sealing element and the second sealing element are configured to abut against each other and sealably separate the tube and the channel, wherein a cavity of at least one of the first sealing element and the second sealing element defines a first space (400) when the first sealing element and the second sealing element are in contact. Therefore, when the connection of the connecting device is in the second stage... The tube protrudes through the first and second sealing elements to connect with the channel, enabling fluid to be transferred through the coupling. Thus, when the disconnection of the coupling device is in the first stage, the tube retracts through the first sealing element and the second sealing element, and the end portion (380) of the tube is sealed by the second sealing element. The tube and the second sealing element are configured to define a second space (410) at the end portion of the tube, wherein the second space is at least partially filled with the fluid, and Therefore, in the second stage of disconnection of the coupling device, the tube retracts through the first sealing element, and the end portion of the tube is near the second sealing element. The fluid in the second space is released into the first space when the second space contracts, and wherein the fluid in the first space comes into contact with at least one of the following: At least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the first sealing element, and At least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the second sealing element, The antimicrobial coating is configured to provide antimicrobial activity when in contact with the fluid.
2. The connecting device according to claim 1, wherein, The antimicrobial coating comprises synthetic antimicrobial peptides.
3. The connecting device according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the first sealing element and the second sealing element includes a guide hole (420) extending along the main axis A, wherein the guide hole is arranged to guide the tube through at least one of the first sealing element and the second sealing element.
4. The connecting device according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the first sealing element and the second sealing element includes an elastic membrane (600), wherein the elastic membrane has a convex shape and is configured to flatten when the first sealing element abuts against the second sealing element.
5. The coupling device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one third housing (200), the at least one third housing being displaceably disposed within the first housing between a first position at the front end portion of the first housing and a second position at the rear end portion of the first housing along the main axis A, wherein, The third housing encloses the first sealing element.
6. The connecting device according to claim 5, wherein, When the connection of the coupling device is in the first stage, the second housing can be releasably connected to the third housing and is configured to be displaceably arranged within the first housing along the main axis A.
7. The connecting device according to claim 6, wherein, The second housing can be inserted between the first housing and the first sealing element.
8. The coupling device according to claim 5, further comprising a locking arrangement (405), wherein, When the third housing is in the second position, it can be releasably connected to the first housing via the locking arrangement.
9. The connecting device according to claim 5, wherein, If the force F applied along the main axis toward the first position to the second housing connected to the third housing in the second position exceeds a predetermined threshold, The third housing is configured to release from its connection with the first housing when in the second position. The third housing is configured to shift from the second position to the first position, and The second housing is configured to be released from its connection with the third housing.
10. The coupling device according to claim 5, further comprising a locking mechanism (500) for releasably connecting the second housing to the third housing.
11. The connecting device according to claim 10, wherein, The second housing includes a first locking element (510) of the locking mechanism, and the third housing includes a second locking element (520) of the locking mechanism, wherein the first locking element and the second locking element are configured to be releasably locked when the first locking element and the second locking element rotate relative to each other.
12. The connecting device according to claim 11, wherein, During the shift of the third housing and the second housing from the first position to the second position, the second locking element is configured to rotate relative to the first locking element to engage with the first locking element, such that the second housing and the third housing are connected in the second position; and during the shift of the third housing and the second housing from the second position to the first position, the second locking element is configured to rotate relative to the first locking element to disengage the engagement, such that the second housing and the third housing are disconnected in the first position.
13. A medical tube (700) for transferring fluid to or from a patient, wherein, The medical tube includes at least one coupling device as described in claim 1.
14. A medical kit (800), comprising: At least one medical tube according to claim 13, the medical tube further comprising at least one connecting arrangement disposed at at least one end of the medical tube, and At least one element (810) is connected to the medical tube via the at least one connection arrangement.