Manifold for medical waste collection system

Abstract

A medical waste collection system for collecting medical waste material, and a manifold for filtering waste material and / or coupling a suction tube to the system. The system may include a receiver, wherein the manifold is configured to be inserted into the receiver in a proximal direction to cause the inlet mechanism to move accordingly in a distal direction. The manifold may include an arm, a spine, a locking element, and / or a catch, each having surfaces with relative positions in a proximal-distal direction. The frame edge and the capture portion may be spaced apart by a void, and the frame edge may be positioned below the capture portion. The housing may include a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion, and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a void. The frame edge may be on the first leg and the catch may be on the second leg.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of November 11, 2019, application number 201980097362.8, and invention name “Manifold for medical waste collection system”.

[0002] Citation of Related Applications

[0003] This application claims priority to and all the benefits of U.S. Application No. 16 / 522,066, filed on July 25, 2019, U.S. Application No. 16 / 383,218, filed on April 12, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 876,229, filed on July 19, 2019, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0004] A byproduct of some surgical procedures is the generation of liquid, semi-solid and / or solid waste materials. Liquid waste materials may include body fluids and irrigation fluids from the surgical site, and solid and semi-solid waste materials may include tissue fragments and pieces of surgical material. Medical waste, regardless of its phase, is preferably collected so that it neither contaminates the surgical site nor becomes a biohazard in the medical room where the procedure was performed.

[0005] Medical waste may be removed from the surgical site through the suction tube under the influence of the vacuum provided by the suction source. An exemplary medical waste collection system is sold by Stryker Corporation (Kalamazoo, Mich.) under the trade name NEPTUNE, some forms of which are disclosed in commonly owned U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005 / 0171495, published on August 4, 2005, International Publication No. WO2007 / 070570, published on June 21, 2007, and International Publication No. WO2014 / 066337, published on May 1, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0006] A manifold can be provided that facilitates the engagement of the suction tube with a medical waste collection system. Additionally or alternatively, the manifold may include a filter element for filtering waste material to avoid clogging or damaging components of the medical waste collection system. An unused manifold can be operably connected to a medical waste collection system before or during surgery, and a used manifold can be operably separated from the medical waste collection system during or after surgery. A robust interface is required to facilitate safe and effective repeated connection and separation of the manifold from the medical waste collection system, which remains an area of ​​particular interest in research and development. In addition, where the manifold is configured to filter waste material, the manifold (including its components having complex geometries) may be contaminated. Efforts to reprocess a previously used manifold - attempting to remove contamination - may be unsatisfactory and result in questionable quality of the reprocessed item compared to an unused, genuine manifold. Therefore, it may be necessary to ensure that the manifold is single-use and disposable. Summary of the invention

[0007] Without limiting the effect of the invention as defined by the claims and clauses contained herein, the present disclosure relates to a manifold for a medical waste collection system. The manifold can be used to filter medical waste and / or to couple a suction tube to a medical waste collection system. The medical waste collection system includes a receptacle defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction. The manifold includes a housing. The housing can define a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume. The housing can include a frame edge defining the outlet opening. A filter element can be disposed within the manifold volume. The housing includes an arm, a locking element, a ridge, and / or a catch. The arm can include a proximal-directed surface, and the locking element can include a distal-directed surface positioned distal to the proximal-directed surface of the arm. The ridge can include a proximal-directed surface positioned proximal to the distal-directed surface of the locking element and distal to the proximal-directed surface of the arm. The proximal-directed surface of the ridge can include an inclined surface, such as an inclined, curved, or stepped surface. The catch portion may include a distally directed surface positioned proximal to the proximal directed surface of the arm. The rim and catch portion may be separated by a gap. The rim may be positioned below the catch portion when the manifold is oriented for insertion into the opening of the receiver.

[0008] The housing may include a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion, and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg by a gap. The second leg may extend proximally from the body portion. The arm, the locking element and / or the ridge may be disposed on the body portion and / or the first leg. The catch may be disposed on the second leg. The arm, the locking element and / or the catch may be at least a pair of arms, a pair of locking elements, and a pair of catches, respectively. The proximally directed surface of the arm is configured to engage the sliding assembly of the receiver during the insertion of the manifold to facilitate the movement of the sliding assembly in the proximal direction. The distally directed surface of the locking element is configured to engage (or be engaged by) the locking assembly of the receiver after the manifold is inserted into the receiver. The proximally directed surface of the ridge is configured to engage the sliding lock assembly of the receiver to allow the sliding assembly to move in the proximal direction. The distally directed surface of the catch is configured to engage (or be engaged by) the claw of the receiver during the process of removing the manifold from the receiver and cause the sliding assembly to move in the distal direction.

[0009] The slide assembly is configured to move in a proximal direction during the insertion of the manifold into the receiver to cause the inlet mechanism to move correspondingly in a distal direction, thereby establishing fluid communication between the suction outlet and the receiver outlet when the manifold assumes a fully inserted operational position, and further establishing fluid communication between the waste container and the manifold. The slide assembly is also configured to move in a distal direction during the removal of the manifold from the receiver to cause the inlet mechanism to move correspondingly in a proximal direction to disconnect the fluid communication between the suction outlet and the receiver outlet. The locking assembly may include a biasing element that biases the locking assembly toward a locked configuration in which the engagement surface engages the manifold in the fully inserted operational position to prevent the manifold and the slide assembly from moving distally. An actuator coupled to the release member may be configured to receive input from a user to move the locking assembly from the locked configuration to an unlocked configuration in which the engagement surface disengages from the manifold to allow the manifold and the slide assembly to move in the distal direction. The slide lock assembly may include a biasing element configured to bias the latch toward a locked configuration in which the latch engages the slide assembly to prevent movement of the slide assembly in a proximal direction. Inserting the manifold into the receiver to a first operational position moves the slide lock assembly from the locked configuration to an unlocked configuration in which the latch disengages the slide assembly to allow movement of the slide assembly in a proximal direction. The pawl may be movably coupled to the housing and pivotally coupled to the slide assembly, wherein the pawl is configured to engage the manifold in a fully inserted operational position and cause movement of the slide assembly in a distal direction in response to movement of the manifold in a distal direction during removal of the manifold from the receiver.

[0010] The seal may be coupled to the frame edge. The seal includes a seal body shaped to cover the outlet opening. The outlet opening may be wider than the height to have a non-circular shape. The seal body may be shaped to cover the non-circular outlet opening. The seal may include an inner seal frame edge coupled to the seal body, and an outer seal frame edge, the outer seal frame edge is spaced apart from the inner seal frame edge to define a groove designed to receive the frame edge so that the seal is coupled to the housing in an interference engagement form, while the seal body covers the non-circular outlet opening. The filter element may include a basket and a seal retaining element coupled to the basket. The seal retaining element of the filter element supports the seal in sealing engagement with the frame edge. The filter element of the manifold may include a plurality of orifices configured for filtering medical waste, and a keyway separated from the orifice. The projection may extend from the inner surface of the housing and pass through the keyway of the filter element. The projection is, for example, coupled to the filter element by thermoplastic pegs, so that removing the filter element from the housing requires destroying the manifold. The filter element may also include ribs fused to the slots of the housing, such as by laser welding, so that removal of the filter element from the housing requires destruction of the manifold. A use indicator may be disposed within the manifold volume and configured to absorb liquids and / or solids from medical waste. The use indicator may be supported on a tray of the filter element. The use indicator may be disposed within the second leg of the housing.

[0011] The manifold may be free of the above-mentioned manifold volume through which medical waste is directed. In certain embodiments, a device for coupling a suction tube to a medical waste collection system includes a void space through which a portion of the suction tube is configured to be arranged. The device may include a first housing portion and a second housing portion coupled to the first housing portion. The first housing portion and the second housing portion may be configured to enable the device to move between an open configuration in which the void space is accessible and a closed configuration in which the void space is inaccessible. A tube adapter may be coupled to the housing such that an inlet port is disposed within the void space.

[0012] The manifold may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag coupled to the housing. The RFID tag may include a memory storing data for determining whether the manifold can be used with the medical waste collection system, wherein the RFID tag is adapted to electronically communicate with a data reader of the receiver when the manifold is coupled to the manifold receiver. The receiver may include a sensor that communicates with a controller and is configured to output a signal indicating the position of the slide assembly in the proximal-distal direction, wherein the controller is configured to control the vacuum source based on the signal from the sensor. The medical waste collection system may include a docking station having an unloading pump and a docking controller for operating the unloading pump to transfer waste material to the docking station. The sensor may be configured to output a signal based on the presence of the manifold in the receiver, and the controller may be configured to generate an unloading signal to the docking controller based on whether the frame is coupled to the docking station and the signal output by the sensor. The unloading signal is operable to cause the docking controller to operate the unloading pump of the docking station to suck waste from the waste container to the docking station. The output signal may further indicate the position of the slide assembly. The output signal may further indicate whether the manifold is inserted into a fully inserted operating position in the receiver. The controller may also be configured to inhibit operation of the unloading pump based on the output signal when the manifold is not inserted into the fully inserted operational position in the receiver. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Advantages of the present disclosure will be readily appreciated as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0014] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a medical waste collection system wherein each of two manifolds is configured to be removably inserted into a respective one of two receptacles of the medical waste collection system. Two suction tubes are shown and are configured to be removably coupled to each of the two manifolds.

[0015] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a medical waste collection system and manifold with a front cover of the medical waste collection system removed to show a receiver coupled to a respective one of two waste containers of the medical waste collection system.

[0016] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the manifold and receiver with the manifold oriented for insertion into the opening of the receiver.

[0017] Figure 4 is an exploded view of the manifold.

[0018] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the head of the manifold.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a rear view of the head.

[0020] Figure 7 It is a side view of the head.

[0021] Figure 8 is a rear perspective view of the trunk section of the manifold. The seal of the manifold has been removed to show the outlet opening of the trunk section.

[0022] Fig. 9 This is the front view of the trunk.

[0023] Fig.10 This is a rear view of the torso.

[0024] Fig.11 It is a side view of the torso.

[0025] Fig.12 A detailed side view of a portion of the torso.

[0026] Fig.13 It is a top-down plan view of the torso.

[0027] Fig.14 It is a top view of the torso.

[0028] Fig.15 is a perspective view of the valve.

[0029] Fig.16 is a front perspective view of the filter element.

[0030] Fig.17 is a rear perspective view of the filter element.

[0031] Fig.18 is a side view of the filter element.

[0032] Fig.19 is a front perspective view of the seal.

[0033] Fig. 20 is a rear view of the seal.

[0034] Fig.21 is a rear perspective view of the seal.

[0035] Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 A cross-sectional plan view of the seal taken along section line 22-22.

[0036] Fig.23 is an exploded view of a portion of the manifold including the body, filter element, and seal.

[0037] Fig.24 is a rear perspective view of the seal.

[0038] Fig.25is a front perspective view of the seal.

[0039] Fig.26 yes Fig.23 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a manifold, including a detailed view showing the filter element retaining seal.

[0040] Fig. 27 is a perspective view of the receiver.

[0041] Fig.28 is an exploded view of the receiver.

[0042] Fig.29 is a front view of the receiver.

[0043] Fig.30 is a perspective view of the receiver lower housing.

[0044] Fig.31 It is a front view of the lower housing.

[0045] Fig.32 It is a top plan view of the lower shell.

[0046] Fig.33 is a top perspective view of the inlet mechanism of the receiver.

[0047] Fig.34 is a side view of the entrance mechanism.

[0048] Fig.35 It is a bottom-up perspective view of the entrance mechanism.

[0049] Fig.36 It is a front view of the entrance mechanism.

[0050] Fig.37 is a top perspective view of the slide assembly of the receiver. The inlet mechanism, slide lock assembly and claw of the receiver are shown engaging the slide assembly at their respective positions. For clarity, the lower housing is not shown - the inlet mechanism, slide lock assembly and claw are coupled to the lower housing.

[0051] Fig.38 is a top perspective view of the slide assembly.

[0052] Fig.39 is a bottom perspective view of the slide assembly. The slide lock assembly is shown engaged with the slide assembly.

[0053] Fig.40 This is a perspective view of one of the claws.

[0054] Fig.41 is a perspective view of the latch of the slide lock assembly.

[0055] Fig.42 is a side view of the latch.

[0056] Fig.43 is a perspective view of a locking assembly shown in a default configuration and / or an unlocked configuration.

[0057] Fig.44 is a perspective view of the locking assembly shown in a locked configuration.

[0058] Fig.45 is a perspective view of the manifold and receiver in a first operating position.

[0059] Fig.46 yes Fig.45 Sectional elevation view taken along section line 46-46

[0060] Fig.47 yes Fig.46 Detailed cross-sectional view within boundary 47.

[0061] Fig.48 yes Fig.46 A cross-sectional plan view taken along section line 48-48.

[0062] Fig.49 yes Fig.48 Detailed cross-sectional view within boundary 49-49.

[0063] Fig.50 is a perspective view of the manifold and receiver in a second operating position.

[0064] Fig.51 yes Fig.50 A cross-sectional elevation view of the receiver taken along section line 51-51 with the manifold shown in an exterior view.

[0065] Fig.52 yes Fig.51 Detailed view within boundary 52.

[0066] Fig.53 yes Fig.50 A cross-sectional plan view taken along section line 53-53.

[0067] Fig.54 yes Fig.53 Detailed cross-sectional view within boundary 54

[0068] Fig.55 is a perspective view of the manifold and receiver in a third operating position.

[0069] Fig.56 yes Fig.55 A cross-sectional elevation view of the receiver taken along section line 56-56 with the manifold shown in an exterior view.

[0070] Fig.57 yes Fig.56Detailed view within boundary 57.

[0071] Fig.58 yes Fig.55 A cross-sectional plan view taken along section line 58-58.

[0072] Fig.59 yes Fig.58 Detailed cross-sectional view within boundary 59.

[0073] Fig.60 is a perspective view of the manifold and receiver in a fourth or fully inserted operational position.

[0074] Fig.61 yes Fig.60 A cross-sectional elevational view taken along section line 61-61.

[0075] Fig.62 yes Fig.61 Detailed cross-sectional view within boundary 62 .

[0076] Fig.63 yes Fig.60 A cross-sectional plan view taken along section line 53-53.

[0077] Fig.64 yes Fig.63 Detailed cross-sectional view within boundary 64 .

[0078] Fig.65 yes Fig.60 A cross-sectional elevation view of the receiver of FIG. 6 taken along section line 65 - 65 with the manifold shown in an exterior view and the locking assembly in a locked configuration.

[0079] Fig.66 is a perspective view of the manifold and receiver with the locking assembly in the unlocked configuration.

[0080] Fig.67 yes Fig.66 A cross-sectional elevation view of the receiver taken along section line 67-67 with the manifold shown in an external view.

[0081] Fig.68 is a rear perspective view of the inverted torso of the manifold.

[0082] Fig.69 yes Fig.68 Rear view of an inverted torso.

[0083] Fig.70 yes Fig.68 Side view of an inverted torso.

[0084] Fig.71 yes Fig.68 Detailed side view of a portion of an inverted torso.

[0085] Fig.72 yes Fig.68 An inverted top view of the torso.

[0086] Fig.73 yes Fig.68 A top plan view of an inverted torso.

[0087] Fig.74 is a rear perspective view of the manifold.

[0088] Fig.75 yes Fig.74 Exploded view of the manifold.

[0089] Fig.76 yes Fig.74 A cross-sectional elevation view of the manifold taken along section line 76-76.

[0090] Fig.77 yes Fig.75 A cross-sectional elevation view of a manifold taken along section line 76-76, wherein a tissue trap is disposed within the manifold volume.

[0091] Fig.78 is an exploded view of the manifold including the filter element containing tray and usage indicator.

[0092] Fig.79 yes Fig.78 A cross-sectional front view of the manifold.

[0093] Fig.80 yes Fig.78 A front view of the trunk of the manifold.

[0094] Fig.81 yes Fig.78 Rear perspective view of the filter element of the manifold.

[0095] Fig.82 yes Fig.79 A cross-sectional elevational view of a portion of the trunk of the manifold within detail 79 wherein the protrusion extends through the keyway of the filter element.

[0096] Fig.82A yes Fig.82 A cross-sectional elevation view of that portion of the body of the filter element wherein the protrusions couple the filter element to the housing via thermoplastic staking.

[0097] Fig.83 is a perspective view of a portion of a manifold including a filter element fused to the housing by laser welding.

[0098] Fig.84 yes Fig.78A rear perspective view of the manifold, including a portion of the trunk being cut away to access the manifold volume.

[0099] Fig.85 is a rear perspective view of the device coupled to a suction tube.

[0100] Fig.86 yes Fig.85 A partially exploded view of a device of claim 1, wherein a suction tube is coupled to the device.

[0101] Fig.87 yes Fig.85 Exploded view of the device with the suction tube separated from the device.

[0102] Fig.88 is an exploded view of the device with the suction tube separated from the device.

[0103] Fig.89 is a rear perspective view of the device coupled to a suction tube.

[0104] Fig.90 yes Fig.89 Exploded view of the device with the aspiration tube separated from the manifold.

[0105] Fig.91 yes Fig.89 A sectional front view of the device taken along section line 91-91.

[0106] Fig.92 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the device coupled to a suction tube with the seal exploded from the device.

[0107] Fig.93 is a rear perspective view of the device coupled to a suction tube.

[0108] Fig.94 yes Fig.93 A rear perspective view of the device in an open configuration.

[0109] Fig.95 yes Fig.93 A partial cross-sectional view of the device in an open configuration, wherein the tube adapter and the suction tube are disposed within the void space of the device housing.

[0110] Fig.96 yes Fig.93 A partial cross-sectional view of the device in an open configuration with the tube adapter and aspiration tube removed from the void space.

[0111] Fig.97 yes Fig.93 A cross-sectional elevation view of the manifold taken along section line 97-97, wherein the tissue trap is disposed within the void space.

[0112] Fig.98is a rear perspective view of the device coupled to a suction tube.

[0113] Fig.99 yes Fig.98 A partial exploded view of a device in which a tube adapter and a suction tube are coupled to the device.

[0114] Fig.100 yes Fig.98 Exploded view of the device with the suction tube separated from the device.

[0115] Fig.101 yes Fig.98 A front perspective view of a device with the suction tube separated from the device.

[0116] Fig.102 is a perspective view of an inlet mechanism of a receiver spaced apart from a tube adapter, the inlet mechanism including a seal configured to provide a face seal with a suction inlet of the inlet mechanism. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0117] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A medical waste collection system 100 is shown for collecting waste material generated during medical procedures, more particularly during surgical procedures. The medical waste collection system 100 collects waste material and / or stores waste material until it is necessary or desired to unload and dispose of the waste material. The medical waste collection system 100 can be transported to and operably coupled to a docking station 101, through which the waste material is emptied. The docking station 101 includes an unloading pump 103 and a docking controller 105 operably coupled to the unloading pump 103. The docking station 101 can take any suitable form, such as, for example, the form disclosed in commonly owned U.S. Patent No. 7,621,898, issued November 24, 2009, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0118] The medical waste collection system 100 may include a frame 102 and wheels 104 for moving the system 100 along a floor surface within a medical facility. The medical waste collection system 100 includes at least one waste container 106, 108 defining a waste volume for collecting and storing waste material. Figure 2The first waste container 106 is shown disposed above the second waste container 108, which has a relatively greater or larger volume than the first waste container 106. A vacuum pump 110 (dashed line) is supported on the frame 102 and is configured to draw suction on one or both of the first and second waste containers 106, 108 through one or more vacuum lines 112, 114. At least one vacuum regulator (not shown) may also be supported on the frame 102 and is in fluid communication with the vacuum pump 110 and the waste containers 106, 108. The vacuum regulator is configured to adjust the level of suction on the waste containers 106, 108. Suitable construction and operation of several subsystems of the medical waste collection system 100 are disclosed in the above-mentioned commonly owned U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005 / 0171495, International Publication No. WO2007 / 070570, and International Publication No. WO2014 / 066337. Suitable construction and operation of the several subsystems of the medical waste collection system 100 may also be disclosed in commonly owned International Publication No. WO2017 / 112684, published on June 29, 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. A system of a single waste container is contemplated.

[0119] Medical waste collection system 100 includes at least one receptacle 116 supported on frame 102. In the most general sense, receptacle 116 defines an opening 118 sized to removably receive at least a portion of manifold 124 in a manner to be described throughout this disclosure. Figure 2 Two receivers 116 are shown, each of which is associated with a respective one of the first and second waste containers 106, 108. Alternatively, a single receiver and / or a single manifold may be provided. The receiver 116 includes a suction inlet 266 (see Figure 33-36 ), the suction inlet 266 is configured to be arranged in fluid communication with a corresponding one of the waste containers 106, 108. A suction path from the suction tube 120 to the waste containers 106, 108 can be established through the manifold 124 that is removably inserted into the receiver 116. The vacuum generated by the vacuum pump 110 draws suction on the suction tube 120, and waste material at the surgical site is sucked through the manifold 124, through the suction inlet 266, through the suction outlet 410 of the receiver 116, and into the waste containers 106, 108.

[0120] refer to Figure 3 , the manifold 124 is shown in a separated operational position, wherein the manifold 124 is separated or spaced apart from the receiver 116. Figure 31 may represent the manifold 124 prior to insertion into the receiver 116 and / or after removal of the manifold 124 from the receiver 116. The manifold 124 is configured to be inserted into the receiver 116 through the opening 118, and the suction tube 120 is coupled to the inlet fitting 126 of the manifold 124. The resulting arrangement is schematically reflected in Figure 1 1, wherein two aspiration tubes 120 are coupled to two of the four inlet fittings 126 of each manifold 124. Any number of inlet fittings are contemplated, and it is further contemplated that the aspiration tubes 120 may be integral to the housing 128. The aspiration path described above is established, and an instrument (not shown) coupled to the end of the aspiration tube 120 opposite the manifold 124 may be introduced to the surgical site to collect waste matter under the influence of the vacuum provided by the vacuum pump 110.

[0121] Further references Figure 4 , the manifold 124 includes a housing 128. In certain configurations, the housing 128 can define a manifold volume 130. The housing 128 can be considered any external structure or component of the manifold 124. Figure 4 The manifold 124 is shown to include a head 132 coupled to a trunk 134 to at least partially form a housing 128. When the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116, the head 132 is located distally of the trunk 134, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As used throughout this disclosure, the terms "distal" and "proximal" may refer to Figure 3 and the corresponding directions indicated by arrows in other figures. In another convention, the term "distal" may refer to a direction generally away from the rear barrier 602 of the receiver 116 (see Fig. 27 ), and the term "proximal" can refer generally to a direction toward the rear barrier 602 of the receiver 116. In yet another convention, the term "distal" can refer generally to a direction toward the front of the manifold 124 and toward the surgical site, and the term "proximal" refers generally to a direction toward the rear of the manifold 124 (when the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116) and away from the surgical site. In an alternative to a multi-piece construction including the head 132 and the torso 134, the housing 128 of the manifold 124 can be a one-piece or unitary construction (see, for example, Figures 89-92 ).

[0122] The head 132 (or any other portion of the housing 128) may include an inlet fitting 126. The inlet fitting 126 may extend distally from the crown 136 to define a distal end of the manifold 124. Alternatively, the inlet fitting 126 may be coupled to a structure separate from the housing 128 (i.e., not directly coupled to the head 132), wherein the inlet fitting 126 is in fluid communication with the outlet opening 242, which will be described, to establish a suction path (e.g., see Figure 85-102). It is further contemplated that any feature described as being part of the head 132 may alternatively be part of the torso 134, and any feature described as being part of the torso 134 may alternatively be part of the head 132. In certain embodiments, the housing 128 may provide structural support only to certain components without defining the outlet opening 242 (see, e.g., Figure 85-102 ). In other words, the housing 128 may not define the manifold volume 130 but may support certain structures, including, but not limited to, the arms 284, the catches 254, the ridges 300, and / or the locking elements 306. For another example, in which the outlet opening 242 is defined by a structure separate from the housing, the housing 128 may be arranged in a manner such that: Figures 81-98 and described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2018 / 0333520 published on November 22, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0123] Each inlet fitting 126 may define an inlet bore 138 . Figure 3-5 Four inlet connectors 126 are shown extending distally from the crown 136 in a parallel arrangement according to one embodiment. Thus, the manifold 124 is configured to be removably coupled to four of the aspiration tubes 120, thereby being operable concurrently with the operation of the medical waste collection system 100. If one or more of the inlet connectors 126 are not removably coupled to the aspiration tubes 120, a cap 140 can be removably coupled to a distal portion of the inlet connector 126 to seal a corresponding one of the inlet inner bores 138 from communication with ambient fluid. The resulting arrangement prevents ambient air from being drawn into the inlet inner bore 138 under the influence of a vacuum when the corresponding inlet connector 126 is not intended for at least a portion of a surgical procedure. The vacuum can be directed through the inlet connector 126 coupled to the aspiration tubes 120 without obstruction, thereby providing improved control of the vacuum level at the surgical site. The cap 140 may be coupled to the housing 128 by one or more tethers 142 extending outwardly from the head 132, and the paired caps 140 may be coupled to each other by webbing 144, so that the paired caps 140 may be successively coupled to and detached from the corresponding pair of inlet fittings 126. Alternatively, the cap 140 may be provided separately, and / or the tether 142 may be removably coupled to the head 132.

[0124] Figure 5The crown 136 shown may include a lower face 146 and an upper face 148, with a pair of inlet fittings 126 extending distally from the lower face 146 and the upper face 148, respectively. When the manifold 124 is oriented for insertion into the opening 118 of the receiver 116, the lower face 146 is located below the upper face 148. The lower face 146 may be positioned more distally than the upper face 148, such that (due to the equal lengths of the inlet fittings 126) the lower pair of inlet fittings 126 extend further than the upper pair of inlet fittings 126. The resulting arrangement is generally Figure 7 , and the axial staggering between the upper pair of inlet fittings 126 and the lower pair of inlet fittings 126 can provide additional clearance for the user's hands to confidently couple and detach the suction tube 120 and / or cap 140 to the inlet fittings 126. It is contemplated that the inlet fittings 126 can be positioned in other suitable arrangements to achieve their intended functions.

[0125] The head 132 may include at least one side 150. The side 150 may extend between a distal rim 151 opposite a proximal rim 153. The distal rim 151 may be positioned slightly distal to the crown 136 such that the crown 136 is recessed. The side 150 may be considered to be a single surface of a cylinder, such as Figure 5 and 6 The inner or proximal surface of the crown 136 and the inner surface of the side 150 can cooperate to define a cavity 152, Figure 6 152, the cavity can define at least a portion of the manifold volume 130. In such an arrangement, the inlet inner hole 138 is in fluid communication with the cavity 152, and therefore with the manifold volume 130. The side 150 may include at least one control surface 154 configured to be manipulated by a user to facilitate insertion of the manifold 124 into the opening 118 of the receiver 116. The control surface 154 may include recesses formed on the side 150 and positioned diametrically opposite to each other (in the Figure 5 and 7 ), or other suitable geometric features or materials configured to enhance handling of the manifold 124. The side 150 may include at least one orientation marking 156 configured to provide a visual indication of the proper orientation of the manifold 124 for insertion into the opening 118 of the receiver 116. Figure 5-7 Orientation markers 156 are shown as ridges that are diametrically opposed to one another and extend proximally-to-distally along the upper and lower portions of side 150. Orientation markers 156 may include other geometric features or indicia, such as a contrasting color to adjacent portions of head 132.

[0126] In certain embodiments, the head 132 and the torso 134 are removably coupled to each other. Figure 4-9 , the head 132 includes at least one key 158 or head coupler configured to removably couple with at least one keyway 160 or trunk coupler of the trunk 134. The key 158 may be two keys 158, which are arranged diametrically opposite to each other and extend proximally from the proximal frame 153 of the head 132. The keyway 160 may be two keyways 160, which are arranged diametrically opposite to each other and defined between at least one lip 166 extending radially outward from the ring 168 of the trunk 134. The keyway 160 may include an insertion portion 170 and a locking portion 172 in communication with the insertion portion 170. As shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As best shown, the insertion portion 170 can be wider than the locking portion 172. In other words, the portion of the lip 166 that defines the locking portion 172 can be thinner than the portion of the lip 166 that defines the insertion portion 170. The key 158 can include a shank 162 and a barb 164 extending from the shank 162. The barb 164 can be thicker than the shank 162. The width of the insertion portion 170 is greater than the thickness of the barb 164 and greater than the thickness of the shank 162, and the width of the locking portion 172 is less than the thickness of the barb 164 but greater than the thickness of the shank 162. In addition, the length of the shank 162 can be at least equal to the length of the lip 166. More specifically, the length of the shank 162 can be greater than the length of the portion of the lip 166 that defines the insertion portion 170, and the length of the shank 162 can be approximately equal to the length of the portion of the lip 166 that defines the locking portion 172. Thus, during assembly of the manifold 124 or when it is desired to couple the head 132 to the trunk 134, the head 132 is oriented relative to the trunk 134 such that the barbs 164 are rotationally aligned with the insertion portion 170. The head 132 is moved toward the trunk 134 such that the barbs 164 extend through the insertion portion 170 to pass through the lip 166 and the handle 162 is positioned within the insertion portion 170. The head 132 is rotated relative to the trunk 134, for example, Fig. 9 160 to move the key 158 within the keyway 160. The shank 162 moves from within the insertion portion 170 into the locking portion 172, while the barb 164 is positioned to interfere with or engage the portion of the lip 166 that defines the locking portion 172. This interference prevents axial movement of the head 132 relative to the trunk 134, and the head 132 can be considered to be fixed to the trunk 134 to form the housing 128 of the manifold 124.

[0127] The removable connection between the head 132 and the trunk 134 can provide access to the manifold volume 130, and the filter element 174 is disposed within the manifold volume 130. Among other advantages, access to the filter element 174 can allow a user to retrieve waste material, most particularly polyps or tissue samples, collected within the filter element 174 during certain surgical procedures for further examination and processing. Commonly owned International Publication No. WO2013 / 090579, published on June 20, 2013, discloses a manifold including a tissue trap for collecting polyps or tissue samples, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In certain embodiments, the manifold 124 including the head 132 can include other features for facilitating tissue sample collection. One such embodiment is disclosed in commonly owned International Publication No. PCT / US2019 / 032911, filed on May 17, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0128] When it is desired to separate the head 132 from the trunk 134, the above method steps are reversed. The head 132 is rotated relative to the trunk 134. Fig. 9 160 to move the key 158 within the keyway 160. The handle 162 is moved from within the locking portion 172 into the insertion portion 170, while simultaneously moving the barb 164 away from the interfering arrangement with that portion of the lip 166 that defines the locking portion 172. The head 132 is moved away from the body 134, causing the barb 164 to pass through the lip 166, and the key 158 can be considered to be disengaged from the keyway 160. The cavity 152 of the head 132 can be accessible, and / or the manifold volume 130 of the body 134 can be accessible through a distal opening 190 defined at least in part by a neck 192 of the body 134, as shown. Figure 4 shown.

[0129] In some embodiments, the head 132 and the trunk 134 are rigidly connected by a suitable joining process, such as spin welding, solvent bonding, adhesives, mechanical fastening, etc. As previously described, the housing 128 can be a one-piece or integral structure, so that there is no discrete head and trunk. Suitable manufacturing processes for forming the housing 128 can include injection molding, three-dimensional printing, computer numerical control (CNC) processing, polymer casting, vacuum forming, blow molding, etc. Suitable materials for forming the housing 128 may include polymers, composite materials, metals, ceramics and combinations thereof. The material includes sufficient corrosion resistance to avoid degradation when exposed to waste materials, and sufficient mechanical properties to maintain integrity under the vacuum level provided by the medical waste collection system 100. Polymers of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate (PET, PETE), polystyrene, polycarbonate and poly (methyl methacrylate) may be particularly suitable for low-cost and disposable manifolds 124.

[0130] Reference again Figure 4 , the manifold 124 may include at least one valve 176 configured to prevent backflow from the manifold volume 130 to the inlet bore 138. Further reference Figure 6 , a valve 176 can be coupled to the head 132 and disposed within the cavity 152 of the head 132, which can define at least a portion of the manifold volume 130. Specifically, an inner or proximal surface of the crown 136 can include a coupler 178, such as a protrusion extending proximally. Fig.15 The valve 176 shown includes a coupling 180 that is complementary to the coupling 178 of the head 132. The coupling 180 can be a slot disposed within a central hub 182 of the valve 176 and sized to engage with the protrusion in an interference arrangement. The slot can be in the shape of a cross. Additionally or alternatively, a suitable joining process such as an adhesive, mechanical fastening, etc. can be used to couple the valve 176 to the head 132.

[0131] The valve 176 may include a pair of baffles 184 coupled to the central hub 182 with flexible wings 186. The length of the flexible wings 186 is sufficient to space each of the pair of baffles 184 from the central hub 182 by a distance equal to the distance between the coupler 178 of the head 132 and the corresponding pair of inlet inner holes 138. The baffles 184 are sized to cover the inlet inner holes 138, wherein the shape of the baffles 184 is optionally circular, such as Fig.15As shown. The size of valve 176 can be designed to have a thickness that is significantly less than the width and length of valve 176, and valve 176 can be formed of an elastic material, such as rubber or other polymers with suitable viscoelastic properties. The size and material of valve 176 are configured to facilitate elastic deformation about an axis that is transverse to the length of valve 176. In other words, the size and material of valve 176 are configured to cause wings 186 to elastically deform to allow flap 184 to move in the proximal-distal direction. Fig.15 The valve 176 is shown in a natural or unstressed state. The flexible flap 186 may include at least one cutout 188 along its length, wherein the cutout 188 is configured to provide a living hinge about the aforementioned axis. Fig.15 Two cutouts 188 are shown on opposite sides of the width direction of the wing 186, where the axis is considered to extend through the apex of each cutout 188. The size and shape of the cutouts 188 can be designed to adjust the bending properties of the wing 186 based on the expected amplitude of movement of the baffle 184 when the vacuum pump 110 provides the expected vacuum level.

[0132] During assembly of the manifold 124, the valve 176 may be coupled to the housing 128, and more specifically to the head 132. The complementary couplers 178, 180 engage, and the valve 176 is positioned directly adjacent to or abutting the inner or proximal surface of the head 132. In particular, when the valve 176 is in a natural or unstressed state, the flap 184 abuts the inner or proximal surface of the head 132 and covers the inlet inner aperture 138. With the manifold 124 inserted into the receptacle 116 and the medical waste collection system 100 in operation, a vacuum is drawn on or through the manifold 124 in fluid communication with the waste containers 106, 108. Without the cap 140 sealing a respective one of the inlet inner apertures 138 from being in fluid communication with the environment, the vacuum drawn on or through the manifold 124 is sufficient to elastically deform the wings 186 to allow the flap 184 to move in the proximal direction. In other words, the size, material, and / or cutout 188 of the valve 176 facilitates flexure of the wings 186 and movement of the flapper 184 away from the proximal end of the inlet bore 138. Movement of the flapper 184 away from the proximal end of the inlet bore 138 establishes a suction path from the inlet bore 138 to the manifold volume 130, and thus to the waste containers 106, 108. When the vacuum drawn on or through the manifold 124 ceases, the valve 176 returns to a natural or unstressed state, wherein the wings 186 resiliently move the flapper 184 into abutment with the inner or proximal surface of the head 132 to cover and seal the proximal end of the inlet bore 138. Sealing the proximal end of the inlet bore 138 prevents backflow from the manifold volume 130 to the inlet bore 138, and thus prevents waste material from potentially flowing out through the inlet bore 138.

[0133] Reference now Figure 4 and16 -18, a filter element 174 may be optionally disposed within the manifold volume 130. In the broadest sense, the filter element 174 includes a structure configured to capture or collect semi-solid or solid waste matter entrained within liquid waste matter that is drawn through the manifold 124 under the influence of the vacuum provided by the medical waste collection system 100. The filter element 174 may include a basket 206 that includes a base wall 194 and at least one side 196 that extends distally from the base wall 194 to define a mouth 198 opposite the base wall 194. In view of the geometry of the body 134 in which the filter element 174 is at least partially disposed, as will be described, the filter element 174 may accordingly include an upper wall 200, a lower wall 202, and opposing sides 204 when the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receptacle 116. The opposing sides 204 can extend between the upper wall 200 and the lower wall 202, and each of the upper wall 200, the lower wall 202 and the opposing sides 204 can extend distally from the base wall 194. The resulting arrangement can be considered to be the above-mentioned basket 206 having a generally square or rectangular cross-section. In certain embodiments, the cross-section of the basket 206 can be generally cylindrical, and other suitable shapes can be envisioned. In addition, the filter element 174 can be implemented as a foam or composite member that is configured to allow air to pass while capturing or collecting semi-solid or solid waste matter. It should be understood that not all manifold configurations require the use of the filter element 174, and manifold designs that do not include a filter element are envisioned. In addition, the filter element 174 can be disposed in a position separate from the manifold volume 130 and in fluid communication with the outlet opening 242 of the manifold 124.

[0134] The filter element 174 may include a rim 208 coupled to the basket 206. The rim 208 extends distally from the basket 206 and may extend radially outward from the mouth 198 of the basket 206. The rim 208 may include an outer diameter or size that is larger than the outer diameter or size of the basket 206. Figure 4, the length of basket 206 can be such that basket 206 is disposed within body portion 210 of trunk portion 134, and the length of rim 208 can be such that rim 208 is disposed within neck 192 of trunk portion 134. Step 212 extends radially inward from an inner surface of neck 192 and / or radially outward from an inner surface of body portion 210 to define a transition between neck 192 and body portion 210. Neck 192 can include an inner diameter or inner dimension that is larger than an inner diameter or inner dimension of body portion 210. Flared wall 214 of filter element 174 defines a transition between basket 206 and is configured to be positioned adjacent to or abutting step 212 of trunk portion 134. The resulting arrangement includes the basket 206 disposed within that portion of the manifold volume 130 defined by the body portion 210, and the rim 208 disposed within that portion of the manifold volume 130 defined by the neck 192. Other suitable configurations are contemplated, for example, the basket 206 and / or rim 208 may be disposed within the cavity 152 of the head 132, which cavity 152 may define a portion of the manifold volume 130. The rim 208 of the filter element 174 may be considered optional, and other shapes and configurations of filter elements 174 suitable for use with certain embodiments of the manifold 124 are disclosed in commonly owned International Publication No. WO2018 / 170233, filed on March 15, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0135] To facilitate coupling and positioning of the filter element 174 within the body portion 134, the filter element 174 may include at least one guide 216 and at least one centering hole 218. Figure 16-18 And further reference Fig. 9 , the guide 216 can include a rail extending laterally outward from one of the opposite sides 204 of the basket 206 and oriented in the proximal-distal direction. The rail can be sized and oriented to be slidably inserted into a complementary slot 220 defined between parallel guardrails 222 extending laterally inward from the inner surface of the body portion 210 of the trunk 134. Fig. 9 and 17 Two guide rails extending laterally outward from opposite sides 204 and two complementary slots 220 extending laterally inward from opposing inner surfaces of body portion 210 are shown. Guide 216 includes a proximal end near base wall 194 of basket 206 and a distal end adjacent to or on flared wall 214 of rim 208. Laterally outward tapered portion 224 near distal end of guide 216 may be configured to be in an interfering arrangement with a complementary structure of trunk portion 134 when filter element 174 is fully seated within manifold volume 130. Centering hole 218 may be defined on base wall 194 of basket 206, as shown in FIG. Fig.17 Best shown. Fig.17 The centering hole 218 includes two centering holes 218 having a cross shape to serve as a keyway for a cross-shaped protrusion 226 extending distally from the inner surface of the proximal wall 228 of the trunk 134, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 . The cross shape is only one example, and other geometric shapes are also contemplated. It is further contemplated that the two centering holes 218 may have different shapes, and that fewer or more than two centering holes 218 may be used at any suitable location on the base wall 194 of the basket 206. The two centering holes 218 are spaced apart from each other by a distance equal to the distance separating the two protrusions 226. The guide 216 and the centering holes 218 cooperate to ensure that the filter element 174 is fully seated within the manifold volume 130 with minimal "play" (e.g., unintentional proximal, distal, lateral and / or rotational movement due to component tolerances, etc.). In addition, given their relative shapes, sizes and / or positions, the guide 216 and the centering holes 218 may cooperate to prevent unauthorized filter elements from being coupled to the trunk 134, for example, during an attempt to reprocess the manifold 124. For example, the specific shape of centering hole 218 can ensure that only truly authorized filter elements 174 are compatible, otherwise protrusion 226 will prevent unauthorized filter elements from being fully seated within body 134 and thereby further prevent head 132 from being properly coupled to body 134.

[0136] The apertures of the filter element 174 may be shaped as holes 230 , apertures 232 , and / or slots 234 , etc. The holes 230 , apertures 232 , and / or slots 234 may be defined in any one or more of the base wall 194 , upper wall 200 , lower wall 202 , opposite sides 204 , flared wall 214 , and rim 208 . Figure 16-18The holes 230 defined in the base wall 194, the apertures 232 defined in the upper wall 200, the lower wall 202, the flared wall 214 and the rim 208, and the slots 234 defined in the opposite sides 204 are shown. The apertures - in type and location - are arranged in a manner that minimizes clogging of the filter element 174. For example, the slots 234 defined in the opposite sides 204 are located closer to the upper wall 200 than to the lower wall 202. As semi-solid or solid waste matter is collected, it accumulates at the bottom of the basket 206 under the influence of gravity, and the waste matter then flows over the accumulation. After a sufficient amount of semi-solid or solid waste matter has accumulated, it may be desirable for the waste matter to encounter the slots 234, which have a minimum dimension approximately equal to the apertures 232 (to capture semi-solid or solid waste matter of the same size as the apertures 232), and have a larger open area to allow a larger volume flow through the slots 234. Furthermore, the vertical arrangement of the slots 234 is transverse to the suction path and parallel to gravity. Thus, as the semi-solid or solid waste material further accumulates, at least a portion of the slots 234 remain unobstructed until substantially the entire basket 206 is filled with waste material, thereby maximizing the operational life cycle of the manifold 124.

[0137] The rim 208 may include at least one sidewall 236 extending between the flared wall 214 and the distal rim 238 of the filter element 174. The sidewall 236 may be considered a single side of a cylinder, or multiple sides arranged in any suitable geometric shape. The length of the sidewall 236 may be less than the basket 206, and the outer diameter or size of the sidewall 236 may be greater than the outer diameter or size of the basket 206. The sidewall 236 may include an aperture 232, which is specifically formed by the aperture 232 such as Fig.16The lower portion of the side wall 236 shown is defined. The side wall 236 can also define at least one overflow opening 240 positioned on the upper portion of the side wall 236. The overflow opening 240 is configured to maximize the operating cycle of the manifold 124. As previously described, when semi-solid or solid waste material is collected, it will accumulate at the bottom of the basket 206 under the influence of gravity. Due to the direction of the suction path (i.e., in the proximal direction), the semi-solid or solid waste material will accumulate on the base wall 194 of the basket 206. If a sufficient amount of semi-solid or solid waste material is generated during the surgical procedure, the entire basket 206 may be filled with the accumulated semi-solid or solid waste material. In other words, most or all of the holes 230, apertures 232 and / or slots 234 of the filter element 174 may be blocked by the semi-solid or solid waste material. The overflow opening 240 is sized and positioned to allow the suction path to extend to the outside of the basket 206 through the overflow opening 240. In other words, understanding the fluid dynamics principle that fluids take the path of least resistance, the suction path in the above scenario extends from the inlet bore 138, through the head 132, through the overflow opening 240, within the body 134 between the basket 206 and the inner surface of the body 134, to the outlet opening 242 to be described. In addition, the cavity 152 of the head 132, which defines a portion of the manifold volume 130, can provide additional volume distal to the filter element 174 for accumulating additional semi-solid or solid waste matter when the suction path is directed through the overflow opening 240.

[0138] Certain features of the manifold 124 will now be referred to as Figure 4 , 8 and 10-14, and further described later with respect to the complementary components of receiver 116. Figure 4 , 8 11 and 12 show the manifold 124 oriented for insertion into the opening 118 of the receiver 116 (see also Figure 3 ), and by convention, directional references (e.g., proximal, distal, superior, inferior, above, below, etc.) are made relative to the manifold 124 in the insertion orientation. In addition, directional references are made relative to the manifold 124 in the insertion orientation and can be considered to be from a side elevation view (e.g., Fig.11 and 12 ) and / or with reference to the corresponding directional arrows identified.

[0139] The manifold 124 includes a housing 128. The housing 128 can define a manifold volume 130 and an outlet opening 242. The outlet opening 242 can be in fluid communication with the manifold volume 130. The outlet opening 242 can be defined by a trunk 134 of the housing 128. The housing 128 can include a body portion 210, a first leg 244, and / or a second leg 246. The first leg 244 and / or the second leg 246 can extend from the body portion 210, and more specifically, one or both of the first and second legs 244, 246 can extend proximally from the body portion 210. Alternatively, the first leg 244 and / or the second leg 246 can extend proximally from the ring portion 168 positioned distal to the body portion 210, the first leg 244 can extend from the second leg 246, and / or the second leg 246 can extend from at least a portion of the first leg 244. When the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116 , the first leg 244 may be positioned above or below the second leg 246 .

[0140] The first and second legs 244, 246 may be spaced apart from one another to at least partially define a gap 248, such as Figure 8 Perspective drawing and Fig.11 and 12 246 and the upper portion 252 of the first leg 244. The lower portion 250 of the second leg 246 is shown as a wall extending generally between opposite sides of the second leg 246. In some embodiments, the lower portion 250 may extend laterally to a lesser extent than shown, for example, where a slot or other geometric feature extends through the second leg 246. In some embodiments, the capture portion 254, which will be further described, may be a generally independent structure (see, for example, Fig.68 ), so that the capture portion 254 and the first leg 244 define a gap 248. For example, the second leg 246 having the capture portion 254 may be larger than Figure 6 The first leg 244 shown in FIG. 24 is narrower and extends proximally from the body portion 210 and / or the first leg 244 .

[0141] The body portion 210 may include a distal portion 256, and the void 248 may be further defined by the distal portion 256. The distal portion 256 may extend between the first and second legs 244, 246 to define a degree of separation between the first and second legs 244, 246. More specifically, the distal portion 256 may extend between the upper and lower portions 250, 252 to define three sides of the slot-shaped void 248. For example, Fig.12The distal region 256 is shown as a generally vertically oriented surface that distally bounds the void 248 and generally defines the height of the void 248. The upper and lower regions 250, 252 can be generally horizontally oriented surfaces that bound the void 248 from above and below, respectively, and generally define the depth of the void 248. Other sizes and / or shapes of the void 248 are contemplated. The first and / or second legs 244, 246 can be considered to extend from the distal region 256.

[0142] For the sake of convention, a vertical plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the proximal-most point of the distal portion 256 can be considered to be the boundary (B) separating the body portion 210 from the first and / or second legs 244, 246, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 As shown. The portion of the housing 128 (more specifically the trunk 134) distal to the boundary (B) can be considered the body portion 210, and the upper and lower portions of the housing 128 (more specifically the trunk 134) proximal to the boundary (B) can be considered the second and first legs 246, 244, respectively. It should be understood that the distal portion 256 may include a curvature in the proximal-distal direction, and / or the upper portion 252 of the first leg 244 may include a curvature in the superior-inferior direction to produce the following. Figure 8 and 12 The interface 258 can extend between adjacent surfaces that at least partially define the body portion 210 and / or the first leg 244. The first and second legs 244, 246 can include a cross-sectional area that is less than the cross-sectional area of ​​the body portion 210, wherein each cross-sectional area is in a vertical plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction.

[0143] The housing 128 may include an upper wall 260 , a lower wall 262 , and opposing sides 264 extending between the upper wall 260 and the lower wall 262 . Figure 8 The convention of depicting an upper wall 260, a lower wall 262, and opposite sides 264 is included. Specifically, the boundary is shown in dashed lines to identify one of the opposite sides 264, and it can be assumed that the same boundary is present on the other of the opposite sides 264. The upper portion of the trunk 134 between the opposite sides 264 can be considered to be the upper wall 260, and the lower portion of the trunk 134 between the opposite sides 264 can be considered to be the lower wall 262. Similarly, the opposite sides 264 can extend between the upper and lower walls 260, 262. Another convention can include that the opposite sides 264 are generally vertically oriented external side surfaces, the upper wall 260 is generally horizontally oriented external upper surface, and the lower wall 262 is generally horizontally oriented external lower surface. Yet another convention of depicting the upper wall 260, the lower wall 262, and the opposite sides 264 of the housing 128 can be related to the complementary shape of the opening 118 of the receiver 116. Fig.31The lower housing 268 of the display receiver 116 includes a front elevation view of the opening 118 having four annotation marks intersecting the opening 118. The four annotation marks can be located at approximately four corners of the generally square or rectangular shaped opening 118. The opening 118 can include and / or be defined by an upper segment 270 between an upper pair of marks in the annotation marks, a lower segment 272 between a lower pair of marks in the annotation marks (excluding the ridge slot 277), and two opposing side segments 274 between corresponding pairs of side marks in the annotation marks (excluding the arm slot 278 and the groove 279). The upper wall 260 of the housing 128 may be considered to be any surface that is positioned toward, near, or adjacent to the upper segment 270 when the manifold 124 is inserted into the opening 118, the lower wall 262 of the housing 128 may be considered to be any surface that is positioned toward, near, or adjacent to the lower segment 272 when the manifold 124 is inserted into the opening 118, and the sides 264 of the housing 128 may be considered to be any surface that is positioned toward, near, or adjacent to the respective side segments 274 when the manifold 124 is inserted into the opening 118. Other conventions are contemplated, and it should be understood that a manifold compatible with the receiver 116 may include discernible upper and lower walls and sides due to the shape and features of the manifold 124, the shape of the opening 118, and the features of the receiver 116. It should be understood that potential minor variations in the illustrated geometry may be included without departing from the above conventions.

[0144] return Figure 8 , the opposite sides 264 and the lower wall 262 can cooperate to form at least a portion of the first leg 244, and the opposite sides 264 and the upper wall 260 can cooperate to form at least a portion of the second leg 246. The tubular wall 280 that at least partially defines the first leg 244 can include an upper portion 252, the opposite sides 264, and the lower wall 262. The second leg 246 can include a lower portion 250, the opposite sides 264, the upper wall 260, and a base wall 281. The interior of the second leg 246 formed by the lower portion 250, the opposite sides 264, the upper wall 260, and the base wall 281 can define a cavity (not shown), so that the second leg 246 is hollow, such as from Fig. 9130 and / or the body portion 210. The housing 128 may include a third leg, a fourth leg, a fifth leg, or more legs extending from the ring portion 168 and / or the body portion 210.

[0145] The housing 128 may include a rim 276 that defines the outlet opening 242. The rim 276 may be disposed on the first leg 244, and more specifically at or near the proximal end of the first leg 244. In one convention, the rim 276 may be considered to be a proximally directed surface at the proximal end of the first leg 244. In another convention, the rim 276 may be a three-dimensional structure including a depth extending from the proximal end of the first leg 244. For example, Figure 8 and 11 A step 283 is shown extending radially inwardly from the tubular wall 280 that at least partially defines the first leg 244 , with the rim 276 extending proximally from the step 283 . Fig.12 A vertical plane, marked (R), perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the frame rim 276 indicates the proximal-distal position of the frame rim 276 to be further referenced. The frame rim 276 may include a width greater than the height so that the outlet opening 242 is non-circular. The tubular wall 280 may also include a width greater than the height, and the size of the frame rim 276 may be approximately equal to the size of the tubular wall 280 so that the outlet opening 242 is complementarily shaped to approximate the cross-section of the first leg 244. Alternatively, the cross-sectional area of ​​the frame rim 276 may be different from the cross-sectional area of ​​the first leg 244. The frame rim 276 may be configured to couple with a seal 282 to be described.

[0146] The manifold 124 includes at least one arm 284 extending outwardly from the housing 128. Reference is made throughout this disclosure to a pair of arms 284, but it should be understood that a single arm may be provided. Figure 8 and 11 -13 shows arm 284 as a slender rib-like structure in the proximal-distal direction and including a width greater than the thickness. In some embodiments, arm 284 may not be slender in the proximal-distal direction, but rather, for example, a square or cylindrical post extending outward from housing 128. Arm 284 can be integrally formed with housing 128, separately formed and directly secured to housing 128, or coupled to housing 128 through an intermediate structure.

[0147] The arm 284 can extend outwardly from at least one of the body portion 210 and the first leg 244. In other words, the arm 284 can extend away from the manifold volume 130. Fig.11 , at least a portion of the arms 284 (one is shown) extend outwardly from the body portion 210, with the proximal end of the arm 284 optionally being proximal to the boundary (B) between the body portion 210 and the first leg 244. Alternatively, the proximal end of the arm 284 may not be adjacent to or proximal to the boundary between the body portion 210 and the first leg 244. Where the interface 258 between the body portion 210 and the first leg 244 is distally inclined, a portion of the arm 284 may be considered to extend outwardly from the body portion 210 while another portion of the arm 284 extends outwardly from the first leg 244. Additionally, the arms 284 may extend outwardly from opposite sides 264 of the housing 128, and more specifically, extend laterally outwardly from the opposite sides 264. As used herein, the terms "lateral" or "laterally" may refer to a direction perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction, and / or a direction toward or away from the opposite sides 264 of the manifold 124. Alternatively, the arm 284 may extend from the housing 128 in other ways, not necessarily in an outward direction. The arm 284 may be sized and shaped to be removably inserted through the arm slot 278 (see FIG. 1 ) that at least partially defines the opening 118 of the receiver 116. Figure 29-31 ). The width of the arm 284 can be less than the width of the arm slot 278, and the arm 284 can be angled relative to an adjacent portion of the housing 128 so as to be substantially horizontal when the manifold 124 is oriented for insertion into the opening of the receiver 116. The arm 284 can have any suitable length, and it should be understood that the arm 284 can extend from the body portion 210 and / or the first leg 244. It should be understood that not all manifold 124 configurations require the use of the arm 284, and manifold designs that do not include an arm are contemplated.

[0148] Each arm 284 includes a proximally directed surface 286. The proximally directed surface 286 is configured to engage a slide assembly 288 of the receiver 116 during insertion of the manifold 124 into the receiver 116 (see FIG. Fig.38 and 39 ) to facilitate movement of the receiver 116 and its components between the various operating positions to be described. The proximal surface 286 may be positioned at Fig.11 Distal to the boundary (B), in such a convention, the arm 284 extends only laterally outward from the body portion 210. Fig.12A vertical plane, designated (A), including a plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the proximal-pointing surface 286, indicates the proximal-distal position of the proximal-pointing surface 286 of the arm 284. The proximal-pointing surface 286 of the arm 284 can be positioned distal to the frame edge 276, and thus the frame edge 276 can be positioned proximal to the proximal-pointing surface 286 (i.e., plane A is distal to plane R, and plane R is proximal to plane A).

[0149] The manifold 124 includes a previously introduced capture portion 254, a pair of which will be described below. It should be understood that a single capture portion may be provided, and manifold designs that do not include a capture portion are contemplated. The capture portion 254 may be defined by the housing 128, and more specifically by the torso 134. Figure 8 and 10 -12, the capture portion 254 can be disposed on the second leg 246. The capture portion 254 can be positioned adjacent to or within those portions that define the opposite sides 264 of the second leg 246, and / or the capture portions 254 can be laterally spaced apart from each other by the lower portion 250 of the second leg 246. The capture portion 254 can be integrally formed with the housing 128, separately formed and directly secured to the housing 128, or coupled to the housing 128 through an intermediate structure.

[0150] The rim 276 and at least one of the catch portions 254 may be spaced apart from each other by the gap 248. More specifically, the rim 276 on the first leg 244 may be spaced apart from the catch portion 254 on the second leg 246 by the gap 248. In other words, the rim 276 may be on a first side or lower side of the gap 248, and the catch portion 254 may be on a second side or upper side of the gap 248 opposite the first side or lower side. Furthermore, when the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116, the rim 276 is positioned below the catch portion 254, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 and 12 Best shown.

[0151] Each catch 254 includes a distally directed surface 290. The distally directed surface 290 of the catch 254 is configured to be engaged by a claw 292 of the slide assembly 288 of the receiver 116 when the manifold 124 is inserted into and removed from the receiver 116 (see FIG. Fig.40 ) to facilitate movement of the receiver 116 between the various operating positions to be described. The distally directed surface 290 may be positioned at Fig.11 near the boundary (B). Fig.12A vertical plane, labeled (C), that is perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extends through the distally-directed surface 290 indicates the proximal-distal position of the capture portion 254. The distally-directed surface 290 of the capture portion 254 can be positioned proximal to the frame edge 276, and thus the frame edge 276 can be positioned distal to the distally-directed surface 290 (i.e., plane C is proximal to plane R, and plane R is distal to plane C). In addition, the distally-directed surface 290 of the capture portion 254 can be positioned proximal to the proximal-directed surface 286 of the arm 284, and thus the proximal-directed surface 286 of the arm 284 can be positioned distal to the distally-directed surface 290 (i.e., plane C is proximal to plane A, and plane A is distal to plane C).

[0152] In some embodiments, the capture portion 254 can be a hook-like structure including a distally directed surface 290 along a bend of the hook-like structure, and further including opposing upper and lower portions 293, 294 separated by a gap 296. The upper and lower portions 293, 294 can be generally horizontally oriented surfaces that define the gap 296 from above and below, respectively, and generally define the width of the gap 296. The width of the gap 296 can be at least equal to the thickness of the claw 292. In some embodiments, the capture portion 254 can also include a laterally directed surface 298, such that the capture portion 254 is formed as a recess within the housing 128. The laterally directed surface 298 can be generally vertically oriented surfaces and further define the gap 296. Other configurations of the capture portion 254 are also contemplated, namely any suitable structure provided on the body portion 210 and / or the second leg 246, which includes the distally directed surface 290 adapted to be engaged by the claw 292 of the slide assembly 288. For example, each capture portion can be configured as a protrusion extending from the loop portion 168, the body portion 210, the first leg 244, and / or the second leg 246, wherein the protrusion has a distally directed surface 290 positioned as described above. If more than one capture portion 254 is included, the design of the capture portion 254 can be different from each other, including differences in shape and / or position. In other words, the capture portion 254 does not have to adopt the aforementioned hook-like structure, but can be any suitable structure having the distally directed surface 290.

[0153] The manifold 124 may include a spine 300 extending outwardly from the housing 128 . Figure 8 and 11 -13 shows the spine 300 as an elongated structure in the proximal-distal direction and including a width greater than the thickness. In some embodiments, the spine 300 may not be elongated in the proximal-distal direction, but rather, for example, a square or cylindrical post extending outwardly from the housing 128. The spine 300 may be integrally formed with the housing 128, separately formed and directly secured to the housing 128, or coupled to the housing 128 through an intermediate structure.

[0154] The ridge 300 can extend outwardly from at least one of the body portion 210, the first leg 244, and / or the second leg 246. In other words, the ridge 300 can extend away from the manifold volume 130. Fig.11 , the ridge 300 extends outwardly from the housing 128 on the far side of the boundary (B), so that the ridge 300 extends outwardly from the body portion 210. In addition, the ridge 300 can extend outwardly from the bottom wall 262 of the trunk 134, and more specifically extends downwardly from the bottom wall 262. Alternatively, the ridge 300 can extend from the housing 128 in other ways and does not necessarily extend in an outward direction. The width of the ridge 300 can be less than the width of the ridge slot 277 (see Figure 29-31 ), and when the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening of the receiver 116, the ridge 300 can be oriented substantially vertically. The ridge 300 can extend distally to a position adjacent to the ring 168, such as Fig.13 164, or extend to a distal position spaced apart from the ring 168. In other words, various lengths of the spine 300 are contemplated. It should be understood that not all manifold configurations require the use of the spine 300, and manifold designs that do not include the spine are contemplated.

[0155] The spine 300 includes a proximally directed surface 302 . Fig.12A vertical plane, designated as (S), perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the proximal end of the proximal-pointing surface 302, is included, the proximal-distal position of the proximal-pointing surface 302 of the spine 300. The proximal-pointing surface 302 of the spine 300 can be positioned distal to the frame edge 276, and thus the frame edge 276 can be positioned proximal to the proximal-pointing surface 302 (i.e., plane S is distal to plane R, and plane R is proximal to plane S). In addition, the proximal-pointing surface 302 of the spine 300 can be positioned distal to the distal-pointing surface 290 of the capture portion 254, and thus the distal-pointing surface 290 of the capture portion 254 can be positioned proximal to the proximal-pointing surface 302 (i.e., plane S is distal to plane C, and plane C is proximal to plane S). Further, the proximally pointing surface 302 of the ridge 300 can be positioned distally of the proximally pointing surface 286 of the arm 284, and thus the proximally pointing surface 286 of the arm 284 can be positioned proximally of the proximally pointing surface 302 (i.e., plane S is distally of plane A and plane A is proximally of plane S). In certain embodiments, the proximally pointing surface 302 is inclined in a proximal direction toward the lower wall 262 of the housing 128 to define a proximal end of the ridge 300. The inclination may include an inclined surface, a curved surface, or a series of surfaces in a progressive manner. Alternatively, the proximally pointing surface 302 can have other shapes, for example, having a surface that is orthogonal to the body 134. The ridge 300 is configured to engage a sliding lock assembly 304 of the receiver 116 during insertion and removal of the manifold 124 from the receiver 116 (see Fig.39 ) to facilitate movement of the receiver 116 and its components between the various operating positions to be described.

[0156] The manifold 124 includes at least one locking element 306 extending outwardly from the housing 128. Reference is made throughout this disclosure to a pair of locking elements 306, but it should be understood that a single locking element may be provided and that manifold designs that do not include a locking element are contemplated. Figure 8 and 11-13 shows that each locking element 306 shares an elongated structure with a corresponding one of the arms 284. In particular, each locking element 306 can include a distally directed surface 308 at the distal end of the elongated structure opposite to the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284. Each locking element 306 can be at least substantially coplanar with the arm 284 in the proximal-distal direction. In some embodiments, the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 can be arranged on a different structure than the proximal directed surface 286 of the arm 284. For example, a second elongated structure in the proximal-distal direction and including a width greater than the thickness can be provided. In other words, a slot or gap can separate the locking element 306 from the arm 284. In some embodiments, the locking element 306 may not be elongated in the proximal-distal direction, but rather a column of a square or cylindrical shape, for example, extending outward from the housing 128 to define the distally directed surface 308 as described above. The locking element 306 may be integrally formed with the housing 128 , separately formed and directly secured to the housing 128 , or coupled to the housing 128 through an intermediate structure.

[0157] The locking element 306 can extend outwardly from at least one of the body portion 210 and the first leg 244. In other words, the locking element 306 can extend away from the manifold volume 130. The locking element 306 can be positioned at Fig.11 116, and thus in the introduced convention, the locking element 306 only extends laterally outward from the body portion 210. The locking element 306 can extend outward from the opposite sides 264 of the housing 128, and more specifically extends laterally outward from the opposite sides 264. Alternatively, the locking element 306 can extend from the housing 128 in other ways and does not necessarily extend in an outward direction. The size and shape of the locking element 306 can be designed to be removably inserted through the arm slot 278 (see FIG. 118 ) that at least partially defines the opening 118 of the receiver 116. Figure 29-31 ). The width of the locking element 306 can be less than the width of the arm slot 278, and the locking element 306 can be angled relative to an adjacent portion of the housing 128 so as to be substantially horizontal when the manifold 124 is oriented for insertion into the opening of the receiver 116. Other configurations of the locking element 306 are also contemplated, such as any suitable structure disposed on the body portion 210, the first leg 244, and / or the second leg 246 that includes the distally directed surface 308. For example, a prong that is separate from the body portion 210 and / or the first and second legs 244, 246 and extends from the ring portion 168 can define the distally directed surface 308.

[0158] The distally directed surface 308 is configured to engage a locking assembly 310 of the receiver 116 after the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116 (see FIG. Fig.43and 44 ) to selectively prevent distal movement of the manifold 124 relative to the receiver 116. Fig.12 A vertical plane, labeled (L), that is perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extends through the distally-directed surface 308 represents the proximal-distal position of the locking element 306. The distally-directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 can be positioned distal to the frame edge 276, and thus the frame edge 276 can be positioned proximal to the distally-directed surface 308 (i.e., plane L is distal to plane R, and plane R is proximal to plane L). In addition, the distally-directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 can be positioned distal to the distally-directed surface 290 of the capture portion 254, and thus the distally-directed surface 290 of the capture portion 254 can be positioned proximal to the distally-directed surface 308 (i.e., plane L is distal to plane C, and plane C is proximal to plane L). Further, the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 can be positioned distal to the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284, and thus the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284 can be positioned proximally of the distally directed surface 308 (i.e., plane L is distal to plane A, and plane A is proximally to plane L). Further, the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 can be positioned distal to the proximally directed surface 302 of the spine 300, and thus the proximally directed surface 302 of the spine 300 can be positioned proximally of the distally directed surface 308 (i.e., plane L is distal to plane S, and plane S is proximally to plane L). The relative positioning in the proximal-distal direction of each of the frame edge 276, the proximal pointing surface 286 of the arm 284, the distal pointing surface 290 of the capture portion 254, the proximal pointing surface 302 of the ridge 300, and / or the distal pointing surface 308 of the locking element 306 is advantageously adjusted to facilitate precise operational timing of complementary components of the receiver 116 when the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116.

[0159] Reference again Fig.10, the shape and / or radial position of the outlet opening 242 is configured to (among other advantages) maximize the volume flow of waste material through the manifold 124, taking into account gravity and the orientation of the manifold 124 inserted into the receptacle 116. As previously described, the frame rim 276 may include a width greater than a height, such that the outlet opening 242 is non-circular. In some embodiments, the outlet opening 242 may be rectangular and defined by the frame rim 276, which includes an upper section 312, a lower section 314 opposite the upper section 312, and opposite side sections 316 extending between the upper section 312 and the lower section 314. The upper section 312, the lower section 314, and / or the opposite side sections 316 may be arcuate or planar in shape. Alternatively, the outlet opening 242 may have an at least substantially circular shape, for example, as described in commonly owned US Patent No. 7,615,037, issued November 10, 2009, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0160] The width of the outlet opening 242 can be defined between opposite lateral-most (laterally outermost) points, and the height of the outlet opening 242 can be defined between uppermost points opposite lowermost points, with these points being Fig.10 The vertical and horizontal planes in the proximal-distal direction and extending through each of the opposite most lateral points, the uppermost points, and the lowermost points of the outlet opening 242, respectively, are labeled (S oo )、(U oo ), and (L oo ). The opposing side segments 316 may be oriented such that the opposing most lateral points of the outlet opening 242 are located at the intersection between the upper segment 312 and each of the opposing side segments 316. The intersection between the lower segment 314 and each of the opposing side segments 316 may be spaced laterally inward relative to the intersection between the upper segment 312 and each of the opposing side segments 316 so that the resulting shape is at least similar to Fig.10 The shape shown. When the upper and lower segments 312 are arcuate in shape and define concave surfaces oriented toward each other, the uppermost point and the lowermost point can be located at the midpoints of the upper and lower segments 312, respectively. A vertical plane in the proximal-distal direction and dividing the outlet opening 242 into two parts can be a symmetry plane (PS). The symmetry plane (PS) can be equidistant from each of the opposite most lateral points and can also intersect the uppermost point and the lowermost point. The outlet opening 242 can be symmetrical about the symmetry plane (PS), but asymmetrical about a horizontal plane in the proximal-distal direction and perpendicular to the symmetry plane (PS).

[0161] Fig.10The outlet opening 242 is shown to be entirely positioned within the lower half of the manifold 124 when the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receptacle 116. During operation of the medical waste collection system 100, waste matter may fall toward the outlet opening 242 under the influence of gravity. However, the volume flow achievable through the outlet opening 242 at a given vacuum level may be substantially enhanced, for example, relative to a circular opening positioned entirely within the lower half. Similarly, a circular opening capable of achieving a volume flow comparable to the outlet opening 242 of the manifold 124 at a given vacuum level would require the circular opening to occupy nearly the entire proximal end of the manifold. The outlet opening 242 of the manifold 124 addresses the above-described technical challenges.

[0162] In certain embodiments described previously, the arms 284 extend outwardly from the body portion 134 of the housing 128, extend laterally outwardly from the opposite sides 264 of the housing 128, and / or extend more generally from the housing 128, such as from the ring portion 168. Fig.10 , the arms 284 can be disposed in a horizontal plane that intersects the outlet opening 242 in the proximal-distal direction. The arms 284 can each include a transversely directed surface 318 that cooperates to define a width greater than the width of the frame edge 276 and the outlet opening 242. Fig.10 A vertical plane, designated (A), in the proximal-distal direction and extending through the transversely directed surface 318 is shown, indicating the transverse position of the arm 284. In other words, in the illustrated configuration, the transversely directed surface 318 of the arm 284 is positioned further away from the symmetry plane (PS) than the corresponding most transverse point of the outlet opening 242 (i.e., the plane (A) is closer than the plane S oo The distance from the plane of symmetry (PS) is greater). Similarly, the locking elements 306 can extend outward from the body 134 of the housing 128 and / or extend laterally outward from the opposite sides 264 of the housing 128. The locking elements 306 can also be arranged in a horizontal plane that intersects the outlet opening 242 in the proximal-distal direction. The locking elements 306 can each include a laterally directed surface, and the laterally directed surfaces of each locking element 306 cooperate to define a width greater than the width of the frame edge 276 and the outlet opening 242. Fig.10 , the laterally directed surface of the locking element 306 can be coplanar (i.e., plane A) with the laterally directed surface 318 of the arm 284. Alternatively, the locking element 306 can extend outwardly from the body portion 134 of the housing 128 and / or extend laterally outwardly from the opposite sides 264 of the housing 128 to a greater or lesser extent than the arm 284.

[0163] When the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116, the capture portion 254 (at Fig.10The catch portion 254 may be positioned in the upper half of the manifold 124. The catch portion 254 may be positioned above the uppermost point of the outlet opening 242. In addition, the laterally directed surfaces 298 of the catch portion 254 may cooperate to define a width that is less than the width of the frame edge 276 and the outlet opening 242. Fig.10 A vertical plane, labeled (C), in the proximal-distal direction and extending through the transversely directed surface 298 is shown, representing the transverse position of the capture portion 254. In other words, the transversely directed surface 298 of the capture portion 254 is positioned closer to the symmetry plane (PS) than the corresponding most transverse point of the outlet opening 242 (i.e., plane C is closer to the plane S than the plane C). oo The distance from the symmetry plane (PS) is smaller).

[0164] When the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116, the ridge 300 can be positioned in the lower half of the manifold 124. The ridge 300 can be positioned below the lowermost point of the outlet opening 242. In addition, the ridge 300 can be coplanar with the symmetry plane (PS). Fig.10 A horizontal plane, designated (S), in the proximal-distal direction and extending through the downwardly directed surface 320 of the spine 300 is shown, indicating the downward position of the spine 300. In other words, the downwardly directed surface 320 of the spine 300 is positioned below the lowermost point of the outlet opening 242 (i.e., the plane S is above the plane L). oo below).

[0165] The frame edge 276 is configured to couple with a seal 282 of the manifold 124. As will be described, the seal 282 can provide a face seal with a complementary sealing surface 322 of an inlet mechanism 324 that includes the suction inlet 266, and / or can provide a radial seal with a suction fitting 326 that defines the suction inlet 266 (see Fig.33 and 60 -64). The seal can be considered to be an interface between the manifold 124 and the receiver 116 to maintain suction across the interface. In some embodiments, since the suction connector 326 is configured to extend through the seal 282 into the manifold volume 130, the radial seal can reduce or prevent waste material from flowing out of the suction connector 326 around the seal 282. The seal 282 can be a one-piece or monolithic construction, or a multi-piece component. The seal 282 can be formed of a polymeric material having a suitable hardness and elasticity, for example, a rubber or plastic with a Shore A hardness in the range of about 20 to 90 hardness, more particularly in the range of about 35 to 75 hardness, and even more particularly in the range of about 50 to 60 hardness.

[0166] Reference now Figure 19-22, the seal 282 may include an outer seal frame 328 and an inner seal frame 330 spaced apart from the outer seal frame 328 to define a groove 332. The shape of the groove 332 is designed to complement the shape of the frame 276, and the size of the groove 332 is designed to snugly receive the frame 276 so that the seal 282 and the trunk 134 are connected to each other by interference engagement. Among other advantages, the interference engagement can allow the seal 282 to be easily externally connected during the assembly of the manifold 124, and can also provide improved retention of the seal 282 on the frame 276 when the suction connector 326 penetrates the seal 282 in a manner to be described. The aforementioned advantages can be achieved with a single one-piece seal of a monolithic or integral structure without the need for additional components, such as retaining rings, clips, etc. It is contemplated that the interference engagement can be supplemented by solvent bonding, adhesives, etc. The seal 282 can also be fixed to the frame 276 without including the groove 332.

[0167] The outer seal rim 328 may include an inwardly tapered surface 334, while the inner seal rim 330 may include an outwardly tapered surface 336. Due to the elasticity of the seal 282, the tapered surfaces 334, 336 cooperate to guide the rim 276 of the housing 128 into the groove 332 during assembly. Fig.19 As best shown, the proximal end or edge of the inner seal rim 330 is positioned distal to the proximal end or edge of the outer seal rim 328. The depth of the outer seal rim 328 in the proximal-distal direction can be approximately equal to the depth of the first leg 244 proximal to the step 283 (see FIG. Figure 8 and 11 ). The thickness of the outer seal rim 328 can be approximately equal to the size of the step 283. When the seal 282 is coupled to the rim 276, the outer surface of the outer seal rim 328 is substantially flush with the tubular wall 280 that at least partially defines the first leg 244. The arrangement can include an upper portion of the outer seal rim 328 being spaced apart from the second leg 246 and at least partially defining the gap 248.

[0168] The inner seal rim 330 may include a lip 340 extending radially outward. The lip 340 may include the previously introduced outward tapered surface 336 and a proximally directed retaining surface 342. The depth of the inner seal rim 330 in the proximal-distal direction may be defined between a proximal side 344 that at least partially defines the groove 332 and the retaining surface 342, wherein the depth of the inner seal rim 330 is approximately equal to the distance between the rim 276 and the inner step 338 in the first leg 244, as shown in FIG. Figure 8When the seal 282 is coupled to the rim 276, the retaining surface 342 can bend outward to be positioned distally and adjacent to the internal step 338 of the housing 128. The interference engagement between the retaining surface 342 and the internal step 338 can promote improved retention of the seal 282 on the rim 276, particularly when the suction nipple 326 is removed from the seal 282 in a manner to be described.

[0169] The seal 282 may include a sealing surface 346. The sealing surface 346 may be disposed on the outer seal rim 328 and define the most proximal surface of the seal 282. The sealing surface 346 is configured to provide the above-mentioned face seal with the sealing surface 322 of the inlet mechanism 324 (see Fig.62 ). The seal 282 may include a seal body 348 shaped to cover the outlet opening 242, and more specifically to cover the non-circular outlet opening 242. The seal body 348 may include a width greater than a height, wherein the width and height generally correspond to the width and height of the outlet opening 242, respectively. The seal body 348 may include at least one fin 350 configured to deflect when the suction fitting 326 is inserted through an aperture 352 that at least partially defines the fin 350. Figure 19-21 The aperture 352 is shown as a slit extending transversely through the seal body 348 to define a pair of tabs 350. When the suction fitting 326 is inserted through the slits, the suction fitting 326 forces the upper one of the tabs 350 to deflect upward and forces the lower one of the tabs 350 to deflect downward. Other suitable configurations are also contemplated, such as two slits arranged in a cross shape to define four generally triangular tabs.

[0170] Continue to refer Fig. 20 and 21, the outer seal frame 328 can at least partially define a cavity 354. The cavity 354 can be at least partially defined by an inner surface 356 of the outer seal frame 328. The inner surface 356 can be positioned distal to the sealing surface 346, so that the seal body 348 can be considered to be recessed within the seal 282 relative to the sealing surface 346. The cavity 354 can be further defined by a radial sealing surface 358. The radial sealing surface 358 can be oriented in a proximal-distal direction and be sized to slidably and snugly receive the suction connector 326 of the inlet mechanism 324. The radial sealing surface 358 can be positioned radially inward from the inner surface 356, so that the cavity 354 can include an annular recess 60. When the suction fitting 326 penetrates the seal body 348 and draws a vacuum through the manifold volume 130 during operation of the medical waste collection system 100, the flap 350, the annular recess 360, the radial sealing surface 358 and the sealing surface 346 can individually or collectively reduce or prevent the flow of waste material from the manifold volume 130. Due to the resiliency of the flap 350, the flap 350 generally conforms to the outer surface 362 of the suction fitting 326 (see FIG. Fig.62 ). The flap 350 can reduce or prevent waste material from flowing out through the orifice 352. If any waste material flows out between the orifice 352 and the outer surface 362 of the suction connector 326, the waste material is no longer affected by the vacuum and can fall under the influence of gravity and be collected in the annular recess 360. The radial sealing surface 358 can prevent the waste material collected in the annular recess 360 from flowing out, or otherwise prevent the waste material from flowing out from between the outer surface 362 of the suction connector 326 and the seal 282. The sealing surface 346 can abut the sealing surface 322 of the inlet mechanism 324, and the above-mentioned face seal can further prevent the waste material from flowing out. The seal 282 can advantageously provide at least four mechanisms to reduce or prevent the flow of waste material.

[0171] The seal 282 may include a tapered surface 364 extending between the sealing surface 346 and the radial sealing surface 358. Due to the relatively tight tolerances between the radial sealing surface 358 and the outer surface 362 of the suction fitting 326, the tapered surface 364 may guide the suction fitting 326 into the cavity 354 during insertion of the manifold 124 into the receiver 116.

[0172] In certain embodiments, the filter element 174 can be used to position the seal 282 to prevent fluid from flowing out through the outlet opening 242. Fig.23 and 26, the filter element 174 may include a seal retaining element 207 coupled to the basket 206. In particular, the seal retaining element 207 may extend proximally from the base wall 194 of the basket 206. The seal retaining element 207 may include an upper portion 209, a lower portion 211, and an opposing lateral portion 213 that together form a tubular structure and define a void space 219. Each of the upper, lower, and opposing lateral portions 209, 211, 213 terminates at a frame edge 215. The seal retaining element 207 may have an axial profile that is generally formed to the first leg 244 of the housing 128. In other words, the shape of the seal retaining element 207 may be non-circular and formed in a manner that generally corresponds to the shape of the outlet opening 242. The upper portion 209 and / or the lower portion 211 of the seal retaining element 207 may define an orifice 217 that communicates with the void space 219. In embodiments where the adjacent portion of the base wall 194 does not include a hole 230 or aperture 232, as shown in FIG. Fig.23 As shown, a suction path is established from the filter volume 169 through the upper wall 200 , the lower wall 202 , and / or the base wall 194 , through the aperture 217 , into the void space 219 , to the outlet opening 242 .

[0173] Fig.24 and 25 An embodiment of a seal 282 configured to be positioned by a seal retaining element 207 is shown. More specifically, the seal 282 can be coupled to the seal retaining element 207, for example, compressed between the frame 215 of the seal retaining element 207 and the frame 276 defining the outlet opening 242 in a manner to be described. The seal 282 includes an outer seal frame 328 and an inner seal frame 330 spaced apart from the outer seal frame 328 to define a groove 332. The groove 332 is shaped to complement the shape of the frame 215 of the seal retaining element 207, and the size of the groove 332 is designed to snugly receive the frame 215 so that the seal 282 and the trunk 134 are coupled to each other by interference engagement. The seal 282 can also be fixed to the frame 215 without including the groove 332. The interference engagement between the rim 215 of the seal retaining element 207 and the groove 332 of the seal 282 can be further provided by ribs 333 configured to engage slots 335 defined by the seal retaining element 207. The slots 335 can be defined vertically and horizontally within the seal retaining element 207, and correspondingly, the ribs 333 can be arranged vertically and horizontally within the groove 332 of the seal 282. It will be appreciated that, alternatively, the ribs 333 and the slots 335 can be oriented in a complementary radial arrangement.

[0174] The seal 282 may include at least one tongue 337 configured to resiliently deflect when the seal 282 is positioned within the first leg 244 of the body portion 134 . Fig.24 Two tongues 337 are shown positioned relative to each other relative to the seal body 348. The tongue 337 can extend distally from the outer seal frame along 328 and include a flange 339. The flange 339 extends outward (i.e., away from the seal body 348) a certain distance to interfere with the first leg 244. In other words, the thickness of the tongue 337 including the flange 339 is greater than the gap between the seal retaining element 207 and the inner surface of the first leg 244. Therefore, when the seal 282 is assembled in the first leg 244, for example from the distal direction, the flange 339 pushes the tongue 337 to bend elastically inward. In one example, the flange 339 includes a tapered surface and a locking surface 341 to form a generally triangular flange when viewed in a side view. Other suitable shapes are conceivable, such as circular and square, as long as the flange 339 provides an inward bend within the seal retaining element 207. In particular, Fig.26 A detailed cross-sectional view is included illustrating the seal retaining element 207 of the filter element 174 retaining the seal 282 in a position suitable for preventing fluid from flowing out through the outlet opening 242. During assembly, the seal 282 can be coupled to the seal retaining element 207 so that the frame rim 215 is disposed in the groove 332 in an interference engagement manner. The length of the tongue 337 in the proximal-distal direction can be greater than the distance between the frame rim 215 and the orifice 217 of the seal retaining element 207. In other words, when the seal 282 is coupled to the frame rim 215, the tongue 337 is axially positioned adjacent to the orifice 217. Thus, when the filter element 174 and the seal 282 are inserted into the manifold volume 130, the flange 339 engages the inner surface of the first leg 244 and causes the tongue 337 to elastically flex inwardly within the orifice 217, as shown in FIG. Fig.26 34. The locking surface 341 engages the inner surface of the first leg 244 so that the tongue 337 prevents axial movement of the seal 282 relative to the housing 128. In particular, when the axial position of the filter element 174 is maintained by the head 132 being coupled to the body 134, this stack of components maintains the axial position of the seal 282, particularly when the inlet mechanism 324 is inserted through the seal 282 while having a distally directed force on the seal 282. Further sealing can be provided by a lip 357 that extends outwardly from the outer seal frame along 328 a distance greater than the gap between the seal retaining element 207 and the inner surface of the first leg 244. The lip 357 can be resiliently compressed and / or deflected to effectively seal the outlet opening 242 from the manifold volume 130 to prevent fluid from flowing out through the outlet opening 242.

[0175] The seal 282 may also include a stepped surface 347 that is positioned to abut the inner surface of the rim 276 . Fig.26The step surface 347 is shown engaging the frame rim 276 in a manner that prevents the seal 282 from moving proximally relative to the frame rim 276. It should be understood that the proximal surface of the seal 282 (e.g., the step surface 347) can be at least slightly recessed into the first leg 244, such as Fig.26 In this arrangement, no face seal may be provided because the previously described sealing mechanism prevents fluid from flowing out through the outlet opening 242. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the seal 282 may extend proximally beyond the frame edge 276 to provide a sealing surface (e.g., Fig.21 sealing surface 346).

[0176] The basket 206 can be disposed in the body portion 210 and the seal retaining element 207 can be disposed in the first leg 244. The seal 282 can include a seal body 348 shaped to cover the outlet opening 242, and more specifically to cover the non-circular outlet opening 242. The seal body 348 can include at least one fin 350 configured to deflect when the suction fitting 326 is inserted through an aperture 352 that at least partially defines the fin 350. When the suction fitting 326 is inserted through the slit, the suction fitting 326 pushes the upper one of the fins 350 to deflect upward and pushes the lower one of the fins 350 to deflect downward. The outer seal frame 328 can at least partially define a cavity 354. The cavity 354 can be further defined by a radial sealing surface 358. The radial sealing surface 358 can be oriented in a proximal-distal direction and dimensioned to slidably and snugly receive the suction connector 326 of the inlet mechanism 324 .

[0177] Reference now Figure 27-29, the receiver 116 may include the previously described lower housing 268 and an upper housing 366 coupled to the lower housing 268. The lower and upper housings 268, 366 cooperate to define a receiver volume 368 in fluid communication with the opening 118. The receiver volume 368 is sized to removably receive at least a portion of the manifold 124. The lower housing 268 may include a base 370, opposite sides 372 extending upwardly from the base 370, and a rear wall 374 extending upwardly from the base 370 and extending between the opposite sides 372. The lower housing 268 may also define the opening 118. A crown 376 opposite the rear wall 374 may be coupled to the opposite sides 372 and / or the base 370 opposite the rear wall 374 to jointly define a box-shaped cavity 378. The crown 376 defines the opening 118 in fluid communication with the cavity 378, and the cavity 378 may be considered to be a portion of the receiver volume 368. The crown 376 may include a rim 380 that flares radially outward in a distal direction. The rim 380 may be positioned outside of the medical waste collection system 100 so as to be visible to a user. The rim 380 may be shaped at least like a frustum of a cone and configured to guide the proximal end of the manifold 124 toward the opening 118 when the manifold 124 is ready to be inserted into the receptacle 116. The rim 380 may define a groove 382 that is shaped to receive at least a portion of a tongue 384 of a locking assembly 310 to be described.

[0178] Continue to refer Fig. 27 , the upper shell 366 may include a panel 388 defining a semicircular cutout contoured to match an upper portion of the rim 380. With the upper shell 366 coupled to the lower shell 268, the panel 388 of the upper shell 366 and the panel 390 of the lower shell 268 are in a planar arrangement to be flush with each other. The panels 388, 390 may be arranged at an angle relative to vertical, for example, oriented proximally in a proximal direction so that the contour matches a complementary outer surface of the medical waste collection system 100. Alternatively, the panels 388, 390 may be vertical or in any other suitable orientation. The first barrier 392 may be coupled to the upper shell 366 and configured to selectively cover at least a portion of the opening 118 when the manifold 124 is in a separated configuration. Alternatively, the first barrier 392 may be pivotally coupled to another suitable structure of the receiver 116, such as the lower shell 268. Reference Fig. 27 and 28, the first barrier 392 can be pivotally coupled to the upper housing 366 using a pin 394 that extends through an upper coupler 400 of the first barrier 392 and extends transversely between opposing grooves in the underside of the upper housing 366. A biasing element 396, such as a torsion spring, can be coupled to the first barrier 392 and the upper housing 366, wherein the biasing element 396 is configured to urge the first barrier 392 to a closed configuration in which a front surface 398 of the first barrier 392 is substantially flush with the crown 376 defining the opening 118. The front surface 402 of the upper coupler 400 can be positioned proximal to the front surface 398 of the first barrier 392 such that in the closed configuration, the front surface 402 abuts the inner surface of the crown 376 while the front surface 398 of the first barrier 392 is substantially flush with the outer surface of the crown 376. The first barrier 392 is configured to move from a closed configuration to an open configuration in which the first barrier 392 pivots about the pin 394 against the biasing element 396. For example, during insertion of the manifold 124 into the receiver 116, the base wall 281 of the manifold 124 contacts the front surface 398 and pushes the front surface 398 in a proximal direction to impart pivoting of the first barrier 392 about the pin 394 (see FIG. Figures 45-47 ). With the manifold 124 at least partially inserted into the receiver 116, the first barrier 392 can be disposed adjacent the upper wall 200 of the trunk 134. Fig.29 It will be readily appreciated that there may be a slight gap between the first barrier 392 and the opening 118, and thus the first barrier 392 may not be configured to meaningfully prevent the egress of waste material. The first barrier 392 may provide a visual block to the manifold volume 130, which may include residual amounts of waste material from a previous medical procedure. Prior to the manifold 124 being inserted into the receptacle 116, the first barrier 392 may or may not be locked in a closed configuration.

[0179] The receiver 116 can define a receiver outlet 404. The receiver outlet 404 can be defined within the base 370 of the lower housing 268. The receiver outlet 404 can be in fluid communication with a respective one of the waste containers 106, 108 to which the receiver 116 is coupled. In a manner that will be described in greater detail, the previously introduced inlet mechanism 324 can prevent fluid communication between the receiver outlet 404 and the receiver volume 368 until the manifold 124 is in the fully inserted operational position, after which the receiver outlet 404 is in fluid communication (via the inlet mechanism 324) with the manifold volume 130 of the manifold 124.

[0180] Figure 33-36The inlet mechanism 324 is shown to include a suction connector 326 defining a suction inlet 266. The inlet mechanism 324 may include a housing 406, which defines a passage 408 between the suction inlet 266 and a suction outlet 410, which is defined in a base 412 of the inlet mechanism 324. The suction connector 326 extends distally from the housing 406 adjacent to the sealing surface 322. The passage 408 may include a first portion extending through at least a portion of the suction connector 326 and the housing 406, and a second portion extending from the first portion to the suction outlet 410. The first and second portions of the passage 408 may be arranged at least substantially perpendicular to each other, specifically the first portion is arranged in the proximal-distal direction, and the second portion is arranged in the up-down direction. The inlet mechanism 324 is movably disposed in the cavity 378 of the lower housing 268, and the movement of the inlet mechanism 324 selectively provides or prevents fluid communication between the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404.

[0181] In certain embodiments, the suction connector 326 is configured to penetrate the seal 282 to be at least partially positioned within the first leg 244 of the manifold 124. The suction connector 326 may include an outer surface 362 that tapers radially outward in a proximal direction away from the suction inlet 266. The outward taper can facilitate an improved seal between the suction inlet 266 and the seal 282, and more specifically, facilitate an improved seal between the outer surface 362 and the fins 350 and the radial sealing surface 358. With the suction connector 326 penetrating the seal 282, fluid communication is provided between the manifold volume 130 and the suction outlet 410.

[0182] The access mechanism 324 includes a first support element 414 and / or a second support element 416, which are respectively configured to facilitate positioning the manifold 124 in a fully inserted operational position within the receiver 116 and / or to support the manifold 124 in a fully inserted operational position. The first support element 414 can be coupled to the housing 406 and extend distally from the housing 406. The first support element 414 can include a lower surface 418 opposite the upper surface 420. Also refer to Fig.10 and 11, the lower surface 418 can be arcuate in shape and contoured to match the upper portion 252 of the first leg 244. In addition, the lower surface 418 can be spaced apart from the outer surface 362 of the suction fitting 326 by a distance at least equal to the thickness of the upper portion 252 of the tubular wall 280 that at least partially defines the first leg 244. Additionally or alternatively, the lower surface 418 can be spaced apart from the outer surface 362 of the suction fitting 326 by a distance at least equal to the thickness of the outer seal frame 328 of the seal 282. The thickness of the first support member 414 defined between the lower and upper surfaces 418, 420 can be less than the thickness of the gap 248 defined between the first and second legs 244, 246, and more specifically, less than the distance between the upper portion 252 of the first leg 244 and the lower portion 250 of the second leg 246. Further, the depth of the first support element 414 can be defined between the distal edge 422 and the sealing surface 322, and the depth can be less than or equal to the depth of the void 248 defined between the upper and lower portions 250, 252 of the length that bounds the void 248 from above and below, respectively. Further, the distal edge 422 of the first support element 414 can be arcuately shaped in the proximal-distal direction and contoured to mate with the distal portion 256 that extends between the first and second legs 244, 246 and at least partially defines the void 248. When the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116 in the fully inserted operational position, the above arrangement results in the first support element 414 being seated or disposed within the void 248 while the seal 282 engages at least one of the sealing surfaces 322, 362 of the inlet mechanism 324. In other words, the first support element 414 helps ensure the proper insertion depth of the manifold 124 into the receiver 116 in the fully inserted operational position. The first support element 414 may further support the manifold 124 to minimize movement of the manifold 124 relative to the receiver 116 when the manifold 124 is in the fully inserted operational position.

[0183] The second support element 416 can be connected to the housing 406 and extend distally from the housing 406. The second support element 416 can be positioned opposite the first support element 414 relative to the suction connector 326. The second support element 416 may include a lower surface 424 opposite to the upper surface 426. At least the upper surface 426 can be arcuate in shape and the contour is designed to match the first leg 244. The distance that the upper surface 426 is spaced apart from the outer surface 362 of the suction connector 326 can be at least equal to the thickness of the lower portion of the tubular wall 280 that at least partially defines the first leg 244. Additionally or alternatively, the distance that the upper surface 426 is spaced apart from the outer surface 362 of the suction connector 326 can be at least equal to the thickness of the outer sealing frame edge 328 of the seal 282. Furthermore, the thickness of the second support element 416 defined between the lower and upper surfaces 424, 426 may be less than the thickness of the spine 300, and more specifically less than the distance between the lower portion of the tubular wall 280 and the downwardly directed surface 320 of the spine 300 (see Fig.11 ). When the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116 to the fully inserted operational position, the above arrangement results in the second support element 416 being adjacent to the lower portion of the first leg 244 and being positioned in the proximal-distal direction between the proximal-directed surface 302 of the spine 300 and the frame edge 276. The second support element 416 can cooperate with the first support element 414 to help ensure the proper insertion depth of the manifold 124 into the receiver 116 in the fully inserted operational position. The second support element 416 can further support the manifold 124 to minimize movement of the manifold 124 relative to the receiver 116 when the manifold 124 is in the fully inserted operational position.

[0184] As described above, the inlet mechanism 324 is movably disposed within the cavity 378 of the lower housing 268. Further reference Fig.28 , 3032, the lower housing 268 includes a rail 428 extending upward from the base 370. The rail 428 may extend between the rear wall 374 and the crown 376. The rail 428 may include a pair of rails 428 oriented parallel to each other and oriented in the proximal-distal direction. The receiver outlet 404 may be defined within the base 370 between the rails 428. The lower housing 268 may include at least one retaining element 430 positioned adjacent to the rail 428. The retaining element 430 may include a pair of L-shaped tabs extending upward from the base 370 adjacent to the rail 428. The rail 428 and the retaining element 430 may cooperate to allow the inlet mechanism 324 to be coupled to the lower housing 268 in a manner that the inlet mechanism 324 is slidably movable relative to the lower housing 268 in the proximal-distal direction. The base 412 of the inlet mechanism 324 includes a base plate 432 and at least one foot 434 coupled to opposite edges of the base plate 432. The feet 434 may extend along opposite edges of the base plate 432 in the proximal-distal direction. The feet 434 may extend downwardly from the base plate 432 a distance equal to or less than the distance that the rails 428 extend upwardly from the base 370 of the lower housing 268. In addition, the feet 434 may be spaced apart from each other by a distance at least equal to the distance between the rails 428. The base plate 432 may be supported on the rails 428 with the feet 434 positioned adjacent to the rails 428 in a gap defined between the rails 428 and the retaining element 430. The retaining element 430 may include a height at least equal to the thickness of the feet 434 such that the inwardly extending flange of the retaining element 430 extends over at least a portion of the feet 434 when the base plate 432 may be supported on the rails 428. The retaining element 430 may prevent movement of the access mechanism 324 relative to the lower housing 268 in all degrees of freedom except translation in the proximal-distal direction.

[0185] The inlet mechanism 324 may include at least one rack 436 . Fig.28 and 33Two racks 436 are shown arranged parallel to each other and oriented in the proximal-distal direction. The racks 436 are configured to receive input from at least one transmission gear device 438 to cause the inlet mechanism 324 to translate relative to the lower housing 268 in the proximal-distal direction. As described above, when the manifold 124 is not in the fully inserted operating position, the inlet mechanism 324 is positioned so that no fluid communication is provided between the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404. In particular, when the manifold 124 is not in the fully inserted operating position, the base plate 432 is positioned above the receiver outlet 404 to at least substantially seal the receiver outlet 404 from the receiver volume 368. When the manifold 124 moves toward the fully inserted operating position, the inlet mechanism 324 translates relative to the lower housing 268 so that the suction outlet 410 moves in a direction aligned with the receiver outlet 404. When the manifold 124 is moved from the fully inserted operational position, such as during removal of the manifold 124, the inlet mechanism 324 translates relative to the lower housing 268 such that the suction outlet 410 moves out of alignment with the receiver outlet 404. Finally, when the manifold 124 is in the fully inserted operational position, the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404 are aligned to provide fluid communication between the receiver volume 368 and the waste containers 106, 108 (see FIG. Fig.61 and 62 )). This arrangement advantageously prevents suction through the suction inlet 266 when the manifold 124 is not fully inserted into the receiver 116 into an operative position. Otherwise, even if the medical waste collection system 100 is in operation and a vacuum is drawn on the waste containers 106, 108, the suction path is disconnected at the interface between the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404.

[0186] Continue to refer Fig.28 , and further reference Fig.37 , the transmission gear devices 438 may each include a hub 440 disposed in a corresponding one of the grooves 442, and the grooves 442 are defined in a corresponding one of the opposite sides 372 of the lower shell 268. A shaft 444 extends through the transmission gear device 438. The transmission gear device 438 is configured to rotate about the shaft 444. Two transmission gear devices 438 are shown in the figure, wherein each transmission gear device 438 is connected to each other in a tongue and groove arrangement so that each transmission gear device 438 rotates in unison about the shaft 444. The transmission gear devices 438 may each include an input spur gear 446 and an output spur gear 448. The input spur gear 446 is connected to a corresponding rack 450 (see Fig.39) and the output cylindrical gear 448 meshes with a corresponding one of the racks 436 of the inlet mechanism 324. Insertion of the manifold 124 into the receiver 116 causes the sliding assembly 288 to move in the proximal direction, and the transmission gear arrangement 438 causes the inlet mechanism 324 to translate in the distal direction. Likewise, removal of the manifold 124 from the receiver 116 causes the sliding assembly 288 to move in the distal direction, and the transmission gear arrangement 438 causes the inlet mechanism 324 to translate in the proximal direction. The transmission gear arrangement 438 can be configured to increase the mechanical advantage between the force provided to the sliding assembly 288 (through the manifold 124) and the resultant force on the inlet mechanism 324. In other words, the transmission gear arrangement 438 can be designed to require less force to be provided to the manifold 124 to move the inlet mechanism 324. The mechanical advantage may be greater than one to one, two to one, three to one, or four to one (or greater).

[0187] The slide assembly 288 is movably coupled to the lower housing 268 and / or the upper housing 366. In certain embodiments, complementary surfaces of the lower housing 268 and the upper housing 366 cooperate to define a slot 456 extending in a proximal-distal direction. Fig.30 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the lower housing 268 includes a slot 456 at or near an upper portion of the opposing sides 372. More specifically, the slot 456 of the lower housing 268 can be defined between the opposing sides 372 and a mating flange 458 extending laterally outward from the opposing sides 372. A complementary arrangement can be provided on the underside of the mating flange 460 of the upper housing 366 to define a thickness at least equal to the thickness of a guide rail 462 of the slide assembly 288 extending in the proximal-distal direction. The guide rail 462 can extend laterally outward from opposite sides of each of the bracket 452 and the top 454 coupled to the bracket 452. In certain embodiments, the guide rail 462 extends along a length of the slide assembly 288. With the mating flanges 458, 460 of the lower housing 268 and the upper housing 366 coupled to each other, the guide rail 462 is configured to translate in the proximal-distal direction within the slot 456. As such, the slide assembly 288 is configured to translate in a proximal-distal direction relative to the lower and upper housings 268 , 366 .

[0188] The top portion 454 can be configured to selectively receive at least a portion of the inlet mechanism 324 prior to the manifold 124 being inserted into the receiver 116 to a fully inserted operative position. Fig. 27 , 3839, the top 454 can cooperate with the second barrier 464 to selectively accommodate at least a portion of the inlet mechanism 324. The top 454 can include an upper wall 466 and opposite sides 468 extending downwardly from the upper wall 466 to define a cavity 470. The cavity 470 is sized and shaped to accommodate at least the inlet mechanism 324. At least one mounting member 472 is coupled to the top 454 and / or the guide rail 462, wherein the second barrier 464 is pivotally coupled to the mounting member 472, for example, with a pin 474 extending laterally between the two mounting members 472. It should be understood that the second barrier can be positioned and / or coupled in a suitable alternative manner. A biasing element 476, such as a torsion spring, can be coupled to the second barrier 464 and configured to urge the second barrier 464 to a closed configuration in which the second barrier 464 is oriented substantially vertically. In the closed configuration, the inlet mechanism 324 is bounded from above by the top 454, from both sides by the top 454 and / or the lower and upper shells 268, 366, from below by the lower shell 268, from behind by the lower shell 268, and from the front by the second barrier 464. In this way, the inlet mechanism 324 including the suction connector 326, which may be contaminated with residual waste material from previous medical procedures, is inaccessible to the user to avoid any exposure thereto.

[0189] The second barrier 464 is configured to move from a closed configuration to an open configuration in which the second barrier 464 pivots about the pin 474 against the biasing element 476. For example, during insertion of the manifold 124 into the receiver 116, the slide assembly 288 moves in the proximal direction and the transmission gear arrangement 438 causes the access mechanism 324 to translate in the distal direction. The access mechanism 324 engages the second barrier 464 and causes the second barrier 464 to pivot about the pin 474 (see FIG. Fig.57 ). For example, the distal edge 422 of the first support element 414 contacts the proximal side of the second barrier 464 to impart the pivoting motion. As the slide assembly 288 further translates in the proximal direction and the inlet mechanism 324 correspondingly translates in the distal direction, the second barrier 464 "rides on" the inlet mechanism 324 as the inlet mechanism 324 leaves the cavity 470 defined by the top 454. When the manifold 124 is inserted into the fully inserted operative position in the receiver 116, the second barrier 464 can be supported on ribs 478 extending upwardly from an upper portion of the inlet mechanism 324, more specifically, from the upper surface 420 of the first support element 414 (see FIG. 2 ). Fig.33 In the fully inserted operative position, the second barrier 464 can be positioned proximal to the base wall 281 of the trunk portion 134 (see Fig.57). Thus, the access mechanism 324 remains at least substantially inaccessible throughout the insertion (and removal) of the manifold 124 into the receiver 116. Removal of the manifold 124 from the receiver 116 moves the slide assembly 288 in the distal direction, and the drive gear arrangement 438 causes the access mechanism 324 to translate in the proximal direction. When the access mechanism 324 enters the cavity 470 defined by the top 454, the biasing element 476 pushes the second barrier 464 back to the closed configuration.

[0190] The slide assembly 288 may include the bracket 452 previously described. Fig.37 and 38 , the bracket 452 may include opposite sides 480 and a lower wall 482 coupled to and extending between the opposite sides 480. In certain embodiments, the opposite sides 480 may extend downwardly from the rail 462. The lower wall 482 may be arcuate in shape and contoured to match the lower wall 202 of the manifold 124 such that the bracket 452 presents a generally U-shaped configuration when viewed in an exterior view in a proximal-distal direction.

[0191] The bracket 452 of the sliding assembly 288 includes at least one push feature 484, which will be described as a pair of push features 484. The push feature 484 can be configured to be engaged by the proximally directed surface 286 of one or more arms 284 of the manifold 124 when the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116. The engagement of the push feature 484 and the proximally directed surface 286 causes the sliding assembly 288 to move in the proximal direction. The push feature 484 can be a slot extending proximally inward from the distal end of the sliding assembly 288. Each slot can be coplanar and / or oriented in the proximal-distal direction. The slot can include a dimension at least equal to the thickness of the proximal portion of each arm 284 including the proximally directed surface 286.

[0192] The carriage 452 of the slide assembly 288 includes at least one window 486, a pair of which will be described below. The size and position of the window 486 are designed to receive a corresponding one of the claws 292 when the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116. The engagement of the claw 292 and the distally directed surface 290 of the catch 254 promotes the movement of the slide assembly 288 in the distal direction during the removal of the manifold 124 from the receiver 116. The window 486 can be defined in a corresponding one of the opposite sides of the carriage 452. Each window 486 can be coplanar and / or oriented in the proximal-distal direction. The window 486 can include a thickness at least equal to the thickness of the claw 292.

[0193] The pawl 292 can be operably coupled to the slide assembly 288 at a respective one of a pair of hinges 488. The hinge 488 can be disposed on a flange extending laterally outward from a respective one of the rails 462. The hinge 488 can include a post feature 490 to which the pawl 292 can be pivotally coupled. Fig.40 , each jaw 292 may include a shoulder 492 defining an inner bore 494 sized to receive the post feature 490. A first segment 496 may extend from the shoulder 492, and a second segment 498 may extend from the first segment 496 at a first elbow 500 to orient the second segment 498 relative to the first segment 496. Additionally, a third segment 502 may extend from the second segment 498 at a second elbow 503 to orient the third segment 502 relative to the first and second segments 496, 498. The third segment 502 may define an engagement surface 504 configured to engage a corresponding one of the distally directed surfaces 290 of the capture portion 254 in a manner to be described.

[0194] The claws 292 may each include a guide 506. The guide 506 may extend downwardly from the first and / or second sections 496, 498 at a location proximate to the first elbow 500. The guide 506 may be movably positioned within a track 508 defined within the lower housing 268. Fig.30 and 32 As best shown, the track 508 is disposed within the mating flange 458 of the lower housing 268. The track 508 can include a distal portion 510 and a proximal portion 512. The proximal portion 512 of the track can be oriented in a proximal-distal direction, and the distal portion 510 of the track 508 can be disposed or oriented at an angle relative to the proximal portion 512. In certain embodiments, the distal portion 510 can extend laterally outward from the proximal portion 512. The guide 506 is configured to slidably move within and between the distal portion 510 and the proximal portion 512 of the track 508 of the lower housing 268. However, at the same time, the claw 292 can be pivotally coupled to the slide assembly 288 at the hinge 488, and the slide assembly 288 can be configured to translate relative to the lower housing 268. Therefore, before the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116, for example, the slide assembly 288 can be in a proximal-most position, wherein the guide 506 is within the distal portion 510 of the track 508. The distal portion 510 of the track 508 constrains the guide 506 so that the third segment 502 of the claw 292 (including the engagement surface 504) is laterally outward of the window 486 of the bracket 452 (see, for example, FIG. Fig.49). When the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116 and the slide assembly 288 is moved in the proximal direction, the guide 506 is slidably moved from the distal portion 510 of the track 508 to the proximal portion 512. Because the distal portion 510 is angularly disposed or oriented relative to the proximal portion 512, the claw 292 pivots laterally inward about the hinge 488, and the third segment 502 of the claw 292 (including the engagement surface 504) moves through the window 486 of the bracket 452 to engage the distally directed surface 290 of the capture portion 254 (see, for example, Fig.59 ). As the slide assembly 288 further translates in the proximal direction, the guide 506 slidably moves within the proximal portion 512 of the track 508 oriented in the proximal-distal direction. The engagement surface 504 remains engaged with the distally directed surface 290 of the catch 254. When it is desired to remove the manifold 124 from the receiver 116, the manifold 124 is moved in the distal direction. The engagement between the engagement surface 504 and the distally directed surface 290 of the catch 254 causes the slide assembly 288 to translate distally along with the distal movement of the manifold 124. In particular, the proximal portion 512 of the track 508 oriented in the proximal-distal direction prevents the pawl 292 from pivoting about the hinge 488, so that the distal movement of the manifold 124 causes the slide assembly 288 to translate distally relative to the lower housing 268. Once guide 506 encounters distal portion 510 of track 508, pawl 292 pivots laterally outward about hinge 488 and engagement surface 504 is removed from engagement with distally directed surface 290 of catch 254. The foregoing process will be described in greater detail with respect to each operative position of insertion.

[0195] In one embodiment, the claw 292 can be fixedly coupled to the slide assembly 288 and include a pair of flexible arms so that the second and third sections 498, 502 can flexibly move toward and away from the slide assembly 288 as the guide 506 moves within the track 508. In this way, as the flexible arms flex, the engagement surface 504 moves into and out of engagement with the distally directed surface 290 of the capture portion 254.

[0196] Back to Fig.38 , the sliding assembly 288 may also include a locking interface 514 that is configured to selectively couple with the previously described sliding lock assembly 304. The locking interface 514 may include an aperture 516 defined within the lower wall 482 of the bracket 452. The locking interface 514 may also include a slot 518 defined within the lower wall 482 of the bracket 452. The aperture 516 and the slot 518 may be at least substantially laterally aligned, for example, along a symmetry plane of the sliding assembly 288 that extends in the proximal-distal direction. The aperture 516 may be positioned proximal to the slot 518. Further reference Fig.29, it should be appreciated that the slot 518 can be positioned adjacent to the ridge slot 277 that at least partially defines the opening 118 of the receiver 116 when the receiver 116 is in the first operating position. The slot 518 can be sized and shaped to removably receive the contact block 520 of the latch 522 of the slide lock assembly 304. The aperture 516 can be sized and shaped to removably receive the key 524 of the latch 522.

[0197] Further references Fig.28 , 30 32, the lower housing 268 may include at least one mounting member 526 configured to couple the latch 522 to the lower housing 268. The mounting member 526 may be supported on the base 370 and positioned adjacent to and laterally outward from the guide rail 428 extending in the proximal-distal direction. The mounting member 526 may be spaced apart from and positioned distally of the distal-most retaining element 430. The mounting member 526 includes a hole configured to align with an inner hole 528 of the latch 522 extending through the sliding lock assembly 304. The pin 530 may extend through the inner hole 528 of the latch 522 and the hole of the mounting member 526 so as to pivotally couple the latch 522 to the lower housing 268 (see Fig.37 and 38 The mounting member 526 is positioned so that, with the latch 522 pivotally coupled to the lower housing 268 , the contact block 520 of the latch 522 selectively extends through the slot 518 and the key 524 of the latch 522 selectively extends through the aperture 516 .

[0198] The sliding lock assembly 304 can also include a biasing element 532, such as a torsion spring, coupled to the latch 522, wherein the biasing element 532 is configured to urge the latch 522 to a locked configuration in which a front surface 534 of the key 524 engages a front surface 536 that at least partially defines the aperture 516. The biasing element 532 can be disposed in a gap 533 between the inner bores 528 of the latch 522 to be supported on the pin 530. In the locked configuration, the abutment surface 538 of the latch 522 can engage an underside of the bracket 452 near the aperture 516. Continued reference Fig.37 , 38, 41 and 38, when the latch 522 is in the locked configuration, the front surface 534 is oriented to be at least substantially vertical. Similarly, the front surface 536 of the aperture 516 can be oriented to be at least substantially vertical. In this way, when the key 524 of the latch 522 extends through the aperture 516 in the locked configuration, the surfaces 536, 538 interfere to prevent the slide assembly 288 from translating in the proximal direction relative to the lower housing 268. In other words, the receiver 116 is prevented from moving away from the separated operating position unless the sliding lock assembly 304 is moved from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration, in which the latch 522 is pivoted about the pin 530 to disengage the engagement surface 538 of the latch 522 from the front surface 536 of the aperture 516.

[0199] As previously described in detail, the ridge 300 includes a proximally directed surface 302, such as an inclined surface. When the manifold 124 is oriented for insertion into the opening 118 of the receiver, the proximally directed surface 302 of the ridge 300 is aligned to engage the distally directed surface 540 of the contact block 520. More specifically, the ridge 300 is guided through the ridge slot 277 that at least partially defines the opening 118 and engages the distally directed surface 540 of the contact block 520 (see Fig.47 ). This engagement can cause the latch 522 to pivot about the pin 530 against the bias of the biasing element 532. The pivoting of the latch 522 can cause the abutment surface 538 of the latch 522 to disengage from the front surface 536 of the aperture 516, and the slide assembly 288 is allowed to move in the proximal direction relative to the lower housing 268. It should be understood that the distally directed surface 540 of the contact block 520 is at least substantially vertically oriented in the locked configuration. Therefore, the inclined surface of the spine 300 (although optional) is particularly suitable for imparting the desired pivoting to the latch 522 of the sliding lock assembly 304. In other words, if the proximally directed surface 302 of the spine 300 is not angled or oriented to deflect the at least substantially vertical distally directed surface 540 of the contact block 520, then these surfaces will be engaged plane to plane without moving the sliding lock assembly 304 to the unlocked configuration, and the manifold 124 will be blocked from further insertion into the receiver 116. In certain embodiments, the angled surfaces can be oriented at an angle in the range of about 20 to 70 degrees, and more particularly in the range of about 30 to 60 degrees, and even more particularly in the range of about 40 to 50 degrees relative to horizontal, the distally directed surface 540 of the contact block 520, and / or the downwardly directed surface 320. For example, the angle between the proximally directed surface 302 of the spine 300 and the distally directed surface 540 of the contact block 520 can advantageously cooperate to prevent unauthorized insertion of the manifold into the fully inserted operational position in the receiver 116.

[0200] With the slide lock assembly 304 in the unlocked configuration, the slide assembly 288 can translate in the proximal direction relative to the lower housing 268. When the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116, the biasing element 532 urges the latch 522 toward the locked configuration to slidably contact the downwardly directed surface 320. As such, it may be particularly desirable that the ridge 300 extends distally from the proximally directed surface 302 to at least the vicinity of the ring portion 168 in a continuous manner. In other words, the ridge 300 may be free of a slot or other discontinuity between its opposite ends, and / or the ridge 300 may have at least a substantially constant width defined between the lower wall 262 of the body portion 134 and the downwardly directed surface 320. For example, the presence of a slot may cause the front surface 534 of the key 524 to engage such a slot and prevent further insertion of the manifold 124 into the receiver 116. However, as described above, the ridge 300 may not extend continuously along the body portion 134 in all embodiments.

[0201] When it is desired to remove the manifold 124 from the receiver 116, the manifold 124 is moved in the distal direction, and the slide assembly 288 translates distally along with the distal movement of the manifold 124. The latch 522 slidably contacts the downwardly directed surface 320 of the spine 300 under the influence of the biasing element 532. The inclined surface 542 of the key 524, opposite the front surface 534, encounters the distal edge of the bracket 452 of the slide assembly 288. When the distal edge of the bracket 452 moves distally relative to the key 524, the inclined surface 542 causes the latch 522 to pivot about the pin 530. It is also noted that the width of the key 524 is less than the width of the slot 518. The latch 522 eventually encounters the aperture 516, and the biasing element 532 moves the key 524 into the aperture 516, so that the surfaces 534, 536 engage. The foregoing process will be described in more detail with respect to each inserted operating position.

[0202] Reference now Fig.43 and 44 , the previously introduced locking assembly 310 of the receiver 116 is configured to engage the distally directed surface 308 of the manifold 124 after the manifold 124 is inserted into the fully inserted operative position. The locking assembly 310 in the locked configuration selectively prevents distal movement of the manifold 124 (and thus the sliding assembly 288) relative to the receiver 116. The locking assembly 310 is configured to be actuated by a user to move the locking assembly 310 from the locked configuration to an unlocked configuration that allows the manifold 124 to move distally relative to the receiver 116. Fig.43 The relative positions of release member 544 and locking member 546 of locking assembly 310 are shown in a default configuration associated with a disengaged operational position (ie, prior to insertion or removal of manifold 124 from receiver 116, respectively). Fig.43The relative positions of the release member 544 and the locking member 546 of the locking assembly 310 in the unlocked configuration may also be generally reflected. The unlocked configuration may be considered different from the default configuration in that the manifold 124 is at least partially inserted into the receiver 116 but the locking assembly 310 is not in the locked configuration (i.e., before the manifold 124 is inserted into the fully inserted operative position and / or after the locking assembly 310 is actuated). Fig.44 The locking assembly is shown in the locked configuration. The default configuration, unlocked configuration, and locked configuration will be further described with reference to each operating position of the insert.

[0203] The locking assembly 310 may include a release member 544 and a locking member 546 coupled to the release member 544. The release member 544 may include at least one lever 548, and the locking member 546 may include at least one lever 550. Fig.43 and 44 Each of the release and locking members 544, 546 is shown to include a pair of levers 548, 550 coupled to one another. Further description will be provided in the context of a pair of levers 548, 550, however, it should be understood that a single lever 548, 550 may be used. The levers 548 of the release member 544 may be coupled to one another via the previously introduced tongue 384. The tongue 384 may include a proximal portion 552 sized and shaped to be disposed within the groove 382 of the rim 380 of the lower housing 268 (see FIG. 21 ). Fig.30 ), and a distal portion 554 that is generally flared downward in the distal direction relative to the proximal portion 552. The tongue 384, and in particular the proximal portion 552, can be concave so as to at least generally have the contour of the rim 380 extending around the crown 376 of the receiver 116. The levers 548 can extend from the tongue 384 in the proximal-distal direction and be oriented parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other. The levers 548 of the release member 544 can extend into the receiver volume 368 through the slot 556 positioned adjacent to the groove 382 of the rim 380 (see Fig.31 ).

[0204] The lever 548 of the release member 544 can be coupled to the lever 550 of the locking member 546 by a pin 558 so that the release and locking members 544, 546 can pivot relative to each other. Fig.30, the lever 548, 550 of each of the release and locking members 544, 546 is positioned within the cavity 378 of the lower housing 268, between the mount 560 extending from the base 370 and a corresponding one of the two opposing sides 372. The lever 550 of the locking member 546 can be positioned adjacent to and laterally outward from the mount 560, and the lever 548 of the release member 544 can be positioned adjacent to and laterally outward from the lever 550 of the release member 544. The pin 558 extends at least partially through the holes in the mount 560, the levers 548, 550, and at least partially through the holes in the corresponding one of the grooves 562 provided in the two opposing sides 372 of the lower housing 268. A biasing element 564, such as a torsion spring, can operably couple each lever 548 of the release member 544 to the lower housing 268. In certain embodiments, the biasing element 564 can also be positioned within a respective one of the recesses 562 within the opposing sides 372 of the lower housing 268. The biasing element 564 is configured to urge the lever 548 of the release member 544 to pivot upward about the pin 558 such that the upper portion 568 of the lever 548 engages the upper portion of the slot 556 of the lower housing 268. The lever 548 engaging the slot 556 can prevent further upward pivoting, and the release member 544 can be considered to be in a default and unlocked configuration.

[0205] In the default position, the upper portion 568 of the lever 548 may also engage the upper engagement surface 570 of the foot 572 of the locking member 546 . Fig.43 and 44 Two of the legs 572 are shown disposed at or near the distal end of the lever 550, the legs 572 being oriented at least substantially perpendicular to the lever 550. The legs 572 include an upper engagement surface 570 spaced from a lower engagement surface 574 to define a gap 576 within which the lever 548 of the release member 544 is movably disposed. The biasing element 564 can be configured to urge the lever 548 of the release member 544 to pivot upward about the pin 558, such that an upper portion 568 of the lever 548 engages the upper engagement surface 570 of the legs 572 in the default and unlocked configurations.

[0206] The levers 550 of the locking member 546 may be coupled to each other by a crossbar 578. The crossbar 578 may be a plate-like structure extending transversely between the interior portions of the levers 550. A biasing element 580, such as a coil spring, may include an end configured to engage the underside of the crossbar 578. The opposite end of the biasing element 580 may be supported in a boss 582 defined by the lower housing 268 (see FIG. Fig.30 and 32). The biasing element 580 can be configured to push the lever 550 of the locking member 546 to pivot upward about the pin 558 so that the upper portion of the lever 550 engages with the track 586 of the bracket 452 of the slide assembly 288. Further reference Fig.34 and 35 , the lower side of the bracket 452 includes a track 586 positioned laterally outward from the opposite sides 480 of the bracket 452. The track 586 can be oriented in a proximal-distal direction. The track 586 can each include at least one surface 588 along which the upper portion of the lever 550 can slideably move when the slide assembly 288 moves in the proximal and / or distal directions. The surface 588 can be generally oriented downward so as to abut against the upper portion of the lever 550 that is generally oriented upward. In addition, the upper portion of the lever 550 can include a distal surface 590 and a proximal surface 592 oriented at a certain angle relative to the distal surface 590. Fig.43 and 44 The proximal surface 592 is shown sloping downwardly away from the distal surface 590 in the proximal direction.

[0207] For example, when the slide assembly 288 is positioned in the disengaged operational position, the track 586 is positioned such that a surface 588 of the track 586 engages a distal surface 590 of the lever 550 and / or a proximal surface 592 of the lever 550 adjacent to the distal surface 590. As the slide assembly 288 moves in the proximal direction (when the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116), the track 586 slidably moves along a length of the proximal surface 592 of the lever 550, which, as mentioned, can slope downwardly away from the distal surface 590. The downwardly sloped nature of the proximal surface 592 is effectively resisted by the biasing element 580, which pushes the crossbar 578 upwardly, thereby pushing the lever 550, to maintain contact between the surface 588 of the track 586 and the proximal surface 592 of the lever 550. The foot 572 is pivoted upwardly about the pin 558 relative to the release member 544, which is retained in its default position by engagement between the upper portion 568 of the lever 548 and the slot 556 of the lower housing 268, as previously described.

[0208] Once the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 of the manifold 124 is positioned proximal to the locking surface 594 of the leg 572 of the locking member 546, the biasing element 580 causes the lever 550 to pivot the leg 572 upward about the pin 558 so that the locking surface 594 is positioned distal to and in interference engagement with the distally directed surface 308 of the manifold 124 (see FIG. Fig.65 ). This can be considered a locked configuration, and the interference engagement of the locking surface 594 with the distally directed surface 308 selectively prevents distal movement of the manifold 124 relative to the receiver 116. Fig.44 The locking assembly 310 can be shown in the locked configuration, and the lower portion 596 of the lever 548 can be adjacent to the lower engagement surface 574 of the leg 572. In other words, moving the locking assembly 310 from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration can include the lever 548 moving from a position adjacent to the upper engagement surface 570 to a position adjacent to the lower engagement surface 574 within the gap 576 of the leg 572.

[0209] In one embodiment, the locking member is configured to pivot inwardly so that the locking surface is positioned distal to and in interference engagement with the distally directed surface 308 of the manifold 124. In this embodiment, the locking member is two locking members that are structurally separate and each can pivot about an axis in the proximal-distal direction. The locking members can be biased inwardly by corresponding biasing elements. The locking member may include a first pin disposed in a recess of the lower housing 268 and a second pin positioned in a recess of the release member. When the sliding assembly 288 moves in the proximal direction (when the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116), the locking member is urged into engagement with the laterally directed surface 318 of the arm 284 (see Fig.10 Once the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 of the manifold 124 is positioned proximal to the locking surface of the locking member, the biasing element pivots the locking member laterally inwardly such that the locking surface is positioned distal to and in interference engagement with the distally directed surface 308 of the manifold 124. This may be considered a locked configuration.

[0210] As described above, the locking assembly 310 is configured to be actuated by a user to move the locking assembly 310 from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration. The input may be provided to the release member 544, more specifically to the tongue 384 that serves as an actuator. The tongue 384 may be colored differently from adjacent components to provide an indication to the user that the tongue 384 serves as an actuator. The input to the release member 544 causes the lever 548 to pivot downward about the pin 558 against the bias provided by the biasing element 564. As previously described, due to the lower portion 596 of the lever 548 being adjacent to the lower engagement surface 574 of the leg 572, the downward pivoting of the lever 548 causes the lever 550 of the locking member 546 to pivot downward about the pin 558 accordingly. The extent to which the lever 550 pivots downward causes the locking surface 594 to disengage from the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 of the manifold 124, thereby allowing the manifold 124 to move distally relative to the receiver 116. In one embodiment, input to the release member 544 pushes downwardly the recess in which the second pin of the locking member is positioned. The locking member is pivoted laterally outward against the bias from the biasing element. The extent of the laterally outward pivoting of the locking member causes the locking surface to disengage from the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 of the manifold 124, thereby allowing the manifold 124 to move distally relative to the receiver 116.

[0211] Reference now Figure 3 and 37, a biasing element 598, such as a coil spring, can be operably coupled to the lower housing 268. The biasing element 598 can be disposed within a cavity 600 defined within the top 454 of the slide assembly 288. One end of the biasing element 598 can be coupled to the slide assembly 288, and the opposite end of the biasing element 598 can be free when the manifold 124 is not in the fully inserted operational position. Thus, when the manifold 124 is not in the fully inserted operational position, the biasing element 598 can be in a natural or unstressed state. When the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116 and the slide assembly 288 is translated in the proximal direction, the free end of the biasing element 598 is proximate to a rear barrier 602 associated with the lower housing 268. When the manifold 124 is in the fully inserted operational position, the free end of the biasing element 598 can engage the rear barrier 602, and the biasing element 598 can assume a deformed or stressed state in which potential energy is stored. As will be further described with reference to the operative position, the biasing element 598 can be in a deformed or stressed state when the locking assembly 310 is in the locked configuration. Input to the release mechanism 544 moves the locking assembly 310 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration, which can allow the manifold 124 to move distally relative to the receiver 116. The biasing element 598 can release the stored potential energy to move the manifold 124 (and the sliding assembly 288) in the distal direction. The distal movement of the manifold 124 can provide a visual indication to the user that the manifold 124 is ready to be removed from the receiver 116. Additionally or alternatively, the position of the manifold 124 relative to the receiver 116 before or after the locking assembly 310 assumes the locked and unlocked configurations, respectively, can provide an indication to the user that the manifold 124 is not in the fully inserted operative position.

[0212] In some embodiments, one or more magnets can be used with complementary ferromagnetic materials to cause a repulsive force to facilitate the aforementioned distal movement. In some embodiments, an electronic linear actuator can be operably controlled by an electronic controller to move the manifold 124 in a desired manner. In some embodiments, a pneumatic linear actuator can be used. Other alternatives to the biasing element 598 are also envisioned for providing movement of the manifold 124 (and the sliding assembly 288) in the distal direction in response to the locking assembly assuming an unlocked configuration.

[0213] Reference now Figure 3 and 45 -65, each operational position of inserting the manifold 124 into the receiver 116 will be described in detail. Figure 3The manifold 124 may be before being inserted into the receiver 116 and / or after being removed from the receiver 116, representing a separated operational position. The first and second barriers 392, 464 are in a closed configuration. The slide assembly 288 is in a distal-most position, and the slide lock assembly 304 is in a locked configuration that prevents the slide assembly 288 from moving relative to the lower housing 268. The inlet mechanism 324 is in a proximal-most position, thereby preventing fluid communication between the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404. The lock assembly 310 may be in a default configuration.

[0214] The manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116. In particular, the manifold 124 is oriented such that the upper wall 260 of the trunk portion 134 is aligned with the upper section 270 of the opening 118, the lower wall 262 of the trunk portion 134 is aligned with the lower section 272 of the opening 118, and the opposite sides 264 are aligned with the opposite side sections 274 of the opening 118. In addition, the trunk portion 134 of the manifold 124 may include an orientation feature 265 that is configured to require the manifold 124 to be inserted into the opening 118 in a single orientation. Also refer to Figure 8 , 10 31, the orientation feature 265 can include at least one transition surface 267 that defines at least a portion of the upper wall 260 and / or the opposite sides 264. The transition surface 267 can be considered a change in profile from the upper wall 260 to the opposite sides 264. Fig.10 The transition surface 267 is shown to cause the opposite sides 264 to be relatively more vertically oriented than, for example, a substantially circular configuration. The directional feature 265 may include at least one undercut surface 269 that defines at least a portion of the opposite sides 264. The undercut surface 269 may extend laterally inward from the adjacent upper surface of the opposite sides 264, and / or extend laterally outward from the adjacent lower surface of the opposite sides 264. The profile of the undercut surface 269 may be designed to match the groove 279 that at least partially defines the opening 118 of the receiver 116. The transition surface 267 and / or the undercut surface 269 may cooperate with the upper wall 260, the lower wall 262, and the opposite sides 264 to define an entry profile into which the manifold 124 may be inserted in a single direction into the opening 118. In addition, the transition surface 267 and / or the undercut surface 269 may cooperate to provide visual uniqueness of the shape of the manifold 124 so that the user can easily discern the correct orientation of the manifold 124 when inserted into the receiver 116. With the manifold 124 oriented as previously described, the arms 284 of the manifold 124 align with the arm slots 278 of the opening 118 , and the spines 300 of the manifold 124 align with the spine slots 277 of the opening 118 .

[0215] Figure 45-49The manifold 124 is shown in a first operational position at least partially inserted into the receiver 116. The user can manipulate the manifold 124, for example, using the control surface 154 on the head 132, to move the base wall 281 of the second leg 246 through the opening 118 of the receiver 116 and engage and pivot the first barrier 392. The second leg 246 can enter the receiver volume 368, and / or the first leg 244 and the seal 282 can enter the receiver volume 368. The arm 284 including the proximally directed surface 286 can pass through the arm slot 278 and enter the receiver volume 368, and the ridge 300 including the proximally directed surface 302 can at least partially pass through the ridge slot 277 to engage the sliding lock assembly 304. The proximally directed surface 302 of the ridge 300 can engage the contact block 520 of the sliding lock assembly 304 before the arm 284 and / or the catch 254 respectively engage or are engaged by the receiver 116. As described above, the proximally directed surface 302 of the ridge 300 can be positioned distally of the rim 276, distally of the distally directed surface 290 of the capture portion 254, and distally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284 (see Fig.12 ). Despite the aforementioned distal relative position, it may be necessary for the proximally directed surface 302 of the spine 300 to first move the slide lock assembly 304 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration to allow the slide assembly 288 to move relative to the lower housing 268. Fig.46 and 47 As best shown, the proximally directed surface 302 of the ridge 300 engages the distally directed surface 540 of the contact block 520. This engagement causes the latch 522 to pivot about the pin 530 against the bias of the biasing element 532. The pivoting of the latch 522 causes the abutment surface 538 of the latch 522 to disengage from the front surface 536 of the aperture 516. Thus, in certain embodiments, the first operational position can be associated with or defined as the ridge 300 engaging the locking assembly 304 and / or moving the sliding lock assembly 304 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. With the manifold 124 in the first operational position, the arm 284 can be at least partially positioned with the slot defining the push feature 484, however, the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284 can not engage the push feature 484. For example, if an purported arm of an article engages the push feature 484 before the locking assembly 304 is moved to the unlocked configuration, insertion of the article may be impossible. Thus, the positioning and / or spacing of the proximal-directed surface 302 of the spine 300 relative to the proximal-distal direction of the frame edge 276 and / or the proximal-directed surface 286 of the arm 284 can be used to prevent non-authentic authorized articles from being used with the receiver 116. The locking assembly 310 can be considered to have moved from the default configuration to the unlocked configuration.

[0216] refer to Fig.48 and 49 , the manifold 124 is in a first operational position and the pawl 292 has not yet engaged with the catch 254. More specifically, the guide 506 can be positioned within the distal portion 512 of the track 508 of the lower housing 268 such that the third segment 502 of the pawl 292 (including the engagement surface 504) is laterally outside the catch 254 of the manifold 124. In the first operational position, the engagement surface 504 does not engage the distally directed surface 290 of the catch 254. In addition, in the first operational position, the slide assembly 288 may not have moved in the proximal direction, and thus the inlet mechanism 324 may not have moved in the distal direction in a corresponding manner. Therefore, there may be no fluid communication between the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404, and any vacuum provided by the vacuum pump 110 will not extend to the suction inlet 266. The suction joint 326 defining the suction inlet 266 is spaced apart from the seal 282 and / or the frame rim 276 in the proximal-distal direction.

[0217] Figure 50-54 The manifold 124 is shown in a second operating position at least partially inserted into the receiver 116. The user can manipulate the manifold 124, for example, using the control surface 154 on the head 132, to move the manifold 124 from the first operating position to the second operating position. The second operating position may include the manifold 124 being positioned more proximally relative to the receiver 116 than the first operating position. The second operating position can be associated with or defined as the arm 284 engaging the push feature 484. The distance required to move the manifold 124 from the first operating position to the second operating position can be at least approximately the distance between the proximally directed surface 302 of the spine 300 and the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284 in the proximal-distal direction. Reference Fig.12 , which distance may be at least substantially equal to the distance between plane S and plane A. In the second operational position, the slide assembly 288 may not have moved in the proximal direction.

[0218] With the manifold 124 and the receiver 116 in the second operating position, the sliding lock assembly 304 remains in the unlocked configuration because the latch 522 can slidably contact the downwardly directed surface 320 of the spine 300. The locking assembly 310 can remain in the unlocked configuration because the track 586 of the bracket can engage the lever 550 against the bias provided by the biasing element 580. In addition, Fig.53 and 54The top plan view of 294 shows that in the second operational position the claw 292 has not yet engaged the catch 254 because the claw 292 remains laterally outboard of the catch 254 of the manifold 124. Further, in the second operational position, the inlet mechanism 324 may not move in the distal direction, and therefore there may be no fluid communication between the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404. The suction connector 326 remains spaced apart from the seal 282 and / or the frame rim 276 in the proximal-distal direction.

[0219] Figure 55-59 The manifold 124 is shown in a third operating position at least partially inserted into the receiver 116. The user can manipulate the manifold 124, for example, using the control surface 154 on the head 132, to move the manifold 124 from the second operating position to the third operating position. The third operating position may include the manifold 124 being positioned more proximally relative to the receiver 116 than the first and second operating positions. The third operating position may be associated with or defined as the following: the capture portion 254 of the manifold 124 is engaged by the claw 292 of the receiver 116, and more specifically, the engagement surface 504 of the claw 292 is positioned adjacent to the distally directed surface 290 of the capture portion 254. The distance required to move the manifold 124 from the second operating position to the third operating position may be at least approximately the distance that the guide 506 of the claw 292 moves from the distal portion 510 of the track 508 to the proximal portion 512 of the track 508, thereby causing the claw 292 to pivot inwardly about the hinge 488. Fig.49 and Fig.54 The first and second operating positions are shown, respectively, wherein the third segment 502 of the claw 292 is positioned laterally outward from the capture portion 254 (and is generally aligned with the third segment 502 of the claw 292 in the proximal-distal direction). The guide 506 (shown in phantom) of the claw 292 is positioned in the distal portion 510 of the track 508. When the manifold 124 moves from the second operating position to the third operating position, the sliding assembly 288 moves in the proximal direction. In particular, the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284 engages the push feature 484 of the sliding assembly 288, and the user moves the manifold 124 in the proximal direction resulting in a corresponding movement of the sliding assembly 288 in the proximal direction. As previously described, the claw 292 is coupled to the sliding assembly 288 at the hinge 488. Therefore, the movement of the sliding assembly 288 in the proximal direction results in a corresponding movement of the claw 292 in the proximal direction. The distal portion 510 can extend laterally outward from the proximal portion 512, so the proximal portion 512 can be positioned laterally inward from the distal portion 510. As the claw 292 moves in the proximal direction, the guide 506 pivots the claw 292 about the hinge 448 as the guide 506 moves along the track 508 from the distal portion 510 to the proximal portion 512. Fig.59The guide 506 (shown in phantom) of the pawl 292 is shown positioned within the proximal portion 512 of the track 508. The extent of the inward pivoting may be such that the engagement surface 504 of the pawl 292 is positioned within and / or adjacent to the distally directed surface 290 of the catch 254.

[0220] As will be readily appreciated, moving the manifold 124 and the receiver 116 from the second operating position to the third operating position may require precise timing of the arm 284 moving the slide assembly 288 and the claw 292 pivoting inwardly to engage the catch 254. For example, if the so-called arm of an article engages the push feature 484 with an incorrectly positioned or missing catch, insertion of the article may be impossible. The receiver 116 may be bound because the claw 292 may be prevented from pivoting inwardly to the extent required for the guide 506 to move along the track 508 of the receiver 116. Additionally or alternatively, if an article has an incorrectly positioned catch or a missing catch, it may be impossible to return the slide assembly 288 to the initial distal position when the manifold 124 is removed from the receiver 116. Subsequent operation of the medical waste collection system 100 may be affected and / or subsequent insertion of another manifold into the receiver 116 may be impossible. Thus, the positioning and / or spacing of the capture portion 254 in the proximal-distal direction relative to the frame edge 276 and / or the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284 can be used to prevent non-authentically authorized items from being used with the receiver 116.

[0221] As the slide assembly 288 moves in the proximal direction when the manifold 124 moves from the second operating position to the third operating position, the inlet mechanism 324 moves in the distal direction. The rack 450 of the slide assembly 288 translates as the slide assembly 288 moves to cause rotation of the output cylindrical gear 448 and the input cylindrical gear 446 of the transmission gear arrangement 438. The rotation of the input cylindrical gear 446 imparts translation of a corresponding one of the racks 436 of the inlet mechanism 324 in the distal direction. Fig.56 and 57 The suction connection 326 of the inlet mechanism 324 is shown relative to, for example, the first operating position. Fig.46 The second barrier 464 can be moved at least partially from the closed configuration to the open configuration. The translation of the inlet mechanism 324 in the distal direction can engage the second barrier 464 to pivot the second barrier 464 about the pin 474 (see Fig.57). When the inlet mechanism 324 leaves the cavity 470 defined by the top 454, the second barrier 464 can "ride on" the inlet mechanism 324. It should be understood that the suction connector 326 remains spaced apart from the seal 282 and / or the frame edge 276 in the proximal-distal direction. In addition, as the inlet mechanism 324 moves in the distal direction, the suction outlet 410 of the inlet mechanism 324 moves in a direction aligned with the receiver outlet 404. Fig.57 Suction outlet 410 is shown in close fluid communication with receiver outlet 404. In most cases, the suction path at the interface between suction outlet 410 and receiver outlet 404 remains disconnected such that any vacuum provided by vacuum pump 110 does not extend substantially to suction inlet 266.

[0222] With the manifold 124 and the receiver 116 in the third operational position, the sliding lock assembly 304 remains in the unlocked configuration because the latch 522 can slidably contact the downwardly directed surface 320 of the spine 300. The locking assembly 310 can remain in the unlocked configuration because the track 586 of the bracket can engage the lever 550 against the bias provided by the biasing element 580. The free end of the biasing element 598 can remain spaced apart from the rear barrier 602 when the biasing element 598 is in a natural or unstressed state.

[0223] Figure 60-64 The manifold 124 is shown inserted into a fourth operating position in the receiver 116, also referred to herein as the fully inserted operating position. The user can manipulate the manifold 124, for example, using the control surface 154 on the head 132, to move the manifold 124 from the third operating position to the fourth operating position. The fourth operating position may include the manifold 124 being positioned more proximal relative to the receiver 116 compared to the first, second, and third operating positions. The fourth operating position can be associated with or defined as the suction connector 326 and the outlet opening 242 are coupled to establish fluid communication between the manifold volume 130 and the suction inlet 266. Additionally or alternatively, the fourth operating position can be associated with or defined as the suction connector 326 extending through the outlet opening 242. Additionally or alternatively, the fourth operating position can be associated with or defined as the suction outlet 410 being in fluid communication with the receiver outlet 404. Additionally or alternatively, the fourth operating position can be associated with or defined as the locking assembly 310 moving from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration to engage the locking element 306 of the manifold 124 and hold the manifold 124 in the proximal-distal direction, e.g., against the bias provided by the biasing element 598.

[0224] As the manifold 124 is moved in the proximal direction, the proximally directed surface 248 continues to engage the push feature 484 of the slide assembly 288, and the movement of the manifold 124 in the proximal direction causes a corresponding movement of the slide assembly 288 in the proximal direction. As previously described, the translation of the rack 450 of the slide assembly 288 causes the drive gear assembly 438 to rotate, and the rotation of the drive gear assembly 438 causes the rack 436 of the inlet mechanism 324 to translate in the distal direction. The inlet mechanism 324 and the manifold 124 move toward each other, and the suction connector 326 of the inlet mechanism 324 can extend through the frame 276 defining the outlet opening 242 to establish fluid communication between the manifold volume 130 and the suction inlet 266. Fig.62 and 64 As best shown, the suction fitting 326 occupies a position within the manifold volume 130 at least partially defined by the first leg 244. In certain embodiments, the suction fitting 326 passes through the seal 282. In other embodiments to be described, the suction fitting 326 abuts the seal 282 (see FIG. Fig.102 ). The fin 350 generally conforms to the outer surface 362 of the suction connector 326 to provide the aforementioned radial seal, and the radial sealing surface 358 can prevent any waste material collected in the annular recess 360 from flowing out. In addition, the sealing surface 346 of the seal 282 can abut the sealing surface 322 of the inlet mechanism 324 to provide the above-mentioned face seal.

[0225] With the manifold 124 and the receiver 116 in the fourth operational position, the first support member 414 may be positioned or disposed within the gap 248 defined between the first and second legs 244 , 246 of the manifold 124 . Fig.62 The distal edge 422 of the first support element 414 is best shown positioned adjacent the distal portion 256 that at least partially defines the void 248. Additionally, the second support element 416 can be positioned adjacent the lower portion of the first leg 244 and in the proximal-distal direction between the proximally directed surface 302 of the spine 300 and the rim 276. The second support element 416 can cooperate with the first support element 414 to help ensure that the manifold 124 is inserted to the proper insertion depth and / or to support the manifold 124 in a fourth operational position within the receiver 116.

[0226] The inlet mechanism 324 moves in the distal direction and the suction outlet 410 of the inlet mechanism 324 is aligned with the receiver outlet 404, as shown in FIG. Fig.61 and 62A suction path is established at the interface between suction outlet 410 and receiver outlet 404 such that vacuum provided by vacuum pump 110 extends to suction inlet 266 and into manifold volume 130 (and thus to suction tube 120 which may be coupled to manifold 124).

[0227] With the manifold 124 and the receiver 116 in the fourth operational position, the locking assembly 310 can be moved from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration. Fig.65 , the locking assembly 310 of the receiver 116 engages the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 to selectively prevent the manifold 124 from moving relative to the receiver 116. The biasing element 580 can urge the lever 550 (shown in phantom) of the locking member 546 to pivot upward about the pin 558 to maintain engagement with the track 586 of the bracket 452 of the slide assembly 288. In this way, when the manifold 124 moves from the third operating position to the fourth operating position, the leg 572 disposed at or near the distal end of the lever 550 is biased to engage with the lower surface of the arm 284. Since the surface 588 is generally downwardly inclined, once the locking element 306 is positioned proximal to the leg 572, the biasing element 580 can urge the lever 550 of the locking member 546 to pivot upward, positioning the locking surface 594 adjacent to the distally directed surface 308 of the manifold 124. The interference engagement of the locking surface 594 with the distally directed surface 308 selectively prevents distal movement of the manifold 124 relative to the receiver 116. The free end of the biasing element 598 can engage the rear barrier 602, and the biasing element 598 can assume a deformed or stressed state tending to urge the manifold 124 distally relative to the receiver 116, and the lock assembly 310 in the locked configuration prevents such relative distal movement.

[0228] With the manifold 124 and the receiver 116 in the fourth operational position, the engagement surface 504 of the pawl 292 remains positioned within and / or adjacent to the distally directed surface 290 of the catch 254. Additionally, because the latch 522 may slidably contact the downwardly directed surface 320 of the spine 300, the sliding lock assembly 304 remains in the unlocked configuration.

[0229] As will be readily appreciated, moving the manifold 124 and the receiver 116 from the third operating position to the fourth operating position may require precise timing of the extension of the suction connector 326 through the outlet opening 242 (e.g., the sealing surface 346 of the seal 282 abuts the sealing surface 322 and / or the first support element 414 is at least partially positioned within the gap 248), wherein the locking assembly 310 engages the locking element 306 of the manifold 124 in the locked configuration. For example, if an item lacks properly positioned locking features and features defining the gap, then full insertion of the item may not be possible. For example, without full insertion, the position assumed by the slide assembly 288 in the proximal-distal direction may not be sufficient to allow operation of the medical waste collection system 100 (e.g., the controller 122 may prevent operation of the vacuum pump 110). Therefore, the positioning, size, and / or spacing of the first leg 244, the second leg 246, the gap 248, the frame edge 276, and / or the locking element 306 can be used to prevent non-authentic authorized items from being used with the receiver 116.

[0230] The locking assembly 310 can be actuated by a user to move from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration in which the manifold 124 is allowed to move distally relative to the receiver 116. Referring now to Fig.66 and 67 , input may be provided to the tongue 384 , such as depressing the tongue 384 . Fig.66 A gap 604 is shown between the tongue 384 and the groove 382 of the rim 208, indicating that the tongue 384 is depressed in the actuated state. As previously described, input to the tongue 384 causes the release member 544 to pivot downwardly against the bias provided by the biasing element 564, which causes the locking member 546 to pivot downwardly against the bias provided by the biasing element 580. The downward pivoting of the lever 550 can disengage the locking surface 594 from the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 of the manifold 124, thereby allowing the manifold 124 to move distally relative to the receiver 116. With the locking assembly 310 no longer constraining the distal movement of the manifold 124 relative to the receiver 116, the biasing element 598 can release the potential energy stored in the deformed or stressed state, and the manifold 124 (and the slide assembly 288) can move in the distal direction. Movement of the slide assembly 288 in the distal direction causes the inlet mechanism 324 to move in the proximal direction so that the suction path can be almost immediately disconnected at the interface between the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404 when the locking assembly 310 is actuated to the unlocked configuration.

[0231] The manifold 124 can be removed from the receiver 116 in a manner at least similar to the reverse of the first to fourth operating positions described above. The user can manipulate the manifold 124, for example, using the control surface 154 on the head 132 to move the manifold 124 in the distal direction. When the manifold 124 moves in the distal direction, the distally directed surface 290 of the catch 254 engages the engagement surface 504 of the claw 292, causing the slide assembly 288 to move in the distal direction in a corresponding manner. The guide 506 of the claw 292 prevents the claw 292 from pivoting about the hinge 488 while the guide 506 is slidably moved within the proximal portion 510 of the track 508. The suction connector 326 leaves the seal 282 and the frame edge 276 that defines the outlet opening 242. The interference engagement between the seal 282 and the frame edge 276 prevents the seal 282 from separating during the process of removing the suction connector 326 from the outlet opening 242. The close tolerance design of the first and second support elements 414, 416 of the inlet mechanism 324 can further help prevent the seal 282 from separating from the frame edge 276. The lip 340 of the seal 282 engaging the inner step 338 of the first leg 244 can even further help prevent the seal 282 from separating from the frame edge 276. The guide 506 of the pawl 292 assumes a position within the distal portion 512 of the track 508, and the pawl 292 pivots laterally outward about the hinge 488 (see FIG. 4 ). Fig.54 ). Further removal of the manifold 124 disengages the arm 284 from the push feature 484 of the slide assembly 288, and further removal of the manifold 124 positions the proximally directed surface 302 of the ridge 300 distal to the contact block 520 of the slide lock assembly 304. The biasing element 532 of the slide lock assembly 304 pushes the latch 522 to pivot upward about the pin 530 so that the front surface 534 of the key 524 engages with the front surface 536 that at least partially defines the aperture 516, and the slide lock assembly 304 returns to the locked configuration. Subsequent manifolds 124 may be inserted into the receiver 116 as desired. Throughout the period that the manifold 124 is removed and / or replaced, the suction path remains disconnected at the interface between the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404, so that any vacuum provided by the vacuum pump 110 does not actually extend to the suction inlet 266.

[0232] Reference now Figures 68-73, an embodiment of an inverted trunk portion 134' of a manifold 124 is shown in which a first leg 244' is positioned above a second leg 246', with particular structures being arranged in a corresponding manner. In many respects, the inverted trunk portion 134' can be similar to that previously described, wherein like numbers (with an apostrophe (')) correspond to like parts, and any disclosure common to corresponding parts may be deemed omitted for the sake of brevity, which should not be construed as limiting. It should be understood that complementary components on the receiver 116 may be modified in an appropriate manner to allow the inverted trunk portion 134' to be inserted into and removed from the receiver 116 in the manner previously described. Further, it should be understood that while the inverted trunk portion 134' is discussed in the context of being integrated with or coupled to any suitable head (e.g., the head 132 described previously), the present disclosure may also be more generally applied to the housing 128 and / or manifold 124.

[0233] The inverted trunk portion 134' can define an outlet opening 242'. The inverted trunk portion 134' can include a body portion 210', a first leg 244', and / or a second leg 246'. The first leg 244' and / or the second leg 246' can extend from the body portion 210', and more specifically, one or both of the first and second legs 244', 246' can extend proximally from the body portion 210'. The first and second legs 244', 246' can be spaced apart from each other to at least partially oppose a gap 248', such as Fig.64 Perspective drawing and Fig.70 and 71 248' can be further defined by a distal portion 256' of the body portion 210', and the first and / or second legs 244', 246' can extend from the distal portion 256'. Fig.68 and 69 The distal portion 256' is shown extending from the first leg 244' to the support column 255' near the lower wall 262' of the inverted body portion 134'. By convention, a vertical plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the most proximal point of the distal portion 256' can be considered to be the boundary (B) separating the body portion 210' and the first and / or second legs 244', 246', as shown in FIG. Fig.70A portion of the inverted torso 134' distal to the boundary (B) may be considered as the body portion 210', and the upper and lower portions of the inverted torso 134' proximal to the boundary (B) may be considered as the first and second legs 244', 246', respectively.

[0234] As described above, when the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening of the receiver, the first leg 244' can be positioned above the second leg 246'. The inverted body portion 134' can include an upper wall 260', a lower wall 262', and opposite sides 264'. The opposite sides 264' and the lower wall 262' can cooperate to form at least a portion of the second leg 246', and the opposite sides 264' and the upper wall 260' can cooperate to form at least a portion of the first leg 244.

[0235] The inverted torso 134' may include a rim 276' defining the outlet opening 242'. The rim 276' may be disposed on the first leg 244', and more specifically at or near the proximal end of the first leg 244'. A step 283' may extend radially inward from the tubular wall 280' that at least partially defines the first leg 244', with the rim 276' extending proximally from the step 283'. Fig.71 A vertical plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the frame edge 276' is included, marked as (R), indicating the proximal-distal portion of the frame edge 276'. The frame edge 276' may include a width greater than the height, so that the outlet opening 242' is non-circular. The tubular wall 280' may also include a width greater than the height, and the size of the frame edge 276' may be approximately equal to the size of the tubular wall 280', so that the outlet opening 242' is complementarily formed to the cross-section of the first leg 244' and / or is formed to be close to the cross-section of the first leg 244'. The frame edge 276' may be configured to be coupled to a seal 282'.

[0236] The manifold 124 includes an arm 284' extending outwardly from the inverted trunk portion 134'. The arm 284' can extend outwardly from at least one of the body portion 210 and the first leg 244'. In other words, the arm 284' can extend away from the manifold volume 130. With particular reference to Fig.71 , at least a portion of the arms 284' (one is shown) extends outwardly from the body portion 210'. In addition, the arms 284' can extend outwardly from opposite sides 264' of the inverted torso 134', and more specifically extend laterally outwardly from the opposite sides 264'. The arms 284' can have any suitable length. The arms 284' include a proximally directed surface 286'. The proximally directed surface 286' can be positioned at Fig.70 284' is distal to the boundary (B) of the body portion 210', and thus the arm 284' can be considered to extend only laterally outward from the body portion 210'. Fig.71A vertical plane, designated (A), including a plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the proximal-pointing surface 286', indicates the proximal-distal position of the proximal-pointing surface 286' of the arm 284'. The proximal-pointing surface 286' of the arm 284' can be positioned distally of the frame edge 276', and thus the frame edge 276' can be positioned proximal to the proximal-pointing surface 286' (i.e., plane A is distally of plane R, and plane R is proximal to plane A).

[0237] The manifold 124 includes a catch 254', for example, as a separate structure as described above and / or considered to be disposed on the second leg 246'. The frame edge 276' and the catch 254' can be separated from each other by a gap 248'. More specifically, the frame edge 276' on the first leg 244' can be separated from the catch 254' on the second leg 246' by the gap 248'. Fig.70 and 71 Frame rim 276' is shown on a first or upper side of void 248' and capture portion 254' is on a second or lower side of void 248'. Further, when manifold 124 is oriented for insertion into opening 118 of receiver 116, frame rim 276' is positioned above capture portion 254'. Due to the geometry of second leg 246', capture portion 254' exhibits a hook-like structure that includes a distally directed surface 290' along a bend between opposing upper and lower portions 293', 294'. Capture portion 254' includes a laterally directed surface 298' such that capture portion 254' is formed as a recess within inverted torso 134'. Distally directed surface 290' of capture portion 254' may be positioned within Fig.66 near the boundary (B). Fig.71 A vertical plane, designated as (C), including a plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the distally-directed surface 290', represents the proximal-distal position of the capture portion 254'. The distally-directed surface 290' of the capture portion 254' can be positioned proximal to the frame edge 276', and thus the frame edge 276' can be positioned distal to the distally-directed surface 290' (i.e., plane C is proximal to plane R, and plane R is distal to plane C). In addition, the distally-directed surface 290' of the capture portion 254' can be positioned proximal to the proximal-directed surface 286' of the arm 284', and thus the proximal-directed surface 286' of the arm 284' can be positioned distal to the distally-directed surface 290' (i.e., plane C is proximal to plane A, and plane A is distal to plane C).

[0238] The manifold 124 may include a ridge 300' extending outwardly from the inverted trunk 134'. Fig.70, the ridge 300' can extend outwardly from the inverted trunk portion 134' distally of the boundary (B) such that the ridge 300' extends outwardly from the body portion 210'. In addition, the ridge 300' can extend outwardly from the bottom wall 262' of the inverted trunk portion 134', and more specifically extend downwardly from the bottom wall 262'. The ridge 300' includes a proximally directed surface 302', for example, an inclined surface that extends obliquely in the proximal direction toward the lower wall 262' of the inverted trunk portion 134' to define a proximal end of the ridge 300'. Fig.71 A vertical plane, designated as (S), including a plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the proximal end of the proximal-pointing surface 302', of the spine 300' is indicated by a proximal-distal position of the proximal-pointing surface 302' of the spine 300'. The proximal-pointing surface 302' of the spine 300' can be positioned distal to the frame edge 276', and thus the frame edge 276' can be positioned proximal to the proximal-pointing surface 302' (i.e., plane S is distal to plane R, and plane R is proximal to plane S). In addition, the proximal-pointing surface 302' of the spine 300' can be positioned distal to the distal-pointing surface 290' of the capture portion 254', and thus the distal-pointing surface 290' of the capture portion 254' can be positioned proximal to the proximal-pointing surface 302' (i.e., plane S is distal to plane C, and plane C is proximal to plane S). Further, the proximally pointing surface 302' of the ridge 300' can be positioned distal to the proximally pointing surface 286' of the arm 284', and thus the proximally pointing surface 286' of the arm 284' can be positioned proximal to the proximally pointing surface 302 (i.e., plane S is distal to plane A, and plane A is proximal to plane S).

[0239] The manifold 124 may include a locking element 306' extending outwardly from the inverted trunk portion 134'. The locking element 306' may include a distally directed surface 308' at the distal end of the elongated structure opposite the proximally directed surface 286' of the arm 284. The locking element 306' may extend outwardly from at least one of the body portion 210' and the first leg 244'. The locking element 306' may be positioned Fig.66 The locking element 306' is distal to the boundary (B) of the inverted torso 134', so the locking element 306' only extends laterally outward from the body portion 210. The locking element 306' can extend outward from the opposite sides 264' of the inverted torso 134', and more specifically extends laterally outward from the opposite sides 264'. Fig.71A vertical plane, designated as (L), including a plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the distally-directed surface 308', represents the proximal-distal position of the locking element 306'. The distally-directed surface 308' of the locking element 306' can be positioned distal to the frame edge 276', and thus the frame edge 276' can be positioned proximal to the distally-directed surface 308' (i.e., plane L is distal to plane R, and plane R is proximal to plane L). In addition, the distally-directed surface 308' of the locking element 306' can be positioned distal to the distally-directed surface 290' of the capture portion 254', and thus the distally-directed surface 290' of the capture portion 254' can be positioned proximal to the distally-directed surface 308' (i.e., plane L is distal to plane C, and plane C is proximal to plane L). Still further, the distally directed surface 308' of the locking element 306' can be positioned distal to the proximally directed surface 286' of the arm 284', and thus the proximally directed surface 286' of the arm 284' can be positioned proximally of the distally directed surface 308' (i.e., plane L is distal to plane A, and plane A is proximal to plane L). Still further, the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306' can be positioned distal to the proximally directed surface 302 of the spine 300', and thus the proximally directed surface 302' of the spine 300' can be positioned proximally of the distally directed surface 308' (i.e., plane L is distal to plane S, and plane S is proximal to plane L). As previously explained in detail, the relative positioning in the proximal-distal direction of each of the frame edge 276', the proximal pointing surface 286' of the arm 284', the distal pointing surface 290' of the capture portion 254', the proximal pointing surface 302' of the ridge 300' and / or the distal pointing surface 308' of the locking element 306' is advantageously adjusted to facilitate precise operational timing of complementary components of the receiver 116 when the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiver 116.

[0240] refer to Fig.69 , the outlet opening 242' may be oblong and defined by a frame edge 276' including an upper segment 312', a lower segment 314' and an opposing side segment 316'. A vertical plane and a horizontal plane extending through each of the two opposite lateral points, the uppermost point and the lowermost point of the outlet opening 242' in the proximal-distal direction are respectively labeled (S oo )、(U oo ) and (L oo). A vertical plane in the proximal-distal direction and dividing the outlet opening 242' into two parts can be a vertical symmetry plane (PS). When the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116, the outlet opening 242' can be completely positioned within the upper half of the inverted body portion 134'. The positioning of the outlet opening 242' within the upper half can be particularly advantageous to avoid accidental outflow of waste material from the manifold volume 130. In other words, waste material that is not drawn through the seal 282 under the influence of the vacuum may fall within the manifold volume 130 under the influence of gravity. Waste material may accumulate within a portion of the manifold volume 130 defined by the lower wall 262' and proximally bounded by the second leg 246' and / or the distal portion 256'. In addition, during removal of the manifold 124 including the inverted body 134' from the receiver 116 in the manner previously described, the possibility of waste material flowing out through the seal 282 (because the suction connector 262 is being removed through the seal 282) is significantly reduced because minimal waste material can be present on the distal side of the seal 282 (the waste material has already descended within the manifold volume 130).

[0241] The arms 284' may include transversely directed surfaces 318' that cooperate to define a width that is greater than the width of the rim 276' and the outlet opening 242'. Fig.69 A vertical plane extending through the transversely directed surface 318' in the proximal-distal direction is shown, labeled (A), indicating the lateral position of the arm 284'. The transversely directed surface 318' of the arm 284' can be located farther from the symmetry plane (PS) than the corresponding most transverse point of the outlet opening 242' (i.e., the plane (A) is farther from the plane S than the plane S). oo 242'). When the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116, the catch 254' (at Fig.69 The catch portion 254' may be positioned below the lowermost point of the outlet opening 242'. In addition, the laterally directed surface 298' of the catch portion 254' may cooperate to define a width that is less than the width of the frame edge 276' and the outlet opening 242'. Fig.69 A vertical plane extending through each of the transversely directed surfaces 298 in the proximal-distal direction is shown, labeled (C), indicating the transverse position of the capture portion 254'. The transversely directed surfaces 298' of the capture portion 254' are positioned closer to the symmetry plane (PS) than the corresponding most transverse point of the outlet opening 242' (i.e., plane C is closer to the plane S than the plane S). oo The distance from the symmetry plane (PS) is smaller).

[0242] When the manifold 124 is oriented for insertion into the opening 118 of the receiver 116, the ridge 300' can be positioned in the lower half of the inverted body portion 134'. The ridge 300' can be positioned below the lowermost point of the outlet opening 242'. In addition, the ridge 300' can be coplanar with the plane of symmetry (PS). Fig.69 A horizontal plane extending in the proximal-distal direction through the downwardly directed surface 320' of the spine 300' is shown, labeled (S), indicating the downward position of the spine 300'. The downwardly directed surface 320' of the spine 300' is positioned below the lowermost point of the outlet opening 242' (i.e., plane S is above plane L). oo below).

[0243] In at least some aspects, the positioning and / or spacing of the catches 254, 254' in the proximal-distal direction relative to the rims 276, 276' and / or the proximally directed surfaces 286, 248' of the arms 284, 246' and / or the distally directed surfaces 308, 308' of the locking elements 306, 306' can be useful in preventing unauthentically authorized items from being used with the receiver 116. Additional security features can be provided to prevent unauthentically authorized items from being used with the receiver 116. As previously described, if the manifold 124 is not inserted into the fourth or fully inserted operative position in the receiver 116, the controller 122 (see Figure 2 ) may prevent operation of the vacuum pump 110. This arrangement may be facilitated using at least one sensor (e.g., a Hall sensor) appropriately positioned on the slide assembly 288, the lower housing 268, the upper housing 366, or any other suitable component of the receptacle 116. Thus, if an item does not include the structure necessary to allow the manifold 124 to assume the fourth or fully inserted operational position, the sensor may not transmit an appropriate signal to the controller 122. The controller 122 will not allow the medical waste collection system 100 to operate. Similarly, if the receptacle 116 does not cycle through the separated operational position after each insertion and / or removal of the manifold 124 from the receptacle 116, the controller 122 may prevent operation of the vacuum pump 110. As Fig. 27 As shown, this arrangement may also be facilitated by a sensor configured to detect, for example, a magnet 676 coupled to the slide assembly 288. The magnet 676 may be coupled to any suitable structure of the slide assembly 288 or the receiver 166. Fig. 27The magnet 676 is shown positioned laterally off-center, which may be particularly desirable to avoid interference with a data reader to be described that detects the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag 606. Thus, if an article does not include the necessary structure (e.g., catch 254) that allows the manifold 124 to cause the slide assembly 288 to move to the fully inserted operative position and / or return to the disengaged operative position, the sensor may not transmit the appropriate signal to the controller 122, and the controller 122 may not allow operation of the medical waste collection system 100.

[0244] In certain embodiments, the sensor is configured to transmit an appropriate signal to the controller 122 based on the presence or absence of the manifold 124 in the receiver 116. The controller 122 is configured to generate and transmit an unloading signal to the docking controller 105, which is used to cause the docking controller 105 to operate the unloading pump 103 of the docking station 101 to suck waste from the waste containers 106, 108 to the docking station 101. In other words, the unloading pump 103 of the docking station 101 is controlled based on the presence or absence of the manifold 124 in the receiver 116 of the medical waste collection system 100. For example, if the manifold 124 is inserted into the fully inserted operating position in the receiver 116, the controller 122 transmits an unloading signal to the docking controller 105 to prevent the operation of the unloading pump 103. If the manifold 124 is not detected in the receiver 116, the controller 122 may transmit an unloading signal to the docking controller 105 to allow the operation of the unloading pump 103. Thus, the manifold 124 may need to be removed from the receiver 116 before the docking station 101 is allowed to operate to empty and / or clean the waste containers 106, 108 of the medical waste collection system 100. The reverse configuration is also contemplated, wherein the manifold 124 is required to be present in the receiver 116 before the docking station 101 is allowed to operate.

[0245] In certain embodiments, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag 606 can be coupled to the manifold 124 and positioned to be detected by a sensor (eg, a data reader) of the medical waste collection system 100. Figure 3 , the RFID tag 606 can be disposed on the upper wall 260 of the torso 134. More specifically, the RFID tag 606 can be at least partially positioned on the upper wall 260 defining the body portion 210, and / or the RFID tag 606 can be at least partially positioned on the upper wall 260 defining the second leg 246. As previously described, when the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the receiver 116, the upper wall 260 can be oriented substantially horizontally. In addition, Figure 8 , 1011 shows the upper wall 260 as slightly arcuate but substantially flat. It should be appreciated that the detection reliability of the RFID tag can be substantially improved when the RFID tag is disposed on a substantially flat surface. Therefore, the substantially flat profile of the upper wall 260, in addition to at least partially defining the directional feature 265, can also provide sufficient surface area for the attachment of the RFID tag 606, which improves the detection of the data reader of the medical waste collection system 100.

[0246] The RFID tag 606 can be configured to be detected by the data reader when the manifold 124 is in the first, second, third and / or fourth operating position. In particular, the RFID tag 606 can be configured to be detected by the data reader when the manifold 124 is in the fourth or fully inserted operating position in the receiver 116. For example, for a particular tuning strength of the interrogation radio wave from the data reader, the data reader can be positioned on the receiver 116 so that the RFID tag 606 is only detectable when the manifold 124 is in the fourth or fully inserted operating position in the receiver 116. If the item cannot be inserted into the fourth or fully inserted operating position due to the reasons previously described, data communication is not established between the RFID tag 606 and the reader, and the controller 122 can prevent the operation of the medical waste collection system 100. In some embodiments, the RFID tag 606 can include a memory storing data for determining whether the manifold 124 can be used with the medical waste collection system 100. The RFID tag 606 transmits the data from the memory to the data reader, and the controller 122 of the medical waste collection system 100 verifies the manifold 124. If the verification is successful, the medical waste collection system 100 can operate as expected. Certain aspects of utilizing RFID can be disclosed in commonly owned International Publication WO 2007 / 1038425 published on September 13, 2007, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Alternative methods of automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) are contemplated, such as bar codes, magnetic strips, optical character recognition (OCR), smart cards, etc.

[0247] Reference now Figures 74-77, the manifold 124 can include a housing 128 having a first housing portion 608 and a second housing portion 610 removably coupled to the first housing portion 608. Due to the presence of a cartridge seal 612 to be described, the second housing portion 610 can be considered a replacement cartridge or box-shaped body (cartridge) of the manifold 124. The cartridge seal 612 and the replacement box-shaped body can achieve several advantages, for example, only the first housing portion 608 needs to be replaced after a surgical procedure to maintain a sterile barrier. Additionally or alternatively, the removable connection between the first and second housing portions 608, 610 in a manner to be described can make it easier to clean and / or disinfect the internal components of the first housing portion and / or the second housing portion 608, 610.

[0248] Fig.74 and 75 The first housing portion or base 608 is shown as being generally L-shaped in profile and defining a cavity 613. The second housing portion or box-shaped body 610 is sized and shaped to be at least partially disposed within the cavity 613 such that the profiles of adjacent surfaces of the base 608 and the box-shaped body 610 are shaped to match each other. More particularly, Fig.74 The upper wall 260 and the opposing side walls 260 (one shown) of the housing 128 are shown to be formed in part by complementary surfaces on each of the base 608 and the box-shaped body 610. The resulting arrangement can be that the base 608 and the box-shaped body 610 cooperate to provide a shape at least similar to the trunk 134 of the manifold 124 previously described. Therefore, at least a portion of the base 608 and the box-shaped body 610 are sized to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116 in the proximal direction and removed in the distal direction. In addition, the annular portion 615 can be at least partially formed by complementary surfaces on each of the base 608 and the box-shaped body 610, wherein the annular portion 615 and the distal region of the housing 128 are sized and shaped to be at least somewhat similar to the head 132 of the manifold 124 previously described.

[0249] The base 608 may include a rim 276 defining the outlet opening 242, such as Fig.75 In addition, due to Figures 74-76, the base 608 may include a body portion 210, a first leg 244, a second leg 246, and a void 248 at least partially defined by the second leg 246 and the first leg 244. In addition, the arm 246, the ridge 300, the locking feature 306, and / or the catch 254 may be disposed on the base 608. More specifically, the arm 284 may extend outwardly from the base 608 or extend laterally outwardly from a portion of the side 264 of the base 608. The arm 284 includes a proximally directed surface 286. Similarly, the locking element 306 may extend outwardly from the base 608 or extend laterally outwardly from a portion of the side 264 of the base 608. The locking element 306 may include a distally directed surface 308 positioned distally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284. The ridge 300 may extend outwardly from the base 608, and more specifically downwardly from the bottom wall 262 of the base 608. The ridge 300 includes a proximally directed surface 302 that is positioned proximally of the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 and distally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284. An optional catch 254 may be provided on the second leg 246 formed by the base 608. The catch 254 includes a distally directed surface 290 that is positioned proximally of the rim 276, proximally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284, proximally of the proximally directed surface 302 of the ridge 300, and proximally of the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306. The catch 254 and the rim 276 may be separated by the gap 248, and when the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116, the rim 276 may be positioned below the catch 254. It is contemplated that alternative configurations are also contemplated, for example, one or more of the arms 246, the locking features 306, and / or the catch 254 may be disposed on the box-shaped body 610. Fig.74 An interface boundary 617 is shown extending around the housing 128 to provide a generally L-shaped profile of the base 608 for accommodating the arms 246, the locking features 306, and the catches 254. In another example, the interface boundary 617 can be at least a substantially horizontal plane for dividing the housing 128 in a manner in which the catches 254 are disposed on the box-shaped body 610 and the arms 246 and the locking features 306 are disposed on the base 608 (see, for example, FIG. Fig.86 ).

[0250] Reference now Fig.75 and 76, the base 608 may include an upright wall 614 within the cavity 613 to define a socket 617, the socket 617 being sized to receive the trunk 616 of the box-shaped body 610. The socket 617 is shown as being rectangular in shape, but other suitable geometric shapes are also contemplated. The base 608 may also include at least one retaining feature 618, which is configured to releasably engage a complementary retaining feature (not shown) on the box-shaped body 610. Fig.75 The retention features 618 are shown as two openings through opposing locations of the upstanding wall 614 that are configured to releasably receive the protrusions of the box-shaped body 610 in a detent arrangement.

[0251] The box-shaped body 610 may include an inlet connector 126 defining an inlet inner hole 138, and the body portion 616 may define a manifold volume 130 in communication with the inlet inner hole 138. As previously described, the inlet connector 126 is configured to be removably coupled to the suction tube 120 to provide a suction path from the suction tube 120 to the manifold volume 130. The box-shaped body 610 may also define a first channel 620 in communication with the manifold volume 130. Fig.76 and 77 As best shown, the first channel 620 can be a tubular structure extending from the trunk 616. The box-shaped body 610 can include a first stem 622 that defines a portion of the first channel 620.

[0252] The base 608 can define a second passage 624 in communication with the outlet opening 242. The second passage 624 can extend through at least a portion of the first leg 244. Fig.76 and 77 The second passage 624 is shown as a tubular structure that extends distally to a second stem 626 that defines a portion of the second passage 624. The second stem 626 is oriented perpendicular to the first leg 244 so that the second stem 626 extends upward from the bottom wall 262 of the manifold 124. The cartridge seal 612 can be coupled to the first stem 622 or the second stem 626. In the case where the cartridge seal 612 is coupled to the second stem 626 (and the seal 282 is coupled to the frame edge 276), the second passage 624 can define a closed fluid volume when the box-shaped body 610 is not coupled to the base 608. In other words, the cartridge seal 612 is configured to seal the interface between the first and second passages 620, 624 when the box-shaped body 610 and the base 608 are removably coupled to each other.

[0253] The box-shaped body 610 can be removably coupled to the base 608 to establish fluid communication between the first channel 620 and the second channel 624. In particular, the body 616 is disposed in the socket 614 and the second stem 626 includes a neck 628 extending through the cartridge seal 612. The first stem 622 can be at least partially disposed within the second stem 626 to establish fluid communication between the first channel 620 and the second channel 624, as shown in FIG. Fig.76 and 77 Best shown.

[0254] The manifold 124 can be inserted into the receptacle 116 in the manner previously described, and the suction tube 120 can be coupled to the inlet fitting 126. During operation of the medical waste collection system 100, the suction path can extend from the suction tube 120 through the inlet bore 138, the manifold volume 130, the first channel 620, the second channel 624, and the outlet opening 242. Referring now to Fig.76 , a tissue trap 630 can be disposed in the manifold volume 130. The tissue trap 630 can be at least similar to the filter element 174 described previously, and the tissue trap 630 can be configured to capture tissue entrained by the suction path. After the medical waste collection system 100 is operated, the manifold 124 can be removed in the manner described previously, and the box-shaped body 610 is separated from the base 608. The box-shaped body 610 can include a cover (not shown) or other device for providing the removal of the tissue trap 630 from the box-shaped body 610, after which the tissue sample can be retrieved for further processing and inspection (e.g., pathology). Therefore, the manifold 124 can provide the collection and retrieval of tissue samples. In addition, a new box-shaped body can be provided for subsequent procedures without replacing the base 608.

[0255] Whether due to expense, convenience, and / or other reasons, a user may attempt to reprocess a previously used manifold, which necessitates the removal of contaminants. As will be readily appreciated, the filter element 174 may include complex geometries (e.g., holes 230 and apertures 232) that become contaminated with waste matter during operation of the medical waste collection system 100. Thus, efforts to reprocess a previously used manifold may require removal of the filter element 174 and then cleaning and replacing the filter element 174 or inserting another unused filter element. Therefore, limiting the removal of the filter element 174 is at least one advantageous way to discourage reprocessing of the manifold 124 of the present disclosure.

[0256] Reference now Figure 78-82A , the filter element 174 may include a keyway 632 that is separate from the aperture, and more specifically, separate from the hole 230 and the aperture 232. The keyway 632 may be defined on the base wall 194 of the basket 206, such as Fig.81204. The keyway 632 is shown as a single aperture in the shape of a cross and laterally centered between the opposing sides 204 of the basket 206, and further positioned to be offset toward the upper wall 200 of the basket 206. It should be understood that more than one keyway may be provided, and the keyways may be positioned in any suitable manner. The cross shape is only one example, and other geometric shapes are also contemplated; for example, circular, oval, triangular, square, rectangular, star-shaped, etc. It should also be understood that the keyway 632 may be shaped the same as or different from the aperture.

[0257] The manifold 124 may include a protrusion 634 extending from the inner surface 139 of the housing 128. Fig.80 , 82 82A, the protrusion 634 extends from the base wall 281 of the trunk portion 134. In particular, the interior of the second leg 246 can define a cavity 636 that is in communication with the manifold volume 130 (or the cavity 636 includes a portion of the manifold volume 130). In other words, the second leg 246 can be at least partially hollow. The protrusion 634 can be disposed within the cavity 636 of the second leg 246 and extend distally from the base wall 281 to a location within the manifold volume 130 that is away from the distal portion 256 of the trunk portion 134. In some embodiments, the protrusion 634 is integrally formed with the housing 128. With particular reference to Fig.82 and 82A , the protrusion 634 can include a support post portion 638 and a tip portion 640. The cross-section of the tip portion 640 can be smaller than the cross-section of the support post portion 638. In other words, the transition from the support post portion 638 to the tip portion 640 can include a step 642. Among other advantages, the step 642 helps to fully seat the filter element 174 within the manifold volume 130. In other words, when the tip portion 640 extends through the keyway 632 in a manner to be described, the step 642 can act as a stop against the base wall 194 of the basket 206.

[0258] The protrusion 634, and in particular the tip portion 640, is configured to extend through the keyway 632. The engagement of the tip portion 640 and the keyway 632 reduces "play" (e.g., unintentional proximal, distal, lateral, and / or rotational movement due to component tolerances, etc.). In addition, given their relative shapes, sizes, and / or positions, the protrusion 634 and the keyway 632 can cooperate to prevent unauthorized filter elements from being coupled to the trunk 134, such as during an attempt to reprocess the manifold 124. For example, the particular shape of the keyway 632 can ensure that only truly authorized filter elements 174 are compatible, otherwise the protrusion 634 would interfere with the unauthorized filter element and prevent it from being fully seated within the trunk 134 of the housing 128, thereby further preventing the head 132 from being properly coupled to the trunk 134.

[0259] The protrusion 634 is connected to the filter element 174 so that removing the filter element 174 from the housing 128 requires destroying the manifold 124. In some embodiments, the protrusion 634 is fixed to the filter element 174 by an interference fit, such as a thermoplastic stake. In other words, during the assembly process of the manifold 124, the filter element 174 is inserted into the body 134 so that the tip portion 640 extends through the keyway 632, and then the tip portion 640 is softened and deformed by the connection process to expand radially, thereby forming an interference fit between the protrusion 634 and the filter element 174, such as Fig.82A As shown. In other words, the head 644 can be formed by a joining process, and the radial dimension of the head 644 is greater than the radial dimension of the keyway 632. Thermoplastic staking may or may not cause the protrusion 634 and the filter element 174 to fuse to each other. Relative to other aspects of the present disclosure that describe fusion, the connection by thermoplastic staking can simply result in the mechanical locking of these parts. Other suitable related joining processes include hot working, thermal stamping (or hot stamping), hot air cold heading, ultrasonic staking, old forming, infrared staking, impulse staking, etc.

[0260] The connection of the filter element 174 and the housing 128 by thermoplastic staking or other means requires destruction of the manifold 124 in order to remove the filter element 174 for reprocessing. As used herein, destruction can be considered to include the destruction of the appearance, or the manufacture of defects by removing or irreparably damaging parts. Examples of destruction include plastic deformations produced by fracture, rupture, collapse, etc. For example, applying a mechanical force sufficient to remove the size of the filter element 174 on the filter element 174 may cause the head 644 to break from the support column portion 638 of the protrusion 634. For another example, applying a mechanical force sufficient to remove the size of the filter element 174 on the filter element 174 may cause the base wall 194 of the filter element 174 to break in a way that the filter element 174 cannot be used. For another example, applying a mechanical force sufficient to remove the size of the filter element 174 on the filter element 174 may cause the housing 128 to break in a way that the housing 128 cannot be used. The features of the protrusion 634 can be designed to break the second leg 246. It should be appreciated that any structure of the housing 128 may be breached during removal of the filter element 174 , such as the upper wall 200 , the lower wall 202 , the opposing sides 204 , and the first leg 244 .

[0261] Reference now Fig.83, the filter element 174 can be bonded to the inner surface 139 of the housing 128 such that removing the filter element 174 from the housing 128 requires further destruction of the manifold 124. In one embodiment, the filter element 174 is fused to the housing 128, thereby forming a permanent bond. For example, the filter element 174 is fused to the inner surface 139 of the housing 128 by laser welding at one or more laser interfaces 646. Also refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the filter element 174 can include a guide 216 extending laterally outward from one of the opposite sides 204 of the basket 206 and oriented in the proximal-distal direction. The guide 216 can be sized and oriented to be slidably inserted into a complementary slot 220 defined between parallel rails 222 extending laterally inward from the inner surface of the body portion 210 of the trunk 134. Fig.81 Two guides 216 are shown extending laterally outward from opposite sides 204, and Fig.80 Two complementary slots 220 are shown extending laterally inwardly from opposing inner surfaces of the body portion 210 .

[0262] With the filter element 174 inserted into the manifold volume 130, as shown Fig.83 As best shown in , the guide 216 can be fused to the slot 220, for example, by laser welding. In this way, the laser welding interface 646 can extend in the proximal-distal direction on the upper and lower surfaces of the guide 216, and on the adjacent surface of the rail 222 that defines the slot 220. As described above, the fusion of the filter element 174 and the housing 128 (by laser welding or otherwise) requires the destruction of the manifold 124 in order to remove the filter element 174 for reprocessing. For example, applying a mechanical force on the filter element 174 sufficient to remove the filter element 174 may cause the guide 216 of the filter element 174 to rupture in a manner that renders the filter element 174 unusable. For another example, applying a mechanical force on the filter element 174 sufficient to remove the filter element 174 may cause the body portion 210 of the housing 128 to rupture in a manner that renders the housing 128 unusable. It should be understood that the fusion of the filter element 174 and the housing 128 by laser welding can be in addition to or in lieu of the connection of the filter element 174 and the housing 128 by thermoplastic staking or other means. Particularly when used in combination, the manifold 124 of the present disclosure can advantageously prevent the removal of the filter element 174 from the housing 128 and, therefore, prevent meaningful reprocessing thereof.

[0263] Certain reprocessing methods may be intended to clean and / or disinfect the manifold 124 without removing the filter element 174. The manifold 124 of the present disclosure further prevents reprocessing thereof by providing a use indicator 666 disposed within the manifold volume 130. The use indicator 666 is configured to absorb medical waste, such as solid or liquid medical waste, during operation of the medical waste collection system 100. Therefore, efforts to effectively reprocess the manifold 124 without removing the filter element 174 will become increasingly impossible because it is generally not feasible to disinfect or clean the use indicator (with absorbed medical waste) to the necessary extent. The inclusion of a use indicator reduces the likelihood of improper reuse. As used herein, the term medical waste refers to any substance that contacts the use indicator 666 and renders the use indicator unsuitable for further clinical use by the patient or another patient. For example, contaminants include body fluids such as blood, excreta such as urine or fecal fluids or solids, sloughed cells, lymphatic material, exudates, mucosal secretions, etc., which may contain proteins, metabolites, bacterial flora, viruses, or endogenous compounds produced by normal or pathological processes in the body.

[0264] The use indicator 666 can define a tortuous path so that solid medical waste is retained in the use indicator after the manifold has been used. The use indicator 666 is configured to absorb contaminants during clinical use of the manifold. The absorbed contaminants are visible on the use indicator 666. For example, the use indicator 666 can be formed of a light-colored material, such as a white material, that will stain when exposed to blood or other contaminants. The light-colored material can be saturated with specific, such as colored particles, when wetted by liquid waste matter to form a gel.

[0265] The use indicator 666 can be formed of a porous material, such as a foam insert. The foam insert can have a porosity varying from 30-70% of the total volume. The average pores can have a size varying from 0.001 to 0.030 inches. The use indicator 666 can be formed of a variety of different materials. For example, the use indicator 666 can include polyethylene, polyurethane, or a combination thereof. The use indicator 666 can be formed of a material selected from the group consisting of foam, open-cell foam, closed-cell foam, and fibrous materials. The use indicator 666 can be hydrophilic so that it easily absorbs medical waste that it contacts. The use indicator 666 can be selected so that it does not dissolve when exposed to an aqueous cleaning solution. Alternatively, the use indicator 666 can be a screen or a porous cube-like structure.

[0266] The use indicator 666, such as a foam insert, can be placed in a location within the manifold volume 130 where it is difficult to remove the use indicator 666, especially if the filter element 174 is not first removed. Fig.82 , 82Aand 83, the use indicator 666 can be disposed within the second leg 246. The filter element 174 can include a tray 668 sized to support the use indicator 666. Also refer to Fig.81 and 83 , the filter element 174 includes the basket 206 that defines the filter volume 169 as described above. More specifically, the base wall 194 and at least one side 196 extending distally from the base wall 194 can define the filter volume 169. The tray 668 can extend proximally from the basket 206, and in particular from the base wall 194, such as Fig.77 and 81 In other words, the tray 668 extends from the base wall 194 in a direction opposite to the direction in which the sides 196 extend from the base wall 194. The tray 668 and the basket 206 may be integrally or separately formed.

[0267] Additionally, the tray 668 can be positioned adjacent the upper wall 206 of the filter element 174 such that the tray 668 is disposed within the second leg 246 of the housing 128 as the tray 668 extends proximally from the base wall 194. Fig.82 and 82A , the tray 668 can be disposed within the second leg 246, above the protrusion 166. In this way, the tray 668 can be outside the filter volume 169, so the use indicator 666 can be positioned within the manifold volume 130 but outside the filter volume 169. Due to the geometry of the housing 128 and the aperture of the filter element 174, a primary flow path (PFP) and a secondary flow path (SFP) can be established. The primary flow path includes waste matter being directed generally downward through the filter volume 169 and the aperture of the filter element 174 toward the outlet opening 242 and the seal 282. The secondary flow path includes waste matter being directed generally upward through the filter volume 169, the aperture of the filter element 174, and the gap defined between the upper wall 200 of the filter element 174 toward the use indicator 666. The tray 668 may also include an aperture (e.g., aperture 232) configured to allow liquid to pass through the lower wall 670 on which the use indicator 666 is supported, so as to facilitate saturation of the use indicator 666 with liquid or contamination of the use indicator with solid medical waste. Due to the nature and positioning of the use indicator 666, attempts to clean and / or sterilize the manifold 124 without removing the filter element 174 are prevented. Providing the use indicator 666 in combination with connecting and / or fusing the filter element 174 and the housing 128 in the manner previously described can be particularly beneficial.

[0268] In addition to discouraging removal of the filter element 174 from the housing 128, preventing initial access to the manifold volume 130 and the filter element 174 may further hinder reprocessing efforts. In certain embodiments, the head 132 and the body 134 are fused together. For example, the head 132 and the body 134 may be fused together at the spin weld interface 672 (see Figure 4 and 6 ) is fused by spin welding. Other suitable joining processes are also considered, such as solvent bonding, adhesives, mechanical fastening, etc. The spin welding interface 672 can be defined by the proximal surface of the head 132 and the distal surface of the trunk 134.

[0269] Assembly of the manifold 124 may include positioning the use indicator 666 on the tray 668 of the filter element 174 or otherwise placing the use indicator in the manifold volume. The components may be introduced into the body 134 of the housing 128 such that the guide 216 slidably engages the slot 220. The rail 222 defining the slot 220 may be formed of a laser transparent material, and the guide 216 of the filter element 174 may be formed of a laser absorbing material. The laser weld interface 646 is formed by laser welding the guide 216 and the rail 222. The step of introducing the components into the body 134 may further position the tip portion 640 of the protrusion 634 through the keyway 632 of the filter element 174. Before, simultaneously with, or after fusing the filter element 174 to the housing 128, the filter element 174 may be connected to the housing 128 by thermoplastic staking of the protrusion 634. After the valve is coupled to the head 132, the head 132 may be fused to the body 134 by spin welding to form the spin weld interface 672. The seal 282 may be coupled to the rim 276 to cover the outlet opening 242 at any suitable time.

[0270] In an alternative embodiment, the head 132 and the trunk 134 are removably coupled to each other, for example, as described in the aforementioned U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 383,218, which is again incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The removable connection between the head 132 and the trunk 134 can provide access to the manifold volume 130 in which the filter element 174 is disposed. Among other advantages, access to the filter element 174 can allow a user to retrieve waste material collected within the filter element 174, most particularly a polyp or tissue sample, for further examination and processing during certain surgical procedures. The manifold volume 130 of the trunk 134 can be accessed through a distal opening 190 defined at least in part by a neck 192 of the trunk 134, as shown in FIG. Figure 4As shown. Commonly owned International Publication No. WO2013 / 090579, published on June 20, 2013, discloses a manifold including a tissue trap for collecting polyps or tissue samples, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In certain embodiments, the manifold 124, including the head 132, may include other features for facilitating tissue sample collection.

[0271] According to certain methods of reprocessing the manifold 124, the head 132 can be separated from the trunk 134, wherein at least one of the head 132 and the trunk 134 is destroyed at or near the spin welding interface 672. The filter element 174 can be removed from the manifold volume 130, wherein at least one of the housing 128, the filter element 174, and the protrusion 634 is destroyed. The filter element 174 can be fused to the housing 128 by laser welding, so that the filter element 174 is destroyed at or near the laser welding interface 646. The protrusion 634 can be connected to the filter element 174 by thermoplastic staking, so that the protrusion 634 is cut or destroyed. The use indicator 666 can be removed, for example, from the tray 668 of the filter element 174. The size of the use indicator 666 can be designed so that it is larger than the pores of the filter element 174. In addition, the composition of the use indicator 666 can be selected so that it is insoluble in typical cleaning components. Various chemical substances are considered.

[0272] At least one of the used housing 128 and the used filter element 174 can be cleaned and / or sterilized. In one example, the cleaned filter element is reinserted into the manifold volume 130. In another example, another filter element, i.e., a new filter element, can be provided and inserted into the manifold volume 130. The filter element can be inserted into the manifold volume 130 without replacing the removed use indicator 666 with another use indicator. In addition, the filter element can be inserted into the manifold volume 130, but the filter element is not fused and / or connected to the housing 128 in the manner previously described. The head 132 can be reattached to the trunk 134 by a suitable connection device, and / or another head can be provided and attached to the trunk 134.

[0273] Reference now Fig.84, the reprocessing attempt may include cutting at least a portion of the manifold 124 from the remainder of the manifold 124. In particular, the trunk 134 may be cut into a first trunk portion 134a and a second trunk portion 134b (also referred to as a cut-off portion). Cutting into the first and second trunk portions 134a, 134b may produce end surfaces 140a, 140b on a respective one of the first and second trunk portions 134a, 134b. The location of the cut may be along the manifold 124 in the proximal-distal direction so that the filter element 174 and / or the use indicator 666 are accessible. The entire cross-section of the manifold 124 may be cut, and in some embodiments, the second leg 246 is cut. This cut may be made in a plane substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the manifold. Fig.84 The second leg 246 is shown severed at an axial location between the outlet opening 242 and the base wall 194 of the filter element 174. The severing of the housing 128 may include a severing projection 634, Fig.84 664. The use indicator 666 and / or the tray 668 can be cut away, and portions of the use indicator 666 can be removed.

[0274] With the trunk 134 cut into the first and second trunk portions 134a, 134b, the manifold volume 130 is accessible. In a reprocessing method after cutting, at least one of the housing 128 and the filter element 174 can be cleaned. Prior to cleaning the housing 128 and / or the filter element 174, the portion of the protrusion 634 that was cut off may or may not be removed. The cut off portion of the trunk 134b, at least the second leg 246, can be reattached to the housing 128 to reclose the manifold volume 130. The cut off portion can be reattached by any suitable connection process, such as adhesives, fasteners, etc. It should be understood that cutting the housing 128 in the manner described above eliminates the need to damage the manifold 124 at the spin welding interface 672 and / or the need to damage the manifold 124 at the laser welding interface 646. Cutting the housing 128 can also enable one to clean the housing 128 more effectively. As an alternative to cutting off a portion of the manifold, the reprocessing method may include milling a hole in the second leg and removing the use indicator through the milled hole.

[0275] The step of cleaning the used housing and / or filter element may include one or more of the following steps: immersing one or more components of the manifold in a detergent mixture, ultrasonic cleaning, rinsing, etc. As described above, the method of reprocessing may include sterilizing the manifold. The sterilization step may include pasteurization, which requires heating, traditional chemical methods (such as chamber methods), which require filling a chamber with a sterilant, which is typically a mixture of ethylene oxide (commonly known as EtO) and other gases, and microdosing methods, which require the introduction of a sterilant, such as EtO.

[0276] As previously described, in certain embodiments, the manifold 124 may not define a manifold volume 130. In other words, waste material may not pass from the suction tube 120 to the manifold volume 130 defined by the housing 128 to the outlet opening 242. Conversely, in certain embodiments to be described, the device 125 may include components for engaging complementary components of the receptacle 116 as previously described, but a portion of the suction tube 120 is configured to extend through the housing 128 of the device 125. With the portion of the suction tube 120 extending through the housing 128, the void space 702 of the housing 128 may not be in fluid communication with the suction tube 120 when waste material passes through the suction tube 120 to the suction fitting 326 of the inlet mechanism 324. In such an arrangement, the housing 128 of the device 125 may be considered an adapter for engaging and actuating the receptacle 116. Figure 85-102 Several embodiments of manifolds configured to achieve this arrangement are illustrated. Like numerals correspond to like components of the aforementioned apparatus 125, and any disclosure common to corresponding parts may be considered omitted for the sake of brevity and should not be construed as limiting.

[0277] refer to Figures 85-87 , the housing 128 of the device 125 includes a first housing portion 704 and a second housing portion 706 coupled to the first housing portion 704. The first and second housing portions 704, 706 can be considered to be a lower housing portion and an upper housing portion, respectively, but other suitable configurations are contemplated. The first and second housing portions 704, 706 can define respective cavities such that a void space 702 is formed when the first and second housing portions 704, 706 are coupled to each other. The first and second housing portions 704, 706 can be coupled to each other via at least one tab 708 configured to engage at least one slot 710; however, other suitable fastening arrangements are contemplated. Fig.86 As best shown, a portion of the aspiration tube 120 extends through the void space 702 and is coupled to a tube adapter 714 to be described.

[0278] The first housing portion 704 and / or the second housing portion 706 may include a lip 712 that defines an adapter opening. Fig.86 and 87 As best shown, each of the first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706 includes a portion of the lip 712, and when the first and second housing portions 704, 706 are coupled to each other, these portions of the lip 712 collectively define the adapter opening. In addition, due to the implementation of the first and second housing portions 704, 706, the first and second housing portions 704, 706 can include the body portion 210 and the first leg 244, and the second housing portion 706 can include the second leg 246. The gap 248 is at least partially defined by the second leg 246 and the first leg 244. In addition, the arm 246, the ridge 300, the locking feature 306 and / or the catch 254 can be disposed on one of the first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the arm 284 can extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704 or extend laterally outwardly from a portion of the side 264 of the first housing portion 704. The arm 284 includes a proximally directed surface 286. Similarly, the locking element 306 can extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704 or extend laterally outwardly from a portion of the side 264 of the first housing portion 704. The locking element 306 can include a distally directed surface 308 positioned distally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284. The ridge 300 can extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704, and more specifically downwardly from the bottom wall 262 of the first housing portion 704 ( Figures 85-87 276). The spine 300 includes a proximally directed surface 302 that is positioned proximally of the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 and distally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284. The catch 254 can be disposed on the second leg 246 formed by the second housing portion 706. The catch 254 includes a distally directed surface 290 that is positioned proximally of the lip 712, proximally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284, proximally of the proximally directed surface 302 of the spine 300, and proximally of the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306. The catch 254 and the rim 276 can be separated by the gap 248, and the lip 712 can be positioned below the catch 254 when the device 125 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116. It is contemplated that alternative configurations are contemplated, such as one or more of the arms 246 and / or the locking features 306 may be provided on the second housing portion 706 , and / or the catch 254 may be provided on the first housing portion 704 .

[0279] Tube Adapter 714 Fig.87 716 and includes a body portion 716. The body portion 716 can be configured to be removably or fixedly coupled to the housing 128. Fig.87Two apertures 718 extending through the bottom wall 262 are shown, and the body portion 716 may include two complementary protrusions (not shown) that are configured to be disposed within the apertures 718 to at least partially retain the tube adapter 714 relative to the housing 128. In addition, the body portion 716 may include at least one rib 720 that is configured to engage the housing 128 in a friction fit arrangement. Additional connection means are contemplated, such as adhesives, fasteners, etc.

[0280] The tube adapter 714 includes an inlet port 722 coupled to the body portion 716. The inlet port 722 extends distally from the body portion 716 and defines an aperture. The inlet port 722 is disposed within the void space 702 of the housing 128 and is configured to be coupled to the coupler 121 of the suction tube 120 to establish fluid communication between the suction tube 120 and the aperture. Thus, with the suction tube 120 coupled to the inlet port 722, a portion of the suction tube 120 extends through the void space 702 of the housing 128, as shown in FIG. Fig.86 In addition, the body portion 716 defines a fluid volume 724 and includes a rim 276 that defines an outlet opening 242 of the device 125. The outlet opening 242 communicates with the fluid volume 724 and the aperture of the inlet port 722. When the aspiration tube 120 is coupled to the inlet port 722, the fluid volume 724 can be considered to be separate from (i.e., not in fluid communication with) the void space 702.

[0281] The housing 128 may further define a distal aperture 726 in communication with the void space 702 . Fig.87 A distal aperture 726 is shown that is partially defined by a semicircular groove in the first housing portion 704 and a second semicircular groove (not shown) in the second housing portion 706. The distal aperture 726 is configured to allow the aspiration tube 120 to extend distally from within the void space 702 to the exterior of the device 125. The size of the distal aperture 726 can also be designed to facilitate retaining the aspiration tube 120 with the housing 128.

[0282] Reference now Fig.88 , device 125 is similar in many respects to Figures 85-87 The device of claim 1, wherein the tube adapter 714 is effectively integral with the housing 128, and more specifically with the first housing portion 704. Figures 85-87 The apparatus 125 shows the tube adapter 714 as a separate component that is fixedly or removably coupled to the first housing portion 704 (ie, having the protrusion and rib 720), but Fig.88 The manifold is shown with the body portion 716 and the inlet port 722 integrally formed therewith. Suitable manufacturing techniques for doing so may include injection molding and additive manufacturing, among others.

[0283] Because void space 702 does not form part of the suction path during operation of medical waste collection system 100, the form factor of housing 128 may have any suitable shape necessary to accommodate those components that engage with complementary components of receptacle 116, as previously described. Figures 89-93 The housing 128 is shown as a unitary structure having a lattice frame 728. In other words, the housing 128 may include webs 730 arranged to form a frame, wherein the void space 702 communicates with the environment outside the housing 128. Suitable manufacturing techniques for doing so may include injection molding and additive manufacturing, among others.

[0284] With the frame 728 formed as shown, a portion of the suction tube 120 is configured to extend through the void space 702. It should also be understood that the frame 728 is sized and shaped to accommodate the arms 246, ridges 300, locking features 306, and / or catches 254, as previously described. The housing 128 may include a grip 732, for example, extending distally from the annular portion 615, such as Fig.89 The size and shape of the grip portion 732 may be designed to be easily manipulated by a user to facilitate insertion and removal of the device 125 from the receiver 116 .

[0285] refer to Fig.90 and 91 , the tube adapter 714 may be fixedly or removably coupled to the lip 712 of the housing, and the seal 282 may be coupled to the rim 276 of the tube adapter 714 that defines the outlet opening 242 . Fig.92 A tube adapter 714 is shown as being integrally formed with a frame 728 of the housing 128. When the aspiration tube 120 is coupled to the inlet port 722 of the tube adapter 714, the tube adapter 714 defines a fluid volume 724 that is separate from the void space 702. The device 125 may be inserted into the receiver 116 first, and then the aspiration tube 120 may be inserted into the void space 702 through the distal aperture 726 to couple to the inlet port 722, or the aspiration tube 120 may be inserted into the void space 702 through the distal aperture 726 to couple to the inlet port 722, and then the device 125 and the aspiration tube 120 may be inserted into the receiver 116.

[0286] In certain embodiments, the first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706 can be movably coupled to each other to provide access to the void space 702. Referring now to Figures 93-97 , the first and second housing portions 704, 706 are pivotally coupled to each other at a hinge 734. For example, the second housing portion 706 is configured to pivot about the hinge 734 to move the device 125 from Fig.93 The void space 702 shown is not accessible in a closed configuration and moves to Fig.94 Void space 702 is shown in an open configuration accessible for reasons to be described.

[0287] The first and second housing portions 704, 706 may include a body portion 210, and the first housing portion 704 may include a first leg 244 and a second leg 246. The void 248 is at least partially defined by the second leg 246 and the first leg 244. In such an arrangement, the second housing portion 706 can be considered a cover, which includes an upper wall 260 at a portion of opposite sides 264. The arm 246, the ridge 300, the locking feature 306 and / or the catch 254 can be disposed on one of the first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the arm 284 can extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704 or extend laterally outwardly from a portion of the side 264 of the first housing portion 704. The arm 284 includes a proximally directed surface 286. Similarly, the locking element 306 can extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704 or extend laterally outwardly from a portion of the side 264 of the first housing portion 704. The locking element 306 may include a distally directed surface 308 positioned distally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284. The ridge 300 may extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704, and more specifically downwardly from the bottom wall 262 of the first housing portion 704 (see FIG. Fig.95 and 86 ). The spine 300 includes a proximally directed surface 302 that is positioned proximally of the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 and distally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284. The catch 254, which may be optional, may be disposed on the second leg 246 formed by the first housing portion 704. The catch 254 includes a distally directed surface 290 that is positioned proximally of the rim 276, proximally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284, proximally of the proximally directed surface 302 of the spine 300, and proximally of the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306. The catch 254 and the rim 276 may be separated by the gap 248, and the rim 276 may be positioned below the catch 254 when the device 125 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116.

[0288] Fig.94 The aspiration tube 120 is shown extending through the distal aperture 726 such that at least a portion of the aspiration tube 120 is disposed within the void space 702. Fig.95 and 96The tube adapter 714 is shown removably coupled to the housing 128. With the tube adapter 714 coupled to the housing 128, the inlet port 722 is disposed within the void space 702 and is configured to be fixedly or removably coupled to the suction tube 120. The seal 282 described above may be coupled to the tube adapter 714, or alternatively, the seal 736 described below (see Figures 98-102 ) can be connected to tube adapter 714.

[0289] refer to Fig.95 and 96 , moving the device 125 between the closed configuration and the open configuration can advantageously facilitate replacement of the suction tube 120 and the tube adapter 714 between uses of the device 125. In addition, since the suction tube 120 extends through the void space 702 to the outlet opening 242, the void space 702 is not in fluid communication with the suction path, so the housing 128 is not substantially contaminated during use. In other words, the housing 128 can be considered an adapter for engaging with a complementary component of the receiver 116, and the suction tube 120 is arranged to be nearly directly or directly connected to the suction inlet 266 of the receiver 116. Fig.95 The aspiration tube 120 and the tube adapter 714 are shown prior to installation or removal from the housing 128. For example, the aspiration tube 120 and the tube adapter 714 can be guided through the void space 702 so that the body portion 716 is disposed within the first leg 244 of the housing 128. The non-circular shape of the outlet opening 242 defined by the rim 276 and the complementary non-circular shape of the body portion 716 of the tube adapter 714 may require insertion in a single orientation. The tube adapter 714 is inserted into the first leg 244 until the flange 738 abuts the inner surface of the distal portion 250 of the housing 128. The interference engagement of the flange 738 and the distal portion 250 prevents further proximal movement of the tube adapter 714 (and the aspiration tube 120) relative to the housing 128.

[0290] Also refer to Fig.97 , the second housing portion 706 pivots about the hinge 734 relative to the first housing portion 704 to a closed configuration. The housing 128 includes at least one retention feature 740 that is configured to retain the tube adapter 714 when the manifold is in the closed configuration. In particular, the retention feature 740 may include a protrusion 742 extending downwardly from the underside of the upper wall 260 of the housing 128. The protrusion 742 pivots as the second housing portion 706 pivots. With the device 125 in the open configuration, there is sufficient clearance between the protrusion 742 and the flange 738 to allow insertion and / or removal of the tube adapter 714. When the device 125 is in the closed configuration, as shown in FIG. Fig.97As shown, protrusion 742 engages flange 738 opposite distal portion 250, thereby preventing tube adapter 714 from being removed. Apparatus 125 including tube adapter 714 and suction tube 120 coupled thereto may be inserted into receptacle 116 for operation of medical waste collection system 100.

[0291] Furthermore, moving the device 125 from the closed configuration to the open configuration may enable the tissue trap 630 to be removably disposed within the housing 128 . Fig.97 The tissue trap 630 is shown coupled in-line with the suction tube 120 and disposed within the void space 702. During operation of the medical waste collection system 100, tissue samples may be collected in the tissue trap 630. After operation of the medical waste collection system 100, the device 125 including the tube adapter 714 and the suction tube 120 coupled thereto may be removed from the receiver 116. The second housing portion 706 is pivoted relative to the first housing portion 704 about the hinge 734 to move the device 125 from the closed configuration to the open configuration. The tube adapter 714 and the suction tube 120 may be removed from the housing 128. In certain embodiments, the tissue trap 630 may be removed from the void space 702 and the tissue sample retrieved from the tissue trap 630.

[0292] After the tube adapter 714 is removed, the housing 128 can be cleaned, for example, by autoclaving. The housing 128 can be formed of a material that can withstand typical temperatures of autoclaving. For example, the housing 128 can be formed of polypropylene, polypropylene copolymer (PPCO), polycarbonate, Teflon perfluoroalkoxyalkane (PFA), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) or ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), etc. Metals and composite materials are also contemplated. The pivotable arrangement of the first and second housing portions 704, 706 and the removal of the tube adapter 714 provide a relatively simplified geometry that can be adequately cleaned by known techniques. It is contemplated that the housing 128 formed of an autoclavable material having a geometry that can be adequately cleaned by known techniques can be suitable for any embodiment of the device 125 described herein.

[0293] In certain embodiments where the tube adapter 714 includes a seal, the tube adapter 714 and seal can be removed from the housing 128. Another tube adapter (and seal and / or suction tube) can be coupled to the housing 128, and the device 125 including the tube adapter 714 and the suction tube 120 coupled thereto can be inserted into the receptacle 116 for repeated operation of the medical waste collection system 100.

[0294] Reference now Figures 98-101, shows an embodiment of the device 125, wherein a seal 736 is used to couple to the suction inlet 266 of the inlet mechanism 324. The housing 128 of the device 125 includes a first housing portion 704 and a second housing portion 706 that together define the void space 702, but the housing 128 can be a one-piece unitary structure (see Figures 89-92 ).

[0295] The first housing portion 704 and / or the second housing portion 706 may include the body portion 210 and the first leg 244, and the second housing portion 706 may include the second leg 246. The void 248 is at least partially defined by the second leg 246 and the first leg 244. In addition, the arm 246, the ridge 300, the locking feature 306, and / or the catch 254 may be disposed on one of the first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the arm 284 may extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704 or extend laterally outwardly from a portion of the side 264 of the first housing portion 704. The arm 284 includes a proximally directed surface 286. Similarly, the locking element 306 may extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704 or extend laterally outwardly from a portion of the side 264 of the first housing portion 704. The locking element 306 may include a distally directed surface 308 positioned distally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284. The ridge 300 may extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704, and more specifically downwardly from the bottom wall 262 of the first housing portion 704 ( Figures 98-101 276). The spine 300 includes a proximally directed surface 302 that is positioned proximally of the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306 and distally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284. The catch 254 can be disposed on the second leg 246 formed by the second housing portion 706. The catch 254 includes a distally directed surface 290 that is positioned proximally of the lip 712, proximally of the proximally directed surface 286 of the arm 284, proximally of the proximally directed surface 302 of the spine 300, and proximally of the distally directed surface 308 of the locking element 306. The catch 254 and the rim 276 can be separated by the gap 248, and the lip 712 can be positioned below the catch 254 when the device 125 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116.

[0296] Tube Adapter 714 Fig.99 , 100 102 and includes a body portion 716 that can be configured to be removably or fixedly coupled to the housing 128 . Fig.99The device 125 is shown to include at least one guide feature 744 configured to facilitate removable coupling of the tube adapter 714 to the housing 128. The guide feature 744 can be an opposing guide rail 746 (one shown) disposed within the void space and extending in the proximal-distal direction. The guide rail 746 has a distal end near the distal orifice 726 and a proximal end within or near the first leg 244. The guide feature 744 may also include a retaining feature 748, such as a protrusion or detent, configured to removably engage with a complementary retaining feature 750 of the tube adapter 714 to be described. The tube adapter 714 also includes an inlet port 722 configured to be disposed within the void space 702 of the housing 128 and coupled to the aspiration tube 120 to establish fluid communication between the aspiration tube 120 and the inner bore. Thus, with the suction tube 120 coupled to the inlet port 722, a portion of the suction tube 120 extends through the void space 702 of the housing 128, such as Fig.95 Additionally, when the aspiration tube 120 is coupled to the inlet port 722 , the body portion 716 defines a fluid volume 724 that is separate from (ie, not in fluid communication with) the void space 702 .

[0297] The housing 128 may further define a distal aperture 726 in communication with the void space 702, which may be defined by corresponding grooves on the first and second housing portions 704, 706. The distal aperture 726 is configured to allow the suction tube 120 to extend distally from within the void space 702 to the outside of the device 125. Fig.101 As best shown, the distal aperture 726 can be sized and shaped to mate with the tube adapter 714 so that the tube adapter 714 can be introduced through the distal aperture 726 and into the void space 702 of the housing 128 with the aspiration tube 120 coupled thereto. The tube adapter 714 can be introduced through the distal aperture 726 before or after the housing 128 is inserted into the receiver 116 in the manner previously described.

[0298] According to the method of coupling the suction tube 120 and the device 125 to the medical waste collection system 100, the housing 128 is inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116. The tube adapter 714 and the suction tube 120 may not yet be coupled to the housing 128 so that fluid communication is established between the void space 702 and the suction inlet 266 when the housing 128 is inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116. In other words, when the housing 128 is inserted into the receiver 116, the engagement of the arm 284 causes the slide assembly 288 to move in the proximal direction, while the inlet mechanism 324 including the suction inlet 266 moves in the distal direction in the manner previously described. The suction inlet 266 is positioned within the gap 248 between the first and second legs 244, 246 and is substantially open to the void space 702 of the housing 128.

[0299] 126. The inlet connector 121 of the aspiration tube 120 may be coupled to the tube adapter 714 before or after the tube adapter 714 is guided through the distal orifice 726. An insertion tool (not shown) may be used to move the tube adapter 714 through the void space 702 of the housing 128. As the tube adapter 714 is moved proximally through the void space 702, a flange 752 extending from the body portion 716 of the tube adapter 714 slidably moves along and / or relative to the guide feature 744, specifically the guide rail 746. Sequentially or simultaneously with the engagement of the retaining feature 750 of the tube adapter 714 with the retaining feature 748 of the housing 128, the tube adapter 714 contacts the stop 754, whereupon the tube adapter 714 is moved proximally. Fig.100 14 and 15. The medical waste collection system 100 is best shown in . For example, the stop engages the groove in an interference engagement. The axial positioning of the retention feature 750 within the housing 128 causes the tube adapter 714 to sealingly engage the suction inlet 266 when the complementary retention features 748, 750 are engaged. Fluid communication is established between the suction tube 120 and the receiver 116 of the medical waste collection system 100, and fluid communication is disconnected between the receiver 116 and the void space 702 of the housing 128. The medical waste collection system 100 can be operated in the manner previously described.

[0300] In certain embodiments, the foregoing arrangement does not necessarily require that housing 128 be removed between uses of medical waste collection system 100. For example, tube adapter 714 and suction tube 120 may be removed, and another tube adapter and suction tube may be introduced through distal aperture 726 while housing 128 remains inserted within receptacle 116. Additionally or alternatively, the removable nature of tube adapter 714 and housing 128 may make device 125 easier to reprocess. More specifically, Figures 98-101 The internal geometry of the housing 128 is relatively simple and is accessible or touchable during cleaning operations. In one approach, the housing 128 and the tube adapter 714 can be removed from the opening 118 of the receiver 116 so that the suction between the seal and the suction fitting 326 of the receiver 116 is broken. The tube adapter 714 can be separated from the housing 128 and the housing 128 can be cleaned. For example, the housing 128 can be autoclaved by known techniques. Another tube adapter (i.e., a second tube adapter and a second seal) can be coupled to the cleaned housing 128, and the housing 128 can be inserted into the opening 118, thereby establishing suction between the second seal of the second tube adapter and the suction fitting 326 of the receiver 116.

[0301] In embodiments where the tube adapter 714 is introduced through the housing 128 after the housing 128 is operably coupled to the receiver 116, the seal 736 of the tube adapter 714 coupled to the body portion 716 can be particularly adapted to engage the suction fitting 326 of the inlet mechanism 324. It should be understood that the seal 736 can be integrally formed with the body portion 716, or the seal 736 and the body portion 716 can be separate components. Fig.102 , a rear perspective view of the tube adapter 714 is shown spaced apart from the inlet mechanism 324 to show details of the seal 736. The seal 736 may include an inner flange 756 and an outer flange 758 spaced apart from each other to define a gap 760. In certain embodiments of the housing 128 in which the seal 736 is utilized, for example Figures 98-100 As shown, the housing 128 may not define the outlet opening 242, but rather the inner flange 756 of the seal 736 defines the outlet opening 242 of the device 125. The shape of the gap 760 can be designed to be complementary to the suction connector 326 of the inlet mechanism 324. In particular, the axial cross-section of each of the inner flange 756 and the outer flange 758 can be non-circular, complementary to the non-circular axial cross-section of the suction connector 326. The size of the outer flange 758 can be designed to be slightly larger than the suction connector 326, and the size of the inner flange 756 can be designed to be slightly smaller than the suction connector 326, so that when the seal 736 engages the suction connector 326, the distal frame edge of the suction connector 326 is positioned in the gap 760 in a sealing engagement manner to provide a face seal. The seal 736 can be flexible so as to elastically deform and / or press against the suction connector 326. The sealing surface provided by the seal 736 can be non-planar. In addition, the seal 736 can include a rib 762 configured to engage an inner surface of the suction fitting 326 to provide an internal seal. The rib 762 can extend radially outward from the inner flange 756.

[0302] In operation, the seal 736 is axially proximate to the suction fitting 326 and engages the suction fitting 326 in the manner described above to provide a face seal and an internal seal. This may be different from the seal 282 previously described, in which the suction fitting 326 extends through the seal 282 and the sealing surface 346 provides a face seal with the sealing surface 322 of the inlet mechanism 324 (see Fig.62 ). Thus, the seal 736 need not be sized to contact the sealing surface 322 of the inlet mechanism 324, and thus the first leg 244 of the housing 128 may be sized differently than previously described or may not exist at all. For example, without the first leg 244, the gap 248 may not exist. It should also be understood that the seal 736 may be used with any embodiment of the housing 128 of the device 125 described throughout the present disclosure.

[0303] Certain embodiments may be described with reference to the following exemplary clauses:

[0304] Item 1 - A manifold for filtering medical waste received under the influence of a vacuum provided by a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the manifold comprising: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a frame defining the outlet opening; a filter element disposed within the manifold volume; an arm extending outwardly from the housing and including a surface directed proximally; a locking element extending outwardly from the housing, the The locking element includes a distally pointing surface positioned distal to the proximal pointing surface of the arm; a ridge extending outward from the housing, the ridge including a proximal pointing surface, the proximal pointing surface being positioned proximal to the distal pointing surface of the locking element and distal to the proximal pointing surface of the arm; and a capture portion including a distally pointing surface positioned proximal to the proximal pointing surface of the arm, wherein the frame rim and the capture portion are separated by a gap, and wherein the frame rim is positioned below the capture portion when the manifold is oriented for insertion into the opening of the receiver.

[0305] Clause 2—The manifold of Clause 1 , wherein the proximally directed surface of the arm is positioned distal to the frame rim and the distally directed surface of the capture portion is positioned proximal to the frame rim.

[0306] Clause 3 - A manifold according to clause 1 or 2, wherein the shell further comprises a main body portion having a distal portion, a first leg extending proximally from the distal portion, and a second leg extending proximally from the distal portion, wherein the second leg is separated from the first leg by a gap.

[0307] Clause 4—The manifold of clause 3, wherein the respective cross-sectional area of ​​each of the first leg and the second leg is less than the cross-sectional area of ​​the body portion.

[0308] Clause 5 - A manifold according to any of clauses 1-4, wherein the housing comprises an upper wall, a lower wall and opposite sides extending therebetween when the manifold is oriented for insertion into the opening of the receiver, wherein a ridge extends downwardly from the lower wall.

[0309] Clause 6—The manifold of Clause 5, wherein the arm and the locking element each extend laterally from one of the opposing sides.

[0310] Clause 7—The manifold of any of clauses 1-6, wherein the proximally directed surface of the ridge comprises an inclined surface that tapers toward the housing in a proximal direction.

[0311] Clause 8 - A manifold according to any of clauses 5-7, wherein the arm comprises a pair of arms extending laterally from a respective one of the opposite sides, wherein laterally directed surfaces of the pair of arms cooperate to define a width greater than the width of the frame edge.

[0312] Clause 9 - The manifold of any of clauses 3-8, wherein the second leg includes a cavity defining a portion of the manifold volume such that the cavity is in fluid communication with the outlet opening.

[0313] Clause 10 - A manifold as described in any of clauses 3-9, wherein the arm extends outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, the locking element extends outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, the ridge extends outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, and the capture portion is disposed on the second leg.

[0314] Clause 11 - A manifold according to any of clauses 1-10, wherein the rim is wider than it is tall to define the outlet opening as non-circular.

[0315] Clause 12—The manifold of Clause 11, further comprising a seal coupled to the rim, the seal further comprising a seal body shaped to cover the non-circular outlet opening.

[0316] Clause 13 - A manifold according to clause 11, wherein the non-circular outlet opening includes an opposite most lateral point, an uppermost point, and a lowermost point relative to a vertical plane of symmetry, wherein the arm includes a laterally directed surface positioned further from the vertical plane of symmetry than one of the opposite most lateral points of the outlet opening.

[0317] Clause 14 - A manifold for filtering medical waste received under the influence of a vacuum provided by a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receptacle defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the manifold comprising: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising a body portion extending to a distal location, a first leg extending proximally from the distal location, and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a void; a filter element disposed within the manifold volume; and a filter element extending from the body portion and the second leg. an arm extending outwardly from one of the first legs, the arm including a proximally pointing surface; a locking element extending outwardly from the body portion and one of the first legs, the locking element including a distally pointing surface positioned distally of the proximally pointing surface of the arm; a capture portion disposed on the second leg and including a distally pointing surface positioned proximally of the proximally pointing surface of the arm; and a ridge extending outwardly from one of the body portion, the first leg, and the second leg, the ridge having a proximal end positioned distally of the distally pointing surface of the capture portion and distally of the proximally pointing surface of the arm.

[0318] Clause 15—The manifold of clause 14, wherein the second leg extends proximally from a distal location.

[0319] Clause 16 - A manifold according to clauses 14 or 15, wherein the first leg includes a frame edge defining an outlet opening, wherein the proximally directed surface of the arm is positioned distal to the frame edge, and the distally directed surface of the capture portion is positioned proximal to the frame edge.

[0320] Clause 17—The manifold of any of clauses 14-16, wherein the first leg is positioned below the second leg when the manifold is oriented for insertion into the opening of the receiver.

[0321] Clause 18—The manifold of any of Clauses 14-17, wherein the spine further comprises an inclined surface, at least a portion of the inclined surface defining the proximal end of the spine.

[0322] Clause 19—The manifold of any of clauses 14-18, wherein the respective cross-sectional area of ​​each of the first and second legs is less than the cross-sectional area of ​​the body portion.

[0323] Clause 20 - The manifold of any of clauses 14-19, wherein the rim is wider than it is tall to define the outlet opening as non-circular.

[0324] Clause 21 - A manifold according to clause 20, wherein the arm comprises a pair of arms extending laterally from respective ones of opposite sides of the body portion and one of the first legs, wherein laterally directed surfaces of the pair of arms cooperate to define a width greater than the width of the frame edge.

[0325] Clause 22 - A manifold for filtering medical waste received under the influence of a vacuum provided by a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the manifold comprising: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising an upper wall, a lower wall, and opposite sides extending respectively between the upper wall and the lower wall when the manifold is oriented for insertion into the opening of the receiver, the housing further comprising a housing defining the manifold volume; a frame rim of the outlet opening; a filter element disposed within the manifold volume; an arm extending laterally outward from one of the opposite sides and including a proximally directed surface; a capture portion including a distally directed surface positioned proximal to the proximally directed surface of the arm, wherein the capture portion is located on a first side of a void separated from the manifold volume and from the outlet opening, the frame rim being located on a second side of the void opposite the first side; and a ridge extending downward from the lower wall, the ridge including an inclined surface positioned distal to the distally directed surface of the capture portion.

[0326] Clause 23—A manifold according to clause 22, wherein the frame edge is positioned distally of the distally directed surface of the capture portion, proximally of the proximally directed surface of the arm, and proximally of the inclined surface of the spine.

[0327] Item 24 - The manifold according to Item 22 or 23 further includes a locking element extending laterally outward from one of the opposite sides, the locking element including a distally pointing surface which is positioned: distal to the proximally pointing surface of the arm, distal to the distally pointing surface of the capture portion, and distal to the frame edge.

[0328] Clause 25 - A manifold according to any of clauses 22-24, wherein the arm comprises a pair of arms extending laterally from a respective one of the opposing sides, wherein laterally directed surfaces of the pair of arms cooperate to define a width greater than the width of the frame edge.

[0329] Clause 26 - A manifold according to any one of clauses 22-25, wherein the shell further comprises a first leg and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define the gap, the first leg comprising at least a portion of the lower wall and at least a portion of the opposite sides, and the second leg comprising at least a portion of the upper wall and at least a portion of the opposite sides.

[0330] Clause 27—The manifold of any of clauses 22-26, wherein the rim is wider than it is tall to define a non-circular outlet opening, the manifold further comprising a seal coupled to the rim.

[0331] Item 28 - A manifold for filtering medical waste received under the influence of a vacuum provided by a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the manifold comprising: a shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the shell comprising a frame rim defining the outlet opening; a filter element disposed within the manifold volume; an arm extending outward from the shell and including a proximally pointing surface positioned distally of the frame rim; a locking element extending outwardly from the shell, the locking element including a distally pointing surface positioned distally of the proximally pointing surface of the arm and a distally pointing surface of the frame rim; and a capture portion including a distally pointing surface positioned proximally of the proximally pointing surface of the arm and a proximally pointing surface of the frame rim, wherein the frame rim and the capture portion are separated by a gap outside the shell.

[0332] Item 29 - The manifold of Item 28 further includes a ridge extending outwardly from the housing and including an inclined surface positioned distally of the frame edge, distally of the proximally directed surface of the arm, and proximally of the proximally directed surface of the locking element.

[0333] Clause 30 - A manifold according to clause 28 or 29, wherein the shell further comprises a main body portion having a distal portion, a first leg extending proximally from the distal portion, and a second leg extending proximally from the distal portion, the second leg extending proximally from the distal portion and being separated from the first leg by a gap.

[0334] Item 31 - A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the manifold comprising: a shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening fluidly connected to the manifold volume, the shell comprising a frame rim defining the outlet opening; an arm extending outward from the shell; and a capture portion comprising a distally directed surface positioned proximal to the arm and the frame rim, wherein the frame rim and the capture portion are separated by a gap and the frame rim is positioned above or below the capture portion when the manifold is oriented for insertion into the opening of the receiver.

[0335] Item 32 - A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the manifold comprising: a shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening fluidly connected to the manifold volume, the shell comprising a frame defining the outlet opening; arms extending outward from the shell; locking elements extending outward from the shell; a ridge extending outward from the shell; and capture portions proximal to the arms, proximal to the frame, proximal to the locking elements, and proximal to the ridge.

[0336] Item 33 - A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the manifold comprising: a shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the shell comprising a frame rim having a width greater than a height to define a non-circular outlet opening; and a capture portion comprising a distally directed surface positioned proximal to the frame rim, wherein the frame rim and the capture portion are separated by a gap, and wherein the frame rim is positioned below the capture portion when the manifold is oriented for insertion into the opening of the receiver.

[0337] Item 34 - A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the manifold comprising: a shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening fluidly connected to the manifold volume, the shell comprising an upper wall, a lower wall, and opposite sides extending between the upper wall and the lower wall when the manifold is oriented to be inserted into the opening of the receiver; arms extending outward from a respective one of the opposite sides of the shell and respectively including a proximally pointing surface; and a ridge extending outward from the shell, the ridge comprising a proximally pointing surface positioned distal to the proximally pointing surface of each arm, wherein each arm and the ridge are elongated and oriented in a proximal-distal direction, and wherein the ridge is positioned to be angularly equidistant between the arms.

[0338] Item 35 - A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the manifold comprising: a shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening fluidly connected to the manifold volume, the shell comprising a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion, and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a gap; an arm extending outward from the body portion and one of the first legs to a first distance relative to a vertical plane of symmetry oriented in a proximal-distal direction, wherein the arm includes a proximally pointing surface; a capture portion disposed on the second leg and including a distally pointing surface positioned proximal to the proximal pointing surface of the arm, wherein the capture portion is at a second distance relative to the vertical plane of symmetry, the second distance being less than the first distance.

[0339] Item 36 - A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the manifold comprising: a shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the shell comprising a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion, and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a gap, wherein an entry profile of the manifold is at least partially defined by a cross-section defined by the first leg and the second leg in a vertical plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction, wherein the entry profile has a shape complementary to the opening of the receiver; an arm extending laterally outward from the shell to a position beyond the entry profile; a capture portion disposed on the second leg and including a groove within the entry profile.

[0340] Item 37 - A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening, the manifold comprising: a shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the shell comprising a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion, and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a gap; an arm extending outwardly from the shell and configured to engage a push feature of the receiver when the manifold is being inserted into the opening; and an orientation feature comprising a transition surface having a profile change between an upper wall of the shell and one of opposite sides, and a bottom cut surface defining at least a portion of the opposite sides, wherein the orientation feature and the arm are complementarily arranged to require the manifold to be inserted into the opening of the receiver in a single orientation.

[0341] Item 38 - A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the manifold comprising: a shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening fluidly connected to the manifold volume, the shell comprising a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion and including an upper portion, and a second leg including a lower portion spaced apart from the upper portion of the first leg to define a gap, wherein the gap is further defined by a distal portion of the body portion extending between the upper portion and the lower portion such that the gap is slot-shaped; an arm extending outward from the shell and including a proximally directed surface; and a capture portion disposed on the second leg and including a distally directed surface positioned proximal to the proximal directed surface of the arm and proximal to the outlet opening.

[0342] Item 39 - A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the receiver including an inlet mechanism having a first support element, the manifold comprising: a shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the shell including a body portion having a distal portion, a first leg extending proximally from the distal portion, and a second leg extending from the distal portion and spaced apart from the first leg to define a gap, wherein the depth of the gap in the proximal-distal direction is sized to receive the first support element of the inlet mechanism to ensure that the manifold is inserted into the receiver to an appropriate insertion depth.

[0343] Item 40 - A manifold for connecting a suction tube to a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the receiver including a sliding assembly, a sliding lock assembly, and a locking assembly, the manifold including: a shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the shell including a frame edge defining the outlet opening; an inlet connector for connecting to the suction tube; an arm extending outwardly from the shell and including a proximally directed surface, the proximally directed surface being a locking element extending outwardly from the housing, the locking element including a distally directed surface configured to engage the locking assembly after the manifold is inserted into the receiver; a ridge extending outwardly from the housing, the ridge including a proximally directed surface configured to engage the sliding lock assembly to allow movement of the sliding assembly in the proximal direction; and a capture portion including a distally directed surface configured to engage the receiver and cause movement of the sliding assembly in the distal direction during removal of the manifold from the receiver.

[0344] Item 41 - A manifold for coupling a suction tube to a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the receiver including a sliding assembly, a sliding lock assembly, and a locking assembly, the manifold including: a sh...

Claims

1. A medical waste collection system for collecting medical waste material through a manifold during a medical procedure, the medical waste collection system include: Waste containers; A receiver coupled to the waste container and comprising a housing defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction; the receiver comprising: a slide assembly movably coupled to the housing and configured to be engaged by the manifold during insertion of the manifold into the receiver; A locking assembly, the locking assembly comprising: a locking member having an engagement surface; a release member coupled to the locking member; a biasing element that biases the locking assembly toward a locked configuration in which the engagement surface engages the manifold in a fully inserted operative position to prevent distal movement of the manifold and the slide assembly; and An actuator is coupled to the release member and is configured to receive input from a user to move the locking assembly from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration in which the engagement surface disengages from the manifold to allow the manifold and the slide assembly to move in a distal direction.

2. The medical waste collection system according to claim 1, in, The receiver also includes a second biasing element coupled to the sliding assembly and configured to be in a deformed state and store potential energy when the locking assembly is in the locked configuration, such that the second biasing element releases the stored potential energy to cause the sliding assembly to move in the distal direction when the locking assembly moves from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration.

3. The medical waste collection system according to claim 1, in, The actuator is a tongue positioned distally of the opening.

4. The medical waste collection system according to claim 2, in, The distal movement of the manifold caused by the release of the stored potential energy is configured to provide a visual indication to a user that the manifold is ready to be removed from the receiver.

5. The medical waste collection system according to claim 1, in, The locking member is configured to pivot inwardly such that a locking surface of the locking member is positioned distally of and in interference engagement with a distally directed surface of the manifold.

6. The medical waste collection system according to claim 5, in, The locking member is two locking members that are structurally separate and each is pivotable about an axis in the proximal-distal direction.

7. The medical waste collection system according to claim 6, in, The biasing element is two biasing elements respectively provided for the two locking members, and wherein the two locking members are configured to be biased inwardly by the corresponding biasing elements.

8. The medical waste collection system according to claim 7, in, The locking members are configured to be pushed into contact with the laterally directed surfaces of the arms when the sliding assembly moves in the proximal direction, and wherein the two biasing elements are configured to cause the two locking members to pivot laterally inward so that once the distally directed surfaces are positioned proximal to the locking surfaces of the two locking members, the locking surfaces are positioned distal to and in interference engagement with the distally directed surfaces of the locking elements of the manifold.

9. The medical waste collection system according to claim 8, in, The two locking members are configured to pivot laterally outward against the bias from the two biasing elements to an extent that the locking surfaces disengage from distally directed surfaces of the locking elements of the manifold, thereby allowing the manifold to move distally relative to the receiver.

10. The medical waste collection system according to claim 3, in, The tongue also includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the proximal portion is sized and shaped to be disposed within a recess in the rim of the housing, the distal portion flaring generally downward in a distal direction relative to the proximal portion, and wherein the proximal portion is concave so as to at least generally have the contour of the rim extending around the crown of the receiver.

11. The medical waste collection system according to claim 1, further comprising: include: A sliding lock assembly, the sliding lock assembly comprising: Latch; and A biasing element is coupled to the latch and is configured to bias the latch into a locked configuration in which the latch engages the slide assembly to prevent movement of the slide assembly in a proximal direction. Therein, inserting the manifold into the receiver to the first operational position moves the slide lock assembly from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration in which the latch is disengaged from the slide assembly to allow the slide assembly to move in a proximal direction.

12. The medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 1 to 11 further includes a claw, which is movably connected to the shell and pivotally connected to the sliding assembly, wherein the claw is configured to engage the manifold in a fully inserted operating position and cause the sliding assembly to move in the distal direction in response to the manifold moving in the distal direction during removal of the manifold from the receiver.

13. The medical waste collection system according to claim 1, further comprising: include: Vacuum source; and a controller in communication with the vacuum source, wherein the receiver further comprises a sensor in communication with the controller and configured to output a signal indicative of the position of the slide assembly in a proximal-distal direction, wherein the controller is configured to control the vacuum source based on the signal from the sensor.

14. The medical waste collection system of claim 13, further comprising a magnet disposed on the slide assembly and configured to be detected by the sensor.

15. The medical waste collection system according to claim 13, in, The signal indicates whether the manifold is inserted into a fully inserted operational position in the receiver, wherein the controller is configured to prevent operation of the vacuum source when the manifold is not inserted into the fully inserted operational position in the receiver based on the signal from the sensor.

16. A medical waste collection system for collecting medical waste material through a manifold during a medical procedure, the medical waste collection system include: Waste containers; A receiver coupled to a waste container and comprising a shell defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, wherein the shell further defines a receiver outlet and comprises an inlet mechanism coupled to the shell to be movable in proximal and distal directions, wherein the inlet mechanism comprises a suction inlet and a suction outlet in fluid communication with the suction inlet, wherein the suction outlet is not in fluid communication with the receiver outlet when the manifold is not in a fully inserted operational position; the receiver comprising a sliding assembly movably coupled to the shell and to the inlet mechanism, wherein the sliding assembly is configured to be engaged by the manifold during insertion of the manifold into the receiver to move in the proximal direction to cause the inlet mechanism to move accordingly in the distal direction so as to establish fluid communication between the suction outlet and the receiver outlet when the manifold assumes a fully inserted operational position, and further establish fluid communication between the waste container and the manifold.

17. A medical waste collection system for collecting medical waste material through a manifold during a medical procedure, the medical waste collection system include: Waste containers; A receiver coupled to a waste container and comprising a housing defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction; the receiver comprising a sliding assembly movably coupled to the housing and configured to be engaged by the manifold and moved in a proximal direction during insertion of the manifold into the receiver, and a sliding lock assembly comprising a latch, and a biasing element coupled to the latch and configured to bias the latch toward a locked configuration in which the latch engages the sliding assembly to prevent movement of the sliding assembly in the proximal direction, wherein insertion of the manifold into a first operating position in the receiver moves the sliding lock assembly from the locked configuration to an unlocked configuration in which the latch disengages from the sliding assembly to allow movement of the sliding assembly in the proximal direction.

18. A medical waste collection system for collecting medical waste material through a manifold during a medical procedure, a medical waste collection system include: Waste containers; A receiver coupled to a waste container and comprising a housing defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction; the receiver comprising a sliding assembly movably coupled to the housing and configured to be engaged by the manifold to move in the proximal direction during insertion of the manifold into the receiver; the receiver comprising a pawl movably coupled to the housing and pivotally coupled to the sliding assembly, wherein the pawl is configured to engage the manifold in a fully inserted operative position and cause the sliding assembly to move in the distal direction in response to movement of the manifold in the distal direction during removal of the manifold from the receiver.

19. A medical waste collection system for collecting medical waste material through a manifold during a medical procedure, the medical waste collection system include: Waste containers; a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container; a controller in communication with the vacuum source and configured to control the vacuum source; a receiver coupled to the waste container and including a housing defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction; the receiver including a slide assembly movably coupled to the housing and configured to be engaged by the manifold for movement in the proximal direction during insertion of the manifold into the receiver; A sensor is in communication with the controller and is configured to output a signal indicative of a position of the slide assembly in a proximal-distal direction, wherein the controller is configured to control the vacuum source based on the signal from the sensor.

20. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a body portion extending to a distal location, a first leg extending proximally from the distal location, and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a void, wherein the first leg includes a rim defining the outlet opening; a filter element disposed within the manifold volume; an arm extending outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, the arm including a proximally directed surface; a locking element extending outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, the locking element including a distally directed surface positioned distal to the proximally directed surface of the arm; as well as A ridge extends outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, the ridge including a proximally directed surface positioned proximally of the distally directed surface of the locking element and distally of the proximally directed surface of the arm.

21. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising an upper wall, a lower wall, opposite sides extending between the upper wall and the lower wall, respectively, a first leg including at least a portion of the lower wall and at least a portion of the opposite sides, and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a void; a filter element disposed within the manifold volume; an arm extending laterally from one of the opposing sides, the arm including a proximally directed surface; a locking element extending laterally from one of the opposing sides, the locking element including a distally directed surface positioned distal to the proximally directed surface of the arm; as well as A ridge extends downwardly from the lower wall, the ridge including a proximally directed surface positioned proximally of the distally directed surface of the locking element and distally of the proximally directed surface of the arm.

22. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a body portion extending to a distal location, a first leg extending proximally from the distal location, and a second leg spaced from the first leg to define a void; a filter element disposed within the manifold volume; an arm extending outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, the arm including a proximally directed surface; a locking element extending outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, the locking element including a distally directed surface positioned distal to the proximally directed surface of the arm; as well as A ridge extends outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, the ridge having an inclined surface positioned distally of the proximally directed surface of the arm and proximally of the distally directed surface of the locking element.

23. A manifold, include: a housing including a first leg and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a void, wherein the first leg includes a rim defining an outlet opening; an arm extending outwardly from said first leg; and A capture portion is disposed on the second leg.

24. A manifold, include: a housing including a first leg and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a void, wherein the first leg includes a rim defining an outlet opening; an arm extending outwardly from the first leg; and A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is disposed on the housing.

25. A manifold, include: a housing including a first leg and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a void, wherein the first leg includes a rim defining an outlet opening; an arm extending outwardly from the housing; and A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is at least partially positioned on the second leg.

26. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and including a rim defining an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume; Seals; and A filter element is disposed within the manifold volume and includes a basket, and a seal retaining element coupled to the basket and supporting a seal in sealing engagement with the frame.

27. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and including a rim defining an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume; a seal defining a groove; A filter element is disposed within the manifold volume and includes a basket, and a seal retaining element coupled to the basket and disposed partially within the groove to support the seal in a position covering the outlet opening.

28. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and including a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion and including a rim defining an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, and a second leg spaced from the first leg to define a void; Seals; as well as A filter element is disposed within the manifold volume and includes a basket disposed within the body portion, and a seal retaining element disposed within the first leg for supporting a seal.

29. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a rim defining the outlet opening; an arm extending outwardly from the housing; and a capture portion including a distally directed surface positioned proximal to the arm and the frame rim, wherein the frame rim and the capture portion are separated by a gap and the frame rim is positioned above or below the capture portion.

30. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a rim defining the outlet opening; arms extending outwardly from the housing; each locking element extending outwardly from the housing; a ridge extending outwardly from the housing; and capture portions, which are proximal to the arms, proximal to the frame edge, proximal to the locking element, and proximal to the spine.

31. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a rim having a width greater than a height to define a non-circular outlet opening; and a capture portion including a distally directed surface positioned proximal to the rim, wherein the rim and capture portion are separated by a gap, and wherein the rim is positioned below the capture portion when the manifold is oriented for insertion into the opening of the receiver.

32. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising an upper wall, a lower wall, and opposing sides extending between the upper wall and the lower wall, respectively; arms extending outwardly from a respective one of the opposite sides of the shell and each including a proximally directed surface; and a spine extending outwardly from the shell, the spine including a proximally directed surface positioned distal to the proximally directed surface of each arm, wherein each arm and spine are elongated and oriented in a proximal-distal direction, and wherein the spine is positioned angularly equidistant between each arm.

33. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion, and a second leg spaced from the first leg to define a void; An arm extending outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg to a first distance relative to a vertical plane of symmetry oriented in a proximal-distal direction, wherein the arm includes a proximally directed surface; a capture portion disposed on the second leg and including a distally directed surface positioned proximal to the proximal directed surface of the arm, wherein the capture portion is at a second distance relative to the vertical plane of symmetry, the second distance being less than the first distance.

34. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion, and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a void, wherein an entry profile of the manifold is defined at least in part by a cross-section defined by the first leg and the second leg in a vertical plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction; An arm extends laterally outward from the housing to a position beyond the entry profile; and a catch is disposed on the second leg and includes a recess within the entry profile.

35. A manifold for a medical waste collection system, in, The medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening, the manifold comprising: a shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening fluidly connected to the manifold volume, the shell comprising a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion, and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a gap; an arm extending outwardly from the shell and configured to engage a push feature of the receiver when the manifold is being inserted into the opening; and an orientation feature comprising a transition surface with a profile change between an upper wall of the shell and one of opposite sides, and a bottom cut surface defining at least a portion of the opposite sides, wherein the orientation feature and the arm are complementarily arranged to require the manifold to be inserted into the opening of the receiver in a single orientation.

36. A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receptacle defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the manifold include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion and comprising an upper region, and a second leg including a lower region spaced from the upper region of the first leg to define a void, wherein the void is further defined by a distal region of the body portion extending between the upper region and the lower region such that the void is slot-shaped; an arm extending outwardly from the housing and including a proximally directed surface; and a capture portion disposed on the second leg and including a distally directed surface positioned proximal to the proximal directed surface of the arm and proximal to the outlet opening.

37. A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receptacle defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the receptacle including an inlet mechanism having a first support element, the manifold include: A housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising a body portion having a distal portion, a first leg extending proximally from the distal portion, and a second leg extending from the distal portion and spaced apart from the first leg to define a void, wherein the depth of the void in a proximal-distal direction is sized to receive a first support element of an inlet mechanism to ensure that the manifold is inserted into the receiver to an appropriate insertion depth.

38. A manifold for coupling an aspiration tube to a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receptacle defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the receptacle including a slide assembly, a slide lock assembly, and a lock assembly, the manifold include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a rim defining the outlet opening; an inlet connector for coupling to a suction pipe; an arm extending outwardly from the housing and including a proximally directed surface configured to engage the slide assembly during insertion of the manifold to facilitate movement of the slide assembly in a proximal direction; a locking element extending outwardly from the housing, the locking element including a distally directed surface configured to engage the lock assembly after the manifold is inserted into the receiver; a ridge extending outwardly from the housing, the ridge including a proximally directed surface configured to engage the slide lock assembly to allow movement of the slide assembly in a proximal direction; and a capture portion including a distally directed surface configured to engage the receiver and cause the slide assembly to move in a distal direction during removal of the manifold from the receiver.

39. A manifold for coupling an aspiration tube to a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the receiver including a slide assembly, a slide lock assembly, and a lock assembly, the manifold include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a rim defining the outlet opening, the housing including a body portion extending to a distal location, a first leg extending proximally from the distal location, and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a void; an inlet connector for coupling to a suction pipe; an arm extending outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, the arm being configured to engage the sliding assembly during insertion of the manifold to cause the sliding assembly to move in a proximal direction; a locking element extending outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, the locking element being configured to engage the locking assembly of the receiver after the manifold is inserted into the receiver; a capture portion disposed on the second leg and configured to engage the receiver and cause the sliding assembly to move in a distal direction during removal of the manifold from the receiver; and a ridge extending outwardly from one of the body portion, the first leg, and the second leg, the ridge being configured to engage the sliding lock assembly to allow the sliding assembly to move in a proximal direction.

40. A manifold for coupling a suction tube to a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receiver defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the receiver including a slide assembly, a slide lock assembly, and a lock assembly, the manifold include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising an upper wall, a lower wall, and opposite sides extending between the upper wall and the lower wall, respectively, when the manifold is oriented to be inserted into the opening of the receiver, the housing further comprising a frame rim defining the outlet opening; an inlet connector for coupling to a suction pipe; an arm extending laterally outward from one of the opposite sides and configured to engage the slide assembly during insertion of the manifold to cause the slide assembly to move in a proximal direction, a catch located on a first side of a void separated from the manifold volume and from the outlet opening, wherein the frame edge is located on a second side of the void opposite the first side, wherein the catch is configured to engage the receiver and cause the slide assembly to move in a distal direction during removal of the manifold from the receiver; and a ridge extending downwardly from the lower wall and configured to engage the slide lock assembly to allow the slide assembly to move in a proximal direction.

41. A manifold for coupling an aspiration tube to a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receptacle defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into the opening in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction, the receptacle including a slide assembly, a slide lock assembly, and a lock assembly, the manifold include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a rim defining the outlet opening; an inlet connector for coupling to a suction pipe; An arm extending outward from the housing and including a proximally directed surface configured to engage a sliding assembly during insertion of a manifold to cause the sliding assembly to move in a proximal direction; a locking element extending outward from the housing, the locking element including a distally directed surface configured to engage a locking assembly of a receiver after the manifold is inserted into the receiver; and a capture portion including a distally directed surface configured to engage a receiver during removal of the manifold from the receiver and cause the sliding assembly to move in a distal direction, wherein the frame edge and the capture portion are separated by a gap outside the housing.

42. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including an upper wall, a lower wall, and opposing sides extending between the upper wall and the lower wall, respectively; An arm extending laterally from one of the opposing sides and including a proximally directed surface; a ridge extending downwardly from the lower wall; and a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag disposed on the upper wall, the RFID tag including a memory storing data for determining whether the manifold can be used with the medical waste collection system.

43. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a rim having a width greater than a height to define the outlet opening as non-circular; A seal includes a seal body, an inner seal rim coupled to the seal body, and an outer seal rim spaced apart from the inner seal rim to define a groove, the groove being sized to receive the rim so that the seal is coupled to the housing in an interference engagement, wherein the seal body covers a non-circular outlet opening.

44. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion, and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg to define a void, wherein an inner surface of the first leg defines an inner step; A seal comprising a seal body, an outer seal rim coupled to the seal body to define a cavity, an inner seal rim defining a groove sized to be coupled to the rim in an interference engagement manner, a lip extending radially outward from the inner seal rim and including a retaining surface configured to interfere with an inner step portion of a first leg to help maintain an interference engagement between the seal and the rim.

45. A manifold, include: A shell defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the shell comprising a head having an inlet connector and a body defining the outlet opening, wherein each of the head and the body comprises complementary coupling features configured to removably couple the head and the body to each other such that an upper portion of the head is aligned with an upper wall of the body and a lower portion of the head is aligned with a lower wall of the body.

46. ​​A manifold for connecting a suction pipe, the manifold include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a rim defining the outlet opening; an inlet fitting for coupling to the aspiration tube, wherein the manifold assembly defines a fluid path placed in fluid communication with the medical waste collection system, wherein the inlet fitting is disposed in the fluid path; an arm extending outwardly from the housing and including a proximally directed surface; a locking element extending outwardly from the housing and including a distally directed surface positioned distally of the proximally directed surface of the arm; a ridge extending outwardly from the housing, the ridge including a proximally pointing surface positioned proximal to the distally pointing surface of the locking element and distal to the proximally pointing surface of the arm; and a capture portion including a distally pointing surface positioned proximal to the proximally pointing surface of the arm, wherein the frame rim and the capture portion are separated by a gap, and wherein the frame rim is positioned below the capture portion when the manifold assembly is oriented for insertion into the opening of the receiver.

47. A manifold for connecting a suction pipe, the manifold include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a body portion extending to a distal location, a first leg extending proximally from the distal location, and a second leg spaced from the first leg to define a void; an inlet connector for coupling to a suction pipe; an arm extending outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, the arm including a proximally directed surface; a locking element extending outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, the locking element including a distally directed surface positioned distal to the proximally directed surface of the arm; A capturing portion disposed on the second leg and including a distally directed surface positioned proximal to the arm; and a ridge extending outwardly from the main body portion, one of the first leg and the second leg, the ridge including a proximal end positioned distal to the capturing portion and proximal to the proximal directed surface of the arm.

48. A manifold for connecting a suction pipe, the manifold include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising an upper wall, a lower wall, and opposite sides extending between the upper wall and the lower wall, respectively, the housing further comprising a frame edge defining the outlet opening; an inlet connector for coupling to an aspiration tube; an arm extending laterally outward from one of the opposing sides and including a proximally directed surface; including a capture portion positioned on a distally directed surface proximal to the proximal directed surface of the arm, wherein the capture portion is located on a first side of a void separated from the manifold volume and from the outlet opening, the frame edge being located on a second side of the void opposite the first side; and a ridge extending downwardly from the lower wall, the ridge including an inclined surface positioned distally of the distally directed surface of the capture portion.

49. A manifold, include: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing including a rim defining the outlet opening; an inlet connector for coupling to a suction pipe; an arm extending outwardly from the housing and including a proximally directed surface positioned distally of the frame rim; a locking element extending outwardly from the housing and including a distally directed surface positioned distally of the proximally directed surface of the arm and distally of the frame rim; and a capture portion including a distally directed surface positioned proximal to the proximal directed surface of the arm and proximal to the frame rim, wherein the frame rim and the capture portion are separated by a gap outside the housing.

50. A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receptacle defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into and removed from the opening, the manifold include: a housing defining a manifold volume and including at least one inlet fitting for receiving an aspiration tube, the inlet fitting defining a fluid path into the manifold volume; an outlet opening defining a fluid path out of the manifold volume; and arms configured to actuate a slide assembly of the receiver when the manifold is pushed into the receiver, each arm extending laterally from the housing in a direction away from the manifold volume and located on opposite sides of a vertical symmetry plane extending through the manifold in a proximal-distal direction.

51. A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system comprises a receptacle defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into and removed from the opening, the receptacle comprising an inlet mechanism having a first support element, the manifold include: a housing defining a manifold volume and including at least one inlet fitting for receiving an aspiration tube, the inlet fitting defining a fluid path into the manifold volume; an outlet opening defining a fluid path out of the manifold volume; and a void having a depth extending in a proximal-distal direction and configured to accommodate a first support element of the access mechanism.

52. A manifold for a medical waste collection system, wherein the medical waste collection system includes a receptacle defining an opening, the manifold being configured to be inserted into and removed from the opening, the manifold include: defining a manifold volume and including at least one inlet fitting for receiving an aspiration tube, the inlet fitting defining a fluid path into the manifold volume; an outlet opening defining a fluid path out of the manifold volume; and a capture portion configured to be engaged by a claw of the medical waste collection unit to engage the manifold with the receptacle.

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