Systems, devices, and methods for providing suction

Abstract

Described herein are devices, systems, and methods for providing suction. In some cases, the suction is generated passively. The passive suction device may include a structural element configured to create a Venturi effect, such as a narrowing of an inner diameter of a hollow segment. The passive suction device may include a structural element configured to create a Coanda effect, such as a conduit formed between two facing surfaces. The passive suction device may include a structural element configured to create a Coanda effect, such as a wing shape or a fan shape. The passive suction device may include one or more structural elements for generating a Venturi effect, one or more structural elements for generating a Coanda effect, one or more structural elements for generating a Bernoulli effect, or any combination thereof.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention application with application date of April 6, 2017, application number 201780006244.2, and name “Surgical suction device using positive pressure gas”. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to systems, devices and methods for providing suction. Background Art

[0003] In many different applications, suction may be generated in a variety of ways. Generally speaking, suction generating devices are used to remove gases, liquids, or any combination thereof from an environment. Suction is typically generated by electric or motor driven devices, which tend to be noisy and bulky. Summary of the invention

[0004] Described herein are devices, systems, and methods for providing suction.In some embodiments, suction is passively generated.

[0005] Described herein is a surgical suction device including an air amplifier. In some embodiments, the air amplifier includes a structure defining a generally cylindrical cavity having a first opening at a first end and a second opening at a second end. In some embodiments, the cylindrical cavity is defined by an inner wall of the cavity. In some embodiments, the air amplifier includes an annular opening in the inner wall near the first end. In some embodiments, the annular opening defines an ejection opening that is adapted to allow pressurized gas to flow out of the annular opening, so that a low pressure area is generated at the first end and an amplified flow is generated at the second end. The annular opening is also configured so that the pressurized gas enters the cavity at an angle relative to the inner wall of the cavity toward the second end. At the point where the annular opening communicates with the cavity, the cavity is flared to a larger diameter.

[0006] A passive suction device including a housing is described herein, comprising: a first hollow segment including an inlet port configured to receive gas, liquid or a combination thereof, a first opening, and a first outer surface surrounding the first opening; a second hollow segment having an interior and including an outlet port configured to release gas, liquid or a combination thereof from the housing, a second opening facing the first opening, and a second outer surface surrounding the second opening and facing the first outer surface; and an air flow amplifier including a pressurized gas port configured to receive a pressurized gas flow, and a conduit including a gap space between the first outer surface and the second outer surface, wherein the conduit is fluidly continuous with the pressurized gas port, and wherein the conduit is positioned at an angle relative to the second opening so as to receive the pressurized gas flow from the pressurized gas port and guide the pressurized gas flow into the second opening so that when the pressurized gas flow is transmitted into the second hollow segment, the pressurized gas flow travels substantially completely along one or more inner surfaces of the second hollow segment. In some embodiments, the inlet port also includes a valve configured to prevent backflow of gas, liquid or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the passive suction device also includes an alarm, which is configured to activate when there is gas, liquid or its combination backflow through the housing. In some embodiments, the alarm port is continuous with the first segment. In some embodiments, the passive suction device also includes a filter. In some embodiments, the first hollow segment and the second hollow segment are configured to move relative to each other, thereby changing the distance between the first outer surface and the second outer surface, and thus adjusting the width of the gap space of the conduit. In some embodiments, when the pressurized gas flow travels substantially completely along one or more surfaces of the hollow interior of the second segment, a low pressure zone is formed inside the second segment, thereby establishing suction of gas, liquid, solid or any combination thereof through an inlet port, through the first hollow segment, through the first opening, through the second opening, through the second hollow segment and through the outlet port. In some embodiments, the conduit is positioned at an angle determined by the angle of the first surface, and wherein the angle of the first surface includes an angle between 0 degrees and 90 degrees.

[0007] A method for passively generating suction is described herein, the method comprising providing a device comprising: a first hollow segment and a second hollow segment; and an air flow amplifier, comprising a pressurized gas port configured to receive a pressurized gas flow, and a conduit comprising a gap space between the first hollow segment and the second hollow segment, wherein the conduit is fluidly continuous with the pressurized gas port, and wherein the conduit is positioned to receive the pressurized gas flow from the pressurized gas port, and guide the pressurized gas into the second opening, so that when the pressurized gas flow is transmitted into the second hollow segment, the pressurized gas flow is substantially completely along one or more inner surfaces of the second hollow segment. In some embodiments, the device also includes a valve configured to prevent backflow of gas, liquid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the device also includes an alarm configured to activate in the presence of backflow of gas, liquid, or a combination thereof through the housing. In some embodiments, the device also includes an alarm port, the alarm port including an air-powered alarm, the air-powered alarm configured to sound an alarm when the backflow of air passes through the alarm port. In some embodiments, the alarm port is continuous with the first segment. In some embodiments, the device also includes a filter. In some embodiments, the width of the interstitial space of the conduit is adjustable. In some embodiments, the flow of pressurized gas through the second hollow segment creates a low pressure zone within the interior of the second hollow segment, thereby establishing suction. In some embodiments, the second hollow segment includes an opening configured to receive the pressurized gas flow from the conduit, and the conduit is positioned to direct the pressurized gas flow at an angle between 0 and 90 degrees relative to the first hollow segment.

[0008] A method for passively establishing suction using a passive suction device is described herein, the method comprising: receiving a pressurized gas flow into a conduit of the suction device; and directing the pressurized gas flow through the gap space between the first hollow segment and the second hollow segment of the device, so that the pressurized gas travels through the second hollow segment and travels substantially completely along one or more surfaces of the hollow interior of the second hollow segment, thereby establishing suction. In some embodiments, the method also includes adjusting the size of the gap space, thereby changing the intensity of the suction. In some embodiments, the method also includes using suction to receive a suction flow including solids, liquids, or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the method also includes filtering the suction flow. In some embodiments, the method also includes sounding an alarm in the presence of an obstruction to the suction flow. In some embodiments, the second hollow segment includes an opening configured to receive a pressurized gas flow from a conduit, and the conduit is positioned to guide the pressurized gas flow at an angle between 0 and 90 degrees relative to the first hollow segment.

[0009] A method for providing suction during a surgical procedure is described herein, the method comprising: receiving a suction device configured to passively generate suction by directing a pressurized gas flow through the suction device; delivering pressurized gas to the device, thereby providing suction during surgery; and applying suction to the surgical site, thereby sucking gas, liquid, solid, or any combination thereof caused by the surgical procedure. In some embodiments, the method also includes adjusting the intensity of the suction. In some embodiments, the method also includes filtering the sucked gas, liquid, solid, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the method also includes sounding an alarm in the event of an obstruction to the device. In some embodiments, the device is configured to be connected to a surgical suction system including a container and a suction line. In some embodiments, the suction device also includes a valve configured to prevent the backflow of the sucked gas, liquid, solid, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the suction capacity of the device is between about 10 pounds per square inch and about 25 pounds per square inch.

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a passive suction device. The device includes: (a) a first hollow segment having a central axis, wherein the first hollow segment includes (i) an inlet port configured to receive gas, liquid, solid, or any combination thereof; (ii) a first opening; and (iii) a first facing surface, which at least partially surrounds the first opening; (b) a second hollow segment having an interior and including (i) an outlet port configured to release gas, liquid, solid, or any combination thereof; (ii) a second opening facing the first opening; and (iii) a second facing surface, which at least partially surrounds the second opening and faces the first outer surface; (c) an air flow amplifier, comprising: (i) a pressurized gas port configured to receive a pressurized gas flow; and (ii) a conduit defined by a first facing surface and a second facing surface. In some embodiments, the conduit is fluidly connected to the pressurized gas port. In some embodiments, the first facing surface includes an angle less than 90 degrees relative to the central axis of the first hollow segment. In some embodiments, the conduit is configured to receive a pressurized gas flow and direct the pressurized gas flow into the second opening such that the pressurized gas flow through the second opening generates a low pressure region that generates a suction flow, thereby causing the inlet port to receive a gas, liquid, solid, or a combination thereof.

[0011] In some embodiments, the inlet port also includes a valve configured to prevent backflow of gas, liquid or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the device also includes an alarm configured to activate in the presence of backflow of gas, liquid or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the alarm port is fluidly connected to the first segment. In some embodiments, the device also includes a filter configured to filter gas, liquid, solid or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the device also includes: a tuner arm configured to adjust the width of the conduit, wherein the tuner arm is configured to move one or more of the first hollow segment and the second hollow segment relative to each other, thereby changing the distance between the first facing surface and the second facing surface. In some embodiments, the width of the conduit can be adjusted between about 0 millimeters (mm) to about 2 mm. In some embodiments, the device also includes an angle adjustment controller, wherein the angle adjustment controller is configured to adjust the angle.

[0012] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air flow amplifier. The air amplifier includes: (a) a conduit having a diameter and including a first wall and a second wall, and wherein the conduit is configured to receive a pressurized gas flow; (b) a hollow segment that is fluidly connected to the conduit and has a central axis; and (c) a tuner arm configured to adjust the width of the conduit. In some embodiments, the first wall of the conduit is angled at an angle less than 90 degrees relative to the central axis of the receiving channel. In some embodiments, the conduit is configured to guide the pressurized gas flow into the hollow segment so that the pressurized gas flow through the hollow segment generates a low pressure zone that generates a suction flow and amplifies the pressurized gas flow. In some embodiments, the tuner arm is configured to move one or more of the first wall and the second wall relative to each other.

[0013] In some embodiments, the amplifier also includes a chamber, wherein the suction flow is generated by a pressurized gas flow. In some embodiments, the amplifier also includes a filter for the suction flow to pass therethrough. In some embodiments, the chamber also includes a flow valve, which is configured to prevent the suction flow from flowing back to the outside of the chamber. In some embodiments, the amplifier also includes an alarm, which is configured to sound when there is an obstruction in the receiving channel. In some embodiments, the width of the conduit can be adjusted between about 0 millimeter (mm) to about 2mm.

[0014] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a suction system. The suction system includes: (a) a pressurized gas; (b) a suction device, the suction device including (i) a pressurized gas port configured to receive the pressurized gas; (ii) a conduit having a diameter and including a first wall and a second wall, and wherein the conduit is configured to receive a pressurized gas flow; (iii) a hollow segment, which is fluidly connected to the conduit and has a central axis; and (c) a container configured to receive a gas, a liquid, a solid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first wall of the conduit is angled at an angle less than 90 degrees relative to the central axis of the receiving channel. In some embodiments, the conduit is configured to guide the pressurized gas flow into the hollow segment so that the pressurized gas flow through the hollow segment generates a low pressure area, which generates a suction flow. In some embodiments, the container is fluidly connected to the suction device so that the suction force generated by the suction device is transmitted to the container, thereby causing the container to receive a gas, a liquid, a solid, or a combination thereof.

[0015] In some embodiments, the pressurized gas flow conduit has a diameter, and wherein the diameter is adjustable. In some embodiments, the suction device also includes an alarm, which is configured to sound when there is an obstruction in the receiving channel. In some embodiments, the container is configured to hold liquids, solids or a combination thereof, and the gas is sucked through the container and into the suction device. In some embodiments, the suction device also includes a filter, through which the sucked gas passes. In some embodiments, the suction system also includes a tuner arm, which is configured to adjust the width of the conduit, wherein the tuner arm is configured to move one or more of the first wall and the second wall relative to each other.

[0016] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a system comprising: a surgical tool, a container, a filter, and one or more passive suction devices, wherein the output port of the surgical tool can be fluidly connected to the input port of the container, and the output port of the container can be fluidly connected to the input port of the filter, and wherein the one or more passive suction devices can be fluidly connected to the system. In some embodiments, the system may also include a first pipeline and a second pipeline, wherein the first end of the first pipeline can be fluidly connected to the output port of the surgical tool, and the second end of the first pipeline can be fluidly connected to the input port of the container, and wherein the first end of the second pipeline can be fluidly connected to the output port of the container, and the second end of the second pipeline can be fluidly connected to the input port of the filter. In some embodiments, the input port of the one or more passive suction devices can be fluidly connected to the output port of the container, and the output port of the one or more passive suction devices can be fluidly connected to the input port of the filter. In some embodiments, the one or more passive suction devices can be positioned in the system to push the material flow into the filter. In some embodiments, the efficiency of the system can be improved by at least about 60% compared to connecting the input port of one or more passive suction devices to the output port of the filter. In some embodiments, the efficiency of the system can be improved by at least about 75%. In some embodiments, the one or more passive suction devices can be integrated with a container, a surgical tool, a filter, a pipeline, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more passive suction devices can be attachable to a container, a surgical tool, a filter, a pipeline, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more passive suction devices can be two. In some embodiments, the output port of the first passive suction device can be fluidically connected to the input port of the container, and the input port of the second passive suction device can be fluidically connected to the output port of the container. In some embodiments, the pressure of the material flow in the pipeline, container, or a combination thereof can be balanced. In some embodiments, the first passive suction device can be positioned to push the material flow into the container, and the second passive suction device can be positioned to extract the material flow from the container. In some embodiments, the rigidity of the pipeline can be reduced or eliminated compared to a system including a single passive suction device. In some embodiments, the pipeline can include a wall thickness of about 0.01 inches or less. In some embodiments, the pipeline can include a wall thickness of about 0.001 inches or less. In some embodiments, the pipeline can include a wall thickness of about 0.0001 inches or less. In some embodiments, one or more passive suction devices may include at least one Coanda effect, at least one Venturi effect, at least one Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or more passive suction devices may be fluidically connected to an input port of a surgical tool, and wherein the entrainment of the material flow occurs at the input port of the surgical tool.In some embodiments, the diameter of the entrainment of the material flow at the input port of the surgical tool can be at least about 1 times the diameter of the surgical tool. In some embodiments, the diameter of the entrainment can be at least about 2 times the diameter of the surgical tool.

[0017] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a passive suction device, comprising: a first hollow segment, comprising i) a lumen and ii) a first facing surface at one end of the first hollow segment; and a second hollow segment, comprising i) a lumen and ii) a second facing surface at one end of the second hollow segment, wherein the first facing surface may be adjacent to or at least partially overlap the second facing surface to form a conduit therebetween, wherein the geometry of the first facing surface, the geometry of the second facing surface, or a combination thereof may direct a pressurized fluid into a flow path of the passive suction device, and wherein the pressurized fluid may travel approximately adjacent to a) the first facing surface for at least about 30% of the length of the first facing surface, or approximately adjacent to b) the second facing surface for at least about 30% of the length of the second facing surface. In some embodiments, the pressurized fluid may travel approximately adjacent to a) the first facing surface for at least about 60% of the length of the first facing surface, or approximately adjacent to b) the second facing surface for at least about 60% of the length of the second facing surface. In some embodiments, the geometry of the first facing surface, the second facing surface, or a combination thereof can form a rounded end, a semi-rounded end, a relaxed end, a square end, a double curved end, a concave end, an inclined end, a double inclined end, a blunt end, a flared end, a rounded end, a tapered end, a wing-shaped end, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the geometry of the first facing surface, the second facing surface, or a combination thereof can be adjustable. In some embodiments, the geometry of the first facing surface, the geometry of the second facing surface, or a combination thereof can redirect the flow path relative to the initial direction of the flow path at less than about 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the initial direction can be perpendicular to the central axis of the passive suction device. In some embodiments, adjusting the geometry can: i) redirect the flow path of the pressurized fluid, ii) change the suction capacity, iii) change the suction efficiency, iv) change the volume flow rate of the pressurized fluid, v) change the percentage length of the facing surface along which the pressurized fluid travels, or vi) any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the pressurized fluid can enter the passive suction device at an angle less than 90 degrees relative to the central axis of the passive suction device. In some embodiments, the pressurized fluid can enter the passive suction device at an angle of approximately 55 degrees or less relative to the central axis of the passive suction device.

[0018] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a surgical device, comprising: a first input port for receiving a pressurized fluid into the surgical device; a second input port for receiving an entrained fluid into the surgical device; an output port through which a material flow exits the surgical device, the material flow including at least a portion of the entrained fluid, at least a portion of the pressurized fluid, or a combination thereof; and i) a narrowing of the inner diameter of a hollow segment, ii) a conduit formed by positioning a first facing surface of one end of the first hollow segment adjacent to or at least partially overlapping a second facing surface of one end of the second hollow segment, or iii) a combination thereof, wherein the pressurized fluid entering the first input port of the surgical device can form a low pressure area within the surgical device relative to other areas within the surgical device, so that the second input port of the surgical device can entrain at least a portion of the fluid from a location outside the surgical device. In some embodiments, the second input port can be a conduit. In some embodiments, the second input port can be an annular opening. In some embodiments, the suction capacity of the surgical device can be adjustable. In some embodiments, adjusting the width of the conduit can adjust the suction capacity of the surgical device, can adjust the volume flow rate of the entrained fluid, can adjust the volume ratio of gas suction to liquid suction, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the surgical device may include at least one constriction and at least one conduit. In some embodiments, the flow path of the entrained fluid when entering the second input port of the surgical device can be redirected at about 5 degrees to about 85 degrees relative to the initial direction. In some embodiments, the entrained fluid can enter the conduit, and wherein the initial direction can be along the central longitudinal axis of the surgical device. In some embodiments, the flow path of the pressurized fluid when entering the first input port of the surgical device can be redirected at about 5 degrees to about 85 degrees relative to the initial direction. In some embodiments, the pressurized fluid can enter the conduit, and wherein the initial direction can be along the central longitudinal axis of the surgical device. In some embodiments, the surgical device can be a ventilator. In some embodiments, the surgical device can be an aspirator. In some embodiments, the surgical device can be configured to be attachable to a surgical tool. In some embodiments, the surgical device can be a surgical suction device that is fluidly connected to a surgical tool, a container, a filter, a pipeline, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the surgical device can be a surgical suction device that is fluidly connected to a surgical tool, a container, a filter, a pipeline, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the pipeline can include a wall thickness of about 0.01 inches or less. In some embodiments, the pipeline can include a wall thickness of about 0.001 inches or less. In some embodiments, the tubing may include a wall thickness of about 0.0001 inches or less. In some embodiments, the entrained fluid may include a gas, a liquid, a solid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the entrained fluid may include a body fluid.In some embodiments, the geometry of the first facing surface, the second facing surface, or a combination thereof can form a rounded end, a semi-rounded end, a relaxed end, a square end, a double curved end, a concave end, a beveled end, a double beveled end, a blunt end, a flared end, a rounded end, a tapered end, a winged end, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the diameter of the fluid entrainment site at the input port of the surgical tool in fluid communication with the surgical device can be at least about 1 times the diameter of the surgical tool. In some embodiments, the diameter of the fluid entrainment site can be at least about 2 times the diameter of the surgical tool.

[0019] Other aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein only illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be appreciated, the present disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, and its various details are capable of modification in a variety of obvious aspects, all without departing from the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not restrictive.

[0020] Incorporated by Reference

[0021] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The novel features of the subject matter described herein are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the subject matter will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description setting forth illustrative embodiments in which the principles of the subject matter described herein are utilized, and the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0023] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing a suction system.

[0024] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating a suction system.

[0025] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating a suction system with backflow prevention.

[0026] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing a suction system with a backflow alarm.

[0027] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing a suction system with safety features.

[0028] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating a suction system having safety features.

[0029] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing a suction system with an obstruction removal controller.

[0030] Figure 8 is a block diagram showing a suction system with safety features and an obstruction clearance controller.

[0031] Fig. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating a suction system having a safety feature and an obstruction clearance controller.

[0032] Fig. 10A is a block diagram showing a filtered suction system.

[0033] Fig. 10B is a block diagram illustrating the operation of the filtered suction system.

[0034] Fig.11 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating a filtered suction system.

[0035] Fig.12 is a block diagram showing a suction device operated by positive pressure.

[0036] Fig.13 is a block diagram showing a positive pressure operated suction device with backflow prevention.

[0037] Fig.14 is a block diagram showing a positive pressure operated suction device with a backflow alarm.

[0038] Fig.15 is a block diagram showing a positive pressure operated suction device with safety features.

[0039] Fig.16 is a block diagram showing a filtered suction device with safety features.

[0040] Fig.17 is a block diagram showing a compensated filter suction device.

[0041] Fig.18 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating a compensated filtered suction device.

[0042] Fig.19 is a block diagram showing a suction device with an adjustable pressure gap.

[0043] Fig. 20 is a diagram illustrating a method of operating a suction device having an adjustable pressure gap.

[0044] Fig.21A 2 is a diagram showing a suction device having a backflow prevention valve.

[0045] Fig.21B and Fig. 21C yes Fig.21B1 A close-up view of a catheter of a suction device having a backflow prevention valve.

[0046] Fig.21D is a diagram showing the operation of a suction device having a backflow prevention valve during normal operation.

[0047] Fig.21E is a diagram showing the operation of a suction device having a backflow prevention valve in the event of clogging.

[0048] Fig.22A is a diagram showing an exploded view of the backflow prevention valve.

[0049] Fig. 22B is a diagram showing the backflow prevention valve during blocking.

[0050] Fig. 22C is a diagram showing a backflow prevention valve during normal operation.

[0051] Fig.23A is a diagram illustrating the operation of a positive pressure vacuum device with safety features during normal operation.

[0052] Fig. 23B is a diagram showing the operation of a positive pressure suction device with a safety feature in the event of an obstruction.

[0053] Fig.24A is a diagram showing a suction device operated by positive pressure.

[0054] Fig. 24B is a diagram showing the operation of an adjustable pressure gap for a suction device operated by positive pressure Figure 24B1 Close-up of .

[0055] Fig.24C is a close-up view of the operating diagram 24C1 showing the adjustable pressure gap for a suction device operated by positive pressure.

[0056] Fig.24D is a diagram showing the operation of a positive pressure operated suction device during normal operation.

[0057] Fig.24E is a diagram showing the operation of a positive pressure operated suction device during normal operation.

[0058] Fig.25 is a block diagram showing a suction system for use in an operating room.

[0059] Fig.26 is a diagram illustrating a method of operating a suction system for use in an operating room.

[0060] Fig. 27 is a diagram showing a muffler for a suction device operated by positive pressure.

[0061] Fig.28 The angles that form the angled or flared end of the catheter when the two segments are placed adjacent to each other are shown.

[0062] Fig.29 is a table showing different apparatus settings and the corresponding values ​​of flue gas flow in standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) and static vacuum in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

[0063] Fig.30 is a table showing the audible noise level (dB) of different devices at 30 psi input pressure.

[0064] Fig.31 AB shows the use of a flared end at an angle of 35 degrees relative to the central axis ( Fig.31 A) or a flared end at an angle of 55 degrees relative to the central axis ( Fig.31 B) Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis performed.

[0065] Fig.32 is a bar graph showing the maximum static vacuum as a function of input pressure at an angle of 35 degrees relative to the central axis or at an angle of 55 degrees relative to the central axis.

[0066] Fig.33 is a graph showing air consumption (scfm) as a function of static vacuum at 34 psi input pressure.

[0067] Fig.34 is a graph showing air consumption (scfm) as a function of static vacuum at 30 psi input pressure.

[0068] Fig.35 is a graph showing noise level (dB) at maximum suction as a function of input air pressure in pounds per square inch (psi).

[0069] Fig.36 is a graph showing inlet pressure and outlet flow as a function of simulated filter occlusion degree.

[0070] Fig.37 is an image showing the configuration of the test equipment, wherein A is a pressure gauge, B is a manometer, C is a flow meter, D is a sonic meter, E is a flow meter, and F is a flow meter.

[0071] Fig.38 is a flow chart showing the test equipment setup for air consumption measurements.

[0072] Fig.39 is a flow chart showing the test equipment setup for static vacuum measurement.

[0073] Fig.40 is a flow chart showing the test equipment setup for static vacuum and noise measurements.

[0074] Figures 41A-41E is a diagram showing structural elements for adjusting the catheter width of a passive suction device.

[0075] Figures 42A-42H is a diagram showing the placement of a passive suction device within a surgical facility.

[0076] Figures 43A-43B is a diagram showing an example of the Coanda effect.

[0077] Figures 44A-44B is a diagram showing redirection of a flow path by changing the shape of an adjacent surface.

[0078] Fig.45 A-45J is a diagram showing the geometry of the facing surfaces.

[0079] Figures 46A-46H is a diagram showing the redirection of a flow path relative to its initial direction (eg, perpendicular to the central axis of a passive suction device).

[0080] Figures 47A-47G is a diagram showing variations of structural elements of a passive suction device.

[0081] Fig.48 is a diagram showing a passive suction device including a narrowing of the inner diameter of a hollow segment.

[0082] Fig.49 is a diagram showing induced air and entrained air entering a passive suction device.

[0083] Fig.50 is a diagram showing that the narrowing portion of the inner diameter of the hollow segment produces a Venturi effect.

[0084] Fig.51 is a table showing different plant conditions used for smoke evacuation in pig trials.

[0085] Fig.52 is a table showing the maximum static vacuum (mmHg) in pig testing.

[0086] Fig.53 is a bar graph showing the maximum static vacuum (mmHg) in pig trials.

[0087] Fig.54is a table showing auditory noise levels in decibels (dB) as a function of maximum static vacuum (mmHg) in pig tests. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0088] Described herein are devices, methods, and systems for generating suction. Before describing in detail at least one embodiment of the inventive concepts disclosed herein, it should be understood that the inventive concepts are not limited in their application to the details of the arrangement of structures, experiments, exemplary data, and / or components set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The inventive concepts disclosed and claimed herein are capable of other embodiments or can be implemented or performed in various ways. In addition, it should be understood that the words and terminology used herein are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any way.

[0089] In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the described subject matter, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the inventive concept. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the inventive concept within the present disclosure may be implemented without these specific details. In other cases, well-known features have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the present disclosure.

[0090] In addition, unless expressly stated to the contrary, "or" means an inclusive or rather than an exclusive or. For example, condition A or B is satisfied by any of the following conditions: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist), A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists), and both A and B are true (or exist).

[0091] In addition, "a" or "an" is used to describe elements and components of the embodiments herein. This is merely for convenience and to give a general understanding of the inventive concept. This description should be read to include one or at least one, and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is otherwise intended.

[0092] The term "subject" as used herein may mean a human subject or any animal subject.

[0093] Finally, as used herein, any reference to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The phrase "in one embodiment" appearing in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0094] In some embodiments, a suction device for removing medical or surgical byproducts such as smoke, tissue, and body fluids uses an air flow amplifier based on the Coanda effect to establish suction. Suction is primarily established by the device from an air flow or airflow (usually pressurized above ambient) provided to the suction device, rather than an external suction pump (although the device can be used with a suction pump). The device can have a safety feature that prevents pressurized gas from flowing in a "reverse" direction and flowing out of the device in the wrong direction. In other words, the device is constructed to prevent pressurized gas from flowing out of the suction end of the device (which could cause problems or injure the patient).

[0095] In some embodiments, a one-way valve is present along the air flow path inside the device to ensure that the pressurized gas flow does not flow out of the suction end of the device. The one-way valve may include a diverter port configured to allow the pressurized gas to escape to the atmosphere. The one-way valve may stop all flow through the suction port simply by isolating the suction port from the air flow amplifier and diverting the pressurized gas from the diverter port.

[0096] In some embodiments, the device may have an alarm that is activated when an obstruction (partially or entirely) blocks the discharge path used by the device. Such an alarm may be activated by the reversal of the flow caused by the obstruction. Such an alarm may also be activated by other (e.g., electronic) means. In some embodiments, the alarm may be activated by activating a one-way valve. In some embodiments, the alarm may be activated by the pressurized gas flowing out of the diverter port.

[0097] In some embodiments, the alarm may include one or more mechanical ratios and / or electronic transducers to measure the pressure within the device. The alarm may be configured to activate in response to an internal pressure within the device that reaches a threshold level. In some embodiments, the alarm may also notify the user of the current internal pressure level of the suction device and / or whether the internal pressure level is within a desired operating range.

[0098] The alarm may be an audible alarm, such as a whistle, siren, horn, beep, vibration, or any combination thereof. The alarm may be a visual alarm, such as a constant light or flashing light located on the device. The visual alarm may be an illuminated button or an icon with a symbol or word such as "flow obstructed" that may illuminate when the visual alarm is activated. The alarm may be a mechanical alarm, such as a tab, lever, or button that changes position, such as a button that ejects or ejects the device during an alarm or a lever that rotates outside the device during an alarm. The device may include one or more alarms. The device may include one or more visual alarms, audible alarms, mechanical alarms, or any combination thereof.

[0099] In some embodiments, the suction device or accessory includes a suction port or inlet port disposed toward a distal end of the suction device or accessory. The suction device or accessory also includes a pressurized gas port for receiving a first pressurized gas stream. A first air flow amplifier of the suction device or accessory is in fluid communication with the suction port. The air flow amplifier is configured to receive the first pressurized gas stream to produce a first low-pressure region. This first low-pressure region produces a first flow that enters the suction port from the outside of the suction device or accessory. The combined flow of the first pressurized gas stream and the first flow that enters the suction port is transmitted out of the output port of the first air flow amplifier.

[0100] The suction device or accessory can include a filter. This filter receives (and thus filters) the combined flow. The filter includes at least one filter inlet port and at least one filter output port. At least one filter inlet port is fluidly connected to a filter medium so that the air entering the filter passes through the filter medium before discharging at least one filter output port. Accordingly, the combined flow is filtered during its passage through the filter.

[0101] In some embodiments, the suction device or accessory may include a second air flow amplifier. The second air flow amplifier is configured to generate a second low pressure area, which generates a second flow from a second pressurized gas flow. The second air flow amplifier receives the second pressurized gas flow to generate a second low pressure area. Adding multiple air flow amplifiers increases the suction capacity of the suction device. In some embodiments, the second air flow amplifier may be connected to the first air flow amplifier. In some embodiments, the second air flow amplifier may be configured to compensate for flow losses and / or pressure (suction) losses due to the flow resistance of the filter. For example, the second air flow amplifier may compensate for a portion (e.g., 1 / 4, 1 / 2, etc.) or all of the flow resistance of the filter. In another example, the second air flow amplifier may generate a suction that exceeds (e.g., 1.25x, 1.5x) the flow resistance of the filter.

[0102] In some embodiments, the suction device or accessory may include a backflow preventer. The backflow preventer (e.g., a check valve, a one-way valve, etc.) may be configured to prevent the pressurized gas flow from being discharged through the suction port. If the backflow preventer is omitted or not activated, the pressurized gas flow may be discharged through the suction port in the event of a blockage, occlusion, or other obstruction to the flow through the output port. The blockage may occur in the suction device itself, an auxiliary conduit, pipeline, or piping that is configured to accommodate and carry away the material being sucked in by the suction device or accessory.

[0103] In some embodiments, the suction device or accessory includes an alarm. The alarm can be activated in response to an activated backflow preventer. In some embodiments, the backflow preventer redirects the pressurized gas flow to the shunt port. In some embodiments, the alarm is activated in response to redirecting the airflow to the shunt port. The alarm can be auditory. The alarm can be visual (e.g., an indicator that changes color, shape, etc.). The alarm can be mechanical (e.g., vibrates). In some embodiments, the alarm includes a whistle that produces an audible noise when air passes through it.

[0104] In some embodiments, a method for removing surgical byproducts includes receiving a pressurized gas flow through a suction assembly including a first air flow amplifier. The pressurized gas flow is provided to the first air flow amplifier. The first air flow amplifier creates a low pressure region that draws a suction flow into the suction assembly. The suction flow may include surgical byproducts. The suction flow enters a suction port from outside the suction assembly, passes through the air flow amplifier, and is discharged from the suction assembly via a positive pressure output (or exhaust) port.

[0105] The weight of the suction device can be less than about 10 kilograms (kg), 5kg, 4.5kg, 4kg, 3.5kg, 3kg, 2.5kg, 2kg, 1.5kg, 1kg or less. The weight of the device can be less than about 2kg. The weight of the device can be between about 0.5kg and about 2kg.

[0106] The suction device may have a maximum outer diameter of less than about 100 centimeters (cm), 75 cm, 50 cm, 45 cm, 40 cm, 35 cm, 30 cm, 25 cm, 20 cm, 15 cm, 14.5 cm, 14 cm, 13.5 cm, 13 cm, 12.5 cm, 12 cm, 11.5 cm, 11 cm, 10.5 cm, 10 cm, 5.5 cm, 5 cm, or less. The maximum outer diameter may be less than about 15 cm. The maximum outer diameter may be less than about 12 cm. The maximum outer diameter may be less than about 11.5 cm. The maximum outer diameter may be between about 5 cm and about 13 cm. The maximum outer diameter may be between about 50 cm and 40 cm. The maximum outer diameter may be between about 100 cm and about 50 cm.

[0107] The suction device can have a maximum external length of about 200cm, 150cm, 100cm, 75cm, 60cm, 55cm, 50cm, 45cm, 44cm, 43cm, 42cm, 41cm, 40cm, 39cm, 38cm, 37cm, 36cm, 35cm, 34cm, 33cm, 32cm, 31cm, 30cm, 29cm, 28cm, 27cm, 26cm, 25cm, 20cm or less. The device can have a maximum external length of less than about 45cm. The device can have a maximum external length of less than about 40cm. The device can have a maximum external length of about 39cm. The device can have a maximum external length between about 40cm and about 20cm. The device can have a maximum external length between about 200cm and about 50cm.

[0108] The suction device can have a maximum outer width of about 50cm, 45cm, 40cm, 35cm, 30cm, 25cm, 24cm, 23cm, 22cm, 21cm, 20cm, 19cm, 18cm, 17cm, 16cm, 15cm, 14cm, 13cm, 12cm, 11cm, 10cm, 9cm, 8cm, 7cm, 6cm, 5cm or less. The device can have a maximum outer width of less than about 20cm. The device can have a maximum outer width of less than about 19cm. The device can have a maximum outer width of between about 20cm and about 15cm. The device can have a maximum outer width of between about 50cm and about 20cm.

[0109] In some embodiments, the suction device includes a hollow shell. In some embodiments, the hollow shell may include one or more metals, one or more polymers, one or more plastics, one or more ceramics, or one or more composites or any combination thereof. The device may include one or more FDA-approved materials. The device may include one or more materials with good processing properties or machinability. The device may include one or more materials with a low coefficient of friction (such as less than 0.25, less than 0.2, less than 0.15, less than 0.1 or less). The device may include one or more materials with high tensile strength (such as greater than 6,000 pounds per square inch (psi), greater than 7,000 psi, greater than 8,000 psi, greater than 9,000 psi or greater).

[0110] The device may include one or more polymers. The device may include one or more copolymers. The device may include acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). The device may include polyacetal. For example, the device may include a polyacetal of formaldehyde, such as acetal (polyoxymethylene). The device may include one or more plastics. The device may include a polymer containing a siloxane, such as silicone oil, silicone rubber, silicone resin, or silicone caulk, or any combination thereof. For example, one or more valves of the device may include silicone. The device may include polystyrene, polyethylene, sintered glass, borosilicate glass, fiberglass, nylon, polyamide (PA), polyethersulfone (PES), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), surfactant-free cellulose acetate (SFCA), regenerated cellulose (RC), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the device may include one or more materials for sound attenuation, such as sound buffering (i.e., preventing vibration), sound absorption (i.e., absorbing noise), sound attenuation (i.e., reducing sound energy), or any combination thereof. The device may include a geometric shape that facilitates sound buffering, sound absorption, sound attenuation, or any combination thereof. The device may include laminate layers, surface microstructures, or combinations thereof to facilitate sound buffering, sound absorption, sound attenuation, or any combination thereof. The device may include anechoic tiles, fiberglass batting, polyurethane foam, porous foams (such as rubber foams), melamine foams (such as formaldehyde-melamine-sodium bisulfite copolymers), felt, resonance absorbers, Helmholtz resonators, or any combination thereof. The device may include acoustic decoupling alone or in combination with one or more materials for sound buffering.

[0111] In some embodiments, the suction device housing includes one or more hollow segments. In some embodiments, the suction device housing may include one or more hollow segments that are substantially aligned with each other. In some embodiments, one or more segments of the device can be positioned in a plurality of different orientations, including as a stack or other similar configurations, for example, four hollow segments can be arranged in two stacks of two hollow segments. In some embodiments, one or more hollow segments are configured to be connected so that one or more hollow segments are continuous. In some embodiments, one or more hollow segments are fluidly continuous so that, for example, a suction flow can travel from one hollow segment to another hollow segment. In some embodiments, one or more hollow segments are configured to be connected so that, for example, a flow of a gas, liquid, solid, or any combination thereof, which is sucked, can travel from one hollow segment to another hollow segment. In some embodiments, the hollow segments of the housing may also include other components (including ports). For example, in some embodiments, a first hollow segment of the suction device housing includes an inlet port, which may also include an external coupler or connector for connecting with, for example, a suction line. In some embodiments, the first hollow section of the device housing includes an alarm port, which includes an alarm configured to sound when the device cannot work properly due to, for example, an obstruction. In some embodiments, one or more hollow sections include one or more holes, which are configured and positioned to help communicate with one or more other hollow sections. In some embodiments, the first hollow section is aligned with the second hollow section, the first hollow section includes a first hole continuous with the interior of the first hollow section, the second hollow section includes a second hole continuous with the interior of the second hollow section, and the first hole is positioned so that it faces the second hole and is aligned or substantially aligned with the second hole. In some embodiments, the shape of one or more hollow sections can be tubular. In some embodiments, one or more hollow sections can be any polygonal shape, including, for example, a cubic or spherical shape. In some embodiments, the hole in the hollow section can be circular. In some embodiments, the hole in the hollow section can include any shape, including, for example, an ellipse, a square, a rectangle, or a triangle. In some embodiments, the housing also includes one or more air flow amplifier mechanisms. The first segment, the second segment, the third segment, or any additional segment of the device may include, for example, a cylindrical, square, rectangular, hexagonal, triangular, spiral, trapezoidal, elliptical, or any combination thereof. A portion of the hollow segment may include a cylindrical, square, rectangular, hexagonal, triangular, spiral, trapezoidal, elliptical, or any combination thereof. The hollow segment may include more than one shape. The first hollow segment, the second hollow segment, the third hollow segment, or any additional segment of the device may include a geometric shape that helps to attenuate or buffer sound. For example, a portion of the inner wall of the housing may include a surface micro-architecture to help attenuate sound.A portion of the inner wall of the housing may include a laminate layer comprising a material having sound absorbing properties or a laminate layer comprising a surface micro-architecture that facilitates sound attenuation, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, a portion of the inner wall may include a soundproofing panel. In some embodiments, a portion of the inner wall may include a labyrinth geometry, a hexagonal geometry, a convex geometry, a honeycomb geometry, or any combination thereof.

[0112] In some embodiments, the suction device includes an air flow amplifier mechanism. In some embodiments, the air flow amplifier mechanism is one or more components of the hollow segment. In some embodiments, the air flow amplifier is not a component of the hollow segment. In some embodiments, the first hole in the first hollow segment is continuous with the second hole in the second hollow segment. In some embodiments, the first hole in the first hollow segment is continuous with the second hole in the second hollow segment, and the first hollow segment and the second hollow segment are physically separated by the gap space. In some embodiments, the first hollow segment and the second hollow segment are continuous in fluid, but separated by the gap space, and the first hole of the first segment does not cover the entire surface of the first hollow segment, so that there is an area of ​​the solid surface of at least partially surrounding the first hole on the outside of the first hollow segment. Similarly, in some embodiments, the first hollow segment and the second hollow segment are continuous in fluid, but separated by the gap space, and the second hole of the second segment does not cover the entire surface of the second hollow segment, so that there is an area of ​​the solid surface of at least partially surrounding the second hole on the outside of the second hollow segment. In some embodiments, the gap space between the outer surface around the first hole and the outer surface around the second hollow second hole forms a conduit. In this embodiment, the conduit includes: a first wall including an outer surface surrounding the first hole; a second wall including an outer surface surrounding the second hollow second hole; and a gap space between the two walls. In some embodiments, the conduit is part of an air flow amplifier mechanism that is configured to passively generate suction within the housing that can be further transferred to the exterior of the housing.

[0113] In some embodiments, the air flow amplifier is at least partially contained in the suction device housing. In some embodiments, the air flow amplifier includes a mechanism for generating a low pressure zone in the housing relative to the ambient pressure, and the low pressure zone then generates a suction force. In some embodiments, the air flow amplifier causes the jet of pressurized gas to travel substantially completely along one or more inner surfaces of the hollow segment of the device housing. When the air flow amplifier causes the jet of pressurized gas to travel substantially completely along one or more inner surfaces of the hollow segment of the device housing, a low pressure zone is established inside the hollow segment of the device. In some embodiments, when the low pressure zone is established, the low pressure zone generates a suction force pointing substantially in the same direction as the jet. In some embodiments, the suction force generated by the jet generates suction at the inlet port of the housing. In some embodiments, the air flow amplifier includes a mechanism for guiding a pressurized gas flow. In some embodiments, the air flow amplifier includes a conduit continuous with the pressurized gas flow port, wherein the conduit is configured to receive pressurized gas from the pressurized gas flow port. In some embodiments, the conduit is positioned between the first hollow segment and the second hollow segment in the housing, and the conduit is configured to be continuous with the orifice fluid in the second hollow segment. In some embodiments, the conduit includes: a first wall including an outer surface surrounding the first hole; a second wall including an outer surface surrounding the second hollow second hole; and a gap space between the two walls. In some embodiments, the gap space may include an annular shape. In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the gap space may include any shape, including a cubic shape, a rectangular shape, and a triangular shape. In some embodiments, the conduit and the second hole of the air amplifier mechanism are positioned relative to each other so that the pressurized gas flow travels from the conduit to the second hole. In some embodiments, the conduit and the second hole are positioned relative to each other so that the pressurized gas flow travels through the conduit and enters the second hollow space. In some embodiments, the conduit and the second hole are positioned relative to each other so that the pressurized gas flow travels through the conduit and then enters the second hollow space, wherein the pressurized gas forms a jet flow that travels substantially entirely along one or more inner surfaces of the second hollow segment, thereby establishing a low pressure zone adjacent to the jet flow according to the Coanda effect. In this embodiment, the low pressure area generated in the second hollow segment draws a higher pressure air flow into the second hollow segment from an environment including a suction flow or a suction force outside the first hollow segment and the suction device. In this embodiment, the suction flow or suction force is transmitted through the second hollow segment, through the gap space (between the first hole and the second hole), through the first hollow segment and through the inlet port. In some embodiments, the first hollow space includes an inlet port or suction port, through which the suction generated by the air flow amplifier mechanism and the second hollow segment is transmitted to the outside of the device. In some embodiments, the device can be configured to provide a suction force to suck gas, liquid, solid or any combination thereof (for example, including steam).The suction force may draw or push the following items through the device: a) a portion of the substance, b) a portion of the pressurized gas, or c) a combination thereof. The suction force may draw or push a portion of the substance, a portion of the pressurized gas, or a combination thereof through one or more filters. The drawing or pushing may depend on the placement of the catheter relative to the suction flow or the position of the substance or pressurized gas.

[0114] In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle between about 0 and 90 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle between about 90 and 180 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 180 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 175 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 170 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 165 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 160 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 155 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 150 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 145 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 140 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 135 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 130 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 125 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 120 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 115 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 110 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 105 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 100 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 95 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 85 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 80 degrees relative to the second aperture of the air amplifier.In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 75 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 70 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 65 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 60 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 55 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 50 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 45 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 40 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 35 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 30 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 25 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 20 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 15 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 10 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 5 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 0 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier.

[0115] The inclined end of a segment with an angle between about 0 ° to 90 ° can be placed adjacent to the flared end of the second segment with an angle between about 90 ° to about 180 °, so that the gap space between the inclined end and the flared end forms a conduit. The inclined end of a segment and the flared end of the second segment can be substantially parallel to each other to enhance the laminar flow in the conduit. The angle of the inclined end of the first segment can match the angle of the flared end of the second segment. The angle of the inclined end of the first segment can be similar to the angle of the flared end of the second segment. For example, the inclined end of the first segment can be about 90 °, and the flared end of the second segment can be about 90 °. The inclined end of the first segment can be about 55 °, and the flared end of the second segment can be about 125 °. The inclined end of the first segment can be about 35 °, and the flared end of the second segment can be about 145 °. The flared end can include smooth or rounded edges to enhance or allow laminar flow through the conduit.

[0116] The catheter can also be formed by placing the inclined end of one segment at an angle between 0° and 90° adjacent to a second segment whose inclined end is inclined between about 90° and about 180°. For example, the inclined end of the first segment can be about 90°, and the inclined end of the second segment can be about 90°. The inclined end of the first segment can be about 55°, and the inclined end of the second segment can be about 125°. The inclined end of the first segment can be about 35°, and the inclined end of the second segment can be about 145°.

[0117] The inclined end may be inclined at an angle of about 90 degrees (°) or less relative to the central axis. The inclined end may be inclined at an angle of 90°, 85°, 80°, 75°, 70°, 65°, 60°, 55°, 50°, 45°, 40°, 35°, 30°, 25°, 20°, 15°, 10°, 5° or less. The inclined end may be inclined at about 55° relative to the central axis. The inclined end may be inclined at about 35° relative to the central axis. The inclined end may be inclined between about 55° and about 35° relative to the central axis. The inclined end may be inclined between about 60° and about 20° relative to the central axis.

[0118] The inclined end may be inclined at an angle of about 90 degrees (°) or greater relative to the central axis. The inclined end may be inclined at 90°, 95°, 100°, 105°, 110°, 115°, 120°, 125°, 130°, 135°, 140°, 145°, 150°, 155°, 160°, 165°, 170°, 175°, or about 180°. The inclined end may be inclined at about 125° relative to the central axis. The inclined end may be inclined at about 145° relative to the central axis. The inclined end may be inclined between about 125° and about 145° relative to the central axis. The inclined end may be inclined between about 120° and about 160° relative to the central axis.

[0119] The flared end can be flared at an angle of about 90 degrees (°) or greater relative to the central axis. The flared end can be flared at about 90°, 95°, 100°, 105°, 110°, 115°, 120°, 125°, 130°, 135°, 140°, 145°, 150°, 155°, 160°, 165°, 170°, 175° or about 180°. The flared end can be flared at about 125° relative to the central axis. The flared end can be flared at about 145° relative to the central axis. The flared end can be flared between about 125° and about 145° relative to the central axis. The flared end can be flared between about 120° and about 160° relative to the central axis.

[0120] The flared end can establish an angle less than about 90 degrees relative to the central axis. The flared end can establish an angle that can be about 90°, 85°, 80°, 75°, 70°, 65°, 60°, 55°, 50°, 45°, 40°, 35°, 30°, 25°, 20°, 15°, 10°, 5° or less relative to the central axis. The flared end can establish an angle that can be about 55° relative to the central axis. The flared end can establish an angle that can be about 35° relative to the central axis. The flared end can establish an angle that can be between about 55° and 35° relative to the central axis. The flared end can establish an angle that can be between about 60° and 20° relative to the central axis.

[0121] The slope can start at one end of the segment and continue to the opposite end of the segment. The slope can include a portion of the length of the segment. For example, the inclined portion of the length of the segment can be less than about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50% or less. The inclined portion of the length can be less than about 25%. The inclined portion of the length can be less than about 15%. The inclined portion of the length can be less than about 10%. The inclined portion of the length can be less than about 5%. The inclined portion of the length can be less than about 1%.

[0122] The flaring can start at one end of a segment and continue to the opposite end of the segment. The flaring can include a portion of the length of the segment. For example, the flaring portion of the length of a segment can be less than about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50% or less. The flaring portion of the length can be less than about 25%. The flaring portion of the length can be less than about 15%. The flaring portion of the length can be less than about 10%. The flaring portion of the length can be less than about 5%. The flaring portion of the length can be less than about 1%.

[0123] The angle of one or more angled ends, one or more flared ends, or any combination thereof can be adjustable. For example, a user can adjust one or more angles. For example, the angle can be automatically adjusted from a remote location. The angle can be adjusted based on a feedback mechanism, such as the suction capacity at the inlet port. The user can mechanically rotate the tuner arm to adjust the angle.

[0124] One or both ends of a segment can be flared, tilted, angled, sloped or tapered. For example, a segment can have a first end and a second end, one or both of which can be tilted. A segment can have a first end and a second end, one or both of which can be flared. A segment can have a first tilted end and a second flared end. One or more segments can be placed in series adjacent to each other, for example, by placing the flared end adjacent to the tilted end, or by placing the tilted end adjacent to different tilted ends. A segment with two flared ends can be placed in series with two additional segments by placing the tilted end of each additional segment adjacent to one of the two flared ends of the segment.

[0125] In some embodiments, a pressurized gas port (such as a positive pressure suction port) that provides pressurized gas can be positioned adjacent to any point on the exterior of the housing. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas port can be positioned along the housing at a point on the distal side of the air amplifier (wherein the proximal end of the device includes an end with an inlet port). In some embodiments, the pressurized gas port can be positioned at a point on the proximal side of the air amplifier (wherein the proximal end of the device includes an end with an inlet port). In some embodiments, the gas port can be positioned adjacent to an inlet port (such as a nozzle). In some embodiments, the gas port can be positioned adjacent to an outlet port (such as a pressurized waste port). In some embodiments, the gas port can be positioned at any point along the length of the catheter.

[0126] In some embodiments, one or more components of the air amplifier mechanism are adjustable. For example, the user can adjust the width of the gap space of the conduit of the air amplifier by, for example, moving one or more of the first hollow segment and the second hollow segment relative to each other (i.e., thereby moving the wall of the conduit relative to each other). In some embodiments, the width of the gap space of the conduit can be automatically adjusted from a remote position, for example. The width of the gap space of the conduit can be adjusted according to a feedback mechanism, such as the mass of the substance at the inlet port, or the liquid suction capacity at the inlet port. The user can mechanically rotate the tuner arm to adjust the width of the gap space of the conduit. The tuner arm can be operably connected to a groove, such as a spiral groove, which can establish a linear movement to adjust the width of the gap space of the conduit.

[0127] Reducing the width of the gap space of the conduit can increase the liquid suction capacity. Increasing the width of the gap space of the conduit can reduce the liquid suction capacity. The gas suction capacity can remain constant within the entire tuner arm adjustment range or within the entire range of the adjustable width of one or more gap spaces of the conduit. The volume ratio of gas suction to liquid suction at the inlet port (such as a nozzle) can be adjustable within the entire range of the width of the gap space of the conduit or within the entire range of the tuner arm adjustment. The tuner arm can include continuous rotation or can include discontinuous grooves corresponding to the specific width of the gap space of the conduit.

[0128] The length of the conduit may be about 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 14%, 13%, 12%, 11%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1% or less than the length of the first or second segment. The length of the conduit may be about 10% less than the length of the first or second segment. The length of the conduit may be about 20% less than the length of the first or second segment. The length of the conduit may be between about 1% and about 10% of the length of the first or second segment. The length of the conduit may be between about 1% and about 5% of the length of the first or second segment. The length of the conduit may be between about 1% and about 15% of the length of the first or second segment. The length of the conduit may be between about 1% and about 20% of the length of the first or second segment.

[0129] In some embodiments, the width of the gap space of the conduit can be less than about 10 centimeters (cm), 9.5cm, 9cm, 8.5cm, 8cm, 7.5cm, 7cm, 6.5cm, 6cm, 5.5cm, 5cm, 4.5cm, 4cm, 3.5cm, 3cm, 2.5cm, 2cm, 1.5cm, 1cm or less. The width of the gap space of the conduit can be less than about 50 millimeters (mm), 45mm, 40mm, 35mm, 30mm, 25mm, 20mm, 15mm, 10mm, 9mm, 8mm, 7mm, 6mm, 5mm, 4mm, 3mm, 2mm, 1mm, 0.5mm or less. The width of the gap space of the conduit can be less than about 5mm. The width of the gap space of the conduit can be less than about 4mm. The width of the gap space of the conduit can be less than about 3mm. The width of the gap space of the conduit can be less than about 2mm. The width of the gap space of the conduit can be less than about 1mm. The width of the interstitial space of the conduit may be adjustable between 0 mm and approximately 2 mm.

[0130] The device can apply a liquid suction capacity of about 40 pounds per square inch (psi), 35psi, 30psi, 29psi, 28psi, 27psi, 26psi, 25psi, 24psi, 23psi, 22psi, 21psi, 20psi, 19psi, 18psi, 17psi, 16psi, 15psi, 14psi, 13psi, 12psi, 11psi, 10psi, or about 5psi at the inlet port. The liquid suction capacity can be about 25psi. The liquid suction capacity can be about 20psi. The liquid suction capacity can be about 15psi. The liquid suction capacity can be about 10psi. The liquid suction capacity can be between about 25psi and about 10psi.

[0131] The liquid suction capacity of the device can be adjustable. The liquid suction capacity can be adjustable between about 25psi and about 10psi. The liquid suction capacity can be adjustable between about 40psi and about 5psi. The liquid suction capacity can be adjustable between about 30psi and about 10psi. The liquid suction capacity can be adjustable between about 25psi and about 5psi. The liquid suction capacity can be manually adjusted by the user, for example by adjusting the gap space of the catheter, or the user can specify the liquid suction capacity that can be programmed into the device, for example at a remote location.

[0132] Adjusting the gap space can be independent of the gas suction capacity, but the liquid suction capacity at the inlet port can be changed. The device can be able to maintain a constant gas suction capacity over the entire wide range of adjustable liquid suction capacity. The device can be able to maintain a constant gas suction capacity over the entire range of adjustable liquid suction capacity from about 10 pounds per square inch (psi) to about 25psi. The device can be able to maintain a constant gas suction capacity over the entire range of adjustable liquid suction capacity from about 5psi to about 40psi. The device can be able to maintain a constant gas suction capacity over the entire range of adjustable liquid suction capacity from about 10psi to about 30psi. The device can be able to maintain a constant gas suction capacity over the entire range of adjustable liquid suction capacity from about 5psi to about 25psi.

[0133] The volume flow rate at the inlet port can be about 4 cubic feet per minute (cfm), 4.5 cfm, 5 cfm, 5.5 cfm, 6 cfm, 6.5 cfm, 7 cfm, 7.5 cfm, 8 cfm, 8.5 cfm, 9 cfm, 9.5 cfm, 10 cfm, 10.5 cfm, 11 cfm, 11.5 cfm, 12 cfm, 12.5 cfm, 13 cfm, 13.5 cfm, 14 cfm, 14.5 cfm, 15 cfm, 15.5 cfm, 16 cfm, 17 cfm, 18 cfm, 19 cfm, or 20 cfm. The volume flow rate can be between about 4 cfm and about 6 cfm. The volume flow rate can be between about 12 cfm and about 15 cfm.

[0134] The liquid suction rate at the inlet port can be about 100 cubic centimeters per second (cc / s), 95cc / s, 90cc / s, 85cc / s, 80cc / s, 75cc / s, 70cc / s, 65cc / s, 60cc / s, 55cc / s, 50cc / s, 45cc / s, 40cc / s, 35cc / s, 30cc / s, 25cc / s, 20cc / s, 15cc / s, 10cc / s or about 5cc / s. The liquid suction rate can be between about 60cc / s and about 5cc / s. The liquid suction rate can be at least about 30cc / s. The liquid suction rate can be at least 25cc / s.

[0135] The liquid suction rate can be adjustable. The liquid suction rate can be adjustable between about 60cc / s to about 5cc / s. The liquid suction rate can be adjustable between about 60cc / s to about 30cc / s. The liquid suction rate can be adjustable between about 100cc / s to about 30cc / s. The liquid suction rate can be manually adjusted by the user, for example, by adjusting the gap space of the conduit, or the user can specify the liquid suction rate that can be programmed into the device, for example, at a remote location.

[0136] The inner diameter of the inlet port can be adjustable. The user can adjust the inner diameter of the inlet port, for example, by rotating the third tuner arm on the device. The inner diameter of the inlet port can be automatically adjusted based on the volume of the material entering the inlet port. The inner diameter can be adjustable between about 5 millimeters (mm) to about 10 centimeters (cm). The inner diameter can be adjustable between about 5mm to about 50mm. The inner diameter can be adjustable between about 25mm to about 100mm. The inner diameter can be adjustable between about 0.5cm to 5cm. The inner diameter can be adjustable between about 0.5cm to about 10cm. The inner diameter can be manually adjusted by the user, for example, by adjusting the third tuner arm, or the user can, for example, specify the inner diameter of the inlet port that can be programmed into the device at a remote location.

[0137] The suction device described herein provides suction while generating minimal or irrelevant sounds. The operation of the suction device described herein can generate one or more sounds. One or more sounds can be equivalent to background noise of, for example, about 43 decibels (dB). One or more sounds can be less than 6dB larger than background noise. One or more sounds can be less than 4dB larger than background noise. One or more sounds can be less than about 40dB, 35dB, 30dB, 29dB, 28dB, 27dB, 26dB, 25dB, 24dB, 23dB, 22dB, 21dB, 20dB, 19dB, 18dB, 17dB, 16dB, 15dB, 14dB, 13dB, 12dB, 11dB, 10dB, 5dB or less. One or more sounds can be less than about 40dB. One or more sounds can be less than about 30dB. One or more sounds can be less than about 20dB. The one or more sounds may be between about 10 dB and about 30 dB. The one or more sounds may be between about 15 dB and about 35 dB.

[0138] One or more embodiments including a backflow alarm or alarm may emit one or more sounds. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be audible. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be about 100dB, 95dB, 90dB, 85dB, 80dB, 75dB, 70dB, 65dB, 60dB, 55dB, 50dB or 45dB. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be about 80dB. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be about 70dB. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be about 60dB. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be about 50dB. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be between about 45dB and about 60dB. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be between about 45dB and about 75dB.

[0139] One or more filters may be included in the device. For example, two, three, four, five or more filters may be included in the device. One or more filters may be positioned before the interstitial space of the conduit, after the interstitial space of the conduit, or a combination thereof. One or more filters may be positioned at an inlet port (such as at a nozzle), an outlet port (such as a pressurized waste port), in a housing, or any combination thereof. One or more filters may collect substances such as solid matter. One or more filters may collect bacterial particles, viral particles, solid surgical waste, or any combination thereof. One or more filters may collect solid matter based on the pore size of one or more filters. The pore size of the filter may be less than 100 microns (μm), 70 μm, 20 μm, 10 μm, 5 μm, 2 μm, 1 μm, 0.7 μm, 0.5 μm, 0.4 μm, 0.3 μm, 0.2 μm, 0.1 μm, 0.02 μm, 0.01 μm or less. The pore size may be about 100 μm or less. The pore size may be about 70 μm or less. The pore size may be about 0.5 μm or less. The pore size may be about 0.2 μm or less. One or more filters may be positioned in series.

[0140] The device can be used to collect, for example, fluid samples, cell samples, or tissue samples. For example, the device can be used to collect tissue samples, such as polyps during a colonoscopy. The device can be used to collect tumor biopsy samples. The device can be used to collect fluid samples, such as blood samples during surgery.

[0141] One or more filters may be included in the device to collect samples. One or more filters may be included in the device to classify the suction flow so that one or more samples can be collected from the suction flow. One or more filters can collect tissue samples and allow filtering or removing excess gas or liquid that may also be sucked during collection. One or more filters can collect cell samples and allow filtering or removing excess gas or liquid that may also be sucked during collection. One or more filters can collect tissue samples and cell samples in the separated areas of the device and allow filtering or removing excess gas or liquid that may also be sucked during collection. One or more filters can use filters of different pore sizes to separate collection materials (i.e., tissues, cells, particles). One or more filters can use positive selection or negative selection based on one or more cell surface markers to separate collection materials, such as cell samples. In some embodiments, the device may include a fluid path of a specific geometry to classify the suction flow and collect samples of particular interest.

[0142] One or more gases or liquids or tissues (such as excess gases or liquids or tissues) can be discharged from the device. Excess gases or liquids or tissues can be collected in a collection unit for further use, such as collecting excess blood, for further analysis of the condition of the subject or for further research use. Excess gases or liquids or solids can be recycled for further use, such as collecting excess blood that can be recycled for the subject. The device can also include a collection unit for storing collection materials (such as storing tissue samples after collection). The collection unit of the device can be separated from the device, such as a separation unit that can be attached to the device during use, or can be formed in the device. The collection unit can be reusable.

[0143] In some embodiments, the device can be used, for example, to provide suction during a surgical procedure. In some embodiments, the device can be configured to suction, for example, smoke, blood, or surgical debris (including, for example, feces, pus, irrigation fluids, or bone fragments). In some embodiments, the suction device provides sufficient suction entirely, or, in some embodiments, one or more filters located within the device or positioned in series with the device can, for example, separate gases, liquids, and solids that are suctioned from the surgical site. For example, a first filter can be positioned immediately before the inlet port of the device to filter solids, and a second filter can be positioned within the device to filter liquids and smaller particles from the suctioned gas.

[0144] Surgical byproducts may include one or more of liquids (e.g., blood, saliva), smoke, tissue, and / or toxic chemicals. The suction flow may pass through a filter before being discharged from the suction assembly. The suction flow may pass through a second air amplifier (e.g., after the filter).

[0145] The suction flow can pass through a backflow preventer (e.g., a one-way valve) to prevent the pressurized gas flow from being discharged from the suction assembly via the suction port (e.g., in the event of an obstruction). The user can be alerted to the presence of an obstruction in the suction assembly. The pressurized gas can be shunted to activate an alarm. When the backflow preventer is activated, the pressurized gas flow can be directed out of the shunting port of the suction assembly, thereby preventing the pressurized gas flow from being discharged from the suction assembly via the suction port.

[0146] In some embodiments, the suction assembly includes a low pressure port to receive surgical byproducts in a flow entering the low pressure port. The suction assembly also includes a positive pressure exhaust port to deliver surgical byproducts from the suction assembly for collection. The positive pressure gas port receives a pressurized gas flow. The first air amplifier establishes a flow from the low pressure port to the positive pressure port. The flow propels surgical byproducts entrained in the suction flow from the suction port to the exhaust port.

[0147] In some embodiments, the suction assembly may include one or more valves. One or more valves may be one-way valves. One or more valves may be shuttle valves, pressure relief valves, backflow prevention valves, check valves, or any combination thereof.

[0148] In some embodiments, the spring can be a source of energy for sealing one or more valves (such as a shuttle valve). The spring can provide a force between about 0 pounds (lbs) and about 30 pounds. The spring can provide a force between about 2 pounds and about 4 pounds. The spring can provide a force of at least about 2.5 pounds. The spring can provide a force of at least about 2 pounds. The spring can provide a force of at least about 1.5 pounds. The spring can provide a force of at least about 1 pound. The spring can provide a force of at least about 0.5 pounds. The spring can provide a force between about 0.5 pounds and 1 pound. The spring can provide a force between about 0.5 pounds and about 0.8 pounds.

[0149] In some embodiments, the suction assembly may further include a backflow prevention valve. The backflow prevention valve blocks the pressurized gas flow from being discharged via the low-pressure port. Specifically, when an obstruction blocks the flow between the backflow valve and the discharge port, the backflow prevention valve prevents the pressurized gas from flowing out of the low-pressure port. The backflow prevention valve may also shunt the pressurized gas flow from the shunt port of the suction assembly.

[0150] In some embodiments, the air amplifier device includes a structure defining a generally cylindrical cavity having a first opening at a first end and a second opening at a second end. The cylindrical cavity is defined by the inner wall of the cavity. The structure has a gap space, such as an annular opening, in the inner wall near the first end defining the jet opening. The jet opening is suitable for allowing pressurized gas to flow out of the annular opening, so that a low pressure area is generated at the first end and an amplified flow is generated at the second end. The annular opening is configured so that the pressurized gas enters the cavity at a certain angle (e.g., 0°-90°) relative to the inner wall of the cavity toward the second end. In some embodiments, a sharper acute angle (e.g., 30°-50°) may be required. At the place where the annular opening is connected to the cavity, the cavity is configured so that it expands to a larger diameter.

[0151] In some embodiments, the size of the interstitial space (e.g., an annular opening) is adjustable to control the pressure differential between ambient air and the low pressure region at the first end. A portion of the structure may be rotatable to adjust the size of the annular opening to control the pressure differential. The annular opening may have a profile such that pressurized gas entering the cavity attaches to the curved surface of the portion of the structure defining the annular opening, thereby establishing a low pressure region that increases the total mass flow of the amplified flow.

[0152] The size of the annular opening can be adjustable to control the ratio of gas suction to liquid suction provided by the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the suction device includes a rotatable member to adjust the size of the annular opening to control the pressure difference between the ambient air and the low pressure area at the first end. In some embodiments, the annular opening has a profile so that the pressurized gas entering the cavity attaches to the curved surface of the portion of the structure that defines the annular opening, thereby establishing a low pressure area that increases the total mass flow rate of the amplified flow. The annular opening can have a profile so that the pressurized gas entering the cavity attaches to the portion of the structure that defines the annular opening, thereby establishing a low pressure area and increasing the total mass flow rate of the amplified flow.

[0153] In some embodiments, the device for establishing suction includes a housing defining a cavity having a first opening at a first end and a second opening at a second end. The device also has at least one opening in the inner surface of the housing, which is adapted to allow airflow to be discharged from the at least one opening so that a low pressure area is generated at the first end and a combined flow is generated at the second end. This combined flow includes an airflow and a suction flow, and the suction flow enters the first end due to the low pressure area. The device also has a controller that operates at least one opening to adjust the amount of the pressure difference between the low pressure area and the ambient pressure.

[0154] In some embodiments, at least one opening is configured to use the Coanda effect. In some embodiments, at least one opening is configured to use the Venturi effect. The device may also have an obstruction detector that prevents airflow from being discharged from at least one opening when the combined flow is blocked.

[0155] In some embodiments, the medical suction device includes a positive pressure input port for receiving a pressurized gas flow. The device also includes an input port to provide a low pressure area for entraining and receiving a substance into the suction device. The device also includes a positive pressure output port to output a material flow and a pressurized gas flow received into the suction device via the input port. The device also has a check valve communicated with the input port to at least prevent the pressurized gas flow from being discharged via the suction port.

[0156] In some embodiments, the medical suction device also includes an alarm to mechanically activate when the check valve prevents the flow from being discharged through the suction port. In some embodiments, the activation check valve can at least shunt a portion of the pressurized gas flow to activate the alarm. This shunt portion of the pressurized gas can establish an audible alarm. For example, the shunt portion can pass through a whistle, thereby producing an audible sound. The alarm can be a visible indicator. The shunt portion of the pressurized gas can move a member that makes the indicator visible to the operator of the medical suction device. The alarm can include a mechanical gauge or an electronic transducer for measuring the pressure in the medical suction device. The alarm can be configured to activate in response to the internal pressure of the device reaching a threshold standard. The alarm can also notify the user whether the current internal pressure level of the device and / or one or more internal pressure levels are within (or outside) the desired operating range.

[0157] In some embodiments, the medical suction device includes an internal tubular cavity from the suction port to the exhaust port. The air amplifier assembly is in fluid flow communication with the internal tubular cavity. The air amplifier assembly receives a compressed air source, whereby the compressed air is guided by the air amplifier assembly to establish a low pressure area at the input port and flow out of the exhaust port. The medical suction device also includes a backflow prevention valve, which is located in the internal tubular cavity between the input port and the air amplifier assembly.

[0158] In some embodiments, the medical suction device also includes an alarm that is mechanically activated when the backflow prevention valve prevents the flow from being discharged through the suction port. The activation of the backflow prevention valve (to prevent the flow from being discharged through the input port) can also shunt at least a portion of the compressed air flow to activate the alarm. The alarm can be an audible sound established by a portion of the compressed air flow. For example, a portion of the compressed air flow can pass through a whistle, thereby establishing an audible sound. The alarm can be a visible indicator. The shunt portion of the compressed air flow can move a member that makes a visible indicator visible to the operator of the medical suction device.

[0159] In some embodiments, the medical suction device may include an obstruction removal controller that is combined with a backflow prevention valve to pressurize at least a portion of the lumen to remove obstructions. For example, when the obstruction removal controller is activated, the obstruction may be forced to be discharged from the discharge port by compressed air.

[0160] In some embodiments, a method of operating a medical suction device includes receiving a pressurized gas flow. The method also includes using the pressurized gas flow to establish a low pressure area at the input port, thereby entraining and receiving the material into the suction device. The method also includes discharging the material flow and the pressurized gas flow received via the input port via the output port. The method also includes activating a valve to at least prevent the pressurized gas flow from being discharged via the input port in response to an obstruction that reduces the pressurized gas flow and the material flow discharged via the output port to below a first threshold standard.

[0161] In some embodiments, the method further comprises activating an alarm in response to an obstruction that reduces the flow of pressurized gas and the flow of material discharged via the output port to below a second threshold criterion. In some embodiments, the first threshold criterion and the second threshold criterion are met by a combined reduction in the flow of the pressurized gas and the flow of material discharged via the output port. The alarm can be coupled to the valve to activate the alarm when the valve is activated.

[0162] The term "about" means the recited numerical indication plus or minus 15% of the recited numerical indication.

[0163] As used herein, the term "material stream" generally refers to a stream of one or more gases, one or more liquids, one or more solids, or any combination thereof.

[0164] As used herein, the term "fluid" generally refers to one or more gases, one or more liquids, or any combination thereof. A fluid may also contain solids, such as solid particles.

[0165] The term "surgical tool" as used herein generally refers to an instrument used in a surgical setting. Surgical tools may include cutting instruments, grasping or holding instruments, retractors, clamps, retractors. A surgical tool may be an electrocautery. Surgical tools may include bite tools, osteotomes, cartilage crushers, bone cutters, bone distractors, intramedullary powered bone distractors, bone drills, bone levels, bone mallets, bone rasps, bone saws, bone pries, bone splints, bone buttons, forceps, cannulas, cauterizers, curettes, suppressors, dilators, scalpels, surgical forceps, dermatomes, forceps, hooks (i.e., nerve hooks, obstetric hooks, skin hooks), lancets, dental extraction knives, lythotome, lythotript, mallet, Mammotome, needle holders, obturators, bone knives, elevators (i.e., periosteum, Joseph, Septum, Tessier periosteum), probes, retractors, rib dilators, bone rongeurs, ultrasonic scalpels, laser scalpels, scissors, scrapers, speculum, suction tubes, surgical elevators, surgical needles, knives, snares, sponges, spoons, staplers, sutures, tracheotomes, tissue dilators, trephine drills or cannula needles.

[0166] The term "container" as used herein generally refers to a container such as a collection container. A container can collect one or more fluids, such as one or more liquids. A container can also collect one or more solids. A container can transfer one or more fluids through a container, such as from an input port to an output port of the container. The container can include plastic or metal. The container can be disposable. The container can have one or more input ports, one or more output ports, or any combination thereof. The container can be a round or cylindrical container. The container can hold at least about 0.25 liters, 0.5 liters, 0.75 liters, 1 liter, 2 liters, 5 liters, 10 liters, 20 liters, 50 liters, 100 liters, 500 liters, or more of liquid volume. The container can hold at least about 0.25 liters of liquid volume. The container can hold at least about 0.5 liters of liquid volume. The container can hold at least about 0.75 liters of liquid volume. The container can hold at least about 1 liter of liquid volume. The container can hold at least about 2 liters of liquid volume. The container can hold at least about 5 liters of liquid volume. The container can hold at least about 10 liters of liquid volume. The container can hold a liquid volume of at least about 20 liters. The container can hold a liquid volume of at least about 50 liters. The container can hold a liquid volume of at least about 100 liters.

[0167] As used herein, the term "filter" generally refers to a filter that collects particles based on particle size. One or more filters may be included in a system or suction device to classify the fluid involved so that one or more samples can be collected from the fluid involved. One or more filters can collect tissue samples and allow filtering or removal of excess gas or liquid that may also be involved or sucked during the operation of the system or device. One or more filters can collect cell samples and allow filtering or removal of excess gas or liquid that may also be involved or sucked during the operation of the system or device. One or more filters can collect tissue samples and cell samples in the separation zone of the device or at different locations within the system and allow filtering or removal of excess gas or liquid that may also be involved or sucked during the operation of the system or device. One or more filters can use filters of different pore sizes to separate and collect materials (i.e., tissues, cells, particles). One or more filters can use positive selection or negative selection based on one or more cell surface markers to separate and collect materials, such as cell samples. In some embodiments, the device may include a fluid path of a specific geometry to classify the suction flow and collect samples of particular interest.

[0168] The term "tubing" generally refers to a hollow lumen having a first open end and a second open end. The tubing can be fluidically connected to other components of the system, such as to a surgical tool, a filter, or a container. The tubing can have multiple lengths. The tubing can have multiple inner diameters, multiple outer diameters, and multiple thicknesses. The tubing can be flexible. The tubing can be disposable. The tubing can be integrated with a container, a filter, a surgical tool, or a combination thereof.

[0169] The term "fluid communication" generally refers to two components that are fluidly connected, such as a surgical tool and a container. For example, when an additional component such as a tube is positioned between the two components, the surgical tool and the container can be directly fluidly connected, or can be indirectly fluidly connected. When the surgical tool is in fluid communication with the container, the same fluid can be transferred from the surgical tool to the container, or vice versa.

[0170] Passive suction devices can push material flow through a system, such as a system including a passive suction device, a surgical tool, a container, a filter, a pipeline, or any combination thereof. Passive suction devices can extract material flow through the system. A first passive suction device can push material flow through the system, and a second passive suction device can extract material flow through the system. Thrust or suction can be generated by a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof. Thrust or suction can be suction force or vacuum force. Using a passive suction device to generate a thrust or suction force for a material flow through a system can depend on the positioning of the passive suction device in the system. For example, connecting the output port of a passive suction device to the input port of a surgical tool can generate thrust to push material flow through the surgical tool. In some cases, connecting the output port of a surgical tool to the input port of a passive suction device can generate suction to extract material flow through the surgical tool. Placing two passive suction devices in a system can balance the pressure of material flow in at least a portion of the system (e.g., a container or pipeline). Placing a passive suction device within the system may change the efficiency of the system.

[0171] The term "efficiency" as used herein generally refers to the efficiency of a device or system (such as a surgical system or a passive suction device). Efficiency can be a measurable ability to avoid wasting any of the following: suction capacity, suction head (such as an integral suction head), decibel level of a system or device, pressure head, fluid consumption, or other. The efficiency of a system or device can refer to the efficiency of fluid consumption (such as air consumption), the efficiency of reducing or minimizing the decibel or noise level of a system or device, the efficiency of overcoming pressure differences without compromising suction capacity, overcoming the resistance of filters in a system or device, the efficiency of flow distribution of the fluid, the efficiency of the suction head, the efficiency of flow rate, or any combination thereof. For example, such as Fig.42A The system can provide Fig.42BIn some embodiments, changing the position of a suction device within a system can change the efficiency of the system. In some embodiments, changing the position of a filter within a system can change the efficiency of the system. In some embodiments, changing the position of a filter within a device can change the efficiency of the device. In some embodiments, changing the shape of a filter can change the efficiency of a system or device. For example, shortening or widening a filter can reduce the pressure differential without compromising suction to increase the efficiency of a system or device.

[0172] The term "facing surface" as used herein generally refers to the outer surface of at least a portion of one end of a hollow segment. A facing surface positioned adjacent to or overlapping at least a portion of a second facing surface may form a conduit. The facing surface may be a geometric shape, wherein the geometric shape guides the flow of material into the passive suction device. The facing surface may include the entire periphery around one end of the hollow segment. The facing surface may be at least a portion of the periphery around one end of the hollow segment. The facing surface may be adjacent to the inner surface of the hollow segment.

[0173] The term "narrowing" as used herein generally refers to the narrowing of the inner diameter of a passive suction device, such as the narrowing of a hollow segment. The passive suction device may include one or more narrowings. The narrowing may produce a Venturi effect. The narrowing may produce a converging and diverging fluid flow. The length of the narrowing may include about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50% or less of the total length of the hollow segment. The length of the narrowing may include about 1% or less of the total length of the hollow segment. The length of the narrowing may include about 5% or less of the total length of the hollow segment. The length of the narrowing may include about 10% or less of the total length of the hollow segment. The length of the narrowing may include about 15% or less of the total length of the hollow segment. The length of the narrowing may include about 20% or less of the total length of the hollow segment. The length of the narrowing portion may include a length of approximately 25% or less of the total length of the hollow segment. The length of the narrowing portion may include a length of approximately 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50% or less of the total length of the suction device. The length of the narrowing portion may include a length of approximately 1% or less of the total length of the suction device. The length of the narrowing portion may include a length of approximately 5% or less of the total length of the suction device. The length of the narrowing portion may include a length of approximately 10% or less of the total length of the suction device. The length of the narrowing portion may include a length of approximately 15% or less of the total length of the suction device. The length of the narrowing portion may include a length of approximately 20% or less of the total length of the suction device. The length of the narrowing portion may include a length of approximately 25% or less of the total length of the suction device. The narrowing may include an inner diameter of the hollow section that is about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50% smaller in diameter than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow section. The narrowing may include an inner diameter of the hollow section that is about 1% smaller in diameter than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow section. The narrowing may include an inner diameter of the hollow section that is about 5% smaller in diameter than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow section. The narrowing may include an inner diameter of the hollow section that is about 10% smaller in diameter than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow section. The narrowing may include an inner diameter of the hollow section that is about 15% smaller in diameter than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow section. The narrowing may comprise an inner diameter of the hollow segment that is approximately 20% smaller in diameter than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow segment. The narrowing may comprise an inner diameter of the hollow segment that is approximately 25% smaller in diameter than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow segment.

[0174] The term "Venturi effect" as used herein generally refers to the reduction in fluid pressure or the creation of a low pressure zone when a fluid flows through a narrowing or reduction in the inner diameter of a lumen (such as a hollow segment). The passage of the fluid through the narrowing may create a low pressure zone, such as a zone at the narrowing or a zone roughly adjacent to the narrowing. The narrowing may form a convergent and then divergent fluid flow zone, such that the velocity of the fluid increases and its local pressure decreases as the fluid passes through the narrowing.

[0175] As used herein, the term "Coanda effect" generally refers to the tendency of a fluid, such as a pressurized gas or air jet, to be drawn to a nearby surface, such as a facing surface of a hollow segment of a passive suction device.

[0176] The term "Bernoulli effect" as used herein generally refers to a principle in fluid dynamics where an increase in fluid velocity occurs simultaneously with a decrease in pressure or a decrease in the potential energy of the fluid.

[0177] As used herein, the term "pressurized fluid" generally refers to a fluid jet, a fluid that powers a passive suction device, or a fluid with a high velocity. The pressurized fluid may be a gas or a liquid.

[0178] The low pressure area in the device can be a low pressure area relative to different areas in the device. The low pressure area can be about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure area can be about 5% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure area can be about 10% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure area can be about 15% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure area can be about 20% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure area can be about 25% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure area can be about 30% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure area can be about 35% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure area can be about 40% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure area can be about 45% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure area can be about 50% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure area in the device can be a low pressure area relative to atmospheric pressure. A low pressure area may be about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50% below atmospheric pressure. A low pressure area may be about 5% below atmospheric pressure. A low pressure area may be about 10% below atmospheric pressure. A low pressure area may be about 15% below atmospheric pressure. A low pressure area may be about 20% below atmospheric pressure. A low pressure area may be about 25% below atmospheric pressure. A low pressure area may be about 30% below atmospheric pressure. A low pressure area may be about 35% below atmospheric pressure. A low pressure area may be about 40% below atmospheric pressure. A low pressure area may be about 45% below atmospheric pressure. A low pressure area may be about 50% below atmospheric pressure.

[0179] The first facing surface may be adjacent to the second facing surface. The first facing surface may at least partially overlap with the second facing surface, such as overlapping less than about 25% of the length of the second facing surface. The first facing surface may substantially overlap with the second facing surface, such as overlapping greater than about 25% of the length of the second facing surface. The second facing surface may at least partially overlap with the first facing surface, such as overlapping less than about 25% of the length of the first facing surface. The second facing surface may substantially overlap with the first facing surface, such as overlapping greater than about 25% of the length of the first facing surface.

[0180] The term "gas" as used herein generally refers to a fluid that has neither an independent shape nor a volume. The gas can be a mixture of one or more gases (such as air or ambient air). The gas can be a mixture of one or more gases (such as nitrogen oxides and oxygen). The gas can be a pure gas, such as oxygen, nitrogen, argon or other gases. The gas may be smoke, such as smoke generated during surgery, such as surgical smoke. The gas can be a pressurized gas, such as pressurized air, nitrogen, argon or other gases. The gas can be used as a power, such as a jet of gas or pressurized air to generate a vacuum force, thereby entraining the material flow into the passive suction device. The gas can be at least a portion of the entrained fluid drawn into the passive suction device from a site such as a surgical site.

[0181] The term "body fluid" as used herein generally refers to amniotic fluid, aqueous humor, vitreous humor, bile, blood, serum, breast milk, cerebrospinal fluid, cerumen, chyle, chyme, endolymph, perilymph, exudate, feces, gastric acid, gastric juice, lymph, mucus, pericardial fluid, peritoneal fluid, pleural fluid, pus, thin mucus, saliva, sebum, serum, semen, smegma, sputum, synovial fluid, sweat, tears, urine, vomitus, or a combination thereof.

[0182] The term "conduit" as used herein generally refers to a hollow lumen through which a material flow (such as a gas, a liquid or a combination thereof) passes. One or more solids such as solid particles may also pass through the conduit. The conduit may be a slit-shaped opening around the periphery of a hollow segment or around the periphery of the first and second hollow segments adjacent to each other. The conduit may be an annular opening. The conduit may be formed by overlapping at least a portion of two hollow segments, wherein the outer diameter of the first hollow segment is less than the inner diameter of the second hollow segment. In some cases, the passive suction device may include a conduit. The conduit may be formed by positioning the first facing surface of one end of the first hollow segment adjacent to or at least partially overlapping the second facing surface of one end of the second hollow segment. In some cases, the fluid may enter the passive suction device via the conduit. In some cases, the geometry of the facing surface may guide the fluid to enter the flow path of the passive suction device via the conduit. In some cases, a pressurized fluid such as a gas jet may enter the passive suction device via a conduit. The pressurized fluid may be guided into the suction device via a conduit to form a low pressure zone in the suction device. In some cases, the entrained fluid (such as gas or body fluid) can enter the passive suction device via a catheter. The entrained fluid can be drawn into the suction device via a catheter through a low pressure area generated in the suction device.

[0183] The system may include one or more suction devices, one or more pipelines, one or more containers, one or more filters, one or more surgical devices, or any combination thereof. For example, the system may include a suction device, two pipelines, a container, a filter, and a surgical device. The system may include two suction devices, two pipelines, a container, a filter, and a surgical device. The system may include a suction device, two containers, a filter, three pipelines, and a surgical device. The system may include two suction devices. The system may include three suction devices. The system may include four suction devices. The system may include five suction devices. The system may include six suction devices. The system may include two containers. The system may include three containers. The system may include four containers. The system may include five containers. The system may include six containers.

[0184] The term "amplifier" as used herein generally refers to a fluid amplifier, such as an air amplifier. A suction device as described herein may be a fluid amplifier. A fluid amplifier may generate suction using a motive fluid, such as an air jet or pressurized gas, to draw in or draw in an entrained fluid from a site adjacent to the fluid amplifier, such as a surgical site. The amplifier may blow, eject, or release an output stream that may include at least a portion of the motive fluid, at least a portion of the entrained fluid, or a combination thereof. A fluid amplifier may draw in fluid from a site, draw fluid from a site, suck fluid from a site, blow fluid out of an output port of the amplifier, eject fluid from an output port of the amplifier, release fluid from an output port of the amplifier, or any combination thereof. A suction device or system as described herein may be a fluid amplifier.

[0185] The term "multiplier" as used herein generally refers to a fluid multiplier, such as an air multiplier. The suction device as described herein can be a fluid multiplier. The fluid multiplier can pass a motive fluid (such as an air jet) through the surface of a structural element such as a wing-shaped or fan-shaped shape. The facing surface of the fluid multiplier can include a wing-shaped or fan-shaped shape. When the air jet passes through the wing-shaped shape, a low pressure area is formed near the surface of the wing-shaped shape, thereby causing additional air to pass through the surface. The fluid multiplier may also draw in or draw fluid (such as air) from a location adjacent to the fluid multiplier (such as a surgical site). For example, the wing-shaped element can be formed in a circumferential orientation, such as a cylinder, so that air on one side of the cylinder can be drawn in. The fluid multiplier can produce a total air flow including a motive fluid, an inducing fluid, an entrained fluid, or any combination thereof. The fluid discharged from the output port of the fluid multiplier can include a motive fluid, an inducing fluid, an entrained fluid, or any combination thereof. The fluid multiplier can multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 times or more compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier can multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 2 times compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier can multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 4 times compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier can multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 6 times compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier can multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 8 times compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier can multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 10 times compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier can multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 15 times compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier can multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 20 times compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The suction device or system as described herein can be a fluid multiplier.

[0186] The term "conveyor" as used herein generally refers to a fluid conveyor, such as an air conveyor. A suction device or system as described herein may be a fluid conveyor. A fluid conveyor may draw, transport or blow fluids (such as air, liquids), solids (such as solid particles), or any combination thereof. A fluid conveyor may utilize a motive fluid such as an air jet or pressurized gas to generate a low pressure area to produce suction or vacuum, thereby drawing, transporting or blowing fluids. A suction device or system as described herein may be a fluid amplifier, a fluid multiplier, a fluid conveyor, or any combination thereof.

[0187] Figure 1is a block diagram showing the suction system 100. Figure 1 , the suction system 100 includes a vacuum generator 110. The vacuum generator 110 includes a vacuum generator 110, an input port 111, a suction port 112, and an exhaust port 113. The vacuum generator 110 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 121 from the input port 111. The vacuum generator 110 is configured to generate a low pressure area 122 near the suction port 112 by the positive pressure gas supply 121. The low pressure area 122 has a pressure lower than the ambient air pressure. The ambient air pressure overcomes the pressure in the low pressure area 122, thereby establishing suction in the suction device 100. The low pressure area 122 draws substances (such as liquids, gases, and solids) into the vacuum generator 110 via the suction port 112. The substances drawn into the vacuum generator 110 are discharged from the exhaust port 113 by the vacuum generator 110. The exhaust port 113 outputs the gas received via the input port 111 and the outflow of the collected substances. This effluent may be output to a pipeline, conduit, or the like for collection, separation, and / or disposal.

[0188] It should be understood that the terms "positive pressure" and "low pressure" are relative terms. These terms should be understood as relative to the ambient air / gas pressure near the vacuum generator 110. For example, the positive pressure gas supply 121 can be a flow of compressed air, a flow of nitrogen, a flow of carbon dioxide, or some other gaseous pressure source. In this case, the positive pressure gas supply 121 is pressurized above the ambient air around the vacuum generator 110. Similarly, the low pressure area 122 can be an area where the air pressure near the suction port 112 is less than the ambient air. This low pressure area causes the air near the suction port 112 to flow into the suction port 112 (possibly entraining material).

[0189] In some embodiments, the vacuum generator 110 uses a fluid flow amplifier (also known as a flow multiplier) to generate the low pressure area 122 from the positive pressure gas supply 121. In another embodiment, the vacuum generator 110 uses a mechanical pump or fan powered by the positive pressure gas supply 121 to establish the low pressure area 122.

[0190] In some embodiments, the vacuum generator 110 can be configured for handheld operation. In such a configuration, the size and shape of the vacuum generator 110 would be designed to be held by one or more hands while in operation. Thus, the vacuum generator 110 is not a permanently mounted (or portable, but larger) suction pump, but can be a relatively small device that operates to draw material into the suction port 112 and discharge the material from the exhaust port 113. It should be understood that while the vacuum generator 110 can be configured for handheld operation, it can also be used for alternative procedures (e.g., laparoscopy, robotics, etc.).

[0191] It should be understood that by receiving the positive pressure gas supply 121 and generating the positive pressure effluent 123, the tubing and / or pipes connected to the input port 111 and the exhaust port 113 can be thin-walled and collapsible. The tubing and / or pipes connected to the input port 111 and the exhaust port 113 can be collapsible because the positive pressure of the positive pressure gas supply 121 and the positive pressure effluent 123 will "push open" or "expand" the collapsible tubing. Thus, lighter and / or less expensive tubing can be used for the vacuum generator 110 than for "negative pressure" systems that rely on a supply vacuum line or vacuum source (such as a vacuum pump and / or a plumb wall port).

[0192] The input port 111 is disposed in the wall of the suction device 100. The input port 111 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 121. The input port is coupled to the vacuum generator 110. The input port 1110 is configured to direct the positive pressure gas supply 121 to the vacuum generator 110. The vacuum generator 110 is configured to receive the positive pressure gas supply 121. In some embodiments, the input port 111 is configured to direct the positive pressure gas supply 121 at an angle relative to the inner wall of the vacuum generator 110.

[0193] The suction port 112 is disposed at the distal end of the suction device 100. The suction port 112 is configured to receive a material flow via the low pressure region 122. The suction port 112 is configured to be coupled to the distal end of the vacuum generator 110. The suction port 112 is configured to guide the material flow into the vacuum generator 110. The vacuum generator 110 is configured to receive the material flow from the suction port 112.

[0194] The exhaust port 113 is disposed toward the proximal end of the suction device 100. The exhaust port 113 is coupled to the vacuum generator 110. The exhaust port 113 is configured to receive a combined flow of a positive pressure gas supply 121 and a material flow received by the vacuum generator at the suction port 112. The exhaust port 113 is configured to discharge at least the combined flow from the suction device 100. In some embodiments, the exhaust port 113 may include a connector for attaching a line configured to receive a positive pressure outflow 123.

[0195] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating a suction system. Figure 2The steps shown in can be performed by one or more elements of the suction system 100. A pressurized gas flow is received at an input port (202). For example, the input port 111 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 121 and supply it to the vacuum generator 110. The vacuum generator 110 is an example of an air flow amplifier. A low pressure area is generated near the suction port (204). For example, the vacuum generator 110 is configured to generate a low pressure area near the suction port 112 by the positive pressure gas supply 121. The material flow is drawn into the suction device (206). For example, the low pressure area 122 is less than the ambient air pressure. This causes the material flow to enter the suction port 112. The suction port 112 is configured to receive the material flow. A combined flow including the pressurized gas flow and the material flow is ejected from the exhaust port (208). For example, the suction assembly 100 is configured to pass a combined flow (which may include a positive pressure gas supply 121 and a material flow received at the suction port 112 ) through the vacuum generator 110 and out of the exhaust port 113 as a positive pressure effluent 123 .

[0196] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing a suction system 300 with backflow prevention. The suction system 300 with backflow prevention includes a vacuum generator 310, an input port 311, a suction port 312, a discharge port 313, and a backflow preventer 316. The suction system 300 is an example of the suction system 100; however, the suction system 300 with backflow prevention includes the backflow preventer 316.

[0197] The vacuum generator 310 receives a positive pressure gas supply 321 via an input port 311 to generate a low pressure region 322 at a suction port 312. The low pressure region 322 draws material into and receives it into the suction system 300 with backflow prevention. The suction port 312 is configured to draw in and receive surgical byproducts (e.g., smoke, tissue, gas, liquid, hazardous chemicals, etc.) that enter the vacuum generator 310. In typical operation, the surgical byproducts drawn into the vacuum generator 310 are discharged from the exhaust port 313 through the vacuum generator 310 as positive pressure effluent 323. The exhaust port 313 outputs a positive pressure effluent 323, which includes surgical byproducts drawn with the positive pressure gas supply 321. The positive pressure effluent 323 can be output to a pipeline, a conduit, etc. for collection, separation and / or disposal.

[0198] However, the discharge port 313 (or the line connected to carry away the positive pressure effluent 323) may be clogged or blocked. When this happens, the obstruction can prevent all or most of the positive pressure effluent 323 from flowing out of the discharge port 313. In the absence of a backflow preventer 316, when the positive pressure effluent 323 cannot flow out of the discharge port 313, the positive pressure effluent 323 can instead be ejected from the suction port 312. It is undesirable for the positive pressure effluent 323 (and especially the positive pressure gas supply 321) to be ejected from the suction port 312, and may cause harm or other problems to an object (e.g., a patient) near the suction port 312. However, the backflow preventer 316 is constructed to at least prevent the flow of the positive pressure effluent 323 from being discharged through the suction port 312.

[0199] The backflow preventer 316 can stop the operation of the vacuum generator 310 by cutting off the supply of the positive pressure gas supply 321 to one or more components of the vacuum generator 310, which causes the low pressure area 322 to be established. The backflow preventer 316 can stop the operation of the vacuum generator 310 by preventing any "reverse" material flow from being discharged through the suction port 312. For example, the backflow preventer 316 can be placed in alignment with the suction port 312. When the material begins to flow in a manner that the flow will discharge the suction port 312, the backflow preventer 316 can be activated. The backflow preventer 316 can be configured so that once activated, it will remain activated, thereby preventing any flow out of the suction port 312 until the positive pressure gas supply 321 is removed (i.e., closed), or the obstruction is cleared. When activated, the backflow preventer 316 may also divert the positive pressure gas supply 321 to flow out of the diversion port so that the positive pressure gas supply 321 and the positive pressure effluent 323 may flow out of the vacuum generator 310 .

[0200] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing a suction system 400 with a backflow alarm. The suction system 400 with a backflow alarm is an example of the suction system 100 and the suction system 300; however, the suction system 300 with a backflow alarm includes a backflow alarm 417. The suction system 400 with a backflow alarm includes a vacuum generator 410, a positive pressure input port 411, a suction port 412, a discharge port 413, a low pressure area 422, a positive pressure outflow 423, and a backflow alarm 417.

[0201] The backflow alarm 417 is configured to alert the user of the suction system 400 that an obstruction exists. Once the obstruction is alerted, the user can do one or more of the following: (1) stop using the vacuum generator 410; (2) clear the obstruction, thereby resuming normal operation; and (3) terminate the supply of the positive pressure gas supply 421, thereby shutting down the vacuum generator 410.

[0202] The backflow alarm 417 can generate an audible alarm (e.g., a whistle or other alarm type noise), a visible alarm (e.g., a sign or other visible indicator), a tactile alarm (e.g., a vibration), or some other type of alarm to notify the user that an obstruction exists. The backflow alarm 417 can use mechanical or electrical devices to generate the alarm. To provide examples of some mechanical devices that can be used to generate alarms, the backflow alarm 417 can use air pressure to generate an audible alarm using a whistle type device, generate a visible alarm by physically moving a sign or other visible indicator, or generate a tactile alarm by physically moving a mass. Similarly, the backflow alarm 417 can use various electronic components including transducers, mass air flow sensors, etc. to detect backflow and signal circuits to activate the backflow alarm 417.

[0203] In some embodiments, the backflow alarm 417 may include one or more mechanical ratios or electronic transducers to measure the pressure within the vacuum generator 410. The backflow alarm 417 may be configured to activate in response to an internal pressure within the vacuum device 410 reaching a threshold standard. The backflow alarm 417 may also notify the user of the current internal pressure level of the vacuum generator 410 and / or whether the internal pressure level is within the desired operating range. The various types of alarms described herein may be used alone or in combination. Similarly, the backflow alarm 417 may use mechanical and electrical devices to detect backflow alone or in combination.

[0204] In some examples, the vacuum generator 410 can have a check valve, such as a backflow preventer 310, in communication with the input port 411 to at least prevent the flow of the positive pressure gas supply 421 from being discharged from the suction port 412. The backflow alarm 417 can be configured to be activated when the check valve prevents the positive pressure gas supply 421 from being discharged from the suction port 412. The activation of the check valve (to prevent the positive pressure gas supply 421 from leaving the suction port 412) can divert at least a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 421 to activate the backflow alarm 417. The backflow alarm 417 can use a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 421 to generate an audible sound. For example, the backflow alarm 417 can guide a portion of the positive pressure gas supply through a whistle, thereby producing an audible sound. Alternatively, the backflow alarm 417 can use a visible indicator to notify the user that there is an obstruction. The backflow alarm 417 can divert a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 421 to move a component that makes a visible indicator visible to an operator of the aspiration system with a backflow alarm 400.

[0205] Figure 5is a block diagram showing a suction system 500 with a safety feature. The suction system 500 with a safety feature may be an example of the suction system 100, the suction system 300 with backflow prevention, and the suction system 400 with a backflow alarm; however, the suction system 500 with a safety feature may have an alternative construction and method of operation. The suction system 500 with a safety feature includes a vacuum generator 510, a positive pressure input port 511, a suction port 512, a discharge port 513, a backflow preventer 516, and a backflow alarm 517. The backflow preventer 516 is operably connected to the backflow alarm 517.

[0206] The backflow preventer 516 can stop the operation of the vacuum generator 510 by cutting off the supply of the positive pressure gas supply 521 to one or more components of the vacuum generator 510, which causes the low pressure area 522 to be established. The backflow preventer 516 can stop the operation of the vacuum generator 510 by preventing any "reverse" material flow from being discharged through the suction port 512. The backflow preventer 516 can be activated when the material begins to flow in a manner that will discharge the suction port 512. The backflow preventer 516 can be configured so that once activated, it will remain activated, thereby preventing any flow out of the suction port 512 until the positive pressure gas supply 521 is removed (i.e., closed), or the obstruction is cleared.

[0207] The backflow preventer 516 may be operably coupled to the backflow alarm 517 so as to activate the backflow alarm 517 in response to activation of the backflow preventer 516. Thus, in response to the obstruction, the vacuum generator 510 both blocks (i.e., prevents) reverse flow of effluent from the suction port 512 and alerts the user to the presence of the obstruction.

[0208] The backflow alarm 517 is operably coupled to the backflow preventer 516. The backflow alarm 517 is configured to alert a user of the vacuum generator 510 of the presence of an obstruction. Once the obstruction is alerted, the user can do one or more of the following: (1) stop using the vacuum generator 510; (2) clear the obstruction, thereby resuming normal operation; and (3) terminate the supply of the positive pressure gas supply 521, thereby shutting down the vacuum generator 510.

[0209] The backflow alarm 517 can generate an audible alarm (e.g., a whistle or other alarm type noise), a visible alarm (e.g., a sign or other visible indicator), a tactile alarm (e.g., vibration), or some other type of alarm to notify the user that there is an obstruction. The backflow alarm 517 can use mechanical or electrical devices to generate the alarm. To provide examples of some mechanical devices that can be used to generate alarms, the backflow alarm 517 can use air pressure to generate an audible alarm using a whistle type device, generate a visible alarm by physically moving a sign or other visible indicator, or generate a tactile alarm by physically moving a mass block. Similarly, the backflow alarm 517 can use various electronic components including transducers, mass air flow sensors, etc. to detect backflow and signal circuits to activate the backflow alarm 517. The various types of alarms described herein can be used alone or in combination. Similarly, the backflow alarm 517 can use mechanical and electrical devices to detect backflow alone or in combination.

[0210] In some embodiments, the backflow alarm 517 may include one or more mechanical ratios or electronic transducers to measure the pressure within the vacuum generator 510. The backflow alarm 517 may be configured to activate in response to an internal pressure within the vacuum device 510 that reaches a threshold standard (such as an increase in internal pressure) to indicate a possible obstruction. The backflow alarm 517 may also notify the user of the current internal pressure level of the vacuum generator 510 and / or whether the internal pressure level is within the desired operating range. The various types of alarms described herein may be used alone or in combination. Similarly, the backflow alarm 517 may use mechanical and electrical devices to detect backflow alone or in combination.

[0211] The vacuum generator 510 includes a backflow preventer 516 in communication with the input port 511 to at least prevent the flow of the positive pressure gas supply 521 from being discharged from the suction port 512. The backflow alarm 517 can be configured to be activated when the backflow preventer 516 prevents the positive pressure gas supply 521 from being discharged from the suction port 512. The activation of the backflow preventer 516 (to prevent the positive pressure gas supply 521 and the positive pressure outflow 523 from leaving the suction port 512) can divert at least a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 521 to activate the backflow alarm 517. The backflow alarm 517 can use a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 521 to generate an audible sound. For example, the backflow alarm 517 can guide a portion of the positive pressure gas supply through a whistle, thereby producing an audible sound. Alternatively, the backflow alarm 517 can use a visible indicator to notify the user that there is an obstruction. The backflow alarm 517 can divert a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 521 to move a component that makes a visible indicator visible to an operator of the aspiration system with a backflow alarm 500.

[0212] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating a suction system having safety features. Figure 6 The steps shown in can be performed by one or more elements of the suction system 500. A pressurized gas stream is received at an input port (602). For example, the input port 511 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 521 and supply it to a vacuum generator 510. The vacuum generator 510 is an example of an air flow amplifier. A low pressure area (604) is generated near the suction port. For example, the vacuum generator 510 is configured to generate a low pressure area 522 near the suction port 512 by guiding the positive pressure gas supply 521 through the vacuum generator 510. The material flow is drawn into the suction system (606). For example, the low pressure area 522 is less than the ambient air pressure. This causes the material flow to enter the suction port 512. The suction port 512 is configured to receive the material flow. A combined flow including the pressurized gas flow and the material flow received at the suction port is ejected from the exhaust port (608). For example, the suction system 500 with a safety feature is configured to cause a combined flow (which may include a positive pressure gas supply 521 and a material flow received at the suction port 512) to be ejected from the exhaust port 513 as a positive pressure effluent 523. At least the pressurized gas flow is blocked from being discharged at the suction port (610). For example, the backflow preventer 516 is configured to at least prevent the positive pressure gas supply 521 from being discharged from the suction port 512. When a portion of the suction system 500 with a safety feature is blocked by an obstruction, the backflow preventer 516 can be activated. The pressurized gas flow is diverted to activate an alarm and flow out of one or more diverter ports (612). For example, the backflow preventer 516 is configured to divert the positive pressure gas supply 521 to activate an alarm 517 and flow out of one or more diverter ports.

[0213] Figure 7 7 is a block diagram showing a suction system with an obstruction removal controller 700. The suction system with an obstruction removal controller 700 is an example of the suction system 100, the suction system with backflow prevention 300, the suction system with a backflow alarm 400, and the suction system with a safety feature 500; however, the suction system with an obstruction removal controller 700 includes an obstruction removal controller 708. The suction system with an obstruction removal controller 700 includes the backflow removal controller 708, a vacuum generator 710, an input port 711, a suction port 712, an exhaust port 713, a low pressure area 722, and a backflow preventer 716.

[0214] The obstruction removal controller 708 is configured to increase the pressure received from the positive pressure gas supply 721 within the vacuum generator 710 in response to user input. In operation, when the obstruction removal controller 708 is activated, the pressure received from the positive pressure gas supply 721 within the vacuum generator 710 increases. This pressure increase within the vacuum generator 710 can force obstructions to be discharged from the exhaust port 713. The obstructions can be carried away as positive pressure outflow 723. In some embodiments, the vacuum generator 710 may include one or more diverter ports configured to divert the positive pressure gas supply 721 from being discharged from the suction port 712 in the event that the suction system 700 with the obstruction removal controller is blocked. In some embodiments, the obstruction removal controller 708 can be configured to block one or more diverter ports, thereby allowing pressure to increase within the vacuum generator 710. In some embodiments, the obstruction removal controller 708 can work with the backflow preventer 716 to increase pressure. In such an embodiment, the backflow preventer 716 can be configured to block the positive pressure gas supply 721 from being discharged from the suction port 712, and the obstruction clearing controller 708 can simultaneously block one or more diverter ports to cause the pressure within the vacuum generator 710 to increase.

[0215] Figure 8 is a block diagram illustrating a suction system 800 with a safety feature and an obstruction clearing controller. The suction system 800 with a safety feature and an obstruction clearing controller is an example of the suction system 100, the suction system 300 with backflow prevention, the suction system 400 with a backflow alarm, the suction system 500 with a safety feature, and the suction system 700 with a backflow clearing controller; however, the suction system 800 with a safety feature and an obstruction clearing controller may include alternative configurations and methods of operation. Figure 8 In the embodiment, the suction system 800 with safety features and an obstruction clearing controller includes a backflow clearing controller 808, a vacuum generator 810, an input port 811, a suction port 812, a discharge port 813, a backflow preventer 816, a backflow alarm 817 and a container 860.

[0216] The backflow purge controller 808 is configured to eject obstructions or obstructions from the exhaust port 813 from the vacuum generator 810. The backflow purge controller 808 is configured to increase the pressure supplied by the positive pressure gas supply 821 within the vacuum generator 810. This increase in pressure may force the obstruction or obstruction to be discharged from the exhaust port 813. In some embodiments, the backflow purge controller 808 can work with a backflow preventer 816. In this example, the backflow preventer 816 can block the positive pressure gas supply 821 from being discharged from the suction port 812 and divert the positive pressure gas supply 821 from one or more diverter ports. The obstruction purge controller can be configured to block one or more diverter ports, thereby allowing the pressure from the positive pressure gas supply 821 to increase within the vacuum generator 810.

[0217] The vacuum generator 810 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 821 from an input port 811. The vacuum generator 810 is configured to generate a low pressure area 822 near the suction port 812 by the positive pressure gas supply 821. In some embodiments, the input port 811 is configured to supply the positive pressure gas supply to the vacuum generator 810 at a certain angle relative to the inner wall of the vacuum generator 810. The vacuum generator 810 can be configured to generate the low pressure area 822 using the Coanda effect.

[0218] The input port 811 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 821 and supply it to the vacuum generator 810. In some embodiments, the input port 811 can be configured to supply the positive pressure gas supply 821 to the vacuum generator 810 at a certain angle relative to the inner wall of the vacuum generator 810. A tube can be used to supply the positive pressure gas supply 821 to the input port 811. In some embodiments, the input port 811 can include a connector for connecting the tube to the input port 811. Some types of connectors that can be used include: a barbed connector, a quick disconnect connector, or a compression connector.

[0219] The suction port 812 is disposed toward the distal end of the vacuum generator 810. The suction port 812 is configured to receive a material flow and supply it to the vacuum generator 810. In operation, the low pressure region 822 draws the material flow into the suction port 812. The suction port 812 supplies the material flow to the vacuum generator 810. In some embodiments, the suction port 812 may include openings radially arranged in the wall of the suction port 812. The opening provides additional suction near the suction port 812. The opening may be configured to utilize a venturi effect. The opening may be configured to open and close in response to user input.

[0220] The exhaust port 813 is configured to direct the positive pressure outflow from the vacuum generator 810 to a collection source. The container 860 is an example of a collection source. In some embodiments, the exhaust port 813 may include a connector for connecting to a pipeline. Some types of connectors that can be used include: a barbed connector, a quick disconnect connector, or a compression connector. A pipeline can be used to connect the exhaust port 813 to the container 860.

[0221] The backflow preventer 816 can stop the operation of the vacuum generator 810 by cutting off the supply of the positive pressure gas supply 821 to one or more components of the vacuum generator 810, which causes the low pressure area 822 to be established. The backflow preventer 816 can stop the operation of the vacuum generator 810 by preventing any "reverse" material flow from being discharged through the suction port 812. For example, the backflow preventer 816 can be placed in alignment with the suction port 812. When the material begins to flow in a manner that the flow will discharge the suction port 812, the backflow preventer 816 can be activated. The backflow preventer 816 can be configured so that once activated, it will remain activated, thereby preventing any flow out of the suction port 812 until the positive pressure gas supply 821 is removed (i.e., closed), or the obstruction is cleared. The backflow preventer 816 can be operably connected to the backflow alarm 817 so that the backflow alarm 817 is activated in response to the activation of the backflow preventer 816. Thus, in response to an obstruction, vacuum generator 810 both blocks (ie, prevents) reverse flow of effluent from suction port 812 and alerts the user to the presence of the obstruction.

[0222] The backflow alarm 817 is configured to alert a user of the vacuum generator 810 that an obstruction exists. Once the obstruction is alerted, the user can do one or more of the following: (1) stop using the vacuum generator 810; (2) clear the obstruction, thereby resuming normal operation; and (3) terminate the supply of the positive pressure gas supply 821, thereby shutting down the vacuum generator 810. In operation, the backflow alarm 817 can be configured to activate when the backflow preventer 816 prevents the positive pressure gas supply 821 from being discharged from the suction port 812. The backflow alarm 817 can be configured to activate in response to the internal pressure within the vacuum device 810 reaching a threshold standard. An example of a threshold standard includes a preset pressure level within the vacuum generator 810 that can indicate an obstruction. The backflow alarm 817 can generate an audible alarm (e.g., a whistle or other alarm type noise), a visible alarm (e.g., a sign or other visible indicator), a tactile alarm (e.g., a vibration), or some other type of alarm to notify the user that an obstruction exists. The backflow alarm 817 can use mechanical or electrical devices to generate an alarm. The backflow alarm 817 can use a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 821 to generate an audible sound. For example, the backflow alarm 817 can guide a portion of the positive pressure gas supply through a whistle, thereby producing an audible sound. Alternatively, the backflow alarm 817 can use a visible indicator to notify the user that there is an obstruction. The backflow alarm 817 can shunt a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 821 to move a member that makes the visible indicator visible to the operator. Similarly, the backflow alarm 817 can use various electronic components including transducers, mass air flow sensors, etc. to detect backflow and signal circuits, thereby activating the backflow alarm 817. The backflow alarm 817 can use one or a combination of the alarms described herein to notify the user of the vacuum generator 810 that there is an obstruction.

[0223] Container 860 is configured to receive waste output by discharge port 813 for collection, separation and / or disposal. In some embodiments, container 860 can be connected to the output of a pipeline, conduit, etc. for collection, separation and / or disposal. In some embodiments, container 860 can be a suction container connected to a vacuum source. Container 860 can include a filter. Container 860 can be made of plastic, glass, metal or some other material with desired characteristics. Some desirable characteristics can include: cost, ability to sterilize, manufacturing method, application or some other criteria.

[0224] Fig. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating a suction system having a safety feature and an obstruction clearance controller. Fig. 9The steps shown in can be performed by one or more elements of the suction system 800 with safety features and obstacle removal controller. A pressurized gas supply is received at an input port (902). For example, the input port 811 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 821 and supply it to a vacuum generator 810. The vacuum generator 810 is an example of an air flow amplifier. A low pressure area is generated near the suction port (904). For example, the vacuum generator 810 is configured to generate a low pressure area near the suction port 812 by guiding the positive pressure gas supply 821 through the vacuum generator 810. The material flow is drawn into the suction system (906). For example, the low pressure area 822 is less than the ambient air pressure. This causes the material flow to enter the suction port 812. The suction port 812 is configured to receive the material flow in the suction system 800 with safety features and obstacle removal controller. The combined flow including the pressurized gas supply and the material flow is ejected from the exhaust port (908). For example, the suction assembly 800 with a safety feature and an obstruction removal controller is configured to discharge a combined flow (which includes a positive pressure gas supply 821 and a material flow received at the suction port 812) from the discharge port 813. At least the pressurized gas flow is blocked from being discharged at the suction port (910). For example, the backflow preventer 816 is configured to be activated when a portion of the suction system 800 with a safety feature and an obstruction removal controller is blocked. The backflow preventer 816 is configured to at least prevent the positive pressure gas supply 821 from being discharged via the suction port 812. The pressurized gas flow is shunted to activate an alarm and flow out of one or more shunt ports (912). For example, the backflow preventer 516 is configured to shunt at least a portion of the pressurized gas supply 521 to activate the alarm 517, and the remainder is discharged from the shunt port. The pressure in the suction system increases until the obstruction is ejected from the discharge port (914). For example, the obstruction removal controller 808 is configured to increase the pressure from the positive pressure gas supply 821 until the obstruction is ejected from the exhaust port 813. The combined flow is collected (916). For example, the container 860 is coupled to the exhaust port 813. The exhaust port 813 is configured to direct the combined flow into the container 860. The container 860 is configured to at least collect the combined flow.

[0225] Fig. 10A 1 is a block diagram illustrating a filtered suction system 1000. The filtered suction system 1000 is an example of the suction system 100, the suction system 300 with backflow prevention, the suction system 400 with a backflow alarm, the suction system 500 with a safety feature, the suction system 700 with a backflow clearing controller, and the suction system 800 with a safety feature and an obstruction clearing controller; however, the filtered suction system 1000 includes a filter 1030. Fig. 10AAs shown, the filtering suction system 1000 includes a vacuum generator 1010 , an input port 1011 , a suction port 1012 , a discharge port 1013 , and a filter 1030 .

[0226] The vacuum generator 1010 is configured to receive positive pressure gas 1021 to generate a low pressure area 1022 at the suction port 1012. The low pressure area 1022 draws material into and receives it into the filtered suction system 1000. The material may include surgical byproducts (e.g., smoke, tissue, gas, liquid, hazardous chemicals, etc.). In typical operation, the surgical byproducts drawn into the vacuum generator 1010 are discharged from the exhaust port 1013 through the filter 1030 through the vacuum generator 1010.

[0227] The filter 1030 is configured to capture substances included in the combined flow (which may include positive pressure gas 1021 and surgical byproducts). Various embodiments of the filter 1030 can use different operations to capture different types of substances. The filter 1030 includes one or more filter inlet ports (in this example, the exhaust port 1013 is integrated with the filter inlet port) and one or more filter output ports 1033. The one or more filter inlet ports are configured to receive the combined flow from the vacuum generator 1010. The filter 1030 captures the substances contained in the combined flow and transmits the filtrate to the filter outlet port 1030. The filter 1030 can be housed inside the filtered suction system 1000 configured for handheld operation. Alternatively, the filter 1030 can also be located at a distance from the handheld portion of the vacuum generator 1010. The surgical byproducts and the positive pressure gas 1021 can be output to a pipeline, a pipe, etc. to be delivered to the filter 1030.

[0228] The filter 1030 may include a mechanical filter, a biological filter, a chemical filter, or other types of filters including any combination thereof. Mechanical filtration may include a physical barrier or filter media type filter, a vortex filter, or a cyclone type filter, or a combination thereof.

[0229] Filters using physical barriers or filter media retain particulates by physically blocking the particulates from passing through the filter media. The filter media mechanically or physically filters out solids from the effluent passing through it. The filter media are available in a variety of materials and porosities, which can be selected to limit the size of the particulates they can extract. The larger the pores in the filter media, the larger the particulate matter must be in order for the filter to extract the particulate matter. Combinations of different materials and porosities of the filter media can be used to separate specific elements of the effluent, including gas and collected matter received via the suction port 1012, out of the discharge port 1013 and into the filter 1030.

[0230] Vortex or cyclone filters operate by a cyclonic separation method to remove particulates from the effluent without the need for a physical barrier or filter media. The effects of rotation and gravity are used to separate a mixture of solids and fluids. This method can also be used to separate fine droplets from a gas stream.

[0231] Biofiltration uses living microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, to capture and biodegrade pollutants, harmful chemicals, and other undesirable substances from effluents. Biofiltration can be used for both gases and liquids. Biofilters include a filter medium on which beneficial microorganisms grow. Biofiltration media can be made of sand, plastic, metal, ceramic, and other materials. Materials with a large surface area to volume ratio generally provide the best performance in biofilters.

[0232] Chemical filtration removes dissolved particles from the effluent via activated carbon, resins, and other adsorbents. Chemical filter media cause unwanted dissolved matter to adhere to them. Two common forms of chemical media include activated carbon and resins. Activated carbon has microscopic pores that allow certain organic or inorganic materials to adhere to it. Carbon removes many harmful elements from the effluent. Ion exchange resins work by attracting specific molecules to adhere to them. Resins can be combined with carbon. Resins usually enhance the filtering ability of carbon. Protein foam skimming or oxidation with ozone can also be used for chemical filtration.

[0233] Fig. 10B 1 is a block diagram illustrating the operation of the filter suction system 1000. In operation, the vacuum generator 1010 receives a positive pressure gas 1021 to generate a low pressure area at the suction port 1012 and a positive pressure effluent at the exhaust port 1013. The vacuum generator 1010 is an example of a flow multiplier. The suction port 1012 draws a substance 1025 (e.g., a fluid 1024 and a solid 1026) into the vacuum generator 1010 through the low pressure area. The substance 1025 drawn into the vacuum generator 1010 is discharged from the exhaust port 1013 through the filter 1030 through the vacuum generator 1010. The filter 1030 removes the solids 1050 and transmits the filtrate 1027 to leave the filter 1030 at the filter outlet port 1033.

[0234] Fig.11 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating a filtered suction system. Fig.11The steps shown in can be performed by one or more elements of the filtering suction system 1000. A pressurized gas stream (1102) is received at an input port. For example, the input port 1011 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas 1021 and supply it to a vacuum generator 1010. The vacuum generator 1010 is an example of an air flow multiplier. A low pressure area (1104) is generated near the suction port. For example, the vacuum generator 1010 is configured to generate a low pressure area 1022 near the suction port 1012 using a positive pressure gas 1021. The material flow is drawn into the suction system (1106). For example, the low pressure area 1022 is less than the ambient air pressure. This causes the material flow to enter the suction port 1012. The suction port 1012 is configured to guide the material flow through the filtering suction system 1000. A combined flow including the pressurized gas flow and the material flow received at the suction port is passed through the filter (1108). For example, the vacuum generator 1010 is configured to pass the combined flow (which may include the positive pressure gas 1021 and the material flow received at the suction port 1012) through the filter 1030. The solids included in the combined flow are captured within the filter and the filtrate is passed through the filter for collection (1110). For example, the filter 1030 is configured to capture the solids 1050 and transmit the filtrate 1027 for collection.

[0235] Fig.12 is a block diagram showing a positive pressure operated suction device 1200. The positive pressure suction device 1200 is an example of the suction system 100; however, the positive pressure operated suction device 1200 may have alternative configurations and methods of operation. Fig.12 As shown, the positive pressure operated suction device 1200 includes a suction device 1210, a positive pressure inlet 1211, a suction intake port 1212, an outlet port 1213 and a fluid flow multiplier 1215.

[0236] The suction device 1210 is configured to generate a vacuum region 1222 near the suction inlet 1212 to draw material into the suction device 1210 and discharge the pressurized effluent from the outlet port 1213. The material can include solids, liquids, and gases in combination and in variable ratios. In some embodiments, the material can include surgical byproducts. The suction device 1210 is configured to generate a vacuum region 1222 from a positive pressure supply 1221. In some embodiments, the suction device 1210 can utilize the Coanda effect to generate a vacuum region 1222 from a positive pressure supply 1221.

[0237] The positive pressure inlet 1211 is configured to receive a positive pressure supply 1221 and supply it to the fluid flow multiplier 1215. In some embodiments, the positive pressure inlet 1211 is configured to supply the positive pressure supply 1221 to the fluid flow multiplier 1215 at an angle relative to the inner wall of the fluid flow multiplier 1215. Tubing can be used to supply the positive pressure supply 1221 to the positive pressure inlet 1211. In some embodiments, the positive pressure inlet 1211 can include a connector for connecting the tubing to the positive pressure inlet 1211. Some types of connectors that can be used include: barbed connectors, quick disconnect connectors, or compression connectors.

[0238] The suction inlet 1212 is disposed toward the distal end of the suction device 1210. The suction inlet 1212 is configured to receive a material flow and supply it to the suction device 1210. In operation, the vacuum region 1222 draws the material flow into the suction inlet 1212. The suction inlet 1212 supplies the material flow to the fluid flow multiplier 1215. In some embodiments, the suction inlet 1212 may include a plurality of openings radially arranged in the wall of the suction inlet 1212. The openings provide additional suction near the suction inlet 1212. In some embodiments, the openings may be configured to utilize a Venturi effect. In some embodiments, the openings may be configured to open and close in response to user input.

[0239] The outlet port 1213 is configured to direct the pressurized effluent 1223 from the suction device 1210 to a collection source. In some embodiments, the outlet port 1213 may include a connector for connecting to tubing. Some types of connectors that can be used include: barbed connectors, quick disconnect connectors, or compression connectors.

[0240] The fluid flow multiplier 1215 is configured to receive a positive pressure supply 1221 from a positive pressure inlet 1211. In some embodiments, the positive pressure inlet 1211 can supply the positive pressure supply 1221 to the fluid flow multiplier 1215 at a certain angle relative to the inner wall of the fluid flow multiplier 1215. The fluid flow multiplier 1215 is configured to generate a vacuum region 1222 near the suction inlet 1212 by the positive pressure supply 1221. The vacuum region 1222 has a pressure lower than the ambient air pressure. The ambient air pressure overcomes the pressure in the vacuum region 1222, thereby generating suction within the suction device 1210. The vacuum region 1222 draws substances (e.g., liquids, gases, and solids) into the suction inlet 1212. The suction inlet 1212 is configured to supply substances to the suction device 1210. The substances drawn into the suction device 1210 are discharged from the outlet port 1213 through the fluid flow multiplier 1215. The outlet port 1213 outputs a pressurized effluent 1223 (which may include the positive pressure supply 1221 and material collected at the suction intake 1212). The pressurized effluent 1223 may be output to a pipe, conduit, or the like for collection, separation, and / or disposal.

[0241] It should be understood that the terms "positive pressure" and "low pressure" are relative terms. These terms should be understood as relative to the ambient air / gas pressure near the suction device 1210. For example, the positive pressure supply 1221 can be a flow of compressed air, a flow of nitrogen, a flow of carbon dioxide, or some other gaseous pressure source. In this case, the positive pressure supply 1221 is pressurized above the ambient air around the suction device 1210. Similarly, the vacuum area 1222 can be an area where the air pressure near the suction intake 1212 is less than that of the ambient air. The vacuum area 1222 causes the air near the suction intake 1212 to flow into the suction intake 1212 (possibly entraining material).

[0242] In some embodiments, the suction device 1210 can be configured for handheld operation. In such a configuration, the suction device 1210 would be sized and shaped to be held by one or more hands while in operation. Thus, the suction device 1210 is not a permanently mounted (or portable, but larger) suction pump, but rather a relatively small device that operates to draw material into the suction intake port 1212 and expel material from the outlet port 1213. It should be understood that while the suction device 1210 can be configured for handheld operation, it can also be used for alternative procedures (e.g., laparoscopy, robotics, etc.).

[0243] It should be understood that by receiving the positive pressure supply 1221 and producing the pressurized effluent 1223, the tubing and / or conduits connected to the positive pressure inlet 1211 and the outlet port 1213 can be thin-walled and collapsible. The tubing and / or conduits connected to the positive pressure inlet 1211 and the outlet port 1213 can be collapsible because the positive pressure of the positive pressure supply 1221 and the pressurized effluent 1223 will "push open" or "expand" the collapsible tubing. Thus, lighter and / or less expensive tubing can be used for the suction device 1210 than for "negative pressure" systems that rely on a supply vacuum line or vacuum source (such as a vacuum pump and / or a plumb wall port).

[0244] In some embodiments, the fluid flow multiplier 1215 may include a structure defining a generally cylindrical cavity having a suction inlet 1212 at a first end and an outlet port 1213 at a second end. The cylindrical cavity is defined by the inner wall of the cavity. In addition, the structure may have an annular opening in the inner wall near the suction inlet 1212, which defines a jet opening, and the jet opening is suitable for allowing the positive pressure supply 1221 to flow out of the annular opening, so that a vacuum area 1222 is generated at the suction inlet 1212, and a multiplied flow is generated at the outlet port 1213. The annular opening may be configured so that the positive pressure supply 1221 enters the cavity at a certain angle relative to the inner wall of the cavity near the outlet port 1213, and the cavity is expanded to a larger diameter at the place where the annular opening is connected to the cavity. The annular opening is also configured so that the pressurized gas enters the cavity at a certain angle (e.g., 0°-90°) relative to the inner wall of the cavity toward the second end. In some embodiments, a sharper acute angle (e.g., 30°-50°) may be required.

[0245] The size of the interstitial space, such as an annular opening, can be adjustable to control the pressure differential between the ambient air and the vacuum region 1222. The annular opening can be configured to include a profile such that the positive pressure supply 1221 entering the cavity is affixed to the curved surface of the portion of the structure defining the annular opening, thereby establishing a vacuum region 1222 that increases the total mass flow of the multiplied flow. In addition, the fluid flow multiplier 1215 can include a structure that is rotatable to adjust the size of the annular opening, thereby controlling the pressure differential. Adjustment of the annular opening allows an operator or user to control the ratio of gas aspiration to liquid aspiration provided by the fluid flow multiplier 1215.

[0246] Fig.131 is a block diagram showing a positive pressure operated suction device 1300 with backflow prevention. The positive pressure operated suction device 1300 with backflow prevention is an example of the positive pressure operated suction device 1200; however, the positive pressure operated suction device 1300 with backflow prevention includes a backflow prevention valve 1316. The positive pressure operated suction device 1300 with backflow prevention includes a suction device 1310, a positive pressure inlet 1311, a suction intake port 1312, an outlet port 1313, a fluid flow multiplier 1315, and a backflow prevention valve 1316.

[0247] In operation, the suction device 1310 receives a positive pressure supply 1321 at a positive pressure inlet 1311 and directs the positive pressure supply 1321 to the fluid flow multiplier 1315, thereby generating a vacuum region 1322 near the suction inlet 1312. The vacuum region 1322 has a pressure lower than the ambient air pressure. The ambient air pressure overcomes the pressure in the vacuum region 1322, thereby generating suction within the suction device 1310. The vacuum region 1322 draws material (e.g., liquids, gases, and solids) into the suction device 1310 via the suction inlet 1312. In typical operation, the material drawn into the suction device 1310 is discharged from the outlet port 1313 through the fluid flow multiplier 1315 for collection.

[0248] However, the outlet port 1313 (or the pipeline connected to take away the pressurized effluent 1323) may be blocked or blocked. When this happens, the obstruction can prevent all or most of the pressurized effluent 1323 from flowing out of the outlet port 1313. In the absence of the backflow prevention valve 1316, when the pressurized effluent 1323 cannot flow out of the outlet port 1313, the pressurized effluent 1323 can be ejected from the suction inlet 1312 instead. The ejection of the pressurized effluent 1323 (especially the positive pressure supply 1321) is undesirable and may cause harm or other problems to objects (e.g., patients) near the suction inlet 1312. However, the backflow prevention valve 1316 is constructed to at least prevent the flow of the positive pressure supply 1321 from leaving through the suction inlet 1312.

[0249] The backflow prevention valve 1316 is configured to stop the operation of the suction device 1310. The backflow prevention valve 1316 can stop the operation of the suction device 1310 by cutting off the supply of the positive pressure supply 1321 to one or more components of the suction device 1310, which results in the establishment of a vacuum region 1322. The backflow prevention valve 1316 can stop the operation of the suction device 1310 by preventing any "reverse" material flow from leaving through the suction inlet 1312. For example, the backflow prevention valve 1316 can be placed in alignment with the suction inlet 1312. When the material begins to flow in a manner that the flow will leave the suction inlet 1312, the backflow prevention valve 1316 can be activated. The backflow prevention valve 1316 can be configured so that once activated, it will remain activated, thereby preventing any flow outside the suction inlet 1312 until the positive pressure supply 1321 is removed (i.e., closed), or the obstruction is cleared.

[0250] Fig.14 1 is a block diagram showing a positive pressure operated suction device 1400 with a backflow alarm. The positive pressure operated suction device 1400 with a backflow alarm is an example of the positive pressure operated suction device 1200; however, the positive pressure operated suction device 1400 with a backflow alarm includes an alarm 1417. The positive pressure operated suction device 1000 with a backflow alarm includes a suction device 1410, a positive pressure inlet 1411, a suction intake port 1412, an outlet port 1413, a fluid flow multiplier 1415, and an alarm 1417.

[0251] In operation, the suction device 1410 receives a positive pressure supply 1421 to generate a vacuum region 1422 at the suction intake port 1412. The vacuum region 1422 draws and receives material into the positive pressure operated suction device 1400 with a backflow alarm. The suction port 1412 is configured to draw in and receive surgical byproducts (e.g., smoke, tissue, gas, liquid, hazardous chemicals, etc.) entering the suction device 1410. In typical operation, the surgical byproducts drawn into the suction device 1410 are discharged from the outlet port 1413 as a pressurized effluent 1423 through the fluid flow multiplier 1415. The outlet port 1413 is configured to output a pressurized effluent 1423, which includes surgical byproducts drawn with the positive pressure supply 1421. The pressurized effluent 1423 can be output to a pipeline, conduit, etc. for collection, separation and / or disposal.

[0252] However, the outlet port 1413 (or the line connected to take away the pressurized effluent 1423) may become clogged or blocked. When this happens, the blockage can prevent all or most of the pressurized effluent 1423 from flowing out of the outlet port 1413. When the pressurized effluent 1423 cannot flow out of the outlet port 1413, the pressurized effluent 1423 can be sprayed out of the suction inlet 1412 instead.

[0253] The alarm 1417 is configured to notify the operator or user of the suction device 1410 that an obstruction exists. Once the alarm indicates an obstruction, the user can do one or more of the following: (1) stop using the suction device 1410; (2) clear the obstruction, thereby resuming normal operation; and (3) terminate the supply of the positive pressure supply 1421, thereby shutting down the suction device 1410.

[0254] The alarm 1417 can generate an audible alarm (e.g., a whistle or other alarm type noise). The alarm 1417 can generate a visible alarm (e.g., a sign or other visible indicator). The alarm 1417 can generate a tactile alarm (e.g., vibration) or some other type of alarm to notify the user that there is an obstruction. The alarm 1417 can use mechanical or electrical devices to generate an alarm. In order to provide examples of some mechanical devices that can be used to generate an alarm, the alarm 1417 can use a positive pressure supply 1421 to generate an audible alarm using a whistle type device, generate a visible alarm by physically moving a sign or other visible indicator, or generate a tactile alarm by physically moving a mass block. Similarly, the alarm 1417 can use various electronic components including transducers, mass air flow sensors, etc. to detect obstructions or backflows and signal circuits to activate the alarm 1417. The various types of alarms described herein can be used alone or in combination.

[0255] Fig.15 is a block diagram illustrating a positive pressure operated suction device with a safety feature 1500. The positive pressure operated suction device with a safety feature 1100 is an example of the positive pressure operated suction device 1200, the positive pressure operated suction device with backflow prevention 1300, and the positive pressure operated suction device with a backflow alarm 1400; however, the positive pressure operated suction device with a safety feature 1500 may include alternative configurations and methods of operation.

[0256] The positive pressure operated suction device 1500 with safety features includes a suction device 1510, a positive pressure inlet 1511, a suction intake port 1512, an outlet port 1513, a fluid flow multiplier 1515, a backflow prevention valve 1516 and an alarm 1517.

[0257] In operation, the suction device 1510 receives a positive pressure supply 1521 at a positive pressure inlet 1511 and directs the positive pressure supply 1521 to the fluid flow multiplier 1515, thereby generating a vacuum region 1522 near the suction inlet 1512. The vacuum region 1522 has a pressure lower than the ambient air pressure. The ambient air pressure overcomes the pressure in the vacuum region 1522, thereby generating suction within the suction device 1510. The vacuum region 1522 draws material (e.g., liquid, gas, and solid) into the suction device 1510 via the suction inlet 1512. In typical operation, the material drawn into the suction device 1510 is discharged from the outlet port 1513 through the fluid flow multiplier 1515.

[0258] The fluid flow multiplier 1115 utilizes fluid dynamics principles, including but not limited to: Coanda effect, Venturi effect, fluid entrainment, and fluid induction, to multiply the effluent flow through the suction device 1510. The outlet port 1513 outputs a pressurized effluent 1523 of collected material and gas received via the suction intake 1512. The pressurized effluent 1523 can be output to a pipeline, conduit, etc. for collection, separation, and / or disposal.

[0259] However, the outlet port 1513 (or the line connected to take away the pressurized effluent 1523) may become clogged or blocked. When this happens, the blockage can prevent all or most of the pressurized effluent 1523 from flowing out of the outlet port 1513. When the pressurized effluent 1523 cannot flow out of the outlet port 1513, the pressurized effluent 1523 can be sprayed out of the suction inlet 1512 instead.

[0260] The backflow prevention valve 1516 can stop the operation of the suction device 1510 by cutting off the supply of the positive pressure supply 1521 to one or more components of the suction device 1510, which results in the establishment of a vacuum region 1522. The backflow prevention valve 1516 can stop the operation of the suction device 1510 by preventing any "reverse" material flow from leaving through the suction inlet 1512. For example, the backflow prevention valve 1516 can be placed in alignment with the suction inlet 1512. When the material begins to flow in a manner that the flow will leave the suction inlet 1512, the backflow prevention valve 1516 can be activated. The backflow prevention valve 1516 can be configured so that once activated, it will remain activated, thereby preventing any flow outside the suction inlet 1512 until the positive pressure supply 1521 is removed (i.e., closed), or the obstruction is cleared.

[0261] The alarm 1517 is configured to alert the user of the suction device 1510 that an obstruction exists. Once the obstruction is alerted, the user can do one or more of the following: (1) stop using the suction device 1510; (2) clear the obstruction, thereby resuming normal operation; and (3) terminate the supply of the positive pressure supply 1521, thereby shutting down the suction device 1510.

[0262] The backflow prevention valve 1516 can be operably coupled to the alarm 1517 so as to activate the alarm 1517 in response to activation of the backflow prevention valve 1516. Thus, in response to the obstruction, the suction device 1510 both blocks (i.e., prevents) the pressurized effluent 1523 from flowing back out of the suction intake port 1512 and alerts the user to the presence of the obstruction.

[0263] The alarm 1517 may generate an audible alarm (e.g., a whistle or other alarm type noise), a visible alarm (e.g., a sign or other visible indicator), a tactile alarm (e.g., a vibration), or some other type of alarm to notify the user that an obstruction exists. The alarm 1517 may use mechanical or electrical devices to generate the alarm. The various types of alarms described herein may be used alone or in combination.

[0264] Fig.16 1 is a block diagram showing a filtering suction device 1600 with a safety feature. The positive pressure operated suction device 1600 with a safety feature is an example of the positive pressure operated suction device 1200, the positive pressure operated suction device 1300 with backflow prevention, the positive pressure operated suction device 1400 with a backflow alarm, and the positive pressure operated suction device 1500 with a safety feature; however, the filtering suction device 1600 with a safety feature includes a filter 1630 and a container 1660. The filtering suction device 1600 with a safety feature includes a suction system 1610, a positive pressure input port 1611, a vacuum port 1612, a positive pressure outlet port 1613, a fluid accelerator 1615, a backflow valve 1616, a safety alarm 1617, a filter 1630, and a container 1660.

[0265] Container 1660 is configured to receive waste output by positive pressure outlet port 1613 for collection, separation and / or disposal. In some embodiments, container 1660 can be a suction container connected to a vacuum source. In some embodiments, container 1660 can include a filter. Container 1660 can be made of plastic, glass, metal or some other material with desired properties. Some desirable properties can include: cost, ability to sterilize, manufacturing method, application or some other criteria.

[0266] In operation, the suction system 1610 receives a pressure supply 1621 at a positive pressure input port 1611 and directs the pressure supply 1621 to the fluid accelerator 1615, thereby generating a suction region 1622 at the vacuum port 1612. The suction region 1622 has a pressure lower than the ambient air pressure. The ambient air pressure overcomes the pressure in the suction region 1622, thereby generating suction within the suction system 1610. The suction region 1622 draws material (e.g., liquids, gases, and solids) into the suction system 1610 via the vacuum port 1612. In typical operation, the material drawn into the suction system 1610 is discharged through the filter 1630 by the fluid accelerator 1615, and the filtrate is directed out of the positive pressure outlet port 1613. The positive pressure outlet port 1613 directs the filtrate to the container 1660.

[0267] The fluid accelerator 1615 is configured to be coupled to the filter 1630. The fluid accelerator 1615 uses a pressure supply 1621 to push the effluent through the filter 1630. The filter 1630 is configured to capture material and transmit the filtrate to the positive pressure outlet port 1612. The positive pressure output port 1613 is configured to be coupled to the container 1660. The positive pressure output port 1613 supplies the filtrate from the suction system 1610 to the container 1660. In some embodiments, the container 1660 can be connected to a vacuum source.

[0268] However, the positive pressure outlet port 1613, the filter 1630, or the container 1660 may become clogged or blocked. When this happens, the blockage may prevent all or most of the outflow from the positive pressure outlet port 1613. When the outflow cannot flow out of the positive pressure outlet port 1613, the outflow may be ejected from the vacuum port 1612 instead.

[0269] The reflux valve 1616 can stop the operation of the suction system 1610 by cutting off the supply of the pressure supply 1621 to one or more components of the suction system 1610, which results in the establishment of the suction area 1622. The reflux valve 1616 can stop the operation of the suction system 1610 by preventing any "reverse" material flow from leaving through the vacuum port 1612. For example, the reflux valve 1616 can be placed in alignment with the vacuum port 1612. When the material begins to flow in a manner that the flow will leave the vacuum port 1612, the reflux valve 1616 can be activated. The reflux valve 1616 can be configured so that once activated, it will remain activated, thereby preventing any flow out of the vacuum port 1612 until the pressure supply 1621 is removed (i.e., closed), or the obstruction is cleared.

[0270] Safety alarm 1617 is configured to alert a user of suction system 1610 of the presence of an obstruction. Once an obstruction is alerted, the user may do one or more of the following: (1) stop using suction system 1610; (2) clear the obstruction, thereby resuming normal operation; and (3) terminate the supply of pressure supply 1621, thereby shutting down suction system 1610.

[0271] Safety alarm 1617 can be operably coupled to backflow valve 1616 so as to activate safety alarm 1617 in response to activation of backflow valve 1616. Thus, in response to an obstruction, suction system 1610 both stops (i.e., prevents) reverse flow of effluent from vacuum port 1612 and alerts the user to the presence of the obstruction.

[0272] Fig.17 A compensated filtered suction device 1700 is shown. The compensated filtered suction device 1700 is an example of the positive pressure operated suction device 1200, the positive pressure operated suction device with backflow prevention 1300, the positive pressure operated suction device with backflow alarm 1400, the positive pressure operated suction device with safety feature 1500, and the filtered suction device with safety feature 1600; however, the compensated filtered suction device 1700 includes a flow multiplier 1735. The compensated filtered suction device 1700 includes a suction generator 1710, a positive pressure input port 1711, a suction port 1712, a discharge output port 1713, a flow multiplier 1715, a check valve 1716, a backflow alarm 1717, a filter 1730, and a flow multiplier 1735. The flow multiplier 1735 is configured to compensate for flow resistance through the filter 1730 by creating a low pressure area between the filter 1730 and the flow multiplier 1735 .

[0273] In operation, the suction generator 1710 receives positive pressure gas 1721 at positive pressure input ports 1711, 1714, and guides the positive pressure gas 1721 to flow multipliers 1715, 1735, respectively. Flow multipliers 1715, 1735 are constructed to generate low pressure areas at the distal side of flow multipliers 1715, 1735 by positive pressure gas 1721. The combined low pressure area produces a low pressure area 1722 near the suction port 1712. The low pressure area 1722 has a pressure lower than the ambient air pressure. The ambient air pressure overcomes the pressure in the low pressure area 1722, thereby establishing suction in the suction generator 1710. The low pressure area 1722 draws substances (such as liquids, gases and solids) into the suction generator 1710 via the suction port 1712. In typical operation, material drawn into suction generator 1710 is discharged through flow multipliers 1715 , 1735 , through filter 1730 , and out of exhaust output port 1713 .

[0274] Each of the flow multipliers 1715, 1735 can utilize fluid dynamics principles, including but not limited to: Coanda effect, Venturi effect, fluid entrainment, and fluid induction, to establish and accelerate the flow of effluent through the suction generator 1710. The Coanda effect can be used by the flow multipliers 1715, 1735 on either side of the filter 1730. Although Fig.17 Only flow multipliers 1715 and 1735 are shown, but it should be understood that, similar to flow multipliers 1715 and 1735, multiple flow multipliers may be combined in series or parallel operation before or after filter 1730.

[0275] However, the discharge outlet 1713 and / or the filter 1730 (or the line connected to carry away the pressurized filtrate 1727) may become clogged or blocked. When this happens, the obstruction may prevent all or most of the effluent from flowing out of the discharge outlet 1713. When the effluent cannot flow out of the discharge outlet 1713, the effluent may instead be ejected from the suction port 1712. If the obstruction blocks the discharge outlet 1713, the flow of the positive pressure gas 1721 may flow in the reverse direction out of the suction port 1712, thereby leaving the positive pressure gas 1721 with nowhere to flow but out of the suction port 1712.

[0276] The check valve 1716 can stop the operation of the suction generator 1710 by cutting off the supply of the positive pressure gas 1721 to one or more components of the suction generator 1710, which results in the establishment of a low pressure area 1722. The check valve 1716 can stop the operation of the suction generator 1710 by preventing any "reverse" material flow from being discharged via the suction port 1712. For example, the check valve 1716 can be placed in alignment with the suction port 1712. When the material starts to flow in a manner that the stream will leave the suction port 1712, the check valve 1716 can be activated. The check valve 1716 can be configured so that once activated, it will remain activated, thereby preventing any flow outside the suction port 1712 until the positive pressure gas 1721 is removed (i.e., closed), or the obstruction is cleared.

[0277] The backflow alarm 1717 is configured to alert the user of the suction generator 1710 that an obstruction exists. The backflow alarm 1717 may be operably coupled to the check valve 1716 to activate the backflow alarm 1717 in response to activation of the check valve 1716. Thus, in response to the obstruction, the suction generator 1710 both blocks (i.e., prevents) the outflow from the suction port 1712 from flowing back out and alerts the user that an obstruction exists.

[0278] The filter 1730 may include a mechanical filter, a biological filter, a chemical filter, or other types of filters including any combination thereof. The filter 1730 includes at least one filter inlet port and at least one filter output port. At least one filter inlet port is coupled to a flow multiplier 1715 so that surgical byproducts and positive pressure gas 1721 pass through the filter 1730. At least one filter output port is coupled to a flow multiplier 1735.

[0279] Suction generator 1710 includes flow multiplier 1735. Flow multiplier 1735 is in fluid communication with the input port of filter 1730. In operation, flow multiplier 1735 receives positive pressure gas 1721 at positive pressure input port 1714 to generate a low pressure zone between filter 1730 and flow multiplier 1735. Flow multiplier 1735 can be configured to compensate for flow loss and / or pressure (suction) loss due to the flow resistance of filter 1730. For example, flow multiplier 1735 can compensate for a portion (e.g., 1 / 4, 1 / 2, etc.) of the flow resistance of filter 1730. Flow multiplier 1735 can be configured to compensate for more flow resistance (e.g., 1.25x, 1.5x, or 2x) of filter 1730. Flow multiplier 1735 is connected to discharge output port 1713. Flow multiplier 1735 is configured to discharge filtrate from filter 1730 out of discharge output port 1713.

[0280] Fig.18 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating a compensated filtered suction device. Fig.18The steps shown in can be performed by one or more elements of the compensated filtering suction device 1700. A pressurized gas flow (1802) is received at a first input port and a second input port. For example, the positive pressure input port 1711 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas 1721 and supply it to a flow multiplier 1715. The positive pressure input port 1714 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas 1721 and supply it to a flow multiplier 1735. A low pressure area (1804) is generated near the suction port. For example, the suction generator 1710 is configured to generate a low pressure area 1722 near the suction port 1712 by guiding the positive pressure gas 1721 through the flow multipliers 1715 and 1735. The material flow is drawn into the suction device (1806). For example, the low pressure area 1722 is less than the ambient air pressure. This causes the material flow to enter the suction port 1712. The suction port 1712 is configured to receive the material flow and guide the material flow through the suction generator 1710. A combined flow including a pressurized gas flow and a material flow is passed through a filter (1808). For example, the flow multiplier 1715 is configured to direct the combined flow (which may include a positive pressure gas 1721 and a material flow received at the suction port 1712) through a filter 1730. Particles included in the combined flow are captured in the filter and the filtrate is passed through the filter to a second flow multiplier (1810). For example, the filter 1730 is disposed between the flow multiplier 1715 and the flow multiplier 1735. The filter 1730 is configured to capture particles and direct the filtrate to the flow multiplier 1735. A low pressure area is created between the filter and the flow multiplier (1812). For example, the flow multiplier 1735 is disposed between the filter 1730 and the discharge output port 1713. The flow multiplier 1735 is configured to create a low pressure area between the filter 1730 and the flow multiplier 1735. The filtrate is passed through the flow multiplier and discharged from the discharge port (1814). Flow multiplier 1735 is configured to receive filtrate from filter 1730 and communicate the filtrate out of exhaust port 1713 .

[0281] Fig.191 is a block diagram showing a suction device 1900 with an adjustable pressure gap. The suction device with an adjustable pressure gap is an example of the suction system 100, the suction system 300 with backflow prevention, the suction system 400 with a backflow alarm, the suction system 500 with a safety feature, the filtered suction system 1000, the positive pressure operated suction device 1200, the positive pressure operated suction device 1300 with backflow prevention, the positive pressure operated suction device 1400 with a backflow alarm, the positive pressure operated suction device 1500 with a safety feature, and the filtered suction device 1600 with a safety feature; however, the suction device 1900 with an adjustable pressure gap includes an adjustable pressure gap 1931 and a motion converter 1942. The suction device 1900 with an adjustable pressure gap includes a suction device 1910, a positive pressure input port 1911, an input port 1912, an output port 1913, a fluid accelerator 1915, a valve 1916, an alarm 1917, a filter 1930, an adjustable pressure gap 1931 and a motion converter 1942.

[0282] The positive pressure input port 1911 is configured to receive a positive pressure 1921 . The positive pressure input port includes means for coupling to a positive pressure source. In operation, the positive pressure input port 1911 directs the positive pressure 1921 to the adjustable pressure gap 1931 .

[0283] The adjustable pressure gap 1931 includes an annular opening that guides the positive pressure 1921 into the fluid accelerator 1915. The size of the adjustable pressure gap 1931 can be adjusted in response to the motion converter 1942 that receives user input. The pressure difference between the low pressure area 1922 and the ambient air pressure can be controlled by the adjustable pressure gap 1931. For example, increasing the size of the adjustable pressure gap 1931 can increase the pressure difference between the low pressure area 1922 and the ambient air pressure. Reducing the size of the adjustable pressure gap 1931 can reduce the pressure difference between the low pressure area 1922 and the ambient air pressure. The user can choose to change the pressure difference between the low pressure area 1922 and the ambient air pressure according to the type of material that the user wants to draw. For example, the user can adjust the pressure difference between the low pressure area 1922 and the ambient air pressure to draw more smoke than liquid. Alternatively, the user can adjust the pressure difference between the low pressure area 1922 and the ambient air pressure to draw liquid.

[0284] The motion converter 1942 is configured to convert the user input into an adjustment of the adjustable pressure gap 1931. In some embodiments, the motion converter 1942 is configured to convert a larger motion from the user input into a smaller motion for adjusting the size of the adjustable pressure gap 1931. In some embodiments, the motion converter 1942 is configured to include a rotatable element that converts the rotational user input into a linear adjustment of the size of the adjustable pressure gap 1931. In some embodiments, the motion converter 1942 may include a sliding member to adjust the size of the adjustable pressure gap 1931. In some embodiments, the motion converter 1931 may include a lever to convert a larger user input motion into a smaller user input motion to adjust the size of the adjustable pressure gap 1931.

[0285] Fig. 20 is a diagram illustrating a method of operating a suction device having an adjustable pressure gap. Fig. 20The steps shown in can be performed by one or more elements of the suction device 1900 with an adjustable pressure gap. Receive a pressurized gas flow (2002) at an input port. For example, the suction device 1900 with an adjustable pressure gap includes an input port 1911, which is configured to receive a positive pressure 1921 and supply it to an adjustable pressure gap 1931. Supply a pressurized gas flow (2004) to the adjustable pressure gap. For example, the positive pressure input port 1911 is connected to the adjustable pressure gap 1931. The positive pressure input port 1911 is configured to supply a positive pressure 1921 to the adjustable pressure gap 1931. Convert user input to regulation for the adjustable pressure gap (2006). For example, the motion converter 1942 is configured to receive user input and convert user input to regulation for the adjustable pressure gap 1931. Generate a low pressure area near the suction port (2008). For example, the fluid accelerator 1915 is configured to generate a low pressure area 1922 near the input port 1012 by a positive pressure 1921. The adjustable pressure gap 1931 is configured to be adjustable to change the pressure difference between the low pressure area 1922 and the ambient air pressure. The material flow is drawn into the suction device (2010). For example, the fluid accelerator 1915 generates a low pressure area 1922 that is lower than the ambient air pressure. This causes the material flow to be drawn into the suction device 1910. The combined flow including the pressurized gas flow and the material flow received at the suction port is passed through the filter (2012). For example, the fluid accelerator 1915 is connected to the filter 1930. The fluid accelerator 1915 is configured to pass the combined flow (which may include the positive pressure 1921 and the material flow received at the input port 1912) through the filter 1930. The particles included in the combined flow are trapped in the filter and the filtrate is passed through the filter to the output port (2014). For example, filter 1930 is configured to capture solids and deliver pressurized filtrate 1927 to output port 1913 .

[0286] Fig.21A is a block diagram showing a suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve. The suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve is an example of the suction device 100, the suction system 300 with backflow prevention, the positive pressure operated suction device 1200, the positive pressure operated suction device 1300 with backflow prevention, and the suction device 1900 with an adjustable pressure gap; however, the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve may include alternative configurations and methods of operation. Fig.21A As shown, the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve includes a pressurized gas port (such as a positive pressure suction port) 2111, a suction assembly 2112, a nozzle 2114, a fluid accelerator 2115 and a backflow prevention valve 2116.

[0287] The suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve uses a fluid accelerator 2115 based on the Coanda effect to establish suction near the nozzle 2114. Suction is primarily established by the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve by the flow of a positive pressure supply 2121 (typically pressurized above the environment) provided to the fluid accelerator 2115, rather than an external suction pump (although the device can be used with a suction pump). The suction device 2100 with backflow prevention can be used to remove medical or surgical byproducts, such as smoke, tissue, and body fluids. The suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve includes a backflow prevention valve 2116 that prevents the pressurized gas flow from "reversing" direction and flowing out of the nozzle 2114 in the wrong direction. In other words, the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve is constructed to prevent pressurized gas from flowing out of the nozzle 2114, which may cause problems or harm the patient.

[0288] The suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve includes a pressurized gas port 2111. The pressurized gas port 2111 is configured to receive a positive pressure supply 2121 and supply it to a conduit 2129 (e.g., an annular opening). The size of the conduit 2129 is adjustable via a flow controller 2120 to control the difference between the low pressure area generated near the nozzle 2114 and the ambient air pressure. A pipeline can be used to supply the positive pressure supply 2121 to the pressurized gas port 2111. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas port 2111 may include a connector for connecting the pipeline to the pressurized gas port 2111. Some types of connectors that can be used include: a barbed connector, a quick disconnect connector, or a compression connector.

[0289] The suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve includes a suction assembly 2112. The suction assembly 2112 is disposed toward the distal end of the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve. The suction assembly 2112 is configured to accommodate a backflow prevention valve 2116. The suction assembly includes a discharge port 2181 configured to direct at least a flow of a positive pressure supply 2121 out of the discharge port 2181 when the backflow prevention valve is activated.

[0290] The suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve includes a nozzle 2114. Fig.21AAn embodiment of a nozzle 2114 including a conical cavity with a narrow distal end and a wide proximal end is shown. The narrow distal end can be configured to include a press-fit friction joint, a barb, a thread, a Luer joint or some other device to attach accessories (such as tubing, needles, etc.) to the nozzle 2114. The nozzle 2114 includes a proximal end configured to be connected to the suction assembly 2112. The nozzle 2114 is configured to receive a material flow / suction flow 2124 and supply it to the suction assembly 2112. The nozzle 2114 is configured to be replaceable. Different embodiments of the nozzle 2114 configured for specific applications can be used with a suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve. In some embodiments, the nozzle 2114 may include an opening radially arranged in the wall of the nozzle 2114. The opening provides additional suction near the nozzle 2114. In some embodiments, the opening can be configured to utilize the Venturi effect. In some embodiments, the opening can be configured to open and close in response to user input.

[0291] The suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve includes a fluid accelerator 2115. The fluid accelerator 2115 includes a fluid accelerator suction port 2118, a fluid accelerator housing 2119, a flow controller 2120, and a conduit 2129. The fluid accelerator 2115 is configured to generate a low pressure area near the nozzle 2114 by a positive pressure supply 2121. The fluid accelerator 2115 can be configured to utilize the Coanda effect. The fluid accelerator 2115 is configured to receive a positive pressure supply 2121 to generate a first low pressure area near the nozzle 2114. The fluid accelerator is configured to accelerate the material flow / suction flow 2124 received at the nozzle 2114, and eject the positive pressure outflow 2123 (which may include the positive pressure supply 2121 and the material flow / suction flow 2124) from the pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113. The pressure difference between the low pressure area generated near the nozzle 2114 and the ambient air pressure can be adjusted by the flow controller 2120. The flow controller 2120 can be adjusted to pump more gas than liquid. The flow controller 2120 can be adjusted to pump liquid.

[0292] Fluid accelerator 2115 includes fluid accelerator suction port 2118. Fluid accelerator suction port 2118 is arranged between backflow prevention valve 2116 and fluid accelerator 2115. Fluid accelerator suction port 2118 is configured to supply the material flow received at nozzle 2114 to fluid accelerator 2115. Fluid accelerator suction port 2118 includes a plurality of conical cavities with variable size. The conical cavities each include a wide distal end and a narrow proximal end. In certain embodiments, the conical cavity can be configured to utilize the Venturi effect. Fluid accelerator suction port 2118 is configured to be connected to fluid accelerator 2115. Fluid accelerator suction port 2118 can include a geometric shape, which includes a conical section arranged at the proximal end. The conical section of fluid accelerator suction port 2118 can be configured to be combined with flow controller 2120 to form conduit 2129. The geometry of the tapered section disposed at the proximal end of the fluid accelerator intake 2118 may be configured to deliver a positive pressure supply 2121 to the fluid accelerator 2115 at an angle relative to the inner wall of the fluid accelerator 2115 .

[0293] The fluid accelerator 2115 includes a fluid accelerator housing 2119. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 is disposed near the proximal end of the suction device 2100 having a backflow prevention valve. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 is configured to be coupled to the pressurized gas port 2111 and the flow controller 2120. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 may include a thread configured to be coupled to the flow controller 2120. The thread may be configured to convert the rotational motion of the flow controller 2120 into a linear motion that adjusts the size of the conduit 2129. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 includes a generally cylindrical cavity having a first opening at a first end and a second opening at a second end. The cylindrical cavity is defined by the inner wall of the fluid accelerator housing 2119. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 includes a conduit 2129 in the inner wall near the first end. The conduit 2129 may be configured to supply a positive pressure supply 2121 at a certain angle relative to the inner wall of the fluid accelerator 2115.

[0294] The fluid accelerator 2115 includes a flow controller 2120. The flow controller includes a pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113. The flow controller 2120 is configured to be coupled to the fluid accelerator housing 2119. The flow controller 2120 includes a pressurized waste port 1913. The flow controller 2120 may include a flared element disposed at a distal end of the flow controller 2120. The flared element may be configured to combine with the fluid accelerator suction port 2118 to supply positive pressure at an angle relative to the inner wall of the fluid accelerator 2115. The flow controller is rotatable to adjust the conduit 2129. The conduit 2129 is adjustable to control the pressure difference between the low pressure area at the nozzle 2114 and the ambient air. The size of the conduit 2129 may be adjustable to control the ratio of gas suction to fluid suction to solid suction provided by the fluid accelerator 2115. The conduit 2129 has a profile such that pressurized gas entering the cavity attaches to the curved surface of the portion of the structure defining the conduit 2129, thereby establishing a low pressure region that increases the total mass flow of the accelerated flow. The flow controller 2120 may include an O-ring to provide a seal between the flow controller 2120 and the fluid accelerator housing 2119.

[0295] The flow controller 2120 includes a pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113. The pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113 is disposed at the distal end of the flow controller 2120. The pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113 is configured to direct the positive pressure effluent 2123 to a waste storage reservoir. The waste storage reservoir may include a collection container, a waste discharge port, a pipe or a conduit configured to carry away the positive pressure effluent. In some embodiments, the pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113 may include a connector for connecting to a pipe. Some types of connectors that may be used include: a barbed connector, a quick disconnect connector, or a compression connector. In Fig.21A In the illustrated embodiment, the pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113 includes an O-ring for coupling the pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113 to tubing.

[0296] The fluid accelerator 2115 includes a conduit 2129. An annular opening is provided between the fluid accelerator suction port 2118 and the fluid accelerator housing 2119. The conduit 2129 defines a jet opening adapted to allow a positive pressure supply 2121 to flow through the conduit 2129 so as to create a low pressure region near the nozzle 2114. The conduit 2129 is configured to receive the positive pressure supply 2121 from the pressurized gas port 2111 and supply it to the fluid accelerator 2115. The proximal end of the fluid accelerator suction port 2118 and the distal end of the flow controller 2120 may be configured to form the conduit 2129. The conduit 2129 may be configured such that the positive pressure supply 2121 enters the fluid accelerator 2115 at a certain angle (e.g., 0°-90°) relative to the inner wall of the cylindrical cavity. In some embodiments, a sharper acute angle (e.g., 30°-50°) may be required.

[0297] The suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve includes a backflow prevention valve 2116. The backflow prevention valve 2116 includes a backflow prevention valve body 2180 and a diaphragm 2185. The backflow prevention valve 2116 exists along the air flow path inside the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve. During normal operation, the backflow prevention valve 2116 is configured to block the discharge port 2181 to provide maximum suction near the nozzle 2114. The backflow prevention valve 2116 can stop the operation of the fluid accelerator 2115 by cutting off the positive pressure supply 2121 to one or more components of the fluid accelerator 2115, which results in the establishment of a low pressure area. The backflow prevention valve 2116 is configured to prevent any "reverse" material flow from being discharged via the suction assembly 2112 or the nozzle 2114. The backflow prevention valve 2116 can be constructed so that once activated, it will remain activated, thereby preventing any flow out of the suction assembly 2112 or nozzle 1214 until the positive pressure gas supply is removed (i.e., closed) or the obstruction is cleared.

[0298] The backflow prevention valve 2114 can be configured to at least divert the positive pressure supply 2121 out of the exhaust port 2181 when activated to prevent the positive pressure supply 2121 from increasing beyond the desired limit within the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve. In this example, the exhaust port 2181 is integral with the suction assembly 2112. In the event of a blockage or obstruction within a portion of the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve, the backflow prevention valve 2116 is configured to move within the suction assembly 2112 to open the exhaust port 2181. Opening the exhaust port 2181 allows the positive pressure gas 2121 to escape from the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve.

[0299] The backflow prevention valve 2116 includes a diaphragm 2185. The diaphragm 2185 is made of a flexible material. The diaphragm 2185 is configured to bend in response to flow. The diaphragm 2185 is configured to allow flow through the backflow prevention valve 2116 in a first direction by bending in the flow direction during normal operation. The diaphragm 2185 is configured to prevent the positive pressure supply 2121 from passing through the backflow prevention valve body 2180 in a second direction. The backflow prevention valve body 2180 includes a structural element configured to limit the bending of the diaphragm 2185 in the second direction. The backflow prevention valve 2116 is configured to be activated in the event of a blockage or obstruction of the suction device 2100 or a portion thereof having the backflow prevention valve. When activated, the positive pressure supply 2121 causes the diaphragm 2185 to bend until the bending is limited by the backflow prevention valve body 2180. When the bending of the diaphragm 2185 is limited by the backflow prevention valve body 2180, the positive pressure supply 2121 applies a force to the diaphragm 2185. The diaphragm 2185 transmits force from the positive pressure supply 2121 to the backflow prevention valve 2116, thereby causing the backflow prevention valve body 2180 to slide within the suction assembly 2112. When the backflow prevention valve body 2180 is activated, at least the flow of the positive pressure supply 2121 is prevented from being discharged at the suction assembly 2112 or the nozzle 2114. The diaphragm 2185 can be configured to guide the positive pressure supply through the exhaust port 2181 when the backflow prevention valve 2116 is activated.

[0300] Fig.21B1 The central axis 2126 of the device is shown, from which the angle 2128 is measured. The inlet port 2117 is located on one end of the fluid accelerator 2115, and the outlet port 2113 is located on the opposite end. The low pressure chamber 2127 is the internal volume of the fluid accelerator 2115 where the mass flow / suction flow 2124 is generated.

[0301] Fig.21B and Fig. 21C21 is a close-up view of a conduit 2129 of a suction device 2100 having a backflow prevention valve. The first hollow segment 2122, the fluid accelerator housing 2119, and the second hollow segment 2125 are configured to form the conduit 2129. The first hollow segment 2122 may include a first opening 2133, which may be adjacent to a second opening 2134 of the second hollow segment 2125. The first facing surface 2130 may at least partially surround the first opening 2133. The second facing surface 2132 may at least partially surround the second opening 2134. The first facing surface 2130 may face the second facing surface 2132. The first facing surface 2130 or the second facing surface 2132 may be inclined, flared, angled, or any combination thereof. The conduit 2129 includes a pressure gap 2131. The pressure gap 2131 is configured to be adjustable. Adjusting the size of the pressure gap 2131 will adjust the flow rate of the positive pressure supply 2121 through the conduit 2129. Adjusting the flow of the positive pressure supply 2121 through the conduit 2129 adjusts the pressure difference between the low pressure area generated near the nozzle 2114 and the ambient air pressure, thereby adjusting the flow through the suction device 2100 with backflow prevention. The pressure gap 2131 is adjustable to control the ratio of gas suction to fluid suction to solid suction provided by the fluid accelerator 2115. Adjusting the fluid flow allows the user to tune the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve to inhale a desired proportion of gas (e.g., smoke), liquid and solid, or a combination of all three. The conduit 2129 can be configured so that the positive pressure supply 2121 enters the fluid accelerator 2115 at a certain angle (e.g., 0°-90°) relative to the inner wall of the fluid accelerator 2115. In some embodiments, a sharper acute angle (e.g., 30°-50°) may be required.

[0302] The conduit 2129 is partially comprised of a first hollow segment 2122. The proximal end of the first hollow segment 2122 and the distal end of the second hollow segment 2125 define an injection opening adapted to allow a positive pressure supply 2121 to flow through the conduit 2129. The proximal end of the first hollow segment 2122 may include a geometry configured to direct a flow of the positive pressure supply 2121.

[0303] The conduit 2129 is partially comprised of a fluid accelerator housing 2119. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 is coupled to the pressurized gas port 2111. The fluid accelerator housing is configured to receive a positive pressure supply 2121 and supply it to the conduit 2129. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 may include threads configured to couple to the second hollow segment 2125. The threads allow the pressure gap 2131 to be adjusted by rotating the second hollow segment 2125. The second hollow segment 2125 may be configured to convert the rotational motion into a linear motion to adjust the pressure gap 2131.

[0304] The conduit 2129 is partially comprised of a second hollow segment 2125. The distal end of the second hollow segment 2125 can be flared to direct the positive pressure supply 2121 to enter the fluid accelerator at an angle relative to the inner wall of the fluid accelerator 2115. The second hollow segment 2125 can include threads configured to mate with the fluid accelerator housing 2119. The threads can be configured to convert the rotational motion of the second hollow segment 2125 into a linear motion that adjusts the pressure gap 2131. Adjusting the pressure gap 2131 adjusts the difference between the low pressure area generated near the nozzle 2114 and the ambient air pressure.

[0305] Fig.21B 21 is a diagram showing the catheter 2129. Fig.21B As shown, the pressure gap 2131 is adjusted to allow relative Fig. 21C The pressure gap 2131 shown increases the flow of the positive pressure supply 2121 through the conduit 2129. Fig.21B The pressure gap 2131 shown creates a large difference between the low pressure area created near the nozzle 2114 and the ambient air pressure, thereby creating a large pressure difference between the low pressure area created near the nozzle 2114 and the ambient air pressure. Fig. 21C The pressure gap 2131 shown generates more flow through the suction device 2100 with the backflow prevention valve.

[0306] The conduit 2129 includes an angle 2128 relative to the central axis 2126. The angle 2128 relative to the central axis 2126 is configured to supply the pressure received from the pressurized gas port 2111 at a certain angle relative to the fluid accelerator 2115. In some embodiments, the angle 2128 relative to the central axis 2126 can be configured to utilize the Coanda effect to generate suction. In some embodiments, the angle 2128 relative to the central axis 2126 can be an acute angle (e.g., 0°-90°). In some embodiments, the angle 2128 relative to the central axis 2126 can be between 30°-60°. In some embodiments, the angle 2128 relative to the central axis 2126 can be 55°.

[0307] Fig. 21C 21 is a diagram showing the catheter 2129. Fig. 21C As shown, the pressure gap 2131 is adjusted to allow relative Fig.21B The pressure gap 2131 shown reduces the flow of the positive pressure supply 2121 through the conduit 2129. Fig. 21C The pressure gap 2131 shown creates a small difference between the low pressure area generated near the nozzle 2114 and the ambient air pressure, thereby Fig.21B The pressure gap 2131 shown generates less flow through the suction device 2100 with the backflow prevention valve.

[0308] Fig.21Dis a diagram showing the operation of the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve during normal operation. The backflow prevention valve 2116 is configured to move in the proximal direction and the distal direction within the suction assembly 2112. During normal operation, the backflow prevention valve 2116 slides to a proximal position within the suction assembly 2112, thereby blocking the discharge port 2181 and allowing flow through the suction device 2100 with the backflow prevention valve. In the event of a blockage, the backflow prevention valve 2116 slides to a distal position within the suction assembly 2112 to prevent backflow through the suction assembly 2112 or the nozzle 2114. In the distal position, the backflow prevention valve opens the discharge port 2181 to discharge at least the positive pressure supply 2121.

[0309] In operation, a positive pressure supply 2121 is introduced to the pressurized gas port 2111. The pressurized gas port 2111 supplies the positive pressure supply 2121 to the fluid accelerator 2115 through the conduit 2129. The amount of flow through the conduit 2129 is controlled by adjusting the flow controller 2120. Some parts of the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve (especially in the fluid accelerator 2115) establish a low pressure area near the nozzle 2114 to entrain and induce a material flow / suction flow 2124 through the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve.

[0310] In operation, the fluid accelerator 2115 receives a positive pressure supply 2121 at the pressurized gas port 2111 and directs the positive pressure supply 2121 to the fluid accelerator 2115, thereby generating a low pressure area at the nozzle 2114. The low pressure area at the nozzle 2114 has a pressure lower than the ambient air pressure. The ambient air pressure overcomes the pressure in the low pressure area, thereby establishing suction at the nozzle 2114. The low pressure area generated near the nozzle 2114 draws a material flow / suction flow 2124 into the suction assembly 2112. The material flow / suction flow 2124 may include liquids, gases, and solids. The material flow / suction flow 2124 is discharged from the pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113 through the fluid accelerator 2115 as a positive pressure effluent 2123. The positive pressure effluent 2123 may include a combined flow of the positive pressure supply 2121 and the material flow / suction flow 2124.

[0311] Fig.21E 2 is a diagram showing the operation of the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve in the event of an obstruction. Fig.21EAs shown, the pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113 is blocked by a stopper 2150. The stopper 2150 can prevent all or most of the positive pressure supply 2121 from flowing out of the pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113. Without the backflow prevention valve 2116, when the positive pressure supply 2121 (or a combination of the positive pressure supply 2121 and the positive pressure effluent 2123) cannot flow out of the pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113, the positive pressure supply 2121 and possible positive pressure effluent 2123 can instead be ejected from the nozzle 2114. The ejection of effluent (especially the positive pressure supply 2121) is undesirable and can cause harm or other problems to an object (e.g., a patient) near the nozzle 2114. However, the backflow prevention valve 2116 is configured to at least prevent the flow of the positive pressure supply 2121 and the positive pressure effluent 2123 from leaving through the nozzle 2114.

[0312] The backflow prevention valve 2116 can stop the operation of the suction device 2100 with a backflow prevention valve by preventing any "reverse" material flow from being discharged through the nozzle 2114. The backflow prevention valve 2116 includes a backflow prevention valve body 2180, a discharge port 2181, and a diaphragm 2185. When the material begins to flow in a manner that the flow will leave the nozzle 2114, the backflow prevention valve 2116 can be activated. The backflow prevention valve 2116 can be configured so that once activated, it will remain activated, thereby preventing any flow out of the nozzle 2114 until the positive pressure supply 2121 is removed (i.e., closed), or the obstruction 2150 is cleared.

[0313] Fig.21E 21 is a diagram showing the operation of the suction device 2100 with backflow prevention in the event of an obstruction. The obstruction 2150 prevents the positive pressure supply 2121 from being discharged from the pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113. Because the positive pressure supply 2121 cannot be discharged from the pressurized waste port / outlet port 2113 due to the obstruction 2150, the flow of the positive pressure supply 2121 reverses direction toward the nozzle 2114. The positive pressure supply 2121 forces the diaphragm 2185 to bend against the backflow prevention valve body 2180. The pressure is transmitted from the diaphragm 2185 to the backflow prevention valve 2116, causing the backflow prevention valve 2116 to slide within the suction assembly 2112. When activated, the backflow prevention valve 2116 can open the exhaust port 2181, thereby allowing the positive pressure supply 2121 to be discharged through the exhaust port 2181.

[0314] Fig.22A2 is a diagram showing an exploded view of the backflow prevention valve 2200. The backflow prevention valve 2220 is an example of a backflow preventer 316, a backflow preventer 516, a backflow preventer 716, a backflow preventer 816, a backflow prevention valve 1316, a backflow prevention valve 1516, a backflow valve 1616, a check valve 1716, a valve 1916, and a backflow prevention valve 2116; however, the backflow prevention valve 2200 may include alternative configurations or operating methods. The backflow prevention valve 2200 includes a sliding body 2280 and a diaphragm 2285.

[0315] The backflow prevention valve 2200 includes a sliding body 2280. The sliding body 2280 includes an alignment feature 2282, a male connector 2283, an orifice 2286, and a support element 2288. The sliding body 2280 is configured to be present in a housing (e.g., a suction assembly 2112). The sliding body 2280 includes an alignment feature 2282. The alignment feature 2282 includes an inclusion in the sliding body 2280. The alignment feature can be configured to engage with an alignment feature included in the housing to prevent the backflow prevention valve 2200 from rotating. The sliding body 2280 includes a support element 2288. The support element 2288 is configured to provide structural support to the diaphragm 2285. The diaphragm 2285 is composed of a flexible material. The support element 2288 is configured to limit the bending amount of the diaphragm 2285 in one direction. The pressure from the positive pressure source can be transmitted from the diaphragm 2285 to the sliding body 2280 through the support element 2288. The male connector is configured to couple the sliding body 2280 to the diaphragm 2285. Fig.22A As shown, the male coupling 2283 is configured to be coupled to the female coupling 2284 using a snap fit. In some embodiments, the male coupling 2283 can be a mechanical fastener (e.g., a screw, bolt, rivet, etc.), a point for applying an adhesive, or other means of coupling the male coupling 2283 to the female coupling 2284. The sliding body 2280 includes an orifice 2286. The orifice 2286 is configured to allow a substance to flow through the sliding body 2280.

[0316] The backflow prevention valve 2200 includes a diaphragm 2285. The diaphragm 2285 is configured to block flow through the orifice 2286 in one direction while allowing flow in the opposite direction. The diaphragm 2285 is made of a flexible material. The diaphragm 2285 is configured to bend in response to pressure. When the pressure flow travels in one direction, the diaphragm 2285 is configured to bend, thereby allowing flow through the orifice 2286. When the pressure flow travels in the opposite direction, the diaphragm 2285 is configured to bend until the bending is limited by the support element 2288. The diaphragm 2285 is configured to transmit pressure from the pressure source to the sliding body 2280. This transmission of pressure causes the sliding body 2280 to move within the housing. The diaphragm 2285 includes a female connector 2284. The female connector 2284 is configured to connect the diaphragm 2285 to the sliding body 2280. As shown in FIG. Fig.22AAs shown, the female connector 2284 is configured to be connected to the male connector 2283 using a snap fit. In some embodiments, the female connector 2284 can be a hole for a mechanical fastener (e.g., a screw, bolt, rivet, etc.), a point for applying an adhesive, or some other device for connecting the female connector 2284 to the male connector 2283.

[0317] Fig. 22B 2285 is a diagram showing the backflow prevention valve 2200 during blocking. In the event of blocking, the pressure from the pressure source causes the diaphragm 2285 to bend. The bending of the diaphragm 2285 is limited by the support element 2288. Fig. 22B As shown, the diaphragm 2285 is seated on the support member 2288. In this operating mode, the diaphragm 2285 can transmit pressure from the pressure source to the sliding body 2280. This transmission of pressure can cause the backflow prevention valve 2200 to activate.

[0318] Fig. 22C 2285, thereby allowing flow through the orifice 2286. The pressure from the pressure source can act on the diaphragm 2285. The pressure can be transmitted from the diaphragm 2285 to the sliding body 2280 through the male coupling 2283 and the female coupling 2284. During normal operation, the pressure from the pressure source can act on the diaphragm 2285, thereby causing the backflow prevention valve 2200 to slide within the housing. When deactivated, the backflow prevention valve 220 can be configured to block the discharge port.

[0319] Fig.23A 2 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a positive pressure vacuum device with a safety feature 2300 during normal operation. The positive pressure vacuum device with a safety feature 2300 is an example of the aspiration system 100, the aspiration system with backflow prevention 300, the aspiration system with a backflow alarm 400, the aspiration system with a safety feature 500, the positive pressure operated aspiration device 1200, the positive pressure operated aspiration device with backflow prevention 1300, the positive pressure operated aspiration device with a backflow alarm 1400, and the positive pressure operated aspiration device with a safety feature 1500; however, the positive pressure operated vacuum device with a safety feature 2300 may include alternative configurations and methods of operation. The positive pressure vacuum device 2300 with safety features includes a pressurized gas port (such as a positive pressure input port) 2311, a low pressure chamber 2312, an effluent output port 2313, a fluid flow amplifier 2315, a safety valve 2316, a safety valve body 2380 and an alarm / safety alarm 2317.

[0320] In operation, the fluid flow amplifier 2315 receives a pressurized gas supply 2321 to generate a low pressure area near the low pressure chamber 2312. The fluid flow amplifier 2315 can be configured to utilize the Coanda effect to generate a low pressure area near the low pressure chamber 2312. The low pressure area draws the safety valve 2316 proximally within the low pressure chamber 2312, thereby blocking the backflow shunt port 2381 and opening the diaphragm 2385. During normal operation, the backflow prevention valve 2116 blocks the backflow shunt port 2381 to provide maximum suction near the low pressure chamber 2312. The low pressure area draws the material flow / suction flow 2324 into the low pressure chamber 2312. The material flow / suction flow 2324 can include liquids, gases, and solids. The low pressure chamber 2127 guides the material flow / suction flow 2324 to the fluid flow amplifier 2315. The fluid flow amplifier 2315 is configured to generate laminar flow. The material flow / suction flow 2324 can be drawn into the fluid flow amplifier 2315 together with the pressurized gas supply 2321 and ejected from the effluent output port 2313 as a positive pressure effluent 2323. The laminar flow within the fluid flow amplifier 2315 allows the positive pressure gas supply 2321 to be separated from the material flow / suction flow 2324 through the effluent output port 2313. The effluent output port 2313 can be configured to eject the pressurized gas supply 2321 and the positive pressure effluent 2323 as separate flows. The effluent output port 2313 can be configured to be connected to a pipeline, a conduit, etc., for collecting, further separating and / or disposing of the pressurized gas supply 2321 and the positive pressure effluent 2323.

[0321] Fig. 23B 23 is a diagram showing the operation of a positive pressure suction device 2300 with a safety feature in the event of an obstruction. The flow through the positive pressure suction device 2300 with a safety feature is blocked by an obstruction 2350. The obstruction 2350 can prevent all or most of the pressurized gas supply 2321 from flowing out of the effluent output port 2313. When the pressurized gas supply 2321 is prevented from being discharged at the effluent output port 2313, the pressurized gas supply 2321 may be forced to be discharged from the low pressure chamber 2312. In the absence of a backflow safety valve 2316, the pressurized gas supply 2321 and possible material flow / suction flow 2324 may be ejected from the low pressure chamber 2312. The ejection of the pressurized gas supply 2321 and the material flow / suction flow 2324 is undesirable and may cause harm or other problems to objects (e.g., patients) near the low pressure chamber 2312. However, the safety valve 2316 together with the safety valve body 2380 is configured to at least prevent the flow of the pressurized gas supply 2321 from exiting through the low pressure chamber 2312.

[0322] Fig. 23BAn obstruction 2350 is shown preventing the pressurized gas supply 2321 from being discharged from the effluent output port 2313. Because the pressurized gas supply 2321 cannot be discharged from the effluent output port 2313 due to the obstruction 2350, the flow of the pressurized gas supply 2321 reverses direction toward the low pressure chamber 2312. The pressurized gas supply 2321 forces the diaphragm 2385 to close and causes the safety valve 2316 to slide within the low pressure chamber 2312. Once activated, the safety valve 2316 can open the return flow diversion port 2381 to allow the pressurized gas supply 2321 to escape, thereby preventing the pressure from increasing beyond the desired limit within the positive pressure suction device 2300 with a safety feature.

[0323] Backflow diverter port 2381 is operably coupled to alarm / safety alarm 2317. Backflow diverter port 2381 can be configured to direct pressurized gas supply 2321 to alarm / safety alarm 2317 when safety valve 2316 is activated. In this example, alarm / safety alarm 2317 is configured to generate an audible alarm using pressurized gas supply 2321.

[0324] Fig.24A is a diagram showing a positive pressure operated suction device 2400. The positive pressure operated suction device 2400 is an example of the suction system 100, the suction system 300 with backflow prevention, the suction system 400 with a backflow alarm, the suction system 500 with a safety feature, the filtered suction system 1000, the positive pressure operated suction device 1200, the positive pressure operated suction device 1400 with a backflow alarm, the positive pressure operated suction device 1500 with a safety feature, the filtered suction device 1600 with a safety feature, and the suction device with an adjustable pressure gap 1900; however, the positive pressure operated suction device 2400 may include alternative configurations and methods of operation. The positive pressure operated suction device 2400 includes a pressurized gas port (such as a positive pressure suction port) 2411, a suction assembly 2412, an output port / outlet port 2413, a fluid accelerator 2415, a backflow prevention valve 2416, an alarm / alarm 2417, a fluid accelerator suction port 2418, a flow controller 2420, an input port / input port 2422, a conduit (such as an annular opening) 2429 and a filter 2430.

[0325] The pressurized gas port 2411 is configured to receive positive pressure from a positive pressure source. The positive pressure source is configured to provide gas at a pressure higher than the ambient air pressure. The positive pressure source may include compressed gas from a compressor, gas from a high pressure gas cylinder, or even human breath. The pressurized gas port 2411 is configured to provide positive pressure to the fluid accelerator 2415 via the conduit 2429.

[0326] The suction assembly 2412 is disposed toward the distal end of the positive pressure operated suction device 2400. The suction assembly 2412 includes an inlet / input port 2422. The suction assembly 2412 is configured to receive a flow of material. The suction assembly 2412 is configured to accommodate a backflow prevention valve 2416.

[0327] The fluid accelerator 2415 is configured to generate a low pressure area within the suction assembly 2412 and near the input port / input port 2422. The low pressure area generated by the fluid accelerator 2415 is below the ambient air pressure. The low pressure area causes the ambient air pressure to push the material flow into the input port / input port 2422 and through the suction assembly 2412. The material flow can include liquids, solids, and gases.

[0328] The output / outlet port 2413 is disposed toward the proximal end of the positive pressure operated suction device 2400. The output / outlet port 2413 is configured to receive filtrate from the filter 2430. The output / outlet port 2413 may be configured to output the filtrate received from the filter 2430 to a collection source. The collection source may include a pipeline, a container, or a waste drain.

[0329] The fluid accelerator 2415 is configured to accelerate the material flow / suction flow 2424 using the positive pressure supply 2421. The fluid accelerator 2415 includes a conduit 2429. The conduit 2429 is configured to guide the positive pressure supply 2421 received from the pressurized gas port 2411 at a certain angle relative to the inner wall of the fluid accelerator 2415. The fluid accelerator 2415 can be configured to utilize the Coanda effect to generate a low pressure area near the input port / input port 2422 by the positive pressure supply 2421. The fluid accelerator 2415 is configured to generate a positive pressure effluent 2423. The positive pressure effluent 2423 may include a combined flow of the positive pressure supply 2421 and the material flow / suction flow 2424. The fluid accelerator 2415 is configured to guide the positive pressure effluent through the filter 2430. The filter 2430 is configured to capture particulates included in the positive pressure effluent 2423 and transmit the positive pressure filtrate 2426 out of the output / outlet port 2413 .

[0330] The backflow prevention valve 2416 is disposed between the suction assembly 2412 and the fluid accelerator 2415. The backflow prevention valve 2416 is configured to at least prevent the positive pressure supply 2421 from being discharged from the input port / input port 2422.

[0331] The alarm / alarm 2417 is configured to notify the user that the flow through the positive pressure operated suction device 2400 has been blocked. The alarm / alarm 2417 can be configured to operate with the backflow prevention valve 2416. The flow through the suction assembly 2412 can be blocked after the backflow prevention valve 2416 is activated. The backflow prevention valve 2416 can be configured to guide the positive pressure supply 2421 through the exhaust port 2181 and to the alarm / alarm 2417. The alarm / alarm 2417 can be configured to generate an alarm by the positive pressure supply 2421.

[0332] The fluid accelerator inlet 2418 includes a plurality of conical sections, each of which has a wide end and a narrow end. In some embodiments, the fluid accelerator inlet can be configured to utilize the Venturi effect to accelerate the flow through the fluid accelerator inlet 2418. The fluid accelerator inlet is configured to direct the material flow received at the input port / input port 2422 into the fluid accelerator 2415.

[0333] The flow controller 2420 is disposed toward the distal end of the positive pressure operated suction device 2400. The flow controller 2420 includes a rotatable member configured to receive user input. The flow controller converts the rotational motion received from the user input into a linear motion that can adjust the pressure gap disposed between the fluid accelerator suction port 2418 and the fluid accelerator 2415. In some embodiments, the flow controller 2420 can convert a larger movement into a smaller movement near the conduit 2429.

[0334] The conduit 2429 is disposed between the fluid accelerator suction port 2418 and the fluid accelerator 2415. The conduit 2429 includes an adjustable pressure gap. The adjustable pressure gap controls the flow of pressure received from the pressurized gas port 2411 through the conduit 2429, thereby controlling the flow of pressure into the fluid accelerator 2415. The conduit 2429 can be adjusted by the user by adjusting the flow controller 2420. The intensity of the low pressure area can be adjusted by adjusting the conduit 2429.

[0335] The filter 2430 is disposed near the proximal end of the positive pressure operated suction device 2400. The filter 2430 is configured to receive the positive pressure effluent 2423. The filter 2430 is configured to capture particulates and transmit the positive pressure filtrate 2426 out of the output / outlet port 2413.

[0336] Fig. 24B is a diagram showing the operation of the adjustable pressure gap 2431 for a suction device operated by positive pressure Figure 24B12420. The flow controller 2420 includes adjustment features, such as a tuner arm 2440. The tuner arm 2440 is configured to allow a user to control a low pressure area near the input port 2422. In this embodiment, the tuner arm 2440 allows a user to adjust the adjustable pressure gap 2431 with one hand. The tuner arm 2440 is configured to receive a rotational input from a user. The tuner arm 2440 is configured to provide rotational motion to the flow controller 2420. The flow controller 2420 is configured to provide rotational motion to the motion converter 2442. The motion converter 2442 is configured to convert the rotational motion received from the flow controller 2420 into a linear motion. The linear motion from the motion converter 2442 is configured to adjust the pressure gap 2431.

[0337] The conduit 2429 includes a pressure gap 2431. The pressure gap 2431 is configured to be adjustable. Adjusting the size of the pressure gap 2431 will adjust the flow of the positive pressure supply 2421 through the conduit 2429. Adjusting the positive pressure supply 2421 through the conduit 2429 will adjust the pressure difference between the low pressure area generated near the input port / input port 2422 and the ambient air pressure. The pressure gap 2431 can be configured to control the ratio of gas suction to fluid suction to solid suction provided by the second hollow segment 2402 (such as a fluid accelerator 2415). Adjustment of the positive pressure supply 2421 through the conduit 2429 can allow the user to tune the suction device 2400 operated by positive pressure to inhale a desired ratio of gas (e.g., smoke), liquid and solid, or a combination of all three. The conduit 2429 can be configured so that the positive pressure supply 2421 enters the second hollow segment 2402 at a certain angle (e.g., 0°-90°) relative to the inner wall of the second hollow segment 2402. In some embodiments, a sharper angle (e.g., 30°-50°) may be required.

[0338] The conduit 2429 is partially composed of a first hollow segment 2401 (such as a fluid accelerator suction port 2418) and a second hollow segment 2402 (such as a fluid accelerator 2415). The proximal end of the first hollow segment 2401 and the distal end of the second hollow segment 2402 can be configured to define an injection opening suitable for allowing a positive pressure supply 2421 to flow through the conduit 2429. The proximal end of the first hollow segment 2401 can include a geometry that includes a conical section configured to direct the flow of the positive pressure supply 2421 into the second hollow segment 2402 at a certain angle relative to the inner wall of the second hollow segment 2402.

[0339] The first hollow segment 2401 may include a first opening 2405, which may be adjacent to a second opening 2406 of the second hollow segment 2402. The first facing surface 2403 may at least partially surround the first opening 2405. The second facing surface 2404 may at least partially surround the second opening 2406. The first facing surface 2403 may face the second facing surface 2404. The first facing surface 2403 or the second facing surface 2404 may be inclined, flared, angled, or any combination thereof.

[0340] The conduit 2429 is partially comprised of the second hollow section 2402. The distal end of the second hollow section 2402 may be flared to direct the positive pressure supply 2421 to enter the second hollow section 2402 at an angle relative to the inner wall of the second hollow section 2402.

[0341] like Fig. 24B As shown, the pressure gap 2431 is adjusted to allow relative Fig.24C The pressure gap 2431 shown increases the flow of the positive pressure supply 2421 through the conduit 2429. Fig. 24B The pressure gap 2431 shown creates a large difference between the low pressure area created near the inlet / port 2422 and the ambient air pressure, thereby creating a large pressure difference between the low pressure area created near the inlet / port 2422 and the ambient air pressure. Fig.24C The pressure gap 2431 shown generates more flow through the suction device 2400 which is operated by positive pressure.

[0342] Fig.24C FIG24 is a close-up view of the catheter 2429 of FIG24C1. Fig.24C As shown, the pressure gap 2431 is adjusted to allow relative Fig. 24B The pressure gap 2431 shown reduces the flow of the positive pressure supply 2421 through the conduit 2429. Fig.24C The pressure gap 2431 shown creates a small difference between the low pressure area created near the inlet / port 2422 and the ambient air pressure, thereby creating a small difference between the low pressure area created near the inlet / port 2422 and the ambient air pressure. Fig. 24B The pressure gap 2431 shown generates less flow through the positive pressure operated suction device 2400. In some embodiments, adjusting the adjustable pressure gap 2431 can stop the operation of the positive pressure operated suction device 2400.

[0343] Fig.24D2400 is a diagram showing the operation of the positive pressure operated suction device 2400 during normal operation. The backflow prevention valve 2416 includes a backflow prevention valve body 2180 and a discharge port 2181. The backflow prevention valve 2416 is configured to move within the suction assembly 2412. During normal operation, the backflow prevention valve 2416 can be configured to block the discharge port 2181 and allow flow through the positive pressure operated suction device 2400. In the event of a blockage, the backflow prevention valve 2416 slides into the suction assembly 2412 to at least prevent the positive pressure supply 2421 from being discharged from the suction port / input port 2422. The backflow prevention valve 2416 can be configured to open the discharge port 2181 to prevent the positive pressure supply 2421 from increasing beyond the desired limit within the positive pressure operated suction device 2400.

[0344] In operation, a positive pressure supply 2421 is introduced into the pressurized gas port 2411. The pressurized gas port 2411 supplies the positive pressure supply 2421 to the fluid accelerator 2415. The fluid accelerator 2415 can be configured to utilize the Coanda effect. The fluid accelerator 2415 is configured to generate a low pressure area near the input port / input port 2422 by the positive pressure supply 2421. The conduit 2429 can be configured to supply the positive pressure supply 2421 to the fluid accelerator 2425 at a certain angle relative to the inner wall of the fluid accelerator 2415. Some parts of the positive pressure operated suction device 2400 (especially those in the fluid accelerator 2415) are configured to establish a low pressure area in the suction assembly 2412. This low pressure area can be used to entrain and induce a material flow / suction flow 2424 through the positive pressure operated suction device 2400.

[0345] Fig.24D A material flow / suction flow 2424 is shown entering the input port 2422. The material flow / suction flow 2424 can be drawn into the fluid accelerator 2415 along with the positive pressure supply 2421. This combined flow is shown as a positive pressure effluent 2423. The fluid accelerator 2415 pushes the positive pressure effluent 2423 through the filter 2430. The filter 2430 is configured to capture particulates and transmit the positive pressure effluent 2426 out of the output port 2413.

[0346] Fig.25 25 is a block diagram showing a suction system 2500 for use in an operating room. The suction system 2500 includes a suction device 2510, a suction suction member 2552, a fluid separator 2554, a support member 2558, and a collection container 2560.

[0347] Suction system 2500 includes suction device 2510. Suction device 2510 is a suction system 100, a suction system 300 with backflow prevention (in Fig.25Shown as 2516), an example of a filtered suction system 1000, a positive pressure operated suction device 1200, a positive pressure operated suction device 1300 with backflow prevention, and a suction device 1900 with an adjustable pressure gap; however, the suction device 2510 includes a muffler 2532 and a mounting member 2556.

[0348] The suction device 2510 includes a muffler 2531. The muffler 2531 is configured to suppress the volume level of the positive pressure output 2521. The muffler 2521 includes a plurality of openings configured to guide the air flow in a manner to reduce the volume level of the positive pressure output 2521.

[0349] The suction device 2510 includes a mounting member 2556. The mounting member 2556 is configured to couple the suction device to a support member 2558. The mounting member 2556 can be used for hands-free operation of the suction device 2510. In some embodiments, the mounting member 2556 can be configured to be mounted to a pole such as is often used in hospital and operating room environments. In some embodiments, the mounting member 2556 can be configured to couple the suction device 2510 to a wall. In some embodiments, the mounting member 2556 can be configured to suspend the suction device 2510 from an overhead structure.

[0350] The suction system 2500 includes a suction attachment 2552. The suction attachment is configured to provide a low pressure region 2522 to a target area. In some embodiments, the suction attachment can be configured for handheld operation. In some embodiments, the suction attachment 2552 can be configured to be coupled to a surgical instrument. Although Fig.25 The suction attachment 2552 is shown coupled to the fluid separator 2554 , but it will be appreciated that the suction attachment may be coupled directly to the suction device 2510 .

[0351] The suction system 2500 includes a fluid separator 2554. The fluid separator 2552 is configured to separate components of a material flow. The material flow may include solids, liquids, and gases in different proportions. The fluid separator 2554 is configured to separate liquids and solids from gases in the material flow. The fluid separator 2554 is configured to discharge the liquids and solids into a collection container 2560. Fumes and gases are sucked from the fluid separator 2554 by the suction device 2510.

[0352] Suction system 2500 includes support 2558. Support 2558 can be any structure capable of supporting suction device 2510. In some embodiments, support 2558 can be a pole commonly found in a hospital or operating room environment. In some embodiments, support 2558 can be a wall. In some embodiments, support 2558 can be a structure suspended from a ceiling. Support 2550 can even include a person holding suction device 2510.

[0353] The suction system 2500 includes a collection container 2560. The collection container 2560 is configured to receive liquids and solids from the fluid separator 2554. The collection container 2560 may be used to measure the volume of liquids and solids received, to safely dispose of the waste, or for some other purpose.

[0354] In operation, the suction device 2510 generates a low pressure area 2522 using a positive pressure supply 2521. The suction generated by the suction device 2510 is supplied to the fluid separator 2554. The fluid separator 2554 transmits the suction to the suction adsorbent 2552. The suction forms a low pressure area 2522 near the suction port 2512. The material flow (which may include liquids, solids, and gases) is drawn into the suction adsorbent 2552 by the low pressure area 2522. The material flow is received by the fluid separator 2554. The fluid separator 2554 separates liquids, solids, and gases from the material flow. The fluid separator 2554 discharges the liquids, solids, and gases from the material flow into a collection container 2560. Gas from the material flow is sucked from the fluid separator 2544 by the suction device 2510. Elements from the gas are removed by the filter 2530. The filtrate from the filter 2530 passes through the muffler 2532 as a positive pressure output 2521.

[0355] Fig.24E 2413 . 2414 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a positive pressure operated suction device during normal operation. In this example, an obstruction 2450 prevents all or a portion of a positive pressure supply 2421 from being discharged from the output port / outlet port 2413. The backflow prevention valve 2416 is configured to be activated when the obstruction 2450 prevents all or a portion of the positive pressure supply 2421 from being discharged from the output port / outlet port 2413. The backflow prevention valve 2421 can prevent material from being discharged near the input port / input port 2422 through the positive pressure supply 2421. When the backflow prevention valve 2421 is activated, the positive pressure supply 2421 is directed through the alarm / alarm 2417. The alarm / alarm 2417 is configured to be activated when the pressure within the suction system 2500 increases to a threshold indicating an obstruction 2450 that prevents all or a portion of the positive pressure supply 2421 from being discharged from the output port / outlet port 2413.

[0356] Fig.26 is a diagram illustrating a method of operating a suction system for use in an operating room. Fig.26The steps shown in can be performed by one or more elements of the suction system 2500. Positive pressure is received at the input port of the suction device (2602). For example, the suction device 2510 is configured to receive a positive pressure supply 2521. Suction is generated by the positive pressure (2604). For example, the suction device 2510 is configured to generate suction by the positive pressure supply 2521. Suction is applied to the suction port (2606) of the fluid separator. For example, the suction device 2510 is configured to be connected to the fluid separator 2554. The fluid separator 2554 includes a suction port. The suction device 2510 is configured to apply suction to the suction port of the fluid separator 2554. A vortex is established in the fluid separator (2608). For example, the fluid separator 2554 is configured to establish a vortex by the suction received from the suction device 2510. The suction is transmitted from the fluid separator to the suction attachment (2610). For example, the fluid separator 2554 is configured to transmit suction from the suction device 2510 to the suction attachment 2552. The suction from the suction device 2510 generates a low pressure area 2522 near the suction port 2512. The material flow is drawn into the suction system (2612). For example, the suction attachment 2552 is configured to receive the material flow from the low pressure area 2522. The liquid and solid included in the material flow are separated (2614). For example, the fluid separator 2554 is configured to separate liquids, solids and gases from the material flow. Liquids and solids are collected (2616). The collection container 2560 is configured to receive liquids and solids. The collection container 2560 is connected to the fluid separator 2554. The fluid separator 2554 can discharge liquids and solids into the collection container 2560. The gas from the material flow is transmitted to the suction device (2618). The fluid separator 2554 is configured to transmit gas from the material flow to the suction device 2510. The suction generated by the suction device 2510 draws gas into the fluid separator 2554.

[0357] Fig. 2727 is a diagram showing a muffler for a suction device 2700 operated by positive pressure. The muffler 2700 includes a body 2772, a gap 2774, and an alignment feature 2776. The muffler 2700 is configured to reduce the volume level of emissions from a suction device (such as a suction device 2500 operated by positive pressure). The volume level of the emissions is reduced by guiding the flow path of the emissions. The body 2772 is configured to be connected to the output port of the suction device. The body 2772 can be made of a variety of materials (including: plastic, metal, glass and ceramic). The muffler 2700 includes a gap 2774. The gap 2774 is configured to guide the flow path of the emissions from the suction device so that the volume level generated by the emissions is reduced relative to the unguided flow path of the emissions. The size and shape of the gap 2774 affect the volume level of the emissions. The size and shape of the gap 2774 can vary to accommodate various embodiments of the suction device. In some embodiments, the gap 2774 can have a width of 1.5 mm. In some embodiments, gap 2774 can have a width of 2.5 mm. Muffler 2700 includes alignment features 2776. Alignment features 2776 are configured to be coupled to corresponding alignment features on a suction device. Alignment features 2776 can be used to position muffler 2776 relative to a suction device. In some embodiments, alignment features 2776 can be configured to position muffler 2776 relative to a filter included in a suction device.

[0358] Fig.28 Shown is a beveled edge of a hollow segment 2801. The beveled edge may form an angle 2802 between 0 and 90 degrees relative to the segment. Fig.28 An angled edge 2803 of a hollow segment is shown. The angled edge may form an angle 2804 between 90 and 180 degrees relative to the segment. Fig.28 Also shown is a flared edge 2805 of the hollow segment. The flared edge may form an angle 2806 between 90 and 180 degrees relative to the segment. Fig.28 Also shown is a hollow segment having a beveled edge 2807 in series with a second hollow segment having a flared end 2808, where the beveled edge 2807 and the flared edge 2808 may be adjacent to each other. The beveled edge may have an angle between 0 and 90 degrees, and the flared edge may have an angle between 90 and 180 degrees. Fig.28 Also shown is a hollow segment with an inclined edge 2809 in series with a second hollow segment with an inclined edge 2810, wherein the two inclined edges are adjacent to each other. The inclined edge of the first hollow segment may have an angle between 0 and 90 degrees, and the inclined edge of the second hollow segment may have an angle between 90 and 180 degrees.

[0359] Fig.29is a table showing different apparatus settings and the corresponding values ​​of flue gas flow in standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) and static vacuum in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

[0360] Fig.30 Device noise for different devices at 1.5 meters away and 30 psi input pressure is shown. In some embodiments, the device can emit one or more sounds at about 49 decibels. The device can emit one or more sounds at about 6 decibels above background noise.

[0361] Fig.31 AB shows the use of a flared end at an angle of 35 degrees relative to the central axis ( Fig.31 A) or a flared end at an angle of 55 degrees relative to the central axis ( Fig.31 B) Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis performed. Changing the angle can increase the aspiration resolution. For example, changing the angle from 35 degrees to 55 degrees can increase the aspiration resolution by about 20%.

[0362] Fig.32 is a bar graph showing the maximum static vacuum as a function of input pressure at an angle of 35 degrees relative to the central axis or at an angle of 55 degrees relative to the central axis. Changing the angle can change the maximum static vacuum. At an input pressure of 30 psi, for a 35 degree angle relative to the central axis, the maximum static vacuum can be between about 250 mmHg and about 260 mmHg. At an input pressure of 34 psi, for a 35 degree angle relative to the central axis, the maximum static vacuum can be between about 275 mmHg and about 285 mmHg. At an input pressure of 39 psi, for a 55 degree angle relative to the central axis, the maximum static vacuum can be between about 305 mmHg and about 315 mmHg.

[0363] Fig.33 is a graph showing air consumption (scfm) as a function of static vacuum at 34 psi input pressure. At 34 psi input pressure, for static vacuum between about 100 mmHg and about 325 mmHg, air consumption may be between about 4 scfm and about 11 scfm. At 34 psi input pressure, for static vacuum between about 150 mmHg and about 300 mmHg, air consumption may be between about 4 scfm and about 9 scfm.

[0364] Fig.34is a graph showing air consumption (scfm) as a function of static vacuum at 30 psi input pressure. At 30 psi input pressure, for static vacuum between about 100 mmHg and about 300 mmHg, air consumption may be between about 3 scfm and about 10 scfm. At 30 psi input pressure, for static vacuum between about 150 mmHg and about 250 mmHg, air consumption may be between about 4 scfm and about 9 scfm.

[0365] Fig.35 is a graph showing the noise level at maximum suction as a function of input air pressure. Additional air consumption may increase the noise level, such as by about 1 or 2 decibels. Changes in the geometry of the device may increase the noise level, such as by about 1 or 2 decibels. Changes in the geometry of the device (such as soundproofing panels or laminates with micro-surface structures) can reduce the noise level. The noise level at maximum suction can be about 62.5 dB (at 25 psi, at a 55-degree angle relative to the central axis), or about 60 dB (at 25 psi, at a 35-degree angle relative to the central axis). The noise level at maximum suction can be about 64.25 dB (at 30 psi, at a 55-degree angle relative to the central axis), or about 62.5 dB (at 30 psi, at a 35-degree angle relative to the central axis).

[0366] Fig.36 Is a graph showing inlet pressure and outlet flow as a function of simulated filter occlusion. When one or more filters are partially or completely blocked, the suction generated by the device is reduced. In some cases, suction loss occurs before one or more filters are completely blocked. In some cases, the suction flow may completely block one or more filters. In some cases, the suction flow (such as smoke) may not completely block one or more filters.

[0367] Fig.37 is an image showing the configuration of a test device. Fig.37 The A in can be a pressure gauge, such as SPAN 0-100psi pressure gauge, QMS-596. Fig.37 The B in the figure can be a manometer, such as Meriam M2 series intelligent manometer, ZM200-DN0200, QMS-689. Fig.37 The C in the figure can be a flow meter, such as the FR4A67SVVT flow meter from Key Instruments. Fig.37 The D in the figure can be a sound meter, such as the SL130 sound meter, QMS-548 from Extech Instruments. Fig.37The E in the figure can be a flow meter, such as Cole-Parmer's Model PMR1-010608 0.08-1.25LPM flow meter, S / N 371889-1, QMS-687. Fig.37 The F in the figure can be a flow meter, such as Cole-Parmer's Model PMR1-01069200.5-5LPM flow meter, S / N 371889-1, QMS-587 (not activated).

[0368] Fig.38 Flow chart showing the test equipment setup for air consumption measurement. The device can be powered by compressed air, such as from a compressed air regulator. The pressure entering the device can be checked by, for example, a pressure gauge placed between the air regulator and the device. Air can be drawn into the device by a flow meter and a pen-stroke setup. The pressure can be recorded one or more times by the pressure gauge, and the flow can be recorded one or more times by the flow meter. The settings on the tuner arm (e.g., 0 to 14) can correspond to the width of the gap space, wherein 0 on the tuner arm can correspond to a width of 0 inches, and 14 on the tuner arm can correspond to a width of 0.0115 inches. To measure air flow, in a first setup (Setup A), the pen-stroke setup can be connected to the device and the flow meter with a pipe (e.g., a bellows with a 3 / 8 inch inner diameter (ID) and a length of 4 feet and a bellows with a 7 / 8 inch inner diameter and a length of 6 feet). To measure air flow and liquid flow, in a second setup (Setup B), the pen-stroke setup can be connected to four containers with pipes. For example, 4 fluid rejection containers can be connected to the stroke setup using 2 meter long and 3 / 8" ID tubing. The containers can be connected together using, for example, 1 / 8" ID tubing. The containers can be connected to the device and flow meter using 3 / 8" ID tubing.

[0369] Fig.39 is a flow chart showing a test equipment setup for static vacuum measurement. The device can be powered by compressed air, such as from a compressed air regulator. The pressure entering the device can be verified by, for example, a pressure gauge placed between the air regulator and the device. The vacuum generated by the device can be recorded with a digital manometer. The maximum vacuum can be recorded by tuning one or both of the input pressure and the clearance space of the device to achieve the maximum vacuum.

[0370] Fig.40 is a flow chart showing the test equipment setup for static vacuum and noise measurements. This test can be similar to the static vacuum test, however the flow rate of air entering the device can also be measured with a flow meter, and the device noise can be measured using a decibel meter placed about 1 meter from the device. The decibel meter can be placed 1.5 meters or more from the device.

[0371] Fig.41A A suction device 4109 is shown, which includes a first hollow segment 4100 and a second hollow segment 4101 (also in Fig.41B 4101 ), which forms a conduit when placed in series, juxtaposed to each other, at least partially overlapping, or adjacent to each other. The width of the conduit can be adjustable, such as adjusting the position of the first hollow segment 4100, the second hollow segment 4101, or a combination thereof. Adjusting the gap space 4102 can adjust the width of the conduit, the volume rate of the fluid (such as pressurized gas) entering the conduit, the volume rate of the fluid entering the second hollow segment 4101, the suction capacity of the passive suction device, the gas to liquid suction capacity ratio of the passive suction device, or any combination thereof. Moving the first hollow segment 4100 away from the second hollow segment 4101, moving the second hollow segment 4101 away from the first hollow segment 4100, or a combination thereof can increase the gap space 4102. Moving the first hollow segment 4100 closer to the second hollow segment 4101 , moving the second hollow segment 4101 closer to the first hollow segment 4100 , or a combination thereof may reduce the gap space 4102 .

[0372] Fig.41C A suction device 4109 is shown that includes a first hollow segment 4100, which can be configured to engage a threaded structure 4104 to form a threaded connection 4103 between an outer surface of the first hollow segment 4100 and the threaded structure 4104. Rotating the first hollow segment 4100 can move the first hollow segment 4100 closer to or further away from the second hollow segment 4101, thereby adjusting the gap space 4102. In some cases, the second hollow segment 4101 can be configured to engage a threaded structure 4104 to form a threaded connection 4103 between an outer surface of the second hollow segment 4101 and the threaded structure 4104. Rotating the second hollow segment 4101 can move the second hollow segment 4101 closer to or further away from the first hollow segment 4100, thereby adjusting the gap space 4102. In some cases, the first hollow segment 4100 and the second hollow segment 4101 can be configured to engage one or more threaded structures 4104.

[0373] Fig.41DA suction device 4109 is shown that includes a first hollow segment 4100 that can be configured to engage a spiral structure, such as a spiral ramp 4105. A pin 4106 can be attached to or integral with the first hollow segment 4100. When the first hollow segment 4100 rotates, the gap space 4102 can increase or decrease depending on the direction of rotation. In some cases, the second hollow segment 4101 can be configured to engage a spiral structure, such as a spiral ramp 4105. The pin 4106 can be attached to or integral with the second hollow segment 4101. When the second hollow segment 4101 rotates, the gap space 4102 can increase or decrease depending on the direction of rotation. In some cases, the first hollow segment 4100 and the second hollow segment 4101 can be configured to engage one or more spiral structures, such as a spiral ramp 4105.

[0374] Fig.41E A suction device 4109 is shown that includes a first hollow section 4100 that can be configured to engage a sliding structure, such as a sliding joint 4107. The longitudinal position of the first hollow section 4100 along its central axis can be adjusted by a drive mechanism 4108 to drive the first hollow section 4100 along the sliding joint 4107. In some cases, the second hollow section 4101 can be configured to engage a sliding structure, such as a sliding joint 4107. The longitudinal position of the second hollow section 4101 along its central axis can be adjusted by a drive mechanism 4108 to drive the second hollow section 4101 along the sliding joint 4107. In some cases, the first hollow section 4100 and the second hollow section 4101 can be configured to engage one or more sliding structures, such as a sliding joint 4107.

[0375] Fig.42AA system 4200 including a suction device is shown, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 can be fluidically connected (e.g., fluidically connected via a line 4202) to a container 4203. The container 4203 can also be fluidically connected (e.g., fluidically connected via a line 4204) to a filter 4206. A passive suction device 4205 including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof can be positioned between the container 4203 and the filter 4206, and is fluidly connected to both, such as via a line 4204. In such cases, the passive suction device 4205 can be positioned adjacent to one end of the filter 4206, where the material flow enters the filter 4205. The passive suction device 4205 can be directly attached to the filter 4206 or integral therewith. In such cases, the passive suction device 4205 can push the flow of material into the filter 4206, and draw the flow of material from the opening on the surgical tool 4201 through the tube 4202, the container 4203, the tube 4204, and combinations thereof. In some cases, positioning the passive suction device 4205 before the filter 4206 increases the efficiency of the system by at least about 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% compared to positioning the passive suction device 205 after the filter 4206. In some cases, positioning the passive suction device 4205 before the filter 4206 increases the efficiency of the system by at least about 60% compared to positioning the passive suction device 205 after the filter 4206. In some cases, positioning the passive suction device 4205 before the filter 4206 increases the efficiency of the system by at least about 70% compared to positioning the passive suction device 4205 after the filter 4206. In some cases, positioning passive suction device 4205 before filter 4206 increases the efficiency of the system by at least about 80% compared to positioning passive suction device 4205 after filter 4206. In some cases, positioning passive suction device 4205 before filter 4206 increases the efficiency of the system by at least about 90% compared to positioning passive suction device 4205 after filter 4206.

[0376] Fig.42BA system 4200 including a suction device is shown, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 can be fluidically connected (e.g., fluidically connected via a pipeline 4202) to a container 4203. The container 4203 can also be fluidically connected (e.g., fluidically connected via a pipeline 4204) to a filter 4206. A passive suction device 4205 including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof can be fluidically connected to the filter 4206 and positioned at one end of the filter 4206 for the material flow to discharge the filter 4206. The passive suction device 4205 can be directly attached to the filter 4206 or integrated therewith. In such cases, the passive suction device 4205 can extract the material flow from the opening on the surgical tool 4201 through the pipeline 4202, the container 4203, the pipeline 4204, the filter 4206, and a combination thereof. In such cases, the efficiency of the system can be approximately 60% lower, approximately 65% ​​lower, approximately 70% lower, approximately 75% lower, or approximately 80% lower than the efficiency of a system including a passive suction device positioned at one end of the filter where material flows into the filter.

[0377] Fig.42C A system 4200 including a suction device is shown, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 can be fluidically connected (e.g., fluidically connected via a line 4202) to a container 4203. The container 4203 can also be fluidically connected (e.g., fluidically connected via a line 4204) to a filter 4206. A passive suction device 4205 including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof can be positioned between the surgical tool 4201 and the container 4203, and, for example, is fluidically connected to both via a line 4202. In such cases, the passive suction device 4205 can be positioned adjacent to the surgical tool 4201, and the supply flow of the surgical tool 4201 is discharged from one end of the surgical tool 4201. The passive suction device 4205 can be directly attached to the surgical tool 4201 or integrated with the surgical tool 4201. In such cases, the passive suction device can draw material flow through the surgical tool 4201, push the material flow through the conduit 4202, the container 4203, the conduit 4204, the filter 4206 and combinations thereof.

[0378] Fig.42DA system 4200 including a suction device is shown, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 can be fluidically connected (e.g., fluidically connected via a line 4202) to a container 4203. The container 4203 can also be fluidically connected (e.g., fluidically connected via a line 4204) to a filter 4206. A passive suction device 4205 including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof can be positioned at one end of the surgical tool 4201 where a material flow enters the surgical tool 4201. The passive suction device 4205 can be directly attached to the surgical tool 4201 or integrated with the surgical tool 4201. In such cases, the passive suction device can push a material flow through the surgical tool 4201, the line 4202, the container 4203, the line 4204, the filter 4206, and a combination thereof. In such cases, a roll-in may occur at one end (e.g., the tip) of the surgical tool 4201. The rolled-in diameter at one end of surgical tool 4201 can be very large, such as about 1 times, 1.25 times, 1.5 times, 1.75 times, 2 times, 2.25 times, 2.5 times, 2.75 times, 3 times, 3.25 times, 3.5 times, 3.75 times, 4 times, 4.25 times, 4.5 times, 4.75 times, 5 times or more of the diameter of the surgical tool. The rolled-in diameter at one end of surgical tool 4201 can be about 1x (1 times) the diameter of the surgical tool. The rolled-in diameter at one end of surgical tool 4201 can be about 2x (2 times) the diameter of the surgical tool. The rolled-in diameter at one end of surgical tool 4201 can be about 3 times the diameter of the surgical tool. The rolled-in diameter at one end of surgical tool 4201 can be about 4 times the diameter of the surgical tool.

[0379] Fig.42E A system 4200 including a suction device is shown, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 can be fluidically connected (e.g., fluidically connected via a pipeline 4202) to a container 4203. The container 4203 can also be fluidically connected (e.g., fluidically connected via a pipeline 4204) to a filter 4206. A passive suction device 4205 including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof can be positioned between the surgical tool 4201 and the container 4203. In such cases, the passive suction device 4205 can be positioned adjacent to the container 4203 for a material flow to enter the container 4203 at one end. The passive suction device 4205 can be directly attached to the container 4203 or integral therewith. In such cases, the passive suction device 4205 can extract a material flow through the surgical tool 4201, the pipeline 4202, and push the material flow through the container 4203, the pipeline 4204, and the filter 4206 and a combination thereof.

[0380] Fig.42FA system 4200 including a suction device is shown, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 can be fluidically connected (e.g., fluidically connected via a line 4202) to a container 4203. The container 4203 can also be fluidically connected (e.g., fluidically connected via a line 4204) to a filter 4206. A passive suction device 4205 including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof can be positioned between the container 4203 and the filter 4206. In such cases, the passive suction device 4205 can be positioned adjacent to the container 4203 for the material flow to discharge the container 4203. The passive suction device 4205 can be directly attached to the container 4203 or integral therewith. In such cases, the passive suction device 4205 can extract the material flow through the surgical tool 4201, the line 4202, and the container 4203, push the material flow through the line 4204 and the filter 4206, and a combination thereof.

[0381] Figure 42G A system 4200 including a suction device is shown, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 can be fluidly connected (e.g., fluidly connected via a line 4202) to a container 4203. The container 4203 can also be fluidly connected (e.g., fluidly connected via a line 4204) to a filter 4206. A first passive suction device 4205a including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof can be positioned between the surgical tool 4201 and the container 4203. The first passive suction device 4205a can be positioned adjacent to the container 4203 for a material flow to enter the container 4203. A second passive suction device 4205b including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof can be positioned between the container 4203 and the filter 4206. The second passive suction device 4205b can be positioned adjacent to the container 4203 for a material flow to exit the container 4203. The first passive suction device 4205a, the second passive suction device 4205b or a combination thereof can be directly attached to the container 4203 or be integrated therewith. In such cases, the container can include a large flow that is balanced when the material flow passes through. In such cases, two passive suction devices that are fluidly connected to the same pipeline can balance the pressure of the material flow in the pipeline. In such cases, the first passive suction device pushes the material flow, and the second passive suction device extracts the material flow.

[0382] Figure 42HA system 4200 including a suction device is shown, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 can be fluidly connected (e.g., fluidly connected via a line 4202) to a container 4203. The container 4203 can also be fluidly connected (e.g., fluidly connected via a line 4204) to a filter 4206. A first passive suction device 4205a including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof can be positioned between the surgical tool 4201 and the container 4203. The first passive suction device 4205a can be positioned adjacent to the surgical tool 4201 for a flow of material to exit the surgical tool 4201. A second passive suction device 4205b including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof can be positioned between the surgical tool 4201 and the container 4203. The second passive suction device 4205b can be positioned adjacent to the container 4203 for a flow of material to enter the container 4203. The first passive suction device 4205a can be directly attached to the surgical tool 4201 or integrated therewith. The second passive suction device 4205b can be directly attached to the container 4203 or integrated therewith. In such cases, the pipeline 4202 can include a large flow that is balanced when the material flow passes through. In such cases, two passive suction devices connected to the same pipeline can balance the pressure of the material flow in the pipeline.

[0383] In some cases, the flow of material through the tubing of the system can create stiffness in the tubing. The stiffness of the tubing can reduce the flexibility of movement in the system, such as the movement of surgical tools. The stiffness of the tubing can cause the tubing to separate from containers or other system components (such as filters or surgical tools). In some cases, reducing tubing stiffness can be advantageous, such as a system that includes two passive suction devices instead of one. In some cases, such as in Figure 42G or Figure 42HIn the present invention, the stiffness in the pipeline caused by the material flow in the pipeline during the operation of the passive suction device can be reduced or eliminated. The stiffness can be reduced by placing one or more passive suction devices in the system. Reducing or eliminating pipeline stiffness can improve user experience, facilitate the movement of surgical tools, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the pipeline can be flexible. The pipeline can have a thickness of less than about 1 / 8 inch, less than about 1 / 16 inch. The pipeline can have a thickness of less than about 0.1 inch, less than about 0.075 inch, less than about 0.05 inch, less than about 0.025 inch, less than about 0.01 inch, less than about 0.0075 inch, less than about 0.005 inch, less than about 0.0025 inch, less than about 0.001 inch or less. The pipeline can have a thickness of about 0.1 inch or less. The pipeline can have a thickness of about 0.075 inch or less. The pipeline can have a thickness of about 0.05 inch or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 0.025 inches or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 0.01 inches or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 0.0075 inches or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 0.005 inches or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 0.0025 inches or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 0.001 inches or less. The tubing may include polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, nylon, polyurethane, polypropylene, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, or any combination thereof, etc.

[0384] Fig.43A An example 4300 of the Coanda effect, or the tendency of a fluid (such as a gas, liquid, or combination thereof) to be attracted to an adjacent surface, is shown. In this case, a jet of fluid exiting a lumen can create a negative pressure region near an adjacent surface (such as a curved surface). Curving the adjacent surface can redirect the flow path of the jet in a direction different from its initial direction. Fig.43A The flow path of a fluid redirected along a curved adjacent surface is shown. Fig.44A and Fig.44B An example of redirecting a flow path using the Coanda effect is shown in 4400. By optimizing the shape of adjacent surfaces, the flow path of the fluid can be redirected in a direction different from its initial direction, such as at an angle less than about 90 degrees (e.g., Fig.44A as shown) or at an angle of about 90 degrees (as shown Fig.44B ) to redirect the flow path.

[0385] Fig.43BAn example 4300 of the Coanda effect formed as a fluid jet (such as a pressurized gas 301 passing adjacent to one or more outer surfaces of a wing-shaped or fan-shaped structure 4302) is shown. At least a portion of the pressurized gas 4303 may travel adjacent to the curved side 4305 of the wing-shaped structure 4302. At least a portion of the pressurized gas 4304 may travel adjacent to a side 4306 opposite to the curved side 4305 of the wing-shaped structure 4302. The pressurized gas 4303 traveling adjacent to the curved side 4305 may travel at a faster speed than the pressurized gas 4304 traveling adjacent to the opposite side 4306. A low pressure area may be formed adjacent to the curved side 4305 of the wing-shaped structure 4302, thereby generating a suction force. A high pressure area may be formed adjacent to the opposite side 4306 of the wing-shaped structure 4302. A suction device may include a wing-shaped or fan-shaped structure 4302 to generate a suction force for the device. In some embodiments, the suction device including a wing-shaped or fan-shaped structure can suck or entrain fluids such as gases. In some embodiments, the suction device including a wing-shaped or fan-shaped structure can suck or entrain one or more gases, one or more fluids, one or more solid particles, or any combination thereof.

[0386] The geometry of adjacent surfaces (such as facing surfaces) can redirect the flow path of pressurized fluid (such as gas). The shape of one or more facing surfaces can redirect the flow path of pressurized gas. In some cases, the pressurized fluid can be redirected at an angle of about 90, 85, 80, 75, 70, 65, 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 10, 5 degrees or less relative to its initial direction. In some cases, the pressurized fluid can be redirected at an angle of 90 degrees or less relative to its initial direction. In some cases, the pressurized fluid can be redirected at an angle of about 60 degrees or less relative to its initial direction. In some cases, the pressurized fluid can be redirected at an angle of about 55 degrees or less relative to its initial direction. In some cases, the pressurized fluid can be redirected at an angle of about 40 degrees or less relative to its initial direction. In some cases, the pressurized fluid can be redirected at an angle of about 35 degrees or less relative to its initial direction. In some cases, the pressurized fluid can be redirected at an angle of about 60 degrees to about 30 degrees relative to its initial direction.

[0387] The geometry of the facing surface can guide the flow path of fluids such as pressurized gas into the hollow segment of the passive suction device. In some cases, the pressurized gas can enter the hollow segment at a 90-degree angle relative to the central axis of the passive suction device. The pressurized gas can enter the hollow segment at an angle of about 60 degrees relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas can enter the hollow segment at an angle of about 55 degrees relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas can enter the hollow segment at an angle of about 40 degrees relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas can enter the hollow segment at an angle of about 35 degrees relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas can enter the hollow segment at an angle of about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90 degrees relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas can enter the hollow segment at an angle of 90 degrees or less relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas may enter the hollow segment at an angle of about 60 degrees or less relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas may enter the hollow segment at an angle of about 55 degrees or less relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas may enter the hollow segment at an angle of about 40 degrees or less relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas may enter the hollow segment at an angle of about 35 degrees or less relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas may enter the hollow segment at an angle from about 30 degrees to 60 degrees relative to the central axis.

[0388] The geometry of the facing surface can guide the flow path of the fluid (such as pressurized gas) to travel along the surface facing the surface. For example, the pressurized gas entering the passive suction device can travel close to at least a portion of the surface facing the surface, at least a portion of the inner surface of the adjacent hollow segment, in the lumen of the hollow segment, or a combination thereof. For example, the fluid of the pressurized gas entering the passive suction device can travel close to at least about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% of the length of the surface facing the surface. The fluid can travel close to at least about 95% of the length of the surface facing the surface. The fluid can travel close to at least about 90% of the length of the surface facing the surface. The fluid can travel close to at least about 85% of the length of the surface facing the surface. The fluid can travel close to at least about 80% of the length of the surface facing the surface. The fluid may travel at least about 75% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 70% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 65% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 60% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 55% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 50% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 45% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 40% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 35% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 30% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 25% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 20% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 15% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 10% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface. The fluid may travel at least about 5% of the length of the surface approaching the facing surface.

[0389] like Fig.45 As shown, the facing surface 4500 of the hollow segment can be formed in a specific geometric shape. Fig.43B As shown, the facing surface may include a wing shape. The geometric shape may be a curved facing surface, an angled facing surface, a rounded facing surface, a straight facing surface, or a combination thereof. The facing surface 4500 may form a rounded end ( Fig.45 A) Semi-round end ( Fig.45 B) Relaxed end ( Fig.45 C), square end ( Fig.45 D) Double curved end ( Fig.45 E) concave end ( Fig.45F), inclined end ( Fig.45 G) or double-slanted end, blunt end ( Fig.45 H), flared end ( Fig.45 I or Fig.45 J), round end, tapered end, wing end ( Fig.43B ) or any combination thereof. The facing surface having a specific geometry may at least partially or completely surround the opening of the hollow segment. The facing surface may be shaped to: a) allow a fluid, such as pressurized gas, to directly enter the hollow segment of the passive suction device; b) enhance the fluid, such as pressurized gas, to travel along at least a portion of the surface of the facing surface; c) enhance the suction capacity or suction efficiency of the passive suction device; or any combination thereof.

[0390] As shown in FIG. 46 , the facing surface 4600 of the hollow segment may be formed to have a specific geometry, such as an ...

Claims

1. A system comprising: Surgical tools, containers, filters and passive suction devices, wherein the passive suction device comprises a central axis and includes: (i) a narrowing portion of the inner diameter of the hollow segment, (ii) a conduit formed by positioning a first facing surface of one end of the first hollow segment adjacent to or at least partially overlapping a second facing surface of one end of the second hollow segment, wherein the conduit includes an angle relative to the central axis, or (iii) a combination thereof, wherein pressurized fluid enters the passive suction device to form a low pressure area within the passive suction device, such that the passive suction device provides a passive suction source for the system, wherein the output port of the surgical tool is in fluid communication with the input port of the container, wherein the output port of the container is in fluid communication with the input port of the filter, and Wherein, the input port or output port of the passive suction device is in fluid communication with the input port of the surgical tool, the output port of the surgical tool, the input port of the container, the output port of the container, the input port of the filter, the output port of the filter, or any combination thereof, The angle of the conduit relative to the central axis is greater than 0 degrees and less than or equal to 55 degrees.

2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising: A first conduit and a second conduit, wherein a first end of the first conduit is fluidly connected to an output port of the surgical tool and a second end of the first conduit is fluidly connected to an input port of the container, and wherein a first end of the second conduit is fluidly connected to an output port of the container and a second end of the second conduit is fluidly connected to an input port of the filter.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The input port of the passive suction device is fluidly connected to the output port of the container, and the output port of the passive suction device is fluidly connected to the input port of the filter.

4. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The passive suction device is positioned in the system to push the material flow into the filter.

5. The system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The efficiency of the system is increased by at least about 60% compared to fluidly connecting the input port of the passive suction device to the output port of the filter.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein: The efficiency of the system is increased by at least about 75%.

7. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The passive suction device is integrated with the container, the surgical tool, the filter, the pipeline or any combination thereof.

8. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The passive suction device may be attached to the container, the surgical tool, the filter, the tubing, or any combination thereof.

9. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The system includes two passive suction devices.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein: The output port of the first passive suction device is fluidically connected to the input port of the container, and the input port of the second passive suction device is fluidically connected to the output port of the container.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein: Pressure balance of material flow within the pipeline, the container, or a combination thereof.

12. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The first passive suction device is positioned to push a flow of material into the container, and the second passive suction device is positioned to draw a flow of material from the container.

13. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The stiffness of the conduit is reduced compared to a system comprising a single passive suction device.

14. The system of claim 2, wherein: The tubing includes a wall thickness of about 0.01 inches or less.

15. The system of claim 2, wherein: The tubing includes a wall thickness of about 0.001 inches or less.

16. The system of claim 2, wherein: The tubing includes a wall thickness of about 0.0001 inches or less.

17. The system of claim 2, wherein: The passive suction device includes at least one Coanda effect, at least one Venturi effect, at least one Bernoulli effect or a combination thereof.

18. The system of claim 2, wherein: The passive suction device is fluidly connected to an input port of the surgical tool, and wherein the entrainment of the material flow occurs at the input port of the surgical tool.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein: The diameter of the entrainment of the material flow at the input port of the surgical tool is at least about 1 times the diameter of the surgical tool.

20. The system of claim 2, wherein: The rolled-in diameter is at least about twice the diameter of the surgical tool.

21. A passive suction device comprising: Central axis; a first hollow segment including a first facing surface and a first lumen at one end of the first hollow segment; as well as a second hollow segment comprising a second facing surface and a second lumen at one end of the second hollow segment, wherein the first facing surface is adjacent to or at least partially overlaps the second facing surface to form a conduit therebetween, the conduit having an angle relative to the central axis, wherein the geometry of the first facing surface, the geometry of the second facing surface, or a combination thereof directs a flow path of pressurized fluid into the passive suction device, and wherein the pressurized fluid travels substantially adjacent to (i) the first facing surface for at least about 30% of the length of the first facing surface, or substantially adjacent to (ii) the second facing surface for at least about 30% of the length of the second facing surface, The angle of the conduit relative to the central axis is greater than 0 degrees and less than or equal to 55 degrees.

22. The passive suction device according to claim 21, wherein The pressurized fluid travels substantially adjacent to (i) the first facing surface for at least about 60% of the length of the first facing surface, or substantially adjacent to (ii) the second facing surface for at least about 60% of the length of the second facing surface.

23. The passive suction device according to claim 21, wherein: The geometry of the first facing surface, the second facing surface, or a combination thereof, forms a rounded end, a semi-rounded end, a relaxed end, a square end, a double curved end, a concave end, an inclined end, a double inclined end, a blunt end, a flared end, a rounded end, a tapered end, a winged end, or any combination thereof.

24. The passive suction device of claim 21, wherein: The geometry of the first facing surface, the second facing surface, or a combination thereof is adjustable.

25. The passive suction device of claim 21, wherein: The geometry of the first facing surface, the geometry of the second facing surface, or a combination thereof redirects the flow path by less than about 90 degrees relative to an initial direction of the flow path.

26. The passive suction device according to claim 25, wherein: The initial direction is perpendicular to the central axis of the passive suction device.

27. The passive suction device of claim 21, wherein: Adjusting the geometry may: (i) redirect the flow path of the pressurized fluid, (ii) change the pumping capacity, (iii) change the pumping efficiency, (iv) change the volumetric flow rate of the pressurized fluid, (v) change the percentage length of the facing surface along which the pressurized fluid travels, or (vi) any combination thereof.

28. The passive suction device of claim 21, wherein: The pressurized fluid enters the passive suction device at an angle of less than 35 degrees relative to the central axis of the passive suction device.

29. The passive suction device of claim 21, wherein: The pressurized fluid enters the passive suction device at an angle of approximately 55 degrees relative to the central axis of the passive suction device.

30. A surgical device comprising: Central axis; a first input port for receiving pressurized fluid into the surgical device; a second input port for receiving entrained fluid into the surgical device; an output port through which a flow of material including at least a portion of the entrained fluid, at least a portion of the pressurized fluid, or a combination thereof, is discharged from the surgical device; as well as (i) a narrowing of the inner diameter of the hollow segment, (ii) a conduit formed by a first facing surface of one end of the first hollow segment positioned adjacent to or at least partially overlapping a second facing surface of one end of the second hollow segment, wherein the conduit includes an angle relative to the central axis, or (iii) a combination thereof, wherein the pressurized fluid enters the first input port of the surgical device to form a low pressure area within the surgical device, so that the second input port of the surgical device draws in at least a portion of the fluid from a location outside the surgical device, The angle of the conduit relative to the central axis is greater than 0 degrees and less than or equal to 55 degrees.

31. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The second input port is the conduit.

32. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The second input port is an annular opening.

33. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The suction capacity of the surgical device is adjustable.

34. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: Adjusting the width of the conduit may: (i) adjust the suction capacity of the surgical device, (ii) adjust the volume flow rate of the entrained fluid, (iii) adjust the volume ratio of gas suction to liquid suction, or (iv) any combination thereof.

35. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The surgical device includes at least one constriction and at least one catheter.

36. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The flow path of the entrained fluid upon entering the second input port of the surgical device is redirected from about 5 degrees to about 85 degrees relative to the initial direction.

37. The surgical device according to claim 36, wherein: The entrained fluid enters the catheter, and wherein the initial direction is along a central longitudinal axis of the surgical device.

38. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The flow path of the pressurized fluid upon entering the first input port of the surgical device is redirected from approximately 5 degrees to 85 degrees relative to an initial direction.

39. The surgical device according to claim 38, wherein: The pressurized fluid enters the conduit, and Wherein, the initial direction is along the central longitudinal axis of the surgical device.

40. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The surgical device is a ventilator.

41. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The surgical device is a suction device.

42. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The surgical device is configured to be attachable to a surgical tool.

43. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The surgical device is a surgical suction device fluidically connected to a surgical tool, a container, a filter, a tube, or any combination thereof.

44. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The surgical device is a surgical suction device in fluid communication with a surgical tool, a container, a filter, a tube, or any combination thereof.

45. The surgical device according to claim 44, wherein: The tubing includes a wall thickness of about 0.01 inches or less.

46. ​​The surgical device according to claim 44, wherein: The tubing includes a wall thickness of about 0.001 inches or less.

47. The surgical device according to claim 44, wherein: The tubing includes a wall thickness of about 0.0001 inches or less.

48. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The involved fluid includes gas, liquid, solid or a combination thereof.

49. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The involved fluid includes body fluids.

50. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The geometry of the first facing surface, the second facing surface, or a combination thereof, forms a rounded end, a semi-rounded end, a relaxed end, a square end, a double curved end, a concave end, an inclined end, a double inclined end, a blunt end, a flared end, a rounded end, a tapered end, a winged end, or any combination thereof.

51. The surgical device according to claim 30, wherein: The diameter of the fluid-engaging portion of the surgical tool at the input port in fluid communication with the surgical device is at least about 1 times the diameter of the surgical tool.

52. The surgical device according to claim 51, wherein: The diameter of the fluid entrainment site is at least about twice the diameter of the surgical tool.

53. A method comprising: receiving a pressurized fluid at a first input port into a surgical device having a central axis; forming a low pressure zone within the surgical device, wherein the low pressure zone is formed by passing the pressurized fluid through: (i) a narrowing of an inner diameter of a hollow segment of the surgical device, (ii) a conduit of the surgical device formed by positioning a first facing surface of one end of the first hollow segment adjacent to or at least partially overlapping a second facing surface of one end of a second hollow segment, wherein the conduit includes an angle relative to the central axis, or (iii) a combination thereof; aspirating at least a portion of the entrained fluid from a location external to the surgical device; and removing at least a portion of the pressurized fluid, at least a portion of the entrained fluid, or a combination thereof through an output port of the surgical device, The angle of the conduit relative to the central axis is greater than 0 degrees and less than or equal to 55 degrees.

54. The method of claim 53, further comprising: The suction capacity of the surgical device is adjusted.

55. The method of claim 53, wherein: Adjusting the width of the conduit may: (i) adjust the suction capacity of the surgical device, (ii) adjust the volume flow rate of the entrained fluid, (iii) adjust the volume ratio of gas suction to liquid suction, or (iv) any combination thereof.

56. The method of claim 53, wherein: The surgical device is a ventilator.

57. The method of claim 53, wherein: The surgical device is fluidly connected to a surgical tool, a container, a filter, a tube, or any combination thereof.

58. The method of claim 53, wherein: The involved fluid includes body fluids.

59. A method comprising: receiving the pressurized fluid into a conduit of the passive suction device having a central axis, wherein the conduit is formed by a first facing surface of one end of a first hollow segment positioned adjacent to or at least partially overlapping a second facing surface of one end of a second hollow segment, wherein the conduit includes an angle relative to the central axis; and directing a flow path of pressurized fluid substantially adjacent to the first facing surface for at least about 30% of the length of the first facing surface, The angle of the conduit relative to the central axis is greater than 0 degrees and less than or equal to 55 degrees.

60. The method of claim 59, wherein: The pressurized fluid travels substantially adjacent to (i) the first facing surface for at least about 60% of the length of the first facing surface, or substantially adjacent to (ii) the second facing surface for at least about 60% of the length of the second facing surface.

61. The method of claim 59, wherein: The geometry of the first facing surface, the second facing surface, or a combination thereof, forms a rounded end, a semi-rounded end, a relaxed end, a square end, a double curved end, a concave end, an inclined end, a double inclined end, a blunt end, a flared end, a rounded end, a tapered end, a winged end, or any combination thereof.

62. The method of claim 59, further comprising: The geometry of the first facing surface, the second facing surface, or a combination thereof is adjusted.

63. The method of claim 59, wherein: Adjusting the geometry may: (i) redirect the flow path of the pressurized fluid, (ii) change the pumping capacity, (iii) change the pumping efficiency, (iv) change the volumetric flow rate of the pressurized fluid, (v) change the percentage length of the facing surface along which the pressurized fluid travels, or (vi) any combination thereof.

64. The method of claim 59, wherein: The pressurized fluid enters the passive suction device at an angle of 55 degrees relative to the central axis of the passive suction device.

65. A method comprising: receiving a pressurized fluid into a passive suction device of a system, wherein the system comprises a surgical tool, a container, a filter, and the passive suction device having a central axis; forming a low pressure region within the passive suction device, wherein the low pressure region is formed by passing the pressurized fluid through: (i) a narrowing of an inner diameter of a hollow segment, (ii) a conduit formed by positioning a first facing surface of one end of the first hollow segment adjacent to or at least partially overlapping a second facing surface of one end of the second hollow segment, wherein the conduit includes an angle relative to the central axis, or (iii) a combination thereof; and Involving a material flow at an input port of the surgical tool, The angle of the conduit relative to the central axis is greater than 0 degrees and less than or equal to 55 degrees.

66. The method of claim 65, further comprising: The material flow is pushed into the input port of the filter.

67. The method of claim 65, further comprising: The pressure within the vessel is equalized.

68. The method of claim 65, wherein: The system also includes a first conduit and a second conduit, wherein a first end of the first conduit is fluidly connected to an output port of the surgical tool and a second end of the first conduit is fluidly connected to an input port of the container, and wherein a first end of the second conduit is fluidly connected to an output port of the container and a second end of the second conduit is fluidly connected to an input port of the filter.

69. The method of claim 68, wherein: The tubing includes a wall thickness of about 0.01 inches or less.

70. The method of claim 68, wherein: The tubing includes a wall thickness of about 0.001 inches or less.

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