Castellated check valve

Abstract

A check valve includes an upper housing defining an inlet of the check valve, a lower housing defining an outlet of the check valve, and a cavity interposed between and defined by the upper housing and the lower housing for fluidly connecting the inlet and the outlet. The check valve also includes a valve member mounted in the cavity to selectively permit fluid flow in a first direction and prevent fluid backflow in a second direction opposite the first direction. The valve member includes a valve body and a stem portion extending axially through a central axis of the valve body. The valve member may further include a plurality of legs disposed about an outer circumferential perimeter of the valve body and extending longitudinally therefrom.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an application with an application date of March 3, 2020, application number 202080018718.7 (international application number PCT / US2020 / 020841), and invention name “Cascade Check Valve”. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to check valves, and more particularly to valve members of check valves having a geometry that minimizes sticking of the valve members together during bulk packaging or during assembly of the check valve. Background Art

[0003] Patients are usually injected with an intravenous (IV) solution, which is initially provided in an IV container (bottle or bag) and dripped into the patient's vein through the IV tubing. Typically, an injection port is provided along the IV tubing and is adapted to work with a syringe to allow injectables to be added to the IV solution. A check valve is also typically included in the IV tubing to allow fluid flow only in the direction of the patient. This ensures that the injectable flows downstream to the patient, rather than upstream to the IV container.

[0004] Conventional check valves employ disc-shaped valve members that are typically flat and are typically made of silicone, which is naturally sticky. This geometry allows the valve members to stick together (during bulk packaging), resulting in a condition known as "shingling," which makes automated assembly of conventional check valves difficult. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to check valves, and more particularly to valve members of check valves having a geometry that minimizes sticking of the valve members together during bulk packaging or during assembly of the check valve.

[0006] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a check valve includes an upper housing, a lower housing, a cavity interposed between the upper housing and the lower housing and defined by the upper housing and the lower housing, and a valve member installed in the cavity to selectively allow fluid flow in a first direction and prevent fluid backflow in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The upper housing defines an inlet of the check valve, and the lower housing defines an outlet of the check valve. The cavity fluidically connects the inlet and the outlet. The valve member includes a valve body and a valve stem portion extending axially through the central axis of the valve body.

[0007] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a check valve includes an upper housing defining an inlet of the check valve, a lower housing axially coupled to the upper housing and including an outlet of the check valve, and a cavity interposed between and defined by the upper housing and the lower housing for fluidically connecting the inlet and the outlet. The check valve also includes a flexible valve member mounted in the cavity to selectively allow fluid flow in a first direction and prevent fluid backflow in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The flexible valve member includes a body having a plurality of longitudinally extending legs disposed around an outer circumferential edge of the body.

[0008] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a flexible valve member includes a valve body and a plurality of legs disposed around an outer circumferential edge of the valve body and extending longitudinally therefrom.

[0009] It is understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative, and are intended to provide further explanation of the subject technology claimed. It is also understood that other aspects can be utilized and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the subject technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The following drawings are included to illustrate certain aspects of the embodiments and should not be considered as exclusive embodiments. The disclosed subject matter is capable of considerable modification, alteration, combination, and equivalents in form and function as will occur to those skilled in the art and having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0011] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a check valve according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 1B According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1A A perspective view of a valve member of a check valve.

[0013] Figure 1C According to some embodiments Figure 1B Assembly line for valve components of check valves.

[0014] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a check valve according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 2B According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 2A A perspective view of a valve member of a check valve.

[0016] Figure 2C According to some embodiments Figure 2B Assembly line for valve components of check valves.

[0017] Figure 3is a perspective view of a check valve according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 4A According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3 Exploded perspective view of a check valve.

[0019] Figure 4B According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3 Exploded cross-sectional view of a check valve.

[0020] Figure 4C is an assembly line of a valve component of the check valve of FIG. 4 according to some embodiments.

[0021] Figure 5 is in a closed state according to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a check valve, wherein the check valve restricts fluid flow in a reverse direction.

[0022] Figure 6 is in a closed state according to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3 An enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a check valve wherein the check valve is subject to excessive back pressure.

[0023] Figure 7 is in an open state when subjected to upstream pressure according to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a check valve, wherein the check valve allows fluid flow in a forward direction.

[0024] Figure 8 According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the Figure 3 A partial enlarged cross-sectional view of a check valve, wherein the check valve allows fluid flow in a forward direction.

[0025] Fig. 9A is a perspective view of a check valve according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Fig. 9B According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Fig. 9A A perspective view of a valve member of a check valve.

[0027] Fig. 10A is in a closed state according to some embodiments of the present disclosure Fig. 9A A cross-sectional view of a check valve, wherein Fig. 9B The central axis of the valve member is not aligned with the central axis of the check valve.

[0028] Fig. 10B According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Fig. 9BA cross-sectional view of a valve member of the check valve, wherein the valve member is not aligned with the central axis of the check valve.

[0029] Fig. 10C is in an open state according to some embodiments of the present disclosure Fig. 9A A cross-sectional view of a check valve, wherein Fig. 9B The central axis of the valve member is not aligned with the central axis of the check valve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The detailed description set forth below describes various configurations of the subject technology, and is not intended to represent the only configurations that can practice the subject technology. The specific embodiments include specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology. Therefore, dimensions can be provided as non-limiting examples with respect to certain aspects. However, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject technology can be implemented without these specific details. In some cases, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid blurring the concept of the subject technology.

[0031] It is understood that the present disclosure includes examples of subject technology and does not limit the scope of the appended claims. The various aspects of the subject technology will be described below based on specific but non-limiting examples. The various embodiments described in this disclosure can be performed in different ways and variations and according to the intended application and implementation.

[0032] The present disclosure relates generally to check valves and, more particularly, to valve members of check valves having a geometry that minimizes sticking of the valve members during bulk packaging or during assembly of the check valve, for example and without limitation.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the valve member may include a valve body and a valve stem portion extending axially through the central axis of the valve body. An advantage of the valve member of the various embodiments described herein is that the valve body and the valve stem portion can define a "jack" shaped geometry, which will reduce the exposed surface area available for adhesion of the valve member during assembly. In particular, the presence of the valve stem portion limits the exposed surface area of ​​the valve body available for adhesion or "wrinkling". In some embodiments, the exposed surface area of ​​the valve member available for adhesion is reduced by up to 69%. The valve member can then be fed along an assembly line or track with a reduced surface area for adhesion and / or friction.

[0034] According to some embodiments, valve members including or not including rod portions may additionally include a plurality of legs at the outer peripheral edge of the valve body. Each of the legs may extend longitudinally from the outer peripheral edge of the valve body. The legs may be spaced apart from each other so as to form a castellated shape around the edge of the valve body, and therefore may be referred to as castellated legs. As shown, the castellated legs may be oriented to be substantially perpendicular to the outer peripheral edge of the valve body. Such benefits are achieved by the geometry of the valve member with castellated legs, which further prevents or hinders the contact of the upper surface and / or lower surface of the valve body during bulk packaging, assembly and / or transportation. In particular, since the upper surface of each of the castellated legs protrudes and therefore rises above the upper surface of the valve body, the contact and adhesion of the exposed surface area of ​​the upper surface of the valve body are limited. Similarly, since the lower surface of each castellated leg protrudes below the lower surface of the valve body, the contact and adhesion of the exposed surface area of ​​the lower surface of the valve body are limited. An additional benefit is achieved in that, due to the longitudinally projecting structure of the castellated legs, the valve member can be concentrically retained in the cavity of the check valve when the valve is subject to back pressure conditions. The valve is symmetrical and can be assembled on either side.

[0035] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a check valve 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1B According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1A A perspective view of the valve member 35 of the check valve. Figure 1C According to some embodiments Figure 1B 1 , the check valve 100 includes an assembly line for the valve member 35 of the check valve 100. As shown, the top portion of the check valve 100 (i.e., the upper housing 10) is shown in a cross-sectional view to more clearly show some features of the check valve 100. Referring to FIG. 1 , the check valve 100 includes an axially extending body 101 defining a central longitudinal axis X1. The body 101 may be a generally cylindrical (or tubular) structure, and may include an upper housing 10 and a lower housing 15. The upper housing 10 may include a first end portion 12 and an axially opposite second end portion 14. As shown, the radial extension of the upper housing 10 at the second end portion 14 may be greater than its radial extension at the first end portion 12. The lower housing 15 may include an upstream internal surface 52, and the upstream internal surface 52 of the lower housing 15 and the second end portion 14 may be in axial contact with each other to form the cavity 30 of the check valve 100 together.

[0036] The upper housing 10 may include an inlet 20 of the check valve 100 at the first end 12, and the lower housing 15 may include an outlet 25 of the check valve 100. The body 101 may define an internal flow passage 85 extending axially between the inlet 20 and the outlet 25 and in fluid communication with them. As understood, the check valve 100 may allow fluid to flow from the inlet 20 to the outlet 25 (as indicated by arrow A) and minimize or otherwise restrict fluid flow from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20 (as indicated by arrow B). As shown, the upper housing 10 and the lower housing 15 may define a cavity 30 for fluidly connecting the inlet 20 and the outlet 25. In the illustrated embodiment, a flexible valve member 35 may be mounted in the cavity 30 to selectively allow fluid flow in a first direction (indicated by arrow A) and prevent fluid backflow (reverse flow) in a second direction (indicated by arrow B) opposite to the first direction.

[0037] According to some embodiments, the valve member 35 may have a valve body 22 and a stem portion 18 extending axially through the center axis X2 of the valve body 22. The valve body 22 may be in the shape of a disc or in the form of any other circular plate. As shown, the valve member 35 may be mounted on the support portion 28 of the lower housing 14. In particular, the support portion 28 may include a central perforation 44 and a plurality of axially extending slots 46, through which the fluid flowing from the inlet 20 and entering the cavity 30 may enter the outlet 25 in the open state of the check valve 100. As shown, the stem portion 18 of the valve member 35 may be mounted in the central perforation 44 of the support portion. The above-mentioned construction of the valve member 35 may provide several manufacturing and assembly advantages. A common problem encountered during the packaging, transportation and assembly of the check valve is that when a conventional valve member (e.g., a disc-type check valve member) is packaged in bulk and / or transported on a transport line, the valve member is easily squeezed. In particular, because conventional disc valve members are typically flat and made of naturally sticky silicone, this geometry allows conventional disc valve members to stick together (during bulk packaging), resulting in "squeezing." This makes automated assembly difficult. An advantage of the valve member 35 of the various embodiments described herein is that the valve body 22 and the valve stem portion 18 can define a "jack" shaped geometry of the valve member 35, which will reduce the exposed surface area available for adhesion of the valve member 35 during assembly. In particular, the presence of the stem portion 18 limits the exposed surface area of ​​the body 22 that is available for adhesion or wrinkling. Because the stem portion will at least partially separate the surfaces of the holding body, the valve member is much less likely to stick. In some embodiments, the exposed surface area of ​​the valve member 35 available for adhesion is reduced by up to 69%. As shown in FIG. Figure 1CAs shown, the valve member 35 can now be fed along the track 70A, which has a reduced surface area for sticking and / or friction. An additional benefit is achieved because the valve member 35 will be concentrically disposed in the cavity 30 of the check valve 100, so the rim circumferential edge of the valve member 35 is prevented from contacting an internal surface, such as the downstream internal surface 59 of the upper housing 10 (described in further detail below), which can keep the valve open. In addition, because the valve member 35 is symmetrically shaped, it can be assembled on either side thereof.

[0038] Return to reference Figure 1A , the support portion 28 can be centrally disposed in the cavity 30, and the central axis X3 of the support portion 28 can be coaxially aligned with the central longitudinal axis X1 of the body 101. The support portion 28 can be coupled to the upstream interior surface 52 of the lower shell 15, formed integrally therewith, or otherwise protrude from the upstream interior surface of the lower shell, and extend into the cavity 30. As discussed in further detail below, the cavity 30 can form a portion of the internal flow passage 85, or can otherwise be in fluid communication with the internal flow passage 85, and thus the fluid flowing from the inlet 20 to the outlet 25 can flow via the cavity 30.

[0039] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a check valve 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2B According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 2A 2 is a perspective view of the valve member 37 of the check valve 200. Figure 2C According to some embodiments Figure 2B The assembly line of the valve member 37 of the check valve 200 is shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, the top portion of the check valve 200 (ie, the upper housing 11) is shown in a cross-sectional view, so as to more clearly show some features of the check valve 200. Figure 2A , similar to Figure 1A In an embodiment of the check valve 200, the check valve 200 includes an axially extending body 201 defining a central longitudinal axis X1. The body 201 may be a generally cylindrical (or tubular) structure, and may include an upper shell 11 and a lower shell 16. The upper shell 11 may include a first end portion 19 and an axially opposite second end portion 21. As shown, the radial extension length of the upper shell 11 at the second end portion 21 may be greater than its radial extension length at the first end portion 19. The lower shell 16 may include an upstream inner surface 52, and the upstream inner surface 52 and the second end portion 21 of the lower shell 16 may be in axial contact with each other to jointly form the cavity 30 of the check valve 200.

[0040] The upper housing 11 may include an inlet 20 of a check valve 200 at the first end 19, and the lower housing 16 may include an outlet 25 of the check valve 200. Figure 1A In the embodiment of the present invention, the body 201 can define an internal flow passage 85 that extends axially between the inlet 20 and the outlet 25 and is in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet. As understood, the check valve 200 can allow fluid to flow from the inlet 20 to the outlet 25 and minimize or otherwise restrict fluid flow from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20. As shown, the upper housing 11 and the lower housing 16 can define a cavity 30 for fluidly connecting the inlet 20 and the outlet 25. In the illustrated embodiment, a flexible valve member 37 can be installed in the cavity 30 to selectively allow fluid flow from the inlet 20 to the outlet 25 and prevent fluid backflow (reverse flow) from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20.

[0041] According to some embodiments, similar to the valve member 35, the valve member 37 may have a valve body 22 and a valve stem portion 18 extending axially through the central axis X2 of the valve body 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve member 37 additionally has a plurality of legs 24 disposed along the outer circumferential edge 33 of the valve body 22. Each of the legs 24 may extend longitudinally from the outer circumferential edge 23 of the valve body 22. As shown, the legs 24 may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the outer circumferential edge 23 of the valve body 22. In particular, the legs 24 may extend from the upper surface 22A and the lower surface 22B of the valve body 22 and protrude substantially vertically. In this way, the upper surface 24A of each of the legs 24 may be positioned at a predetermined height above the upper surface 22A of the valve body 22 or protrude at a predetermined height above the upper surface 22A of the valve body 22. Similarly, the lower surface 24B of each of the legs 24 may be positioned at a predetermined height below the lower surface 22B of the valve body 22 or protrude at a predetermined height below the lower surface 22B of the valve body 22. In some embodiments, the legs 24 can be spaced apart from each other at regular intervals. For example, the valve member 37 can have two or more legs 24 that are equally spaced apart from each other. However, in other embodiments, the legs 24 can be spaced apart from each other at irregular intervals. For example, the spacing between each of the legs can vary depending on the intended application. In some embodiments, adjacent pairs of legs 24 define a recessed flow portion 29 therebetween, and a fluid entering the cavity 30 from the upper housing can flow into the lower housing through the recessed flow portion.

[0042] As shown, the leg 24 can have a polygonal shape, such as a rectangle, a square or any other suitable polygonal shape. In other embodiments, the leg 24 can have a curved shape, such as a circular, elliptical or oblong shape. The configuration of the valve member 37 (wherein adjacent legs 24 are interposed with corresponding recessed flow portions 29) can produce a structure similar to a castellated structure. Therefore, the leg 24 can be referred to as a castellated leg 24 in this article. However, the various embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the aforementioned configuration, and the spacing and shape of the legs 24 from each other (i.e., the extension or size of the recessed flow portion 29) can be changed as desired.

[0043] Similar to Figure 1A In the embodiment of the present invention, the valve member 37 can be mounted on the support portion 28 of the lower housing 16. In particular, the support portion 28 can include a central through hole 44 and a plurality of axially extending slots 46, through which the fluid flowing from the inlet 20 into the cavity 30 can enter the outlet 25 when the check valve 200 is in the open state. As shown in the figure, the valve stem portion 18 of the valve member 35 can be mounted in the central through hole 44 of the support portion 28. The above-mentioned configuration of the valve member 37 can provide additional and consistent Figures 1A-1C The valve member 37 has similar manufacturing and assembly advantages as the valve member 35 of the embodiment of the present invention. In particular, since the valve member 37 is also constructed with the valve stem portion 18, the common problems encountered during packaging, assembly and transportation mentioned above are minimized. The "socket" shaped geometry of the valve member 37 reduces the exposed surface area of ​​the valve member 35 available for adhesion during assembly, thereby reducing the possibility of the surface of the valve body 22 "wrinkling" or sticking together during transportation or assembly.

[0044] In some embodiments, the exposed surface area of ​​valve member 37 available for adhesion is reduced by up to 69%. Figure 2CAs shown, the valve member 37 can now be fed along the track 70B, which has a reduced surface area for sticking and / or friction. Such benefits are achieved by having a geometric shape of the valve member 37, and the castellated legs 24 further prevent or hinder the upper surface and / or lower surface 22A, 22B of the valve body 22 from contacting during assembly and / or transportation. In particular, the construction of the valve member 37 further limits the exposed surface area of ​​the lower surface 22A from contacting and sticking to each other, in the construction of the valve member, the upper surface 24A of each of the castellated legs 24 protrudes and is thus elevated above the upper surface 22A of the valve body 22. Similarly, the construction of the valve member 37 further limits the exposed surface area of ​​the lower surface 22B from contacting and sticking to each other, in the construction of the valve member, the lower surface 24B of each of the castellated legs 24 protrudes below the lower surface 22B of the valve body 22. Thus, the valve member 37 is much less likely to stick than conventional valve members because the castellated legs 24 at least partially separate the surface that retains the body 22. In some embodiments, the exposed surface area of ​​the valve member 37 that is available for sticking is reduced by up to 69%. It will be appreciated that the degree of reduction in the exposed surface area of ​​the valve member 37 that is available for sticking can vary accordingly based on the size and geometry of the castellated legs 24. An additional benefit is achieved in that, due to the longitudinally protruding structure of the castellated legs 24, the valve member 37 is able to be concentrically retained in the cavity 30 of the check valve 200 when the valve member 37 is subject to back pressure conditions. In addition, because the valve member 37 is symmetrically shaped, it can be assembled on either side thereof. In all other respects, the valve member 37 can be similar to the valve member 37 described above with reference to Figure 1B The valve member 35 described is identical.

[0045] According to some embodiments, the check valve 200 may also include a filter member 26, which is coupled, attached or otherwise coupled to an internal surface, such as a surface 55 of the upper housing 11. For example, the filter member 26 may be coupled, attached or otherwise coupled to the flange 53 of the internal surface 55 by any suitable method, including but not limited to ultrasonic welding, heat sealing, insert molding, gluing or other attachment methods. The filter member 26 may be disposed upstream of the valve member 37 and spaced apart from the valve member. In this way, when the valve member 37 is subjected to excessive reverse flow (flowing from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20) and causes the valve member 37 to bend or deflect upward, a gap is retained between the filter member 26 and the valve member 37 to prevent the valve member 37 from stretching the filter member 26 beyond its elastic limit. Therefore, even in the case of excessive backflow, the integrity of the filter member 26 can be maintained. The filter member 26 may be configured to constrain and minimize the passage of unintended substances in the fluid flowing through the check valve 200.

[0046] Filter member 26 can be formed by porous material, and described porous material can prevent the particulate matter of specific size from passing through and potentially reaching valve member 37 and causing valve member failure.For example, filter member 26 can be formed by porous plastic material.Alternatively, filter member 26 can be made of non-woven cast material (non-woven cast material), cork material or any other porous fabric or material.Filter member 26 can be formed with multiple small orifices, or it can be woven, to provide the pore of about 20 to 200 microns in size.In certain embodiments, filter member 26 can be flexible material, such as metal or polymeric material.In certain embodiments, filter member 40 can be formed by the material that can withstand or filter the flow rate between 3 to 8 liters per hour.In addition, filter member 26 can be formed by the porous material that can withstand the back pressure of up to 200KPa that reverse flow produces.Advantageously, the latter structure can minimize the possibility that filter member 26 collapses under the back pressure produced by reverse fluid flow.

[0047] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a check valve 300 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 4A According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3 1 is an exploded perspective view of the check valve 300 . Figure 4B According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3 An exploded cross-sectional view of the check valve 300 is shown. Figure 4C An assembly line of the valve member 39 of the check valve of FIG. 4 is shown according to some embodiments.

[0048] refer to Figure 3 , the top portion of the check valve 300 (ie, the upper housing 13) is shown in cross-section to more clearly illustrate some features of the check valve 300. Figure 3-4B , similar to Figure 1A and 2A In an embodiment of the check valve 300, the check valve 300 includes an axially extending body 301 defining a central longitudinal axis X1. The body 301 may be a generally cylindrical (or tubular) structure, and may include an upper shell 13 and a lower shell 17. The upper shell 13 may include a first end portion 29 and an axially opposite second end portion 31. As shown, the radial extension length of the upper shell 11 at the second end portion 31 may be greater than its radial extension length at the first end portion 29. The lower shell 17 may include an upstream inner surface 52, and the upstream inner surface 52 and the second end portion 31 of the lower shell 17 may be in axial contact with each other to jointly form the cavity 30 of the check valve 300.

[0049] The upper housing 13 may include an inlet 20 of a check valve 300 at the first end 19, and the lower housing 17 may include an outlet 25 of the check valve 300. Figure 1A In the embodiment of the present invention, the body 201 can define an internal flow passage 85 that extends axially between the inlet 20 and the outlet 25 and is in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet. As understood, the check valve 300 can allow fluid to flow from the inlet 20 to the outlet 25 and minimize or otherwise restrict fluid flow from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20. As shown, the upper housing 13 and the lower housing 17 can define a cavity 30 for fluidly connecting the inlet 20 and the outlet 25. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible valve member 39 can be installed in the cavity 30 to selectively allow fluid flow from the inlet 20 to the outlet 25 and prevent fluid backflow (reverse flow) from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20.

[0050] According to some embodiments, the valve member 39 may be similar in structure to the valve member 37, except that the valve member 39 does not include the valve stem portion 18. Therefore, similar to the valve member 37, the valve member 39 may have a plurality of longitudinally extending legs 24 at the outer circumferential edge 23 of the valve body 22. As described above, the legs 24 may be arranged around the outer circumferential edge 23 of the valve body 22 in a castellated manner, and thus may be referred to herein as castellated legs 42. Each of the castellated legs 24 may extend longitudinally from the outer circumferential edge 23 of the valve body 22. Since the castellated legs 24 of the valve member 37 are the same as the castellated legs 24 of the valve member 39, and a detailed description of the castellated legs 24 of the valve member 37 is provided, a detailed description thereof with respect to the valve member 39 will be omitted.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the valve member 39 may be mounted on the support portion 34 of the lower housing 17. The configuration of the valve member 39 having a plurality of castellated teeth 24 may provide for Figure 2A-2C In particular, such benefits are achieved by having a valve member 39 having a geometry where the castellated feet 24 prevent or hinder contact between the upper and / or lower surfaces 22A, 22B of the valve body 22 during bulk packaging, assembly and / or shipping. For example, Figure 4CAs shown, the valve member 39 can now be fed along the track 70C, which has a reduced surface area for sticking and / or friction. In particular, as described with respect to the valve member 37, the exposed surface area of ​​the lower surface 22A is further limited from contacting and sticking to each other by the construction of the valve member 39, in which the upper surface 24A of each of the castellated legs 24 protrudes and is thus elevated above the upper surface 22A of the valve body 22. Similarly, the exposed surface area of ​​the lower surface 22B is further limited from contacting and sticking to each other by the construction of the valve member 39, in which the lower surface 24B of each of the castellated legs 24 protrudes below the lower surface 22B of the valve body 22. Therefore, the valve member 39 is much less likely to stick than conventional valve members because the castellated legs at least partially separate the surfaces that hold the body 22. In some embodiments, the exposed surface area of ​​the valve member 39 that is available for sticking is reduced by up to 69%. It will be appreciated that the degree to which the exposed surface area of ​​the valve member 39 available for adhesion is reduced may vary accordingly based on the size and geometry of the castellated feet 24 .

[0052] An additional benefit is achieved in that, due to the longitudinally projecting structure of the castellated legs 24, the valve member 39 can be concentrically retained in the cavity 30 of the check valve 300 when the valve member 39 is subjected to back pressure conditions. In addition, because the valve member 39 is symmetrically shaped, it can be assembled on either side thereof. In all other respects, the valve member 39 can be similar to the valve member 39 described above with reference to Figure 2B The valve member 37 described is identical.

[0053] According to some embodiments, the check valve 300 may also include a filter member 26 that is coupled, attached or otherwise combined to an inner surface, such as a surface 59 of the upper housing 13. For example, the filter member 26 may be coupled, attached or otherwise combined by any suitable method, including but not limited to ultrasonic welding, heat sealing, insert molding, gluing or other attachment methods. The filter member 26 may be disposed upstream of the valve member 37 and spaced apart from the valve member. As shown, the filter member 26 may be coupled or otherwise attached to a flange 53 of an inner surface 55 of the upper housing 13. The filter member 26 may be configured to constrain and minimize the passage of unintended substances in the fluid flowing through the check valve 300.

[0054] Filter member 26 can be formed by porous material, and described porous material can prevent the particulate matter of specific size from passing through and potentially reaching valve member 37 and causing valve member failure.For example, filter member 26 can be formed by porous plastic material.Alternatively, filter member 26 can be made of non-woven cast material (non-woven cast material), cork material or any other porous fabric or material.Filter member 26 can be formed with multiple small orifices, or it can be woven, to provide the pore of about 20 to 200 microns in size.In certain embodiments, filter member 26 can be flexible material, such as metal or polymeric material.In certain embodiments, filter member 40 can be formed by the material that can withstand or filter with the flow rate between 3 to 8 liters per hour.In addition, filter member 26 can be formed by the porous material that can withstand the back pressure of up to 200KPa that reverse flow produces.Advantageously, the latter structure can minimize the possibility that filter member 26 collapses under the back pressure produced by reverse fluid flow.

[0055] According to some embodiments, the upper housing 13 may include at least one longitudinally extending rib 45 protruding radially inward from the upstream interior surface 57. The at least one longitudinally extending rib 45 may be configured as a protruding surface that is disposed directly above or upstream of the filter member 26. In some embodiments, the filter member 26 may be disposed between the plurality of longitudinally extending ribs 45 and the flexible valve member 39. As shown, the filter member 26 is positioned to be spaced apart from the distal ends 51 of the plurality of ribs 45 and a gap G is disposed between the filter member 26 and the distal ends. The aforementioned configuration is conducive to maximizing the surface area for fluid flow from the inlet into the cavity and minimizing the obstruction to fluid flow from the inlet 20 to the outlet 25.

[0056] Figure 5-8 is a cross-sectional view of a check valve 300 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 5 is in a closed state according to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3A cross-sectional view of a check valve, wherein the check valve restricts fluid flow in a reverse direction. As shown, the upper housing 13 may include an interior surface 55 extending along the length of the interior of the upper housing 13 and defining a flow passage 85. The interior surface 55 may include an upstream interior surface 57 and a downstream interior surface 59. The cavity 30 may be at least partially defined by the downstream interior surface 59 of the upper housing 13. In the illustrated embodiment, the downstream interior surface 59 extends radially outward from the upstream interior surface 57. The downstream interior surface 59 may include a protrusion 40 that extends circularly around the central longitudinal axis X1 of the body 301 and extends into the cavity 30. In some embodiments, the protrusion 40 defines a sealing surface 42 at its distal end. The protrusion 40 and thereby the sealing surface 42 may be disposed above the valve member 39 like a ring. As shown Figure 5 and 6 As shown, in the normally closed state of the check valve 300, the valve member 39 contacts the sealing surface 42. Because the valve member 39 contacts the sealing surface 42, reverse flow (backflow) of the fluid from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20 is prevented.

[0057] During operation, when downstream pressure (i.e., pressure exerted by fluid flowing from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20) is applied to the valve member 39, the valve member 39 can deflect toward the sealing surface 42 to block fluid communication between the inlet 20 and the cavity 30, thereby limiting backflow of fluid from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20. Preventing backflow of fluid is advantageous because it limits unintended particulate matter, for example, contained in a drug dispensed from the auxiliary pathway, from flowing back through the check valve 300, thereby preventing the patient from receiving an appropriate drug dosage concentration or timely delivery of the drug.

[0058] Figure 6 is in a closed state according to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3 FIG. 2 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a check valve 39 in which the check valve is subjected to excessive back pressure. For example, excessive back pressure applied to the valve member 39 may cause the valve member to deflect or bend to such an extent that it abuts the filter member 26 and exerts an upward force on the filter member 26. When the valve member 39 is subjected to such Figure 6When the excessive back pressure is shown, the plurality of longitudinally extending ribs 45 are advantageously configured to support the valve member 39, and when the valve member 39 is subjected to the excessive back pressure, the extension degree of the valve member 39 stretching the filter member 26 is limited. To this end, the plurality of longitudinally extending ribs 45 prevent the valve member 39 from bending to such an extent that the valve member 39 overstretches the filter member 26 and plastically deforms it, or otherwise damages the filter member. Therefore, in the case of excessive backflow, the plurality of longitudinally extending ribs 45 serve as support members for the valve member 39, so that it is not necessary for the filter member 26 to support the valve member 39 during the excessive backflow. Therefore, when the check valve 300 is subjected to excessive back pressure, the plurality of longitudinally extending ribs also advantageously play a role in preventing the filter member 39 from shifting upward into the inlet 20. Due to the presence of the longitudinally extending ribs 45, the filter member 26 is prevented from shifting upward and shifting into the inlet 20 due to the force applied by the deflected valve member 39.

[0059] Figure 7 According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the Figure 3 sectional view of a check valve 300, wherein the check valve 300 allows fluid flow in a forward direction. Figure 8 According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a check valve 300 , wherein the check valve 300 allows fluid flow in a forward direction.

[0060] As shown, during operation, fluid can enter the check valve 300 via the inlet 20 and flow through the filter member 26, in which the fluid is filtered to retain unexpected particulate matter and flows into the cavity 30. Any gravel or other unexpected particulate matter that is larger in size than the pores of the filter member 26 can be trapped in the filter member 40 and prevented from traveling downstream to the valve member 39. The upstream pressure applied to the valve member 39 (i.e., the pressure applied by the fluid flowing from the inlet 20 to the outlet 25) causes the valve member 39 to bend or bend downward at its outer edge and deflect away from the sealing surface 42. Therefore, the check valve is converted from a closed state to an open state, in which the inlet 20, the cavity 30 and the outlet 25 are fluidly connected. In the open state, a gap can be formed between the upper surface 22A of the valve member 35 and the sealing surface 42 to allow the filtered fluid to flow through. The filtered fluid may then flow through the gap, into the cavity 30 , and exit the check valve 100 via the outlet 25 in the lower housing 17 .

[0061] The configuration in which the filter member 40 is positioned upstream of the valve member is advantageous because it prevents undesirable particulate matter from passing through to the valve member 35, which otherwise could cause damage or wear to the valve member. The aforementioned configuration also prevents undesirable particulate matter from potentially being trapped between the valve member 40 and the sealing surface 70, thereby preventing the valve member 35 from fully closing and sealing against reverse flow (backflow).

[0062] In contrast, in conventional check valve configurations that do not include an integrated filter member, during low flow conditions, the pressure exerted on the check valve due to fluid flow may not be sufficient to fully open the check valve (e.g., insufficient to deflect the valve member 35), allowing grit (or other undesirable particulate matter) to pass through the gap. In this case, the grit may become lodged in the gap and the valve may not fully close. This undesirably causes the check valve to "weep" and allow fluid to flow through the valve in the reverse direction, rendering the check valve ineffective.

[0063] Fig. 9A is a perspective view of a check valve 400 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the top portion of the check valve 400 (ie, the upper housing 13) is shown in a cross-sectional view to more clearly illustrate some features of the check valve 400. Figure 3 and 5 The check valve 300 of the embodiment of the present invention includes an axially extending body 401 defining a central longitudinal axis X1. The body 401 may be a generally cylindrical (or tubular) structure, and may include an upper shell 13 and a lower shell 17. According to some embodiments, the upper and lower shells 13 and 17 are similar in structure to the upper and lower shells 13 and 17 of the check valve 300, and thus a detailed description thereof regarding the check valve 400 will be omitted.

[0064] According to some embodiments, the valve member 41 can be similar in structure to the valve member 39, except that the valve member 41 includes additional friction ribs 43 that are not present in the valve member 39. Therefore, similar to the valve member 39, the valve member 41 can have a plurality of longitudinally extending legs 24 at the outer circumferential edge 23 of the valve body 22. As described above, the legs 24 can be arranged around the outer circumferential edge 23 of the valve body 22 in a castellated manner, and thus can be referred to herein as castellated legs 24. The castellated legs 24 can each extend longitudinally from the outer circumferential edge 23 of the valve body 22. Since a detailed description of the castellated legs 24 is provided with respect to the valve member 37, a detailed description thereof with respect to the valve member 41 will be omitted.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the valve member 41 may be mounted on the support portion 34 of the lower housing 17. The configuration of the valve member 41 with a plurality of castellated legs 24 may provide for Figure 3-8The invention provides similar manufacturing and assembly advantages to the valve member 39 of the present invention. In particular, as previously discussed with respect to valve members 37 and 39, such benefits are achieved by having a geometry of valve member 41, where castellated legs 24 prevent or hinder contact between the upper and / or lower surfaces 22A, 22B of valve body 22 during assembly and / or transportation. In particular, as described above with respect to valve members 37 and 39, the construction of valve member 41 further limits the exposed surface area of ​​lower surface 22A from contacting and sticking to each other, in the construction of the valve member, in which the upper surface 24A of each of the castellated legs 24 protrudes and is thus elevated above the upper surface 22A of valve body 22. Similarly, the construction of valve member 41 further limits the exposed surface area of ​​lower surface 22B from contacting and sticking to each other, in the construction of the valve member, in which the lower surface 24B of each of the castellated legs 24 protrudes below the lower surface 22B of valve body 22. Therefore, the valve member 41 is much less likely to stick than conventional valve members because the castellated legs 24 at least partially separate the surface of the retaining body 22. In some embodiments, the exposed surface area of ​​the valve member 41 available for sticking is reduced by up to 69%. It is understood that the degree of reduction in the exposed surface area of ​​the valve member 41 available for sticking can vary accordingly based on the size and geometry of the castellated legs 24.

[0066] An additional benefit is achieved in that, due to the longitudinally projecting structure of the castellated legs 24, the valve member 41 can be concentrically retained in the cavity 30 of the check valve 400 when the valve member 41 is subjected to back pressure conditions. In addition, because the valve member 41 is symmetrically shaped, it can be assembled on either side thereof. In all other aspects, the valve member 41 can be similar to the valve member 41 described above with reference to Figure 3-8 The valve member 39 described is identical.

[0067] According to some embodiments, valve members 35, 37, 39 and 41 can be formed of a flexible elastic material that is impermeable to fluid. For example, valve members 35, 37, 39 and 41 can be made of a silicone material. However, in other embodiments, valve members 35, 37, 39 and 41 can be formed of any non-stick elastic material, such as natural or synthetic rubber or plastic. Valve members 35, 37, 39 and 41 can be formed of a material having a Shore hardness of 70 or less.

[0068] In some embodiments, valve members 35, 37, 39, and 41 are not limited to any particular shape or size. However, in the depicted embodiment, the size of valve members 35, 37, 39, and 41 can be limited based on the expected deflection / bending characteristics of valve members 35, 37, 39, and 41 when subjected to upstream or downstream forces. For example, valve members 35, 37, 39, and 41 can be sized and shaped to bend or flex under fluid pressure, thereby allowing fluid to flow forward (from inlet 20 to outlet 25) into cavity 30 and restricting fluid flow in the reverse direction.

[0069] According to some embodiments, the check valve 400 may also include a filter member 26 that is coupled, attached, or otherwise incorporated to an inner surface, such as surface 59 of the upper housing 13. Since a detailed description of the filter member 26 (how it functions and how it may be coupled, attached, or otherwise incorporated to the upper housing 13) is provided with respect to the valve member 37, a detailed description thereof will be omitted with respect to the valve member 41.

[0070] Fig. 9B According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Fig. 9A 4 is a perspective view of a valve member 41 of a check valve 400. As shown, at least one of the castellated legs 24 of the valve member 41 includes a curved friction rib 43 extending radially outward from the outer surface of the castellated leg 24. The curved shape of the friction rib 43 may be advantageous over other rib shapes, such as ribs having a flatter or straighter shape, because the curved shape or profile allows for reduced friction between the curved rib 43 and the downstream interior surface 59 compared to a flat shaped rib. The friction rib 43 may have a certain structure and / or be made of or may be formed of a flexible elastic material that is capable of buffering or otherwise reducing forces, such as friction between the friction rib 43 and the downstream interior surface 59 of the upper housing 13. For example, the friction rib 43 may be made of a silicone material. However, in other embodiments, the friction rib 43 may be formed of any non-sticking elastic material, such as natural or synthetic rubber or plastic. The above-described configuration of the valve member 41 with the friction ribs 43 is advantageous because, in the event that the valve member 41 is displaced from its mounted position in the cavity 30 to the point where it contacts the downstream interior surface 59, only the friction ribs 43, which protrude radially outwardly to a greater extent than the castellated legs, will contact the downstream interior surface 59. As a result, the surface area of ​​the valve member 41 that contacts the downstream interior surface 59 is significantly reduced. Thus, the reduced surface area of ​​the valve member 41 that contacts the downstream interior surface 59 results in reduced friction between the valve member and the upper housing, as compared to conventional valve members without the outwardly protruding friction ribs 43.

[0071] Fig. 10A is in a closed state according to some embodiments of the present disclosure Fig. 9AA cross-sectional view of a check valve 400, wherein Fig. 9B A central axis X4 of the valve member 41 is not aligned with a central axis X1 of the check valve 400 . Fig. 10B According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Fig. 9B 4 is a cross-sectional view of a valve member 41 which is misaligned with the central axis of the check valve 400. Fig. 10C is in an open state according to some embodiments of the present disclosure Fig. 9A A cross-sectional view of a check valve 400, wherein Fig. 9B A central axis X4 of the valve member 41 is not aligned with a central axis X1 of the check valve 400 .

[0072] like Fig. 10A As shown, in the normally closed state of the check valve 400, the valve member 39 contacts the sealing surface 42. Because the valve member 41 contacts the sealing surface 42, the reverse flow (backflow) of the fluid from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20 is prevented. During operation, when downstream pressure (i.e., pressure exerted by the fluid flowing from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20) is applied to the valve member 41, the valve member 41 can be deflected toward the sealing surface 42 to block the fluid communication between the inlet 20 and the cavity 30, thereby limiting the backflow of the fluid from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20.

[0073] In some embodiments, downstream pressure exerted by fluid flowing from the outlet 25 to the inlet 20 to place the check valve 400 in a closed state can cause the valve member 41 to shift from its mounted position on the support portion 34. In particular, the central axis X4 of the valve member 41 can be misaligned with the central longitudinal axis X1 of the check valve, so that the valve member 41 contacts the downstream interior surface 59 of the upper housing 13. The aforementioned configuration of the valve member 41 with the castellated feet 24 having the curved friction ribs 43 is advantageous because the friction ribs 43 protrude radially outward to a greater extent than the outer surface of the castellated feet 24, and only the portion of the valve member 41 on which the friction ribs 43 are disposed contacts the downstream interior surface 59. Therefore, as Fig. 10B As shown, the surface area of ​​the valve member 41 that contacts the downstream interior surface 59 is significantly reduced compared to conventional valve member configurations without friction ribs 43. The reduced surface area of ​​the valve member 41 that contacts the downstream interior surface 59 results in reduced friction between the valve member 41 and the interior surface of the upper housing compared to conventional valve members that do not have outwardly protruding friction ribs 43. For example, in some embodiments, as Fig. 10BAs shown, the surface area of ​​the valve member 41 contacting the downstream internal surface 59 is based on the number of friction ribs that can contact the downstream internal surface 59 at any one time. As shown in the figure, since a maximum of two friction ribs 43 contact the downstream internal surface 59 at any one time, the surface area of ​​the valve member 41 contacting the downstream internal surface 59 is limited to the surface area of ​​a maximum of two friction ribs 43 that actually contact the downstream internal surface 59 at a given time.

[0074] like Fig. 10C As shown, in the open state of the check valve 41, the check valve 400 allows fluid flow in the forward direction (the direction from the inlet 20 to the outlet 25), for example, when subjected to upstream pressure (i.e., pressure exerted by fluid flowing from the inlet 20 to the outlet 25). During operation, fluid can enter the check valve 400 via the inlet 20 and flow through the filter member 26, where the fluid is filtered to retain unintended particulate matter, and flow into the cavity 30. Any grit or other unintended particulate matter that is larger in size than the pores of the filter member 26 can be trapped in the filter member 40 and prevented from traveling downstream to the valve member 41. The upstream pressure applied to the valve member 41 (i.e., pressure exerted by fluid flowing from the inlet 20 to the outlet 25) causes the valve member 41 to bend or flex downward at its outer edge and deflect away from the sealing surface 42.

[0075] In some embodiments, the upstream pressure exerted by the fluid flowing from the inlet 20 to the outlet to place the check valve 400 in the open state may cause the valve member 41 to be displaced from its mounted position on the support portion 34. In particular, the central axis X4 of the valve member 41 may be misaligned with the central longitudinal axis X1 of the check valve, so that the valve member 41 contacts the downstream inner surface 59 of the upper housing 13, as described above. The aforementioned configuration of the valve member 41 with the castellated legs 24 having the curved friction ribs 43 is advantageous because the friction ribs 43 protrude radially outwardly to a greater extent than the outer surface of the castellated legs 24, and when the check valve 100 is in the open state where the fluid flows from the inlet 20 to the outlet 25 and contacts the valve member 41, the valve member 41 with the curved friction ribs 43 is displaced so as to travel along a radial curved trajectory path away from the downstream inner surface 59 of the upper housing 13. In this manner, the curved friction ribs 43 further separate the valve member 41 from the downstream interior surface 59 of the upper housing 13. Because the contact between the valve member 41 and the downstream interior surface is minimized in this manner, the friction between the valve member 41 and the downstream interior surface 59 of the upper housing 13 is also minimized.

[0076] For convenience, various examples of various aspects of the present disclosure are described according to numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided only as examples and do not limit the subject technology. The identifiers and reference numerals of the accompanying drawings are shown below only as examples and for illustrative purposes, and the clauses are not limited by these identifiers.

[0077] Item 1: A check valve, comprising: an upper shell defining an inlet of the check valve; a lower shell defining an outlet of the check valve; a cavity interposed between and defined by the upper and lower shells, the cavity being used to fluidly connect the inlet and the outlet; and a valve member installed in the cavity, the valve member being used to selectively allow fluid flow in a first direction and prevent fluid backflow in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the valve member comprising a valve body and a valve stem portion extending axially through a central axis of the valve body.

[0078] Clause 2: The check valve of clause 1, further comprising a plurality of legs extending longitudinally from a peripheral edge of the valve body.

[0079] Clause 3: The check valve of clause 2, wherein adjacent pairs of legs each define a recessed flow portion through which fluid entering the cavity flows from the upper housing into the lower housing.

[0080] Clause 4: The check valve of Clause 1, further comprising a filter member coupled to an inner surface of the upper housing, the filter member disposed upstream of the valve member.

[0081] Item 5: A check valve according to Item 1, wherein: the lower shell includes a support portion, the support portion is arranged in the cavity at the central portion of the cavity, the central axis of the support portion is aligned with the central longitudinal axis of the check valve; and the valve member is configured to be mounted and supported on the support portion.

[0082] Item 6: A check valve according to Item 1, wherein: the upper shell includes an internal surface and an external surface, the internal surface includes an upstream internal surface and a downstream internal surface; and the downstream internal surface of the upper shell includes a protrusion extending into the cavity, and the protrusion is circularly arranged around the central axis of the valve member.

[0083] Clause 7: A check valve according to clause 6, wherein: a sealing surface is defined at a distal end of the projection; and in a closed state, the valve member is configured to contact the sealing surface to restrict fluid flow through the sealing surface.

[0084] Item 8: A check valve according to Item 7, wherein: when upstream pressure is applied to the valve member, the valve member is configured to deflect away from the sealing surface to fluidly connect the inlet and the cavity; and when downstream pressure is applied to the valve member, the valve member is configured to deflect toward the sealing surface to block the fluid communication between the inlet and the cavity and limit the backflow of fluid from the outlet to the inlet.

[0085] Item 9: A check valve, comprising: an upper shell defining an inlet of the check valve; a lower shell axially connected to the upper shell and comprising an outlet of the check valve; a cavity inserted between the upper shell and the lower shell and defined by the upper shell and the lower shell, the cavity being used to fluidly connect the inlet and the outlet; and a flexible valve member installed in the cavity, the flexible valve member being used to selectively allow fluid flow in a first direction and prevent fluid backflow in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the flexible valve member comprising a main body having a plurality of longitudinally extending legs arranged around an outer circumferential edge of the main body.

[0086] Item 10: A check valve according to Item 9, wherein: the upper shell includes an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface includes an upstream inner surface and a downstream inner surface; and the upstream inner surface includes a plurality of longitudinally extending ribs, the longitudinally extending ribs are radially spaced around the central longitudinal axis of the check valve on the upstream inner surface and protrude radially inward from the upstream inner surface.

[0087] Clause 11: The check valve of Clause 10, further comprising a filter member mounted in the upper housing and disposed between the longitudinally extending ribs and the flexible valve member.

[0088] Item 12: A check valve according to item 11, wherein the filter member is positioned to be spaced apart from the distal end of the longitudinally extending rib and a gap is provided between the filter member and the distal end of the longitudinally extending rib to maximize the surface area for fluid flow from the inlet to the cavity.

[0089] Item 13: A check valve according to Item 11, wherein: the downstream internal surface of the upper shell includes a protrusion extending into the cavity, the protrusion is circularly arranged around the central axis of the flexible valve member, and the distal end of the protrusion defines a sealing surface, and in a closed state, the valve member is configured to contact the sealing surface to limit the flow of fluid through the sealing surface.

[0090] Item 14: A check valve according to Item 13, wherein: when downstream pressure is applied to the valve member, the valve member is configured to deflect toward the sealing surface to block fluid communication between the inlet and the cavity and limit backflow of fluid from the outlet to the inlet; and the longitudinally extending ribs are configured to support the valve member and limit the extent to which the valve member stretches the filter member when the valve member is subjected to excessive back pressure.

[0091] Clause 15: The check valve of Clause 9, wherein the valve member includes a valve body and a stem portion extending through a central axis of the valve body for supporting the valve member in the lower housing.

[0092] Clause 16: The check valve of clause 9, wherein each of the longitudinally extending legs comprises at least one curved friction rib extending radially outward from an outer surface of a corresponding longitudinally extending leg of the plurality of longitudinally extending legs.

[0093] Item 17: A check valve according to Item 16, wherein, when the central axis of the valve member is not aligned with the central longitudinal axis of the check valve, so that the valve member contacts the inner surface of the upper shell and the check valve is in a closed state, the surface area of ​​the valve member in contact with the inner surface of the upper shell is limited to the surface area of ​​at least one friction rib that contacts the inner surface.

[0094] Clause 18: The check valve of Clause 17, wherein the at least one friction rib contacting the interior surface of the upper housing comprises at most two friction ribs.

[0095] Item 19: A check valve according to Item 16, wherein, when the central axis of the valve member is not aligned with the central longitudinal axis of the check valve, so that the valve member contacts the inner surface of the upper shell and the check valve is in an open state where fluid flows from the inlet to the outlet, the curved friction rib shifts to follow a radial curved trajectory path away from the inner surface of the curved rib, thereby further separating the valve from the inner surface of the upper shell.

[0096] Item 20: A flexible valve member of a check valve, the flexible valve member comprising: a valve body; and a plurality of legs disposed around an outer circumferential edge of the valve body and extending longitudinally from the outer circumferential edge.

[0097] Clause 21: The check valve of Clause 20, further comprising a stem portion extending axially through the central axis of the valve body.

[0098] Clause 22: The check valve of clause 20, further comprising each of the legs including a curved friction rib extending radially outward from an outer surface of the respective leg.

[0099] The present disclosure is provided to enable those skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. The present disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Multiple modifications to these aspects are apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects.

[0100] Unless otherwise specified, reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more." Unless expressly stated otherwise, the term "some" refers to one or more. Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter genders (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and sub-headings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

[0101] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example or illustration." Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. In one aspect, the various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered to be at least equivalent.

[0102] As used herein, the phrase "at least one of" preceding a list of items (where the term "or" is used to separate any of the items) modifies the list as a whole, rather than each item of the list. The phrase "at least one of" does not require a selection of at least one item; rather, the phrase allows for a meaning that includes at least one of any one item, and / or at least one of any combination of items, and / or at least one of each item. For example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, or C" may mean: only A, only B, or only C; or any combination of A, B, C.

[0103] Phrases such as "aspects" do not mean that such aspects are essential to the subject technology, or that such aspects apply to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure related to an aspect may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as "on one hand" may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. Phrases such as "embodiments" do not mean that such embodiments are essential to the subject technology, or that such embodiments apply to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure related to an embodiment may apply to all embodiments or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as "an embodiment" may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. Phrases such as "constructions" do not mean that the construction is essential to the subject technology, or that the construction applies to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure related to the construction may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A construction may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as "a construction" may refer to one or more constructions, and vice versa.

[0104] In one aspect, unless otherwise indicated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, sizes, dimensions, and other specifications in this specification, including those set forth in the claims that follow, are approximate and not exact. In one aspect, they are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the functions to which they are related and the customary practices in the art to which they belong.

[0105] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps or operations in the disclosed process or method is an illustration of an exemplary method. Based on implementation preferences or scenarios, it should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps, operations or processes can be rearranged. Some steps, operations or processes can be performed simultaneously. In some implementation preferences or scenarios, certain operations may or may not be performed. Some or all steps, operations or processes can be performed automatically without user intervention. The attached method claims present the elements of various steps, operations or processes in an example order and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0106] All structural and functional equivalents of the elements of the various aspects described throughout the present disclosure are known or will become known to those of ordinary skill in the art, are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. In addition, the content disclosed herein is not intended to be committed to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. Under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. §112(f), an element of a claim will not be interpreted unless the phrase "means for..." is used to clearly recite the element, or in the case of a method claim, the phrase "step for..." is used to recite the element. In addition, with respect to the scope of the terms "including," "having," and the like, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "including," as interpreted when "including" is used as a transitional word in a claim.

[0107] The title, background technology, summary of the invention, description of the drawings, and abstract of the present disclosure are incorporated herein into the present disclosure and are provided as illustrative examples of the present disclosure, rather than as restrictive descriptions. It should be understood at the time of submission that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the specific implementation, it can be seen that the description provides illustrative examples, and in order to simplify the present disclosure, various features are combined together in various embodiments. This disclosure method should not be interpreted as reflecting the intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than the features explicitly stated in each claim. On the contrary, as reflected in the following claims, the subject matter of the invention lies in less than all the features of a single disclosed configuration or operation. The following claims are thus incorporated into the detailed description, and each claim is independently a subject matter claimed separately.

[0108] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims and including all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, no claim is intended to encompass subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirements of 35 U.S.C. §101, 102, or 103, nor should they be interpreted in such a manner.

Claims

1. A check valve, comprising: an upper housing having an upstream interior surface and defining an inlet extending through the upstream interior surface; a lower housing having a downstream interior surface and defining an outlet extending through the downstream interior surface; a cavity interposed between and defined by the upstream and downstream interior surfaces, the cavity for fluidly connecting the inlet and the outlet; as well as A valve member for selectively allowing fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet in a first direction and preventing fluid backflow from the outlet to the inlet in a second direction, the valve member comprising a valve body and a valve stem portion extending axially along a central axis of the valve body through opposite surfaces of the valve body, the valve stem portion being coupled to the lower housing and the valve body being positioned between the upstream inner surface and the downstream inner surface, wherein when upstream pressure is applied to the valve member and when downstream pressure is applied to the valve member, the entire outer circumferential edge of the valve body is not engaged with either of the upper housing and the lower housing.

2. The check valve of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of legs extending longitudinally from a peripheral edge of the valve body. 3 . The check valve according to claim 1 , further comprising a filter member coupled to an inner surface of the upper housing, the filter member being disposed upstream of the valve member.

4. The check valve according to claim 1, wherein: The valve stem portion is coupled to a portion of the lower housing that forms a support portion.

5. The check valve according to claim 4, wherein: The support portion is aligned with a central longitudinal axis of the check valve.

6. The check valve according to claim 1, wherein: The upstream interior surface includes a projection extending into the cavity, the projection being disposed circularly about a central axis of the valve body.

7. The check valve according to claim 6, wherein: The distal end of the projection forms a sealing surface of the projection configured to engage against the valve member to prevent backflow of fluid from the outlet to the inlet in a second direction.

8. A check valve, comprising: an upper housing having an upstream interior surface and defining an inlet extending through the upstream interior surface; having a downstream interior surface, a support portion, and defining an outlet extending through the downstream interior surface; as well as a valve member including a valve body and a valve stem portion extending axially along a central axis of the valve body through opposite surfaces of the valve body, The valve member is positioned in a cavity formed between the upstream inner surface and the downstream inner surface, and the valve stem portion is connected to the support portion of the lower housing so that an outer circumferential edge of the valve member can move toward the downstream inner surface to allow fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet through the cavity in a first direction, and an outer circumferential edge of the valve member can move toward the upstream inner surface to prevent fluid backflow from the outlet to the inlet through the cavity in a second direction.

9. The check valve according to claim 8, wherein: The support portion includes a central through-hole, and wherein the valve stem portion is positioned within the central through-hole.

10. The check valve according to claim 8, wherein: The support portion protrudes from the downstream interior surface into the cavity.

11. The check valve according to claim 8, wherein: The lower housing includes a plurality of axially extending slots forming at least a portion of an outlet extending through the downstream interior surface.

12. The check valve according to claim 11, wherein: The plurality of axially extending slots extend through the support portion.

13. The check valve according to claim 8, wherein: The upper housing includes a projection extending from the upstream interior surface into the cavity, the projection being disposed circularly about a central axis of the valve body.

14. The check valve according to claim 13, wherein: The distal end of the projection forms a sealing surface of the projection configured to engage against the valve member to prevent fluid backflow when the outer circumferential edge of the valve member moves toward the upstream interior surface.

15. The check valve according to claim 8, wherein: The upper casing includes ribs extending radially inwardly from the upstream interior surface.

16. The check valve of claim 15, further comprising a filter member positioned between the valve member and the rib.

17. The check valve according to claim 8, wherein: A fluid flow path extends between the outer peripheral edge of the valve member and the inner peripheral surface of the cavity.

18. A method of providing a check valve, the method comprising: providing a cavity formed between an upstream interior surface of the upper shell and a downstream interior surface of the lower shell for fluidly connecting an inlet of the upper shell and an outlet of the lower shell; and A valve member is provided in the cavity to selectively allow fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet in a first direction and prevent fluid backflow from the outlet to the inlet in a second direction, wherein a stem portion of the valve member is coupled to a support portion of a downstream inner surface of the lower housing so that an outer circumferential edge of the valve member can move toward the downstream inner surface to allow fluid flow in a first direction, and an outer circumferential edge of the valve member can move toward the upstream inner surface to prevent fluid backflow in a second direction.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein: Providing a valve member within the cavity includes positioning the valve member between the support portion and a projection extending from the upstream interior surface into the cavity.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising providing a filter member between an inlet of the upper housing and the cavity.

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