Devices, assemblies and methods for delivering medicaments

Abstract

A valve assembly for a medical device includes a body having an inlet in fluid communication with a fluid source and an outlet in fluid communication with a delivery conduit of the medical device. The valve assembly includes a shuttle configured to move within the body between first and second positions to control delivery of fluid from the inlet to the outlet. In the first position, the shuttle is configured to maintain the fluid at a first pressure within the body and block the outlet from the inlet such that the delivery conduit is isolated from the fluid at the first pressure. In the second position, the shuttle is configured to maintain the fluid at a second pressure within the body and fluidly couple the outlet to the inlet such that the delivery conduit receives the fluid at the second pressure.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 343,754, filed on May 19, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to devices and methods for delivering medicaments. More specifically, in embodiments, the present invention relates to devices for delivering powdered medicaments, such as hemostats. Background Art

[0004] In certain medical procedures, it may be necessary to minimize or stop bleeding in the body. For example, endoscopic medical procedures may require hemostasis of bleeding tissue in the gastrointestinal tract, such as the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. During endoscopic surgery, a user inserts a sheath of an endoscope into a body cavity of a patient. The user controls the endoscope using a handle of the endoscope during the procedure. Tools may be passed through a working channel of the endoscope via, for example, a port in the handle to deliver therapy at a surgical site near the distal end of the endoscope. The surgical site is distal to the user.

[0005] To achieve hemostasis at a remote site, a hemostatic agent may be delivered by a device inserted into a working channel of an endoscope. For example, delivery of an agent may be achieved by a mechanical system. However, such systems may require multiple steps or actuations to achieve delivery, may not achieve a desired agent delivery rate or a desired agent dosage, may cause the agent to block portions of a delivery device, may cause inconsistent dosing of the agent, and / or may cause the agent to fail to reach a treatment site deep within the gastrointestinal tract. The present invention may address one or more of these problems or other problems in the art. Summary of the invention

[0006] Each of the aspects disclosed herein may include one or more of the features described in conjunction with any of the other disclosed aspects.

[0007] According to one example, a valve assembly for a medical device includes a body having an inlet fluidly connected to a fluid source, and an outlet fluidly connected to a delivery conduit of the medical device; and a shuttle configured to move between a first position and a second position within the body to control delivery of the fluid from the inlet to the outlet; wherein, in the first position, the shuttle is configured to maintain the fluid at a first pressure within the body and to block the outlet from the inlet so that the delivery conduit is isolated from the fluid at the first pressure received from the source; and wherein, in the second position, the shuttle is configured to maintain the fluid at a second pressure within the body and to connect the outlet fluid to the inlet so that the delivery conduit receives the fluid at a second pressure from the source, the second pressure being less than the first pressure.

[0008] Any of the valve assemblies disclosed herein may include any of the following features. The valve assembly includes a piercing element configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position within a shuttle to fluidically couple an inlet to a fluid source. The piercing element includes a needle or a lancet having a sharp tip. The valve assembly is configured to receive fluid from a source through the inlet when the shuttle moves from a first position to a second position and the piercing element is positioned in the retracted position; and wherein the valve assembly is configured to prevent the delivery of fluid from the inlet to the outlet when the shuttle moves from the second position to the first position and the piercing element is positioned in the extended position. In a first form of the valve assembly: the shuttle is positioned in a first position; the piercing element is in a retracted position and is separated from the fluid source; and the inlet is not in fluid communication with the outlet, so that the fluid is maintained in the fluid source at a first pressure. In a second form of the valve assembly: the shuttle is positioned in a second position; the piercing element is in a retracted position and is in contact with the fluid source; and the inlet is in fluid communication with the outlet, so that the fluid is directed to the outlet at a second pressure. In a third form of the valve assembly: the shuttle is positioned in a first position; the piercing element is in an extended position and in contact with a fluid source; and the inlet is not in fluid communication with the outlet, so that the fluid is maintained in the body at a first pressure and a second pressure. The body is in fluid communication with a regulator assembly, and the regulator assembly is configured to convert the fluid from the first pressure to the second pressure. The shuttle includes a gasket positioned around an outer surface of the shuttle. In a first form of the valve assembly: the shuttle is positioned in a first position; and the gasket is positioned between the inlet and the outlet to fluidly isolate the delivery conduit from the fluid source. In a second form of the valve assembly: the shuttle is positioned in a second position; and the gasket is not positioned between the inlet and the outlet to fluidically couple the delivery conduit to the fluid source. The body includes a channel configured to receive the shuttle, and a flange extending radially inward into the channel; wherein the shuttle includes a flange extending radially outward from the outer surface of the shuttle. The flange is configured to engage the flange when the shuttle is in a first position relative to the channel to position the gasket between the inlet and the outlet, thereby fluidly isolating the delivery conduit from the fluid source. The flange is configured to disengage the flange when the shuttle is in a second position relative to the passage to position the gasket outside the inlet and outlet to fluidly couple the delivery conduit to the fluid source. The valve assembly includes a biasing mechanism coupled to the shuttle, the biasing mechanism configured to move the shuttle from the second position to the first position.

[0009] According to another example, a device for delivering a medicament includes a housing configured to store a medicament; a pressurized fluid source configured to store a pressurized fluid; a valve assembly, which includes: a body having a first channel; a shuttle configured to move between a first position and a second position in the first channel to fluidly couple the pressurized fluid source to the housing, the shuttle having a second channel; and a piercing element configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position in the second channel to fluidly couple the pressurized fluid source to the body; wherein the valve assembly is configured to selectively release the pressurized fluid from the pressurized fluid source when the shuttle moves to the second position and the piercing element moves to the retracted position, or when the shuttle moves to the first position and the piercing element moves to the extended position. The valve assembly includes a biasing mechanism configured to bias the shuttle toward the first position when in the second position.

[0010] Any of the valve assemblies disclosed herein may include any of the following features. Pressurized fluid from the pressurized fluid source is configured to bias the shuttle toward the first position when in the second position. The valve assembly is configured to selectively prevent delivery of pressurized fluid from the pressurized fluid source to the housing when the shuttle is moved from the second position to the first position and the piercing element is moved to the extended position.

[0011] According to yet another example, a method for delivering fluid from a medical device includes moving a shuttle relative to a valve body from a first position offset from a fluid source connected to the valve body to a second position in contact with the fluid source, thereby releasing fluid into the valve body; directing the fluid from the source to an inlet of the valve body based on the second position of the shuttle, wherein when directed through the inlet, a pressure of the fluid is adjusted from a first pressure to a second pressure less than the first pressure; directing the fluid from the inlet of the valve body to an outlet based on the second position of the shuttle, wherein the outlet is fluidically connected to a delivery conduit of the medical device such that fluid at a second pressure is received at the delivery conduit; moving the shuttle from the second position to the first position relative to the valve body, wherein the shuttle is configured to continue to release fluid into the valve body when in the first position; and blocking the fluid from entering the outlet of the valve body based on the first position of the shuttle, such that the fluid is maintained at the first pressure and the second pressure within the valve body.

[0012] It is understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and explanatory of the invention as claimed, rather than restrictive descriptions. As used herein, the terms "include", "comprises" or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive contents, so that a process, method, article or device including a list of elements includes not only those elements, but may include other elements that are not explicitly listed or are not inherent to such a process, method, article or device. In the case where the element is not circular, the term "diameter" may refer to the width. The term "top" refers to the direction or side of the device relative to its orientation during use, and the term "bottom" refers to the direction or side of the device relative to its orientation during use, which is opposite to the "top". The term "exemplary" is used in the sense of "example" rather than "exemplary". The term "approximately" or similar terms (e.g., "substantially") include values ​​within ±10% of the value. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0014] Figure 1 An exemplary delivery device is shown.

[0015] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 A partial perspective view of an exemplary valve assembly of a delivery device.

[0016] Figure 3 Show Figure 2 A perspective view of the mid-valve assembly.

[0017] Figure 4 Show Figure 2 The middle valve assembly is along Figure 3 Side view of cross section taken along midline 4-4.

[0018] Figure 5A Show Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the valve assembly in a first configuration.

[0019] Figure 5B Show Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of the middle valve assembly in the second configuration.

[0020] Figure 5C Show Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the middle valve assembly in the third configuration.

[0021] Fig. 6A A cross-sectional side view of another example valve assembly is shown in a first configuration.

[0022] Figure 6B Show Fig. 6A A cross-sectional side view of the mid-valve assembly in a second configuration.

[0023] Figure 6C Show Fig. 6A A cross-sectional side view of the mid-valve assembly in a third configuration.

[0024] Figure 7 A perspective view of another exemplary valve assembly is shown.

[0025] Figure 8 Show Figure 7 The middle valve assembly is along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a dispensing device having a valve assembly to selectively release a pressurized fluid to deliver a medicament (e.g., a powdered medicament) to a medical surgical site. The valve assembly may include a movable piercing element for actuating a pressurized medium source (e.g., a gas tank) from which a pressurized fluid (e.g., a gas) may be released before encountering the medicament. The medicament may be received in a housing of the dispensing device and communicated with the pressurized fluid fluid through an outlet of the valve assembly. Therefore, when the pressurized fluid is selectively released from the pressurized fluid source by the valve assembly, it may travel toward the outlet and enter the housing to agitate the medicament before being delivered to the target site of the medical surgery. Various aspects of the dispensing device and valve assembly, such as the movable piercing element and outlet, may promote fluidization of the medicament with the flow of the pressurized fluid before delivering the medicament, which may help selectively control the flow of the pressurized fluid to help prevent or minimize blockage during delivery.

[0027] Figure 1 A delivery system 10 is shown, which may be a powder delivery system. The delivery system 10 may include a handle body 12. The handle body 12 may include or may be configured to receive a housing 14 (or other source or container) for storing a material (e.g., a powdered medicament). The housing 14 may be coupled to the handle body 12 to provide the medicament to the handle body 12, or a cover / housing for the medicament may be screwed onto the housing 14 or otherwise coupled to the housing 14 to supply the medicament to the housing 14. The medicament may be, for example, a powdered medicament, such as a hemostatic agent. The medicament may alternatively be another type of medicament or material, or another form of medicament (e.g., a liquid or gel medicament), and may have any desired function. The housing 14 may be removably attached to other components of the delivery system 10, including components of the handle body 12.

[0028] The body 12 may have various features that will be discussed in further detail herein. U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 589,633, filed on October 1, 2019, and published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0100986A1 on April 2, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, discloses features of exemplary delivery devices and systems. Features of the present invention may be combined with any of the features described in the above applications. The features described herein may be used alone or in combination and are not mutually exclusive. Where possible, similar reference numerals and / or terms are used to represent similar structures.

[0029] Still refer to Figure 1 , the delivery system 10 may include an actuation mechanism 30 for activating the flow of a pressurized fluid (e.g., gas) originating from a pressurized medium source in fluid communication with the delivery system 10. The actuation mechanism 30 may be selectively actuated (e.g., manually pressed) or otherwise moved or actuated to control the delivery of a material (e.g., a powdered medicament) and a pressurized fluid. The pressurized fluid alone, or a combination of the powdered medicament and the fluid, may be delivered from an outlet 34 of the handle body 12. The outlet 34 may be in fluid communication with a conduit 36 ​​or another component for delivering the combination of the medicament and the fluid to a desired location within a patient's body cavity.

[0030] Figure 2 Various aspects of an exemplary valve assembly 100 are shown. The valve assembly 100 can be housed within the handle body 12 of the delivery system 10 and selectively actuated by the actuation mechanism 30. In an example, the actuation mechanism 30 can include a trigger 32 that can be actuated by a user of the delivery system 10, such as by manually manipulating the trigger 32. Although not shown, the actuation mechanism 30 can include one or more other actuation elements, such as, for example, buttons, sliders, levers, knobs, dials, and various other suitable actuators. The delivery system 10 can include a cam 40 that is pivotally coupled to the trigger 32 of the actuation mechanism 30 and the valve assembly 100. As described herein, actuation of the trigger 32 can provide corresponding movement of the cam 40 against at least a portion of the valve assembly 100, thereby controlling the delivery of pressurized fluid through the valve assembly 100.

[0031] The valve assembly 100 may include a valve body 102 having a first end portion 104, a second end portion 106, and an intermediate portion 108 positioned between the first end portion 104 and the second end portion 106. The first end portion 104 may include a first opening 105 configured to interface with a source of pressurized medium, such as, for example, a containment device 50 (e.g., a canister) (see Figure 4). In other words, the first opening 105 may define an inlet for receiving pressurized fluid from the containment device 50. The second end portion 106 may include a second opening 107. The valve assembly 100 may also include a movable shuttle 120 disposed within the valve body 102 (see Figure 4 ), the movable shuttle 120 has a first end 124 and a second end 126 opposite the first end 124. In this example, at least a portion of the movable shuttle 120, such as the second end 126, can extend outwardly from the second end portion 106 via the opening 107 to interface with the cam 40. As described below, actuation of the actuation mechanism 30 (e.g., via the trigger 32) can release at least a portion of the pressurized fluid from the containment device 50 via corresponding movement of the movable shuttle 120 relative to the valve body 102.

[0032] Still reference Figure 2 , the valve assembly 100 may include an adapter 140, and the intermediate portion 108 may be configured to couple the valve body 102 to the adapter 140. The adapter 140 may be configured to fluidly couple the regulator 60 to the valve body 102. In other embodiments, the adapter 140 may be omitted entirely, such that the regulator 60 may be directly coupled to the valve body 102, such as along the intermediate portion 108. The regulator 60 may be configured to regulate the amount of pressurized fluid released from the containment device 50 at a particular pressure. For example, the regulator 60 may be a dual-stage regulator, or the regulator 60 may include two single-stage regulators aligned in series, such as two piston regulators. When the containment device 50 is attached to the adapter 140, the valve assembly 100 may fluidly couple the containment device 50 with the regulator 60. The regulator 60 may reduce the pressure of the pressurized fluid (e.g., gas) from the containment device 50 to an acceptable outlet pressure, i.e., the pressure of the gas and any material (e.g., powdered medicament) to be delivered from the outlet 34.

[0033] In some embodiments, after being received in the regulator 60, the pressure of the gas within the delivery system 10 can be predetermined based on the target site (e.g., tissue) in the patient's body to which the gas and the medicament are to be distributed. Alternatively or additionally, the gas pressure controlled by the regulator 60 can be determined at least in part based on the pressure required to mix and / or agitate the powdered medicament stored in the housing 14. For example, the regulator 60 can reduce the pressure of the pressurized fluid to about 50-150 pounds per square inch ("PSI"), more specifically, to about 20-30 PSI. The pressure of the fluid exiting the regulator 60 can be approximately equal to the pressure of the fluid exiting the body 12 at the outlet 34 ("PSI"). Figure 1). Alternatively, the fluid pressure at the outlet 34 may be different than the pressure of the fluid exiting the regulator 60. In some embodiments, the dispensing system 10 may include a burst valve or safety valve along the fluid path downstream of the regulator 60 and upstream of the outlet 34 that may burst or release if the pressure of the fluid from the regulator 60 is greater than a predefined threshold.

[0034] Still refer to Figure 2 , the regulator 60 may include an opening 62 configured to discharge the pressurized fluid received therein from the valve assembly 100. In other words, the opening 62 may be in communication with atmospheric pressure within the body 12 to facilitate pressure control of the fluid released from the containment device 50. In some embodiments, the fluid may be released to atmospheric pressure within the handle body 12. In other embodiments, the handle body 12 may include an opening and / or fluid connection extending to the exterior of the handle body 12 to release the pressurized fluid.

[0035] The valve assembly 100 may include an outlet port 110 on the valve body 102, such as along the intermediate portion 108. Although not shown, it should be understood that a tube and / or other suitable device may be coupled to the outlet port 110 to connect the outlet port 110 to one or more components of the delivery system 10 in fluid communication with the outlet 34. Thus, the outlet port 110 may be in fluid communication with the outlet 34 to facilitate delivery of pressurized fluid received from the regulator 60 to the conduit 36 ​​via the tube.

[0036] Reference now Figure 3 , the middle portion 108 may include an inlet connector 112 and an outlet connector 114. In some embodiments, one or more connectors 112, 114 may be coupled to a corresponding portion of the valve body 102, for example, to the middle portion 108, while in other embodiments, the connectors 112, 114 may be integral with the valve body 102, for example, with the middle portion 108. Each of the inlet connector 112 and the outlet connector 114 may be in fluid communication with a corresponding internal conduit of the valve body 102 (see Figure 4 ). In addition, each of the inlet connector 112 and the outlet connector 114 can be configured to fluidically connect a corresponding internal conduit of the valve body 102 with a corresponding channel of the adapter 140, so that when the regulator 60 is coupled to the adapter 140, the valve body 102 can be in fluid communication with the regulator 60 via the inlet connector 112 and the outlet connector 114.

[0037] like Figure 4As best seen in , each of the inlet connector 112 and the outlet connector 114 may include one or more gaskets 115 (e.g., seals, O-rings, etc.) to form a fluid-tight seal between the adapter 140 and the valve body 102. The valve body 102 may include an inner passage 101 extending between a first end portion 104 and a second end portion 106. In this example, the inner passage 101 may have a longitudinal length extending between a first opening 105 at the first end portion 104 and a second opening 107 at the second end portion 106. The valve body 102 may also include a first (outlet) conduit 111 and a second (inlet) conduit 113 extending from the inner passage 101 through the middle portion 108. In other words, the first (outlet) conduit 111 and the second (inlet) conduit 113 may be in fluid communication with the inner passage 101.

[0038] The first (outlet) conduit 111 may provide an outlet of the inner passage 101 and may be fluidly coupled to an inlet passage 142 of the adapter 140 via an inlet connector 112. The second (inlet) conduit 113 may provide an inlet into the inner passage 101 and may be fluidly coupled to an outlet passage 144 of the adapter 140 via an outlet connector 114. Each of the first (outlet) conduit 111 and the second (inlet) conduit 113 may be angled (e.g., transverse) relative to a central longitudinal axis of the inner passage 101, which may be parallel to a longitudinal length of the valve body 102. As described in detail below and as Figure 5B As shown, high pressure fluid A received in valve assembly 100 (e.g., from containment device 50) can be directed to regulator 60 via a first fluid path defined at least in part by inner passage 101, first (outlet) conduit 111, inlet connector 112, and inlet passage 142. In addition, as shown in Figure 5B and 5C As shown, low-pressure fluid B (converted / regulated from and relative to high-pressure fluid A) leaving the regulator 60 can be directed to the valve assembly 100 via a second fluid path at least partially defined by the outlet passage 144, the outlet connector 114, the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the internal passage 101.

[0039] Still refer to Figure 4, the inner passage 101 may be at least partially defined by a ledge 103 extending radially inwardly toward a central longitudinal axis of the inner passage 101 (which extends parallel to the longitudinal length of the valve body 102). As described herein, the ledge 103 may be sized, shaped, and / or otherwise configured to engage at least a portion of the movable shuttle 120, such as a lateral protrusion or flange 123, within the inner passage 101. In this example, the ledge 103 may be located relatively closer to the first end portion 104 than to the second end portion 106, and the inner passage 101 may have a diameter that varies along the longitudinal length of the valve body 102. For example, the inner passage 101 may have a first diameter along a portion extending between the ledge 103 and the first end portion 104 that is greater than a second diameter along another portion extending between the ledge 103 and the second end portion 106. Thus, the ledge 103 may define an interface within the valve body 102 at which the first diameter of the inner passage 101 transitions to the second diameter.

[0040] As described in detail herein, the inner passage 101 can be sized, shaped, and / or otherwise configured to receive the biasing mechanism 136 of the valve assembly 100. For example, the inner passage 101 can receive the biasing mechanism 136 in a portion of the inner passage 101 having a larger first diameter between the flange 103 and the first end portion 104. Figure 4 As shown, the biasing mechanism 136 can be a coil spring. The first opening 105 can include a threaded portion along an inner surface defining the first opening 105. The threaded portion can be configured to engage or otherwise couple with a corresponding threaded portion along an outer surface of the neck 52 of the containment device 50 to help facilitate the connection between the valve body 102 and the containment device 50. Thus, the containment device 50 can be rotatably coupled to the valve assembly 100 at the first end portion 104.

[0041] Still refer to Figure 4 , the movable shuttle 120 can be slidably received in the inner passage 101 of the valve body 102. The movable shuttle 120 may include a shuttle body 122 having a longitudinal length defined between a first end 124 and a second end 126 opposite the first end 124. The movable shuttle 120 may be sized and shaped according to the cross-sectional size of the inner passage 101. In this example, the shuttle body 122 may have a generally cylindrical shape with a diameter smaller than the diameter of the inner passage 101. Therefore, the outer surface of the shuttle body 122 may deviate and / or separate from contacting the inner surface of the valve body 102 defining the inner passage 101. Therefore, the movable shuttle 120 may be configured to move (e.g., translate, rotate, etc.) relative to the valve body 102 within the inner passage 101. As described herein, the movable shuttle 120 may be operable to move between a plurality of positions relative to the valve body 102 to convert the valve assembly 100 between corresponding plurality of configurations.

[0042] The movable shuttle 120 may include one or more recesses and / or cavities formed along the longitudinal length of the shuttle body 122 for receiving at least one gasket (e.g., a seal, an O-ring, etc.). In this example, the movable shuttle 120 may include three recesses along the shuttle body 122 between the first end 124 and the second end 126, wherein a respective first gasket 128A, a second gasket 128B, and a third gasket 128C are received within each recess. The first gasket 128A may be positioned in the first recess 127A proximate the first end 124 along the shuttle body 122 relative to the second gasket 128B and the third gasket 128C. The second gasket 128B may be positioned in the second recess 127B along the shuttle body 122 between the first gasket 128A and the third gasket 128C. The third gasket 128C may be positioned in the third recess 127C proximate the second end 126 along the shuttle body 122 relative to the first gasket 128A and the second gasket 128B. It should be understood that the valve assembly 100 may include more and / or fewer gaskets and corresponding recesses without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0043] like Figure 4 As shown, each of the first gasket 128A, the second gasket 128B, and the third gasket 128C may be sized and / or shaped to have a cross-sectional dimension extending radially outward from the corresponding recess 127A, 127B, 127C on the shuttle body 122, so that the gaskets 128A, 128B, 128C may be configured to interface with the inner surface of the valve body 102 defining the inner passage 101. In other words, the gaskets 128A, 128B, 128C may be sized to be located within the corresponding recess 127A, 127B, 127C and at least partially larger than the corresponding recess 127A, 127B, 127C, so that at least a portion of each gasket 128A, 128B, 128C may extend out of the corresponding recess 127A, 127B, 127C. As described herein, gaskets 128A, 128B, 128C may be configured to abut against an inner surface of valve body 102, such as an inner wall of inner passage 101, to form a fluid seal at three corresponding locations within inner passage 101. Valve assembly 100 may be configured to control a fluid flow path in which pressurized fluid is released from containment device 50 and received within valve body 102 in response to corresponding positions of movable shuttle 120, and in particular gaskets 128A, 128B, 128C, relative to inner passage 101.

[0044] The movable shuttle 120 may include a flange 123 proximate the first end 124 relative to the second end 126. The flange 123 may be sized and shaped to have a diameter that is smaller than a first diameter of the inner passage 101 between the flange 103 and the first end portion 104. Thus, the flange 123 may be deflected and / or separated from contacting the inner surface of the valve body 102 defining the inner passage 101. Thus, the flange 123 may have a diameter that is larger than a second diameter of the inner passage 101 between the flange 103 and the second end portion 106. Thus, when the movable shuttle 120 is in Figure 4 When moving in an upward direction toward the second end portion 106 , the flange 123 may abut against and contact the protruding edge 103 in the inner channel 101 .

[0045] Thus, when the flange 123 engages the flange 103, the valve body 102 can be configured to limit movement of the movable shuttle 120 within the inner passage 101 and relative to the valve body 102. The biasing mechanism 136 can be received within a portion of the inner passage 101 between the flange 103 and the first end portion 104. The biasing mechanism 136 can be disposed around a portion of the shuttle body 122, such as along the first end 124, with one end of the biasing mechanism 136 positioned against the flange 123. The biasing mechanism 136 can be configured to bias the movable shuttle 120 relative to the valve body 102 when the flange 123 engages the flange 103. Figure 4 For example, the biasing mechanism 136 can be configured to apply an upward force against the flange 123, thereby biasing the movable shuttle 120 upward.

[0046] Still refer to Figure 4 , the movable shuttle 120 may include a closed channel 125 within the shuttle body 122. In this example, the closed channel 125 may extend from the opening 121 at the first end 124 toward the second end 126. The closed channel 125 may terminate within the shuttle body 122, such as, for example, at a location proximate to the location of the first recess 127A. The size, shape, and longitudinal length of the closed channel 125 may correspond to the size, shape, and length of the piercing element 130 of the valve assembly 100 received therein.

[0047] The piercing element 130 may have a longitudinal length defined between a front end 132 and a rear end 134. The piercing element 130 may be configured to move relative to the shuttle body 122 of the movable shuttle 120 within the closed channel 125, such as, for example, between one or more of a plurality of positions. The piercing element 130 may be configured to move relative to the valve body 102 within the inner channel 101, such as moving with the movable shuttle 120. As described herein, at least a first position relative to the shuttle body 122, the piercing element 130 may move simultaneously with the movable shuttle 120, and at least a second position relative to the shuttle body 122, the piercing element 130 may move independently of the movable shuttle 120.

[0048] In some examples, the piercing element 130, for example, a portion of the leading end 132, may include a lancet and / or a needle. The leading end 132 of the piercing element 130 may define a sharp tip configured to pierce the delivery system 10 ( Figure 1 ) such as, for example, the seal 54 comprising the device 50. The rear end 134 of the piercing element 130 can define a spherical tip configured to interface with the inner surface of the shuttle body 122 defining the closed channel 125, so that the rear end 134 can interface with the closed channel 125 to form a frictional resistance within the shuttle body 122, thereby maintaining the piercing element 130 within the movable shuttle 120.

[0049] Still refer to Figure 4 , when the containment device 50 is coupled to the valve body 102, the biasing mechanism 136 can abut against the bottom surface of the flange 123 and the top surface of the neck 52 of the containment device 50. In the absence of actuation of the actuation mechanism 30, the biasing mechanism 136 can bias (e.g., apply a force) the movable shuttle 120 relatively upward through the inner passage 101 to a position away from the first end portion 104 and toward the second end portion 106. As described below, the biasing mechanism 136 can be transformed from a first (expanded) configuration to a second (compressed) configuration in response to actuation of the actuation mechanism 30, and return from the second configuration to the first configuration when the actuation mechanism 30 is released.

[0050] Figures 5A to 5C An exemplary use of the delivery system 10 is shown wherein the valve assembly 100 is in a first configuration, the movable shuttle 120 is in a first position relative to the valve body 102, and the piercing element 130 is in a first position relative to the valve body 122, as shown in FIG. Figure 5A For example, without actuation of the actuation mechanism 30 to apply a downward (longitudinal) force to the movable shuttle 120 against the second end 126 (e.g., by the cam 40 ( Figure 2 ), an upward (longitudinal) force applied by the biasing mechanism 136 against the first end 124 can bias the movable shuttle 120 upward to the first position relative to the valve body 102. In this case, the biasing mechanism 136 can be in the first (expanded) configuration and can maintain the shuttle body 122 in the first position until an opposing downward force greater than the upward force of the biasing mechanism 136 is applied to the movable shuttle 120 (e.g., by the cam 40).

[0051] In the first position of the movable shuttle 120, the shuttle body 122 can be positioned at the most upward extent relative to the valve body 102 so that the flange 123 can engage against the flange 103 within the inner passage 101. In this position, the second end 126 of the movable shuttle 120 can extend outwardly from the second end portion 106 of the valve body 102 (via the second opening 107) to its most upward extent. When in the first configuration of the valve assembly 100, the first gasket 128A can be positioned between the first (outlet) conduit 111 and the second (inlet) conduit 113, the second gasket 128B can be positioned between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110, and the third gasket 128C can be positioned between the outlet port 110 and the second opening 107. Thus, the second gasket 128B can be positioned to prevent fluid communication between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110. Although not shown, when the movable shuttle 120 is in the first position, the cam 40 ( Figure 2 ) can abut against the second end 126.

[0052] In the first position of the piercing element 130, the piercing element 130 can be positioned at the most upward extent relative to the shuttle body 122, so that the rear end 134 can abut the terminal end of the closed channel 125. In this position, the piercing element 130 can be received in the shuttle body 122, wherein the front end 132 at least partially extends outward from the closed channel 125 via the opening 121. In other words, when the piercing element 130 is in the first position, the front end 132 can be exposed from the shuttle body 122. When the movable shuttle 120 is in the first position and the piercing element 130 is in the first position, the front end 132 can be spaced apart from the seal 54. The movement of the movable shuttle 120 within the inner channel 101 can cause the front end 132 to contact the seal 54 of the containment device 50. In the first form of the valve assembly 100, the seal 54 of the containment device 50 can remain intact so that the pressurized fluid stored therein can be maintained within the containment device 50.

[0053] Reference now Figure 5B , the valve assembly 100 can be converted to the second configuration when the actuation mechanism 30 is actuated and the cam 40 is moved. In this case, the movable shuttle 120 can be moved to the second position relative to the valve body 102, and the piercing element 130 can be maintained in the first position relative to the shuttle body 122. For example, the actuation of the actuation mechanism 30 can move the cam 40 ( Figure 2 ) is moved into engagement with the second end 126, thereby applying a downward (longitudinal) force to the movable shuttle 120 that is greater than the opposing upward force applied by the biasing mechanism 136 against the first end 124. In this case, when the movable shuttle 120 is moved downwardly to the second position relative to the valve body 102, the biasing mechanism 136 can be converted to the second (compressed) configuration.

[0054] In the second position of the movable shuttle 120, the shuttle body 122 can be positioned at a most downward extent relative to the valve body 102 so that the flange 123 can be disengaged from the flange 103. In this position, the second end 126 of the movable shuttle 120 can extend through the second end portion 106 of the valve body 102 (via the second opening 107) to its most downward extent. When in the second configuration of the valve assembly 100, the first gasket 128A and the second gasket 128B can be positioned between the first (outlet) conduit 111 and the second (inlet) conduit 113, and the third gasket 128C can be positioned between the outlet port 110 and the second opening 107. Thus, the second gasket 128B can be positioned to allow fluid communication between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110.

[0055] Still refer to Figure 5B In the first position of the piercing element 130, the piercing element 130 may remain positioned at the most upward extent relative to the shuttle body 122, so that the rear end 134 continues to abut against the terminal end of the closed passage 125. In this position, the piercing element 130 is maintained in the shuttle body 122, wherein the front end 132 at least partially extends outward from the closed passage 125 via the opening 121. Since the front end 132 is exposed from the shuttle body 122, the movement of the movable shuttle 120 in the inner passage 101 may cause the front end 132 to contact the seal 54 of the containment device 50, thereby piercing the seal 54. Therefore, in the second configuration of the valve assembly 100, the seal 54 of the containment device 50 may be permanently deformed, so that the high-pressure fluid A stored therein may be released into the valve body 102 and received in the inner passage 101. In the second position, the first end 124 may be spaced apart from the seal 54 to allow the high-pressure fluid A to leave the containment device 50 and enter the inner passage 101. Seal 54 may include a deformable barrier positioned over an opening containing device 50 at a terminal end of neck 52. Seal 54 may be at least partially flexible and configured to be pierced and / or punctured upon encountering a sharp object, such as leading end 132 of piercing element 130.

[0056] High pressure fluid A released from containment device 50 may travel along a first fluid path through inner passage 101 until encountering a relatively downstream (ie, relatively downstream) first (outlet) conduit 111. Figure 5B The first gasket 128A can be configured to prevent the high-pressure fluid A from flowing relative to the inner channel 101 (at the top). Figure 5BThus, the first gasket 128A can redirect the high-pressure fluid A into the first (outlet) conduit 111 and into the regulator 60 via the inlet passage 142 of the adapter 140. After passing through the regulator 60, the low-pressure fluid B can exit the regulator 60 (coupled to the adapter 140) and travel along the second fluid path through the outlet passage 144 of the adapter 140 and the second (inlet) conduit 113 until entering the inner passage 101.

[0057] Still refer to Figure 5B , with the movable shuttle 120 in the second position and the second gasket 128B and the third gasket 128C positioned on opposite sides of the second (inlet) conduit 113, the low-pressure fluid B can enter the inner passage 101 between the second gasket 128B and the third gasket 128C. Thus, the second gasket 128B can be configured to prevent the low-pressure fluid B from flowing (downward) relative to the inner passage 101 beyond the position of the second gasket 128B, and the third gasket 128C can be configured to prevent the low-pressure fluid B from flowing (downward) relative to the inner passage 101 beyond the position of the second gasket 128B, and the third gasket 128C can be configured to prevent the low-pressure fluid B from flowing (downward) relative to the inner passage 101 beyond the position of the second gasket 128B. Figure 5B Since the outlet port 110 is positioned between the second gasket 128B and the third gasket 128C, the pair of gaskets 128B and 128C can cooperate to redirect the low-pressure fluid B into the outlet port 110 toward the conduit 36 ​​( Figure 1 )delivery.

[0058] Reference now Figure 5C , the valve assembly 100 can be converted to the third configuration when the actuation mechanism 30 is released. In this case, the movable shuttle 120 can be moved to the third position relative to the valve body 102, and the piercing element 130 can be moved to the second position relative to the shuttle body 122. In some examples, the third position of the movable shuttle 120 can be different from the first position ( Figure 5A ), such that releasing the actuation mechanism 30 can return the movable shuttle 120 to the first position. For example, ceasing actuation of the actuation mechanism 30 can cause the cam 40 to move away from the movable shuttle 120, thereby disengaging the second end 126. In this case, the biasing mechanism 136 can return to the first (expanded) configuration, wherein the upward (longitudinal) force applied by the biasing mechanism 136 against the first end 124 can cause the movable shuttle 120 to move (upwardly) relative to the valve body 102 and through the internal passage 101.

[0059] In the third position of the movable shuttle 120, the shuttle body 122 can be positioned at the most upward extent relative to the valve body 102 so that the flange 123 can engage the flange 103. In this position, the second end 126 of the movable shuttle 120 can extend through the second end portion of the valve body 102 (via the second opening 107) to its most upward extent. When in the third configuration of the valve assembly 100, the first gasket 128A can be retained between the first (outlet) conduit 111 and the second (inlet) conduit 113, the second gasket 128B can be repositioned between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110, and the third gasket 128C can be retained between the outlet port 110 and the second opening 107. Therefore, the second gasket 128B can be positioned to prevent fluid communication between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110.

[0060] Still refer to Figure 5C In the second position of the piercing element 130, the piercing element 130 can be positioned at a downwardly most extent relative to the shuttle body 122, so that the rear end 134 is offset from the terminal end of the closed channel 125 and / or separated therefrom. In this position, the piercing element 130 is at least partially maintained in the shuttle body 122, wherein the front end 132 extends outward from the closed channel 125 at the first end 124. Since the piercing element 130 can be independently movable relative to the movable shuttle 120, when the movable shuttle 120 moves from the second position to the third position within the inner channel 101, the front end 132 can remain in contact with the seal 54. Therefore, the piercing element 130 can be configured to maintain the seal 54 in an open state.

[0061] It should be appreciated that due to the independent movement of the movable shuttle 120 and the piercing element 130, malfunctions of the dispensing system 10, such as caused by the movable shuttle 120 becoming stuck in the second (most downward) position due to the engagement between the front end 132 and the seal 54, can be minimized. Thus, the valve assembly 100 can help prevent accidental release of the low-pressure fluid B from the dispensing system 10, such as caused by the movable shuttle 120 becoming stuck in the second position when the actuation mechanism 30 is in the unactuated state.

[0062] Thus, in the third configuration of the valve assembly 100, the front end 132 can continue to extend through the seal 54, so that the high-pressure fluid A stored in the containment device 50 can continue to be released into the valve body 102 and received in the inner passage 101. In other words, when the actuation mechanism 30 is released, the valve body 102 can remain in fluid communication with the containment device 50. It should be understood that when the piercing element 130 moves away from the containment device 50 (in the third configuration) in response to the upward movement of the movable shuttle 120, the piercing element 130 can be moved away from the containment device 50 (in the third configuration). Figures 5A to 5C In the case of movement upward (in the middle), the seal 54 can remain permanently deformed so that the high-pressure fluid A can continue to be released even though the front end 132 is retracted from the seal 54.

[0063] High pressure fluid A released from the containment device 50 may travel along the first fluid path through the inner channel 101 until encountering a first gasket 128A positioned relatively above the first (outlet) conduit 111. The first gasket 128A may be configured to prevent the high pressure fluid A from flowing relative to the inner channel 101 (at Figures 5A to 5C Thus, the first gasket 128A can redirect the high-pressure fluid A into the first (outlet) conduit 111 and into the regulator 60 via the inlet passage 142 of the adapter 140. Upon reducing the pressure of the high-pressure fluid A, the low-pressure fluid B can exit the regulator 60 and travel along the second fluid path through the outlet passage 144 of the adapter 140 and the second (inlet) conduit 113 until entering the inner passage 101.

[0064] Still refer to Figure 5C , with the movable shuttle 120 in the third position, the second gasket 128B can be positioned between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110, and the third gasket 128C can be held between the outlet port 110 and the second opening 107. Thus, the second gasket 128B can be positioned to block fluid communication between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110. Thus, the low-pressure fluid B can enter the inner passage 101 between the first gasket 128A and the second gasket 128B. The first gasket 128A can be configured to block the low-pressure fluid B from flowing relative to the inner passage 101 (at Figure 5C The second gasket 128B can be configured to prevent the low-pressure fluid B from flowing (downward) relative to the inner passage 101 beyond the position of the first gasket 128B, and the second gasket 128B can be configured to prevent the low-pressure fluid B from flowing (upward) relative to the inner passage 101 beyond the position of the second gasket 128B. Since the outlet port 110 is positioned above the second gasket 128B, the second gasket 128B can fluidly seal the outlet port 110 to help prevent the low-pressure fluid B from being transported toward the conduit 36.

[0065] It should be appreciated that the valve assembly 100 can be operated to provide consistent control and operation of the dispensing system 10 by requiring substantially similar forces to actuate the actuation mechanism 30, regardless of the current configuration of the valve assembly 100 (e.g., Figure 5A The first form, Figure 5B The second form and Figure 5C Regardless of the accumulation of high pressure fluid A and / or low pressure fluid B in one or more portions of valve body 102, such as in inner passage 101, valve assembly 100 can mitigate and / or minimize opposing forces exerted against movable shuttle 120 (e.g., exerted by high pressure fluid A and / or low pressure fluid B in an upward direction away from containment device 50), such that the force required to translate movable shuttle 120 (e.g., in a downward direction toward containment device 50) and dispense pressurized fluid to outlet port 110 can be substantially constant.

[0066] Reference now Figures 6A to 6C , showing aspects of another exemplary valve assembly 200. Except for the differences explicitly described herein, the valve assembly 200 can be configured similarly to the valve assembly 100, such that the same reference numerals are used to identify the same components. The valve assembly 200 can be housed within the body 12 of the delivery system 10 and selectively actuated by the actuation mechanism 30 (see Figure 1 ).

[0067] Specific reference Fig. 6A , the valve assembly 200 may include a valve body 202 having a first end portion 204 and a second end portion 206. The first end portion 204 may include a first opening 205 configured to interface with a source of pressurized medium, such as the containment device 50. For example, the first opening 205 may include a threaded portion along an inner surface defining the first opening 205 to engage or otherwise couple with a threaded portion of the neck 52. Thus, the containment device 50 may be rotatably coupled to the valve assembly 200 at the first end portion 204. The second end portion 206 may include a second opening 207.

[0068] The valve body 202 may include an inner passage 201 extending between a first end portion 204 and a second end portion 206, and an outlet port 110, a first (outlet) conduit 111, and a second (inlet) conduit 113 extending from the inner passage 201. Thus, the outlet port 110, the first (outlet) conduit 111, and the second (inlet) conduit 113 may be in fluid communication with the inner passage 201. The valve body 202 may also include a cavity 208 positioned adjacent to the inner passage 101, wherein the cavity 208 may be sized, shaped, and / or otherwise configured to receive a locking mechanism 210. The locking mechanism 210 may include a lug, a detent, a beam, and / or a protrusion that is movably coupled within the valve body 202, such as around a pin. The locking mechanism 210 may be configured to move from a retracted position ( Fig. 6A ) moves to the extended form ( Figure 6C ).

[0069] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 210 can be biased toward the extended configuration, such as, for example, by a biasing mechanism coupled thereto. In other embodiments, the locking mechanism 210 can be selectively movable between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration. As described in detail herein, the locking mechanism 210 can be configured to extend out of the cavity 208 and into the inner passage 201 to engage one or more components of the valve assembly 200.

[0070] Still refer to Fig. 6A, the valve assembly 200 may also include a first movable shuttle 220 and a second movable shuttle 230 disposed within the valve body 202. In this example, the first movable shuttle 220 may have a longitudinal length defined between a first end 222 and a second end 224, and the second movable shuttle 230 may have a longitudinal length defined between a first (lower) end 232 and a second (upper) end 234. Each of the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 may be sized, shaped, and / or otherwise configured to be received within the inner passage 201. In this example, the first movable shuttle 220 may be relatively positioned above the second movable shuttle 230 within the inner passage 201, such that the first movable shuttle 220 may be positioned proximate to the second end portion 206 (relative to the second movable shuttle 230), and the second movable shuttle 230 may be positioned proximate to the first end portion 204 (relative to the first movable shuttle 220).

[0071] The first end 222 of the first movable shuttle 220 can be configured to dock with the second end 234 of the second movable shuttle 230, and the second end 224 of the first movable shuttle 220 can extend outward from the second end portion 206 through the opening 207 to mate with the cam 40 ( Figure 2 ) docking. The first end 232 of the second movable shuttle 230 can be coupled to the piercing element 130, and the second end 234 of the second movable shuttle 230 can be configured to dock with the first end 222 of the first movable shuttle 220. In this example, the piercing element 130 can be fixed relative to the second movable shuttle 230. The valve assembly 200 can also include a biasing mechanism 226, which is disposed around at least a portion of the first movable shuttle 220. In this example, the biasing mechanism 226 can be coupled to the first movable shuttle 220 proximate the second end 224 and positioned outside the inner channel 201.

[0072] Still refer to Fig. 6A , one end of the biasing mechanism 226 can be positioned against the second end portion 206 of the valve body 202, and the opposite end of the biasing mechanism 226 can be positioned against the second end 224. In this example, the second end 224 can have a larger cross-sectional dimension and / or define a widened portion relative to the first movable shuttle 220. Therefore, the biasing mechanism 226 can be configured to abut against the widened portion of the second end 224. The biasing mechanism 236 can be configured to bias the first movable shuttle 220 in an upward direction relative to the valve body 202 in response to applying an upward force against the second end 224. It should be understood that when the valve assembly 200 is in the Fig. 6A In the first configuration shown, the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 can be coupled to each other along an interface between the first end 222 and the second end 234 .

[0073] In some embodiments, the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 may be coupled to each other via frictional engagement with each other and / or frictional engagement with the inner surface defining the inner channel 201. In other embodiments, the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 may be coupled to each other by an adhesive positioned along the interface between the first end 222 and the second end 234. It should be understood that the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 may be coupled to each other in various other suitable ways without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0074] The first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 may include one or more recesses and / or cavities formed along the respective longitudinal lengths of the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 for receiving at least one gasket (e.g., a seal, an O-ring, etc.). In this example, the second movable shuttle 230 may include a first recess 127A between the first end 232 and the second end 234, wherein a corresponding first gasket 128A is received within the first recess 127A. The first movable shuttle 220 may include a second recess 127B and a third recess 127C between the first end 222 and the second end 224, wherein a corresponding second gasket 128B and a third gasket 128C are received within each respective recess.

[0075] In an exemplary use, the valve assembly 200 may be in a first configuration, wherein the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 are each in a respective first position relative to the valve body 202, such as Fig. 6A In the absence of a downward (longitudinal) force applied to the first movable shuttle 220 (e.g., by the cam 40 against the second end 224), the upward (longitudinal) force applied by the biasing mechanism 236 against the second end 224 can move the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 upward to the first position relative to the valve body 202. In this case, the biasing mechanism 236 can be in the first (expanded) configuration and can maintain the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 in the first position until an opposing downward force greater than the upward force of the biasing mechanism 236 is applied thereto.

[0076] In the first position, each of the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 can be positioned at an upwardmost extent relative to the valve body 202. In this position, the second end 224 can extend outwardly from the second end portion 206 of the valve body 202 (via the second opening 207) to its upwardmost extent. In the first configuration of the valve assembly 200, the first gasket 128A can be positioned between the first (outlet) conduit 111 and the second (inlet) conduit 113, the second gasket 128B can be positioned between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110, and the third gasket 128C can be positioned between the outlet port 110 and the second opening 207. Thus, the second gasket 128B can be positioned to prevent fluid communication between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110.

[0077] Still refer to Fig. 6A , in the first position of the second movable shuttle 230, the piercing element 130 can be positioned at the most upward extent relative to the valve body 202. In this position, the piercing element 130 can be deflected and / or separated from contacting the seal 54. With the piercing element 130 coupled to the first end 232 of the second movable shuttle 230, movement of the movable shuttles, particularly the second movable shuttle 230, can cause the piercing element 130 to contact the seal 54. In the first configuration of the valve assembly 200, the seal 54 of the containment device 50 can remain intact so that the pressurized fluid stored therein can be maintained within the containment device 50.

[0078] When in the first configuration of the valve assembly 200, the second movable shuttle 230 can be in a first position in which the locking mechanism 210 is blocked from extending radially outward from the cavity 208 and inwardly into the inner passage 201 by the second movable shuttle 230. In other words, when in the first position, the second movable shuttle 230 can overlap the cavity 208 such that the locking mechanism 210 is maintained in a retracted position within the cavity 208, thereby allowing the second movable shuttle 230 to move through the inner passage 201.

[0079] Reference now Figure 6B , the valve assembly 200 (e.g., the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230) can be converted to the second configuration upon actuation of the actuation mechanism 30. In this case, the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 can each be moved to a corresponding second position relative to the valve body 202. For example, actuation of the actuation mechanism 30 can move the cam 40 into engagement with the second end 224, thereby applying a downward (longitudinal) force to the first movable shuttle 220 that is greater than the opposing upward force applied by the biasing mechanism 236 against the second end 224. In this case, when the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 are moved downward to the second position relative to the valve body 202, the biasing mechanism 236 can be converted to the second (compressed) configuration.

[0080] In the second position, each of the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 can be positioned at a downwardmost extent relative to the valve body 202. When in the second configuration of the valve assembly 200, the first gasket 128A and the second gasket 128B can be positioned between the first (outlet) conduit 111 and the second (inlet) conduit 113, and the third gasket 128C can be positioned between the outlet port 110 and the second opening 207. Thus, the second gasket 128B can be positioned to allow fluid communication between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110.

[0081] Still refer to Figure 6B , in the second position of the second movable shuttle 230, the piercing element 130 can simultaneously move to the most downward extent relative to the valve body 202, so that the piercing element 130 contacts and pierces the seal 54. Therefore, in the second configuration of the valve assembly 200, the seal 54 of the containment device 50 can be permanently deformed so that the high pressure fluid A stored therein can be released into the valve body 202 and received within the inner passage 201. It should be understood that the high pressure fluid A can push the movable shuttle when it is released from the containment device 50. As an illustrative example, the high pressure fluid A can be in the range of about 800 PSI to 1000 PSI, and a corresponding force of about 75 pounds (lbs.) to 90 pounds can act against the second movable shuttle 230 and the first movable shuttle 220.

[0082] High pressure fluid A released from the containment device 50 can travel along the first fluid path through the inner passage 201 until encountering the first gasket 128A positioned relatively above the first (outlet) conduit 111. The first gasket 128A can be configured to help prevent the high pressure fluid A from flowing (upward) beyond the position of the first gasket 128A relative to the inner passage 201. Thus, the first gasket 128A can redirect the high pressure fluid A into the first (outlet) conduit 111 and into the regulator 60. Upon reducing the pressure of the high pressure fluid A, the low pressure fluid B can exit the regulator 60 and travel along the second fluid path through the second (inlet) conduit 113 until entering the inner passage 201.

[0083] Still refer to Figure 6B, with the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 in the second position and the second gasket 128B and the third gasket 128C positioned on opposite sides of the second (inlet) conduit 113, the low-pressure fluid B can enter the inner passage 201 between the second gasket 128B and the third gasket 128C. Thus, the second gasket 128B can be configured to prevent the low-pressure fluid B from flowing (downward) relative to the inner passage 201 beyond the position of the second gasket 128B, and the third gasket 128C can be configured to prevent the low-pressure fluid B from flowing (upward) relative to the inner passage 201 beyond the position of the third gasket 128C. With the outlet port 110 positioned between the second gasket 128B and the third gasket 128C, the pair of gaskets 128B, 128C can cooperatively redirect the low-pressure fluid B into the outlet port 110 for delivery toward the conduit 36.

[0084] When in the second configuration of the valve assembly 200, the second movable shuttle 230 can be in a second position in which the locking mechanism 210 is free to extend radially outward from the cavity 208 and inward into the inner passage 201 without encountering obstruction from the second movable shuttle 230. In other words, when the second movable shuttle 230 is in the second position, the second end 234 can be relatively positioned below the cavity 208 such that the locking mechanism 210 can be biased toward the extended position. In this case, the locking mechanism 210 can be configured to abut the second end 234 and at least partially inhibit movement of the second movable shuttle 230 relative to the inner passage 201, such as in an upward direction beyond the cavity 208. Thus, the locking mechanism 210 can be configured to maintain the second movable shuttle 230 in the second position.

[0085] Reference now Figure 6C , the valve assembly 300 can be converted to the third state ( Figure 1 ). In this case, the first movable shuttle 220 and the second movable shuttle 230 can be moved to a third position relative to the valve body 202. In the third position, the first movable shuttle 220 can be moved relative to the valve body 202, while the second movable shuttle 230 can remain stationary relative to the valve body 202. In some examples, the third position of the second movable shuttle 230 can be substantially similar to the second position of the second movable shuttle 230 ( Figure 6B ), and the third position of the first movable shuttle 220 may be substantially similar to the first position of the first movable shuttle 220 ( Fig. 6A ), so that releasing the actuation mechanism 30 can return the first movable shuttle 220 to the first position.

[0086] For example, stopping actuation of the actuation mechanism 30 may cause the cam 40 to move away from the second end 224, thereby disengaging the first movable shuttle 220. In this case, the biasing mechanism 226 may return to the first (expanded) configuration, wherein the upward (longitudinal) force applied by the biasing mechanism 226 against the second end 224 may cause the first movable shuttle 220 to move (upwardly) relative to the valve body 202 and through the inner passage 201. As described in detail above, the locking mechanism 210 may help prevent the second movable shuttle 230 from returning to the first position.

[0087] In the third position of the movable shuttle, the first movable shuttle 220 can be repositioned at the most upward extent relative to the valve body 202, and the second movable shuttle 230 can remain at the most downward extent. When in the third configuration of the valve assembly 200, the first gasket 128A can remain between the first (outlet) conduit 111 and the second (inlet) conduit 113, the second gasket 128B can be repositioned between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110, and the third gasket 128C can remain between the outlet port 110 and the second opening 207. Thus, the second gasket 128B can be positioned to prevent fluid communication between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110.

[0088] Still refer to Figure 6C , in the second position of the second movable shuttle 230, the piercing element 130 can be maintained at the most downward extent relative to the valve body 202, so that when the movable shuttle moves from the second position to the third position, the piercing element 130 remains in contact with the seal 54. Therefore, in the third configuration of the valve assembly 200, the piercing element 130 can continue to extend through the seal 54, so that the high-pressure fluid A stored in the containing device 50 can continue to be released into the valve body 202 and received in the inner channel 201.

[0089] The high pressure fluid A released from the containment device 50 can travel along the first fluid path through the inner passage 201 until encountering the first gasket 128A positioned relatively above the first (outlet) conduit 111. The first gasket 128A can be configured to help prevent the high pressure fluid A from flowing (upward) beyond the position of the first gasket 128A relative to the inner passage 201. Thus, the first gasket 128A can redirect the high pressure fluid A into the first (outlet) conduit 111 and into the regulator 60. When the high pressure A is reduced, the low pressure fluid B can exit the regulator 60 and travel along the second fluid path through the second (inlet) conduit 113 until entering the inner passage 201.

[0090] Still refer to Figure 6C, with the first movable shuttle 220 in the third position, the second gasket 128B may be positioned between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110, and the third gasket 128C may be held between the outlet port 110 and the second opening 207. Thus, the second gasket 128B may be positioned to block fluid communication between the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110. Thus, the low-pressure fluid B may enter the inner passage 201 between the first gasket 128A and the second gasket 128B. The first gasket 128A may be configured to block the low-pressure fluid B from flowing (downward) relative to the inner passage 201 beyond the position of the first gasket 128B, and the second gasket 128B may be configured to block the low-pressure fluid B from flowing (upward) relative to the inner passage 201 beyond the position of the second gasket 128B. With the outlet port 110 positioned above the second gasket 128B, the second gasket 128B may fluidly seal the outlet port 110 to block the low-pressure fluid B from being transported toward the conduit 36.

[0091] It should be understood that upon subsequent actuation of the actuation mechanism 30, the second movable shuttle 230 may remain in the second position ( Figure 6C In other embodiments of the valve assembly 200, one or more of the first movable shuttle 220, the second movable shuttle 230, and / or the piercing element 130 can be stationary and / or fixed relative to the valve body 202, such that the containment device 50 can be configured to move relative to the valve assembly 200 to provide controlled release of the pressurized fluid from the dispensing system 10.

[0092] It should be appreciated that when the valve assembly 200 is in the third configuration, the high pressure fluid A is isolated from interacting with the first movable shuttle 220 because the position of the second movable shuttle 230 seals the high pressure fluid A beneath the first gasket 128A, preventing the high pressure fluid A from affecting (e.g., increasing) the force required by a user to actuate the actuation mechanism 30. In other words, the valve assembly 200 is operable to help prevent the high pressure fluid A from interacting with the first movable shuttle 220, thereby facilitating the first movable shuttle 220 from the first and / or third positions ( Figure 5A and 5C ) moves to the second position ( Figure 5B ) requires consistency.

[0093] Reference now Figures 7 to 8 , showing aspects of another exemplary valve assembly 300. The valve assembly 300 can be configured similarly to the valve assemblies 100, 200, except for the differences explicitly described herein, such that the same reference numerals are used to identify the same components. The valve assembly 300 can be housed within the body 12 of the delivery system 10 and selectively actuated by the actuation mechanism 30 (see Figure 1 ). The valve assembly 300 may include a valve body 302 having a first end portion 304 and a second end portion 306. Figure 8As shown, the first end portion 304 may have a first opening 305, and the second end portion 306 may have a second opening 307. The valve assembly 300 may be fluidly coupled to the containment device 50 at the first end portion 304 via the first opening 305, and fluidly coupled to the regulator 60 via the adapter 140 ( Figure 1 ).

[0094] Still refer to Figure 8 , the valve assembly 300 may include an inner passage 301 extending through the valve body 302 between a first opening 305 in the first end portion 304 and a second opening 307 in the second end portion 306 for receiving the movable shuttle 120 and the piercing element 130. The inner passage 301 may be in fluid communication with the adapter 140 via the first (outlet) conduit 111 and the second (inlet) conduit 113. The inner passage 301 may be in fluid communication with the outlet 34 (see FIG. 1 ) via the outlet port 110. Figure 1 ) are further fluidically connected.

[0095] The valve assembly 300 can be configured and operated in a manner similar to the valve assembly 100 described in detail above. For example, each of the movable shuttle 120 and the piercing element 130 can be configured to move between a corresponding plurality of positions (e.g., a first position, a second position, and a third position) to convert the valve assembly 300 between a corresponding plurality of configurations (e.g., a first configuration, a second configuration, and a third configuration) in a manner similar to the above description of the valve assembly 100 (see Figures 5A to 5C ) shown and described.

[0096] like Figure 8 As shown, when each of the movable shuttle 120 and the piercing element 130 is moved to a respective most downward extent relative to the valve body 302, the valve assembly 300 can be in the second configuration, thereby establishing fluid communication between the inner passage 301 and the containment device 50. Given the position of the first gasket 128A relative to the inner passage 301, the high-pressure fluid A stored in the containment device 50 can travel along the first fluid path through the inner passage 301, the first (outlet) conduit 111, and into the regulator 60 via the adapter 140. The low-pressure fluid B released from the regulator 60 can travel along the second fluid path through the adapter 140, enter the second (inlet) conduit 113 via the tubing 310, and enter the inner passage 301.

[0097] In the second configuration of the valve assembly 300, due to the respective positions of the gaskets 128B, 128C relative to the second (inlet) conduit 113 and the outlet port 110, the second gasket 128B and the third gasket 128C can be cooperatively configured to direct the low pressure fluid B toward the outlet port 110 for delivery to the patient. It should be understood that the valve assembly 300 may include a first configuration and a third configuration that are substantially similar to the first configuration ( Figure 5A) and the third form ( Figure 5C ).

[0098] Although the principles of the present invention are described herein with reference to illustrative examples for specific applications, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited thereto. Personnel with ordinary skills in the art and access to the teachings provided herein will recognize that additional modifications, applications, and replacements of equivalents all fall within the scope of the examples described herein. Therefore, the present invention should not be considered to be limited by the foregoing description.

Claims

1. A valve assembly for a medical device, comprising: a body having an inlet in fluid communication with a fluid source and an outlet in fluid communication with a delivery conduit of the medical device; as well as a shuttle configured to move within the body between a first position and a second position to control delivery of a fluid from the inlet to the outlet; wherein, in the first position, the shuttle is configured to maintain the fluid at a first pressure within the body and to block the outlet from the inlet such that the delivery conduit is isolated from fluid received from the source at the first pressure; and wherein, in the second position, the shuttle is configured to maintain the fluid within the body at a second pressure and to fluidly couple the outlet to the inlet such that the delivery conduit receives fluid from the source at the second pressure, the second pressure being less than the first pressure.

2. The valve assembly of claim 1, further comprising a piercing element configured to move within the shuttle between a retracted position and an extended position to fluidly couple the inlet with the fluid source.

3. The valve assembly of claim 2, wherein the piercing element comprises a needle or a lancet having a sharp tip.

4. The valve assembly of claim 2 or 3, wherein the valve assembly is configured to receive fluid from the source through the inlet when the shuttle moves from the first position to the second position and the piercing element is positioned in the retracted position; and Wherein the valve assembly is configured to prevent the fluid from being delivered from the inlet to the outlet when the shuttle is moved from the second position to the first position and the piercing element is positioned in the extended position.

5. The valve assembly according to claim 4, wherein in the first configuration of the valve assembly: the shuttle is positioned at the first position; the piercing element being in the retracted position and separated from the fluid source; and The inlet is not in fluid communication with the outlet such that the fluid is maintained at the first pressure in the fluid source.

6. The valve assembly of claim 5, wherein in the second configuration of the valve assembly: the shuttle being positioned at the second position; the piercing element being in the retracted position and in contact with the fluid source; and The inlet is in fluid communication with the outlet such that the fluid is directed to the outlet at the second pressure.

7. The valve assembly of claim 6, wherein in the third configuration of the valve assembly: the shuttle is positioned at the first position; the piercing element being in the extended position and in contact with the fluid source; and The inlet is not in fluid communication with the outlet such that the fluid is maintained at the first pressure and the second pressure in the body.

8. The valve assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body is in fluid communication with a regulator assembly configured to convert the fluid from the first pressure to the second pressure.

9. A valve assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shuttle comprises a gasket positioned around an outer surface of the shuttle.

10. The valve assembly of claim 9, wherein in a first configuration of the valve assembly: the shuttle is positioned at the first position; and The gasket is positioned between the inlet and the outlet to fluidly isolate the delivery conduit from the fluid source.

11. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein in the second configuration of the valve assembly: the shuttle is positioned at the second position; and The gasket is not positioned between the inlet and the outlet to fluidly couple the delivery conduit to the fluid source.

12. The valve assembly of any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the body comprises a channel configured to receive the shuttle, and a flange extending radially inwardly into the channel; Wherein the shuttle includes a flange extending radially outward from an outer surface of the shuttle.

13. The valve assembly of claim 12, wherein the flange is configured to engage the lug when the shuttle is in the first position relative to the passageway to position the gasket between the inlet and the outlet to isolate the delivery conduit from the fluid source fluid.

14. A valve assembly according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the flange is configured to disengage the flange when the shuttle is in the second position relative to the channel to position the gasket outside the inlet and the outlet to fluidly connect the delivery conduit with the fluid source.

15. The valve assembly of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a biasing mechanism coupled to the shuttle, the biasing mechanism configured to move the shuttle from the second position to the first position.

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