Tube connector for an endoscope system

Abstract

Devices, systems, and methods for connecting a tube to an endoscope. A connector for connecting a conduit, such as a gas / lens wash conduit, to a fluid port of an endoscope may include a first end coupled with the conduit and a second end for engaging the fluid port of the endoscope. The connector may have a stabilizing member configured to facilitate securing the second end to the endoscope. In some cases, the connector may include a device coupling member configured to couple to the endoscope and a core structure that increases stability to the device coupling member and is configured to couple to the conduit. In some cases, the stabilizing member may include an actuator and a retaining member that is adjusted in response to actuation of the actuator.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 399,528, filed on August 19, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to connector assemblies and methods, and more particularly to methods and tubing connectors for endoscopy systems. Background Art

[0003] Various in vivo and in vitro medical devices and systems have been developed for medical purposes (e.g., for endoscopic surgery). Some of these devices and systems include guide wires, catheters, catheter systems, endoscopic instruments, etc. These devices and systems are manufactured by any of a variety of different manufacturing methods and can be used according to any of a variety of methods. Among the known medical devices, systems and methods, each has certain advantages and disadvantages. There is a need to provide alternative medical devices and systems and alternative methods for manufacturing and using medical devices and systems. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides designs, materials, manufacturing methods, and use alternatives for medical devices and medical systems. In a first example, a connector for connecting a gas / lens cleaning conduit to a fluid line of an endoscope may include a core, a device coupling member, and a stabilizing member, the core being configured to be coupled to a gas / lens cleaning conduit, the device coupling member being coupled to the core, the device coupling member defining a first port configured to be coupled to a first fluid port of an endoscope and a second port configured to be coupled to a second fluid port of an endoscope, and the stabilizing member being configured to facilitate fixing the device coupling member to the endoscope. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the stabilizing member may include a ring in the first port. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the ring may have an inner surface, and the inner surface tapers toward the central axis of the first port. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the stabilizing member may include a ring and extend distally from the core into the first port. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the core and the stabilizing member may be unitary components, and the device coupling member extends over a portion of the unitary component. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the stabilizing member may include a band and a band connector, and the band is configured to extend around the umbilical cord of the endoscope and is connected to the band connector. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the stabilizing member may include a groove extending between the outer surface of the device coupling member and the second port, and the groove facilitates the engagement of the second port with the second fluid port via rotation of the device coupling member. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the stabilizing member may include an actuator and a retaining member in communication with the actuator, and when the actuator is in a first position, the retaining member may be in a first configuration relative to the first port, and when the actuator is in a second position, the retaining member is in a second configuration relative to the first port. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the stabilizing member may include a rigid external member and an engagement member extending from the device coupling member, and the first port may be configured to extend around the first fluid port of the endoscope, and the rigid external member is configured to engage a locking member to secure the device coupling member to the endoscope. In another example, a connector for connecting a tube to a fluid port of a medical device may include a first end, a second end, and a stabilizing component, wherein the first end is configured to be coupled to the tube and includes a first lumen and a second lumen, the second lumen being coaxial with the first lumen, the second end includes a first port and a second port, the first port being fluidly connected to the first lumen and configured to engage the first fluid port of the medical device, the second port being fluidly connected to the second lumen and configured to engage the second fluid port of the medical device, and the stabilizing component being configured to facilitate securing the second end to the medical device when the first port engages the first fluid port.As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the stabilizing component can be configured as a ring in the first port, and the ring is configured to center the first fluid port inside the first port and center the second fluid port in the second port. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the ring can be formed of a rigid material, and the first port and the second port are at least partially formed of an elastic material. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the first lumen and the second fluid lumen can form an elbow between the first end and the second end. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the stabilizing component may include a tab extending transversely to the axis of the first lumen at the first end. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the stabilizing component may include an elbow joint between the first end and the second end. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the first end can be formed of a rigid material, the second end is formed of an elastic material, and the elastic material overlaps the rigid material. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the stabilizing component may include a retaining component configured to engage a component of an endoscopic system. In another example, a connector for connecting a tubing to a fluid port of a medical device may include a first end, a second end, and a retaining member, the first end being configured to couple with the tubing and including a first lumen and a second lumen, the second lumen being coaxial with the first lumen, the second end including a first port and a second port and an actuator, the first port being fluidly connected to the first lumen and configured to engage a first fluid port of the medical device, the second port being fluidly connected to the second lumen and configured to engage a second fluid port of the medical device, and the retaining member may be configured to adjust to a fluid port engagement position in the first port in response to a first actuation of the actuator, and to adjust to a fluid port disengagement position in response to a second actuation of the actuator. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the retaining member may be biased to a fluid port engagement position. As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, the material forming the second end may bias the retaining member to a fluid port engagement position.

[0005] These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following detailed description, and the scope of the claimed invention is set forth in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

[0007] Figure 1 A schematic diagram depicting components of an illustrative endoscope;

[0008] Figure 2 A schematic diagram depicting components of an illustrative endoscope system;

[0009] Figure 3 A schematic side view of an illustrative connector is depicted.

[0010] Figure 4 depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative connector;

[0011] Figure 5 depicts a schematic perspective view of an illustrative connector;

[0012] Figure 6 Depicted Figure 5 A schematic end view of an illustrative connector depicted in;

[0013] Figure 7 Depicted along Figure 6 Schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative connector taken along line 7-7' in FIG.

[0014] Figure 8 depicts a schematic perspective view of an illustrative stabilizing member for a core component of a connector;

[0015] Fig. 9 depicts a schematic diagram of a connector with an illustrative stabilizing member;

[0016] Fig.10 Depicted is a view taken along line 10-10 Fig. 9 A schematic cross-sectional view of the connector depicted in ;

[0017] Fig.11 A schematic diagram of an illustrative connector is depicted;

[0018] Figures 12A-12C depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative connector coupled to a fluid port of an endoscope;

[0019] Fig.13 depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative connector;

[0020] Fig.14 depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative connector;

[0021] Fig.15 depicts a schematic perspective view of an illustrative connector;

[0022] Fig.16A and 16B Depicts adjusting the first position and the second position Fig.15 illustrative connectors;

[0023] Fig.17A and 17Bdepicts a schematic diagram of an illustrative connector in a first position and in a second position;

[0024] Fig.18 depicts a schematic perspective view of an illustrative connector; and

[0025] Fig.19 Depicts a section taken along line 19-19 Fig.18 Schematic cross-sectional view of a connector.

[0026] Although the embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, the details thereof have been shown in the drawings by way of example and will be described in detail. Nevertheless, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents and substitutes that fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The present disclosure is described with reference to an illustrative medical system that can be used in an endoscopic medical procedure. However, it should be noted that reference to this particular procedure is provided for convenience only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the concepts underlying the disclosed apparatus and related methods of use can be used in any suitable procedure. The present disclosure can be understood with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings, in which similar elements are represented by the same reference numerals.

[0028] All numerical values ​​herein are considered to be modified by the term "approximately", whether or not explicitly stated. In the context of numerical values, the term "approximately" generally refers to a range of numbers that one skilled in the art considers to be equivalent to the value (e.g., having the same function or result). In many cases, the term "approximately" may include numbers rounded to the nearest significant figure. Unless otherwise specified, other uses of the term "approximately" or "around" or "around" (e.g., in contexts other than numerical values) may be assumed to have their ordinary and customary definitions, as understood from and consistent with the context of the specification.

[0029] Numerical ranges recited by endpoints include all values ​​within that range, including the endpoints (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5). Although some suitable sizes, ranges, and / or values ​​are disclosed in connection with various components, features, and / or specifications, those skilled in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the desired sizes, ranges, and / or values ​​may deviate from those explicitly disclosed.

[0030] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a" and "the" and the situation where no quantifier is used include plural indicators, unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally used in its sense including "and / or", unless the content clearly stipulates otherwise. It should be noted that, for ease of understanding, some features of the present disclosure can be described in singular form, even if those features can be plural or repeated in the disclosed embodiments. Unless clearly stated to the contrary, each instance of a feature may include a single disclosure and / or be covered by a single disclosure. For the purpose of simplicity and clarity, all elements of the present disclosure are not necessarily shown in each figure or discussed in detail below. However, it will be understood that the following discussion can be equally applicable to any and / or all parts where there are more than one part, unless clearly stated to the contrary. In addition, for clarity, not all instances of some elements or features can be shown in each figure.

[0031] Note that references in the specification to "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "other embodiments", etc. indicate that the described embodiments may include specific features, structures, characteristics, but not every embodiment necessarily includes the specific features, structures and / or characteristics. In addition, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Further, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, when specific features, structures, or characteristics are described in conjunction with an embodiment, it will be within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to achieve the specific features, structures, or characteristics in conjunction with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described. That is, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the various individual elements described below are expected to be combinable with each other or to be arranged to form other additional embodiments or to supplement and / or enrich the described embodiments, even if not explicitly shown in a particular combination.

[0032] For the sake of clarity, certain identification numerical nomenclature (e.g., first, second, third, fourth, etc.) can be used throughout the specification and / or claims to name and / or distinguish various descriptions and / or claimed features. It should be understood that numerical nomenclature is not intended to be restrictive, and is only illustrative. In some embodiments, for simplicity and clarity, the numerical nomenclature used previously can be changed and deviated from. That is, the feature identified as a "first" element can be referred to as a "second" element, a "third" element, etc., subsequently, or can be completely omitted, and / or another different feature can be referred to as a "first" element. The meaning and / or name in each case will be obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0033] The detailed description (specific embodiments) is intended to illustrate but not limit the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the various elements described may be arranged in various combinations and configurations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The detailed description shows example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] An endoscope is used for diagnostic and / or therapeutic treatment by inserting the elongated shaft of the endoscope into a subject to observe a site to be examined inside the subject's body cavity, and inserting a disposal instrument / tool ​​into a working channel in the elongated shaft of the endoscope if necessary. Such an endoscope or endoscope system may include a fluid / lens cleaning capability, etc., which is configured to feed a fluid (such as a gas (e.g., air, CO2)) to the end of the endoscope for blowing into the interior of the subject at the target site. The lens cleaning feature may provide sterilized water at a relatively high pressure to spray on the camera lens of the endoscope and remove debris. In order to flush the target site of the subject, separate from the air / water feed capability, the endoscope or endoscope system may have a flushing capability that provides a lower pressure, higher volume of water supplied to the target site via a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump) to clear the field of view for observation and treatment. The water source for the lens cleaning and / or flushing features may include one or more fluid reservoirs having tubing and cap assemblies that create a tubing loop that connects to endoscope channels, valves, and / or connectors to achieve the described gas and water functions.

[0035] Such tubing and cap assemblies may be available in a variety of configurations, which may include a water bottle, a cap that fits the particular bottle, and an array of tubing that may extend through an opening in the cap. The tubing is typically arranged to accommodate a particular configuration of endoscope fittings and valves, which are often not modular or selectable.

[0036] When an endoscopic procedure utilizing a lens cleaning, flushing, and / or insufflation feature is completed, the endoscope is replaced with a new endoscope, and the tubing assembly can be connected to the new endoscope via a connector between a tube for the lens cleaning, flushing, and / or insufflation feature and the endoscope (e.g., an umbilical cord of the endoscope). In some cases, the connector can have a rubberized feature that is connected to the endoscope via a friction fit over the fluid port of the endoscope. In some cases, the connector may leak when attached to the endoscope due to wear, manufacturing tolerances, and / or other reasons. In addition, since the connector can extend from the endoscope horizontally and / or parallel to or substantially parallel to a floor surface, stress can be applied to the connector due to gravity acting on the horizontally extending connector. The present disclosure discusses various connectors and connector and / or tubing assemblies that address the above-mentioned problems and / or other problems with existing connectors.

[0037] refer to Figure 1 , depicting an illustrative endoscope 100, and Figure 2 An illustrative endoscope system 200 is depicted. Endoscope 100 may include an elongated tube or shaft 100a configured to be inserted into a subject (e.g., a patient). Details of endoscope 100 and endoscope system 200 may be more fully described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0192479A1, filed on December 21, 2021, entitled TUBING ASSEMBLIES AND METHODSFOR FLUID DELIVERY, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0038] The light source 205 of the endoscope system 200 can feed illumination light to the distal portion 100b of the endoscope 100. The distal portion 100b of the endoscope 100 can house an imager (e.g., a CCD or CMOS imager) (not shown). The light source 205 (e.g., a lamp) can be located in a video processing unit 210, which processes the signal input from the imager and outputs the processed video signal to a video monitor (not shown) for viewing. The video processing unit 210 can also serve as a component of an air / water feed circuit by housing a pressurizing pump 215 (such as an air feed pump) in the unit 210. Other suitable pumps for the air / water feed circuit can be envisioned.

[0039] The endoscope shaft 100a may include a distal tip 100c (e.g., a distal tip unit) disposed at a distal portion 100b of the shaft 100a and a flexible curved portion 105 located proximal to the distal tip 100c. The flexible curved portion 105 may include an articulation joint (not shown) to assist in steering the distal tip 100c. On the end face 100d of the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100 is a gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 for supplying gas to insufflate the interior of a subject at a treatment area and for supplying water to clean the lens covering the imager. The flushing opening 225 in the end face 100d supplies flushing fluid to the treatment area of ​​the subject. An illumination window (not shown) for transmitting illumination light to the treatment area and an opening 230 leading to a working channel 235 extending along the shaft 100a for delivering tools to the treatment area may also be included on the face 100d of the distal tip 100c. The working channel 235 may extend along the shaft 100a to a proximal channel opening 110 located distally of an operating handle 115 (eg, a proximal handle) of the endoscope 100. The biopsy valve 120 may be used to seal the channel opening 110 to prevent unwanted fluid from flowing out.

[0040] The operating handle 115 may be provided with a knob 125 for providing remote 4-way steering of the distal tip (e.g., one knob may control up and down steering, another knob may control left and right steering) via a line connected to an articulation joint in the bendable flexible portion 105. A plurality of video switches 130 for remotely operating a video processing unit 210 may be arranged on the proximal side of the handle 115.

[0041] The handle 115 may be provided with dual valve locations 135. One of the valve locations 135 may receive a gas / water valve 140 for operating the insufflation gas and lens water feed operations. A gas supply line 240a and a lens cleaning supply line 245a run distally from the gas / water valve 140 along the axis 100a and are located proximate to the gas / cleaning nozzle 220 ( Figure 2 ) converge at the distal end 100c.

[0042] Another valve location 135 can receive a suction valve 145 for operating a suction operation. A suction supply line 250a can run distally along the shaft 100a from the suction valve 145 to a junction in fluid communication with the working channel 235 of the endoscope 100.

[0043] The operating handle 115 can be electrically and fluidically connected to the video processing unit 210 via a flexible umbilical 260 and a connector portion 265 extending therebetween. The flexible umbilical 260 can have a gas (e.g., air or CO2) feed line 240b, a lens cleaning feed line 245b, a suction feed line 250b, a flushing feed line 255b, a light guide (not shown), an electrical signal cable (not shown), and / or other suitable lines, guides, and / or cables. The connector portion 265 connects the light source 205 in the video processing unit to the light guide when inserted into the video processing unit 210. The light guide runs along the length of the umbilical 260 and the endoscope shaft 100a to transmit light to the distal end 100c of the endoscope 100. When inserted into the video processing unit 210, the connector portion 265 also connects the air pump 215 to the gas feed line 240b in the umbilical 260.

[0044] A water reservoir or container 270 (e.g., a water bottle) can be fluidly connected to the endoscope 100 through the connector portion 265 and the umbilical cord 260. A length of gas feed line 240c can pass from one end in the air gap 275 between the top 280 (e.g., bottle cap) of the reservoir 270 and the remaining water 285 in the reservoir to a connector 290 on the outside of the connector portion 265. The gas feed line 240b from the umbilical cord 260 branches in the connector portion 265 to fluidly communicate with the gas supply line 240c and the air pump 215 at the removable connector 290. A length of lens cleaning tubing 245c with one end positioned at the bottom of the reservoir 270 can pass through the top 280 of the reservoir 270 to the same removable connector 290 as the gas supply line 240c on the connector portion 265. In other embodiments, the connections can be separate and / or separate from each other. The connector portion 265 may also have a removable irrigation connection 293 for an irrigation supply line (not shown) running from an irrigation water source (not shown) to an irrigation feed line 255b in the umbilical cord 260. In some configurations, the irrigation water may be supplied from a water source (not shown) independent of the water reservoir 270 via a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump). In other embodiments, the irrigation supply line and the lens washing line 245c may obtain water from the same reservoir. The connector portion 265 may also include a removable suction connection 295 for a suction feed line 250b and a suction supply line 250a that fluidly connect a vacuum source (e.g., hospital room suction) (not shown) to the umbilical cord 260 and the endoscope 100.

[0045] The gas feed line 240b and the lens wash feed line 245b may be fluidly connected to the valve position 135 for the gas / water valve 140 and configured such that operation of the gas / water valve 140 in the well controls the supply of gas or lens wash to the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100. The suction feed line 250b is fluidly connected to the valve position 135 for the suction valve 145 and configured such that operation of the suction valve 145 in the well controls the suction applied to the working channel 235 of the endoscope 100.

[0046] The gas supply conduit 240c and the lens cleaning conduit 245c can be combined in a coaxial relationship, but this is not required. In one example, the gas supply conduit 240c can define an inner cavity of sufficient diameter to surround the smaller diameter lens cleaning conduit 245c coaxially received within the gas supply conduit, and to provide air to a water source in an annular space surrounding the lens cleaning conduit to purify a water reservoir (e.g., such as Figure 3 and Figure 4The lens cleaning supply conduit 245c (see Figure 2) is configured to pressurize the gas conduit 240c and the lens cleaning supply conduit 245c configured in the depicted connector 290. The lens cleaning supply conduit 245c can be configured to exit the lumen defined by the coaxial gas supply conduit in any suitable sealing manner (e.g., a hole, fitting, collar, and / or connector) for transitioning from a coaxial arrangement to a side-by-side arrangement with a removable gas / lens cleaning connection to the endoscope connector portion 265. In one example, the fittings for such a transition are depicted as Figure 3 and Figure 4 A connector 290 (eg, a coaxial split connector, but other suitable connector configurations are contemplated).

[0047] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In one configuration, the connector 290 may be in the form of a coaxial split connector configured to be directly or indirectly coupled to the coaxial tube 410 at a first end 290a (e.g., a proximal end) and to be coupled to the umbilical cord 260 (e.g., the connector 265 of the umbilical cord 260) of the endoscope system 200 at a second end 290b (e.g., a distal end). Figure 4 , connector 290 can be directly or indirectly coupled to the endoscope end (e.g., distal end) of coaxial tubing 410, such that the coaxial portion of tubing 410 can be coupled to endoscope 100 via connector 290. In use, connector 290 can allow flow to be switched between a coaxial arrangement and a side-by-side arrangement, wherein a flow path K passes through ports 292 (e.g., a first port 292a for water and a second port 292b for gas), as shown in FIG. Figure 4 In some cases, the first port 292a and the second port 292b may be parallel to each other, but this is not required, and other suitable relative positions of the first port 292a and the second port 292b are contemplated. Figure 4 290 is depicted as a coaxial split connector, but other suitable connectors 290 may be configured to connect parallel tubes or a single tube to the umbilical cord 260 of the endoscope system 200 as desired.

[0048] In some cases, port 292 may include one or more features configured to facilitate coupling of connector 290 to a fluid port of endoscope system 200. Figure 4As depicted, port 292 may include features (convex and concave structures), such as coupling portion 299 (e.g., ribs, ridges, etc.), which are configured to engage a male feature of a fluid port of an endoscope system. Alternatively or additionally, one or more features configured to engage a fluid port of an endoscope system 200 may employ one or more other suitable configurations, including but not limited to a one-way valve, a duckbill valve, and / or other suitable features configured to engage a fluid port of an endoscope system 200.

[0049] Figure 5-19 The connector 290 depicted in the is configured to improve upon current gas (e.g., air, etc.) and liquid (e.g., water) connectors for endoscopic systems. For example, the disclosed connector 290 can be configured to prevent or mitigate leaks at the connection between tubing and an umbilical cord of an endoscopic system, reduce stress on tubing extending proximally from the connector 290, improve the ergonomics of the connector 290 associated with plugging and unplugging the connector 290 to an endoscopic umbilical cord, reduce the potential for cross-contamination when the connector 290 is used for multiple procedures on different subjects, and / or be configured to provide one or more other suitable benefits, including, but not limited to, those discussed herein.

[0050] Figure 5-7 A schematic diagram of an illustrative connector 290 having a core 296, a device coupling member 298, and a stabilizing member 300 is depicted. Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of the connector 290 . Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A schematic end view of connector 290 is depicted in FIG. Figure 7 is along Figure 6 Schematic cross-sectional view of connector 290 taken along line 7-7' in FIG.

[0051] In some cases, a significant amount of force may be required to couple port 292 of connector 290 to the fluid port of the umbilical cord via a friction fit or other suitable type of connection, and therefore, if the connector is not properly centered relative to the fluid port of the umbilical cord, connector 290 may incur damage at or around port 292. In some cases, damage at or around port 292 may cause fluid to leak along port 292. Figures 5 to 7The connector 290 depicted in FIG. 2 can include a stabilizing member 300 in the first port 292a that is configured to facilitate centering the first port 292a around the first fluid port of the umbilical cord and prevent the device coupling member 298 of the connector 290 from being scraped and / or otherwise deformed due to the force required to couple the first fluid port to the first port 292a. In addition, the stabilizing member 300 that centers the first port 292a around the first fluid port (or centers the first fluid port within the first port 292a) can also result in facilitating centering the second fluid port within or otherwise relative to the second port 292b.

[0052] In some cases, the stabilization member 300 can be annular and can form a proximal end and / or support structure of the first port 292a. The annular stabilization member 300 can be configured to facilitate centering the first port 292a relative to the first fluid port of the umbilical cord and engaging or securing the first port 292a to the first fluid port of the umbilical cord. The annular stabilization member 300 can support the shape of the first port 292a by providing a rigid support structure to the first port 292a.

[0053] Figure 7 , depicts a connector 290 having a core 296, a device coupling member 298 extending over the core 296 and a stabilizing member 300 (e.g., where the material of the device coupling member 298 can overlap with the material of the core 296), and a stabilizing member 300 can extend from the core 296. In some cases, the core 296 can be part of the stabilizing member 300 or can be integrally or monolithically formed with the stabilizing member 300 (e.g., the core 296 and the stabilizing member 300 can be a unitary component), but this is not required and the core 296 and the stabilizing member 300 can be formed separately.

[0054] Core 296 can be configured to provide a core or support structure to connector 290 and provide a mechanism for separating the lumens of coaxial tubing coupled to the proximal or first end 290a of connector 290. Although not required, core 296 can extend from first end 290a of connector 290 to the proximal end of port 292.

[0055] In some cases, the core 296 can have one or more ribs 297 that extend radially outward from the portion of the core 296 that defines the lumens or tubes 240c and 245c to provide support to the material of the device coupling member 298. The distal-most ribs 297 of the core 296 can form a rigid proximal surface and / or support for the port 292. The proximal-most ribs 297 can form a proximal support surface that stabilizes the connector 290 when the connector 290 is connected to the fluid port of the umbilical cord. Additionally or alternatively, the proximal-most ribs 297 can provide a surface on which the device coupling member 298 can be formed on the core 296.

[0056] The stabilizing member 300 can extend distally from the core 296 and into the first port 292a. Although other suitable configurations are contemplated, the stabilizing member 300 can include one or more posts 302 and a ring 304. In some cases, one or more of the posts 302 can extend distally from the core 296 and into the first port 292a of the connector 290. The posts can support the ring 304 inside the first port 292a.

[0057] like Figure 7 As depicted, the inner circumference of the ring 304 can have a tapered surface 306 that tapers toward the central axis in the direction in which the fluid port of the umbilical cord is inserted into the first port 292a. The tapered surface 306 can help center the first port 292a around the first fluid port of the umbilical cord, which can help center the second port 292b around the second fluid port of the umbilical cord.

[0058] Figure 5-7 The core 296 and stabilizing member 300 depicted in the drawings can be formed of any suitable material. In some cases, one or more materials of the core 296 and / or stabilizing member 300 can be more rigid relative to the rigidity of the material of the device coupling member 298. Figure 5-7 Exemplary suitable materials for the core 296 and / or stabilizing member 300 may include, but are not limited to, one or more of metals, polymers, composite materials, liquid crystal polymers, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, and / or other suitable rigid materials. In one example, the core 296 may be formed of polycarbonate, but this is not required.

[0059] Device coupling member 298 can completely or at least partially define port 292 of connector 290. In some cases, device coupling member 298 can define one or more of ports 292 (e.g., such as core 296 and / or stabilizing member 300) with core 296 and / or stabilizing member 300. Figure 5-7 ), but this is not required.

[0060] The device coupling member 298 can be formed of any suitable resilient or elastic material configured to produce a friction fit with the fluid port of the umbilical cord. Exemplary resilient and / or elastic materials suitable for forming the device coupling member 298 include, but are not limited to, one or more of polymers, composite materials, rubbers, elastomers, silicones, polyetheramide (PEBA) block copolymers (e.g., PEBAX or other suitable PEBA block copolymers), ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) rubber (EPDM), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), and / or other suitable materials. In one example, the device coupling member 298 can be formed of TPE, but this is not required.

[0061] The device coupling member 298 can be configured to couple to the core 296 and / or the stabilization member 300 in any suitable manner. In some cases, the device coupling member 298 can be overmolded onto the core 296 and / or the stabilization member 300, but this is not required and the device coupling member 298 can couple to the core 296 and / or the stabilization member 300 in one or more other suitable manners.

[0062] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a core 296 and a stabilizing member 300 extending distally from the core 296 is depicted. Although not required, the most proximal rib 297 of the core 296 can have a larger surface area than the other ribs 297 and can be configured to support the device coupling member 298, as discussed above. The most distal rib 297 can have a smaller surface area than the other ribs 297 and can be configured to form the proximal end of the port 292, but this is not required, as discussed above. In some cases, the core 296 can extend proximally from the most distal rib 297 and can be configured to form the proximal end of the first port 292a.

[0063] The core 296 can have a first or proximal end 296a and a second or distal end 296b. The proximal end 296a of the core 296 can be configured to receive a coaxial tube, wherein the tube can engage the proximal end 296a and extend onto the core 296 until it reaches the stop 308, but this is not required and the tube can engage the core 296 and / or the connector 290 in one or more other suitable ways.

[0064] exist Fig. 9 and Fig.10 An illustrative configuration of a connector 290 having a stabilizing feature or stabilizing member 300 in a device coupling member 298 is depicted in FIG. Figure 5-7 As discussed above with respect to connector 290 of the umbilical cord, device coupling member 298 can at least partially define port 292 and can be formed of a resilient material configured to create a friction fit with the fluid port of the umbilical cord. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 The connector 290 depicted in FIG. 2 omits the core, but this is not required and may be replaced with a connector similar to Figure 8 The core 296 depicted in and / or other suitable cores are used to support the device connecting member 298.

[0065] like Fig. 9 As shown, the stabilizing member 300 of the connector 290 may include a groove 310 extending radially inward from the outer side surface 311 of the device coupling member 298 to the second port 292b (e.g., a gas port or other suitable port) and extending proximally inward from the end surface 313. The configuration of the groove 310 can facilitate the second port 292b to initially receive the fluid port of the umbilical cord in response to the rotation of the connector 290.

[0066] Groove 310 may have any suitable depth. In some cases, groove 310 may have sufficient depth to allow first port 292a to receive and center on a first fluid port of an umbilical cord, while still allowing a second fluid port of the umbilical cord to subsequently pass through groove 310 and engage second port 292b.

[0067] In operation, the first fluid port of the umbilical cord can be inserted into the first port 292a of the connector 290, and the second port 292b does not have to be aligned with the second fluid port of the umbilical cord. Once the first fluid port is partially inserted into the first port 292a of the connector 290 and centered, the connector 290 can be rotated, and when the connector 290 rotates, the second fluid port can be received in the groove 310 and the second port 292b. In some cases, the connector 290 can be rotated clockwise to engage the second fluid port, but this is not required. Once the connector 290 has been rotated to the position where the second port 292b contacts the second fluid port of the umbilical cord, the connector 290 can be further (e.g., distally) advanced above the first fluid port and the second fluid port to fully connect the connector 290 to the umbilical cord so that the coupling portion 299 engages the external coupling portion on the fluid port. In some cases, the coupling portion 299 can be omitted.

[0068] Fig.11 An illustrative configuration of connector 290 is depicted having a stabilizing feature or member 300 configured to wrap around and engage a first locking feature 312 (e.g., a first belt connector) located on connector portion 265 of umbilical cord 260 and / or a second locking feature 314 (e.g., a second belt connector) located on core 296 and / or device coupling member 298. Stabilizing member 300 may take the form of a strap or band 316 and may extend from one or both of core 296 and device coupling member 298 of connector 290, as desired.

[0069] The strap 316 may include one or more lock engagement features 318 configured to engage one or both of the first locking feature 312 and the second locking feature 314. The lock engagement feature 318 may be any suitable feature configured to engage one or both of the first locking feature 312 and the second locking feature 314, and may include, but is not limited to, a hole, a tab, a button, a snap, a buckle, a fork, and / or other suitable lock engagement features. In one example, the first lock engagement feature 318a may include a hole (e.g., a post, a fork, and / or other suitable locking feature) configured to engage the first locking feature 312, and the second lock engagement feature 318b may include a fork (e.g., a hole, an opening, a ring, and / or other suitable locking feature) configured to engage the second locking feature 314, but other configurations of the locking features 312, 314, and the lock engagement feature 318 are also contemplated. Although not required, the connector 265 and / or the connector 290 of the umbilical cord 260 may include one or more buckles or openings through which the strap 316 may pass.

[0070] In operation, a user may engage the first port 292a with (e.g., extend from) the first fluid port 266 of the connector 265 of the umbilical (connecting cable) 260, and engage the second port 292b with (e.g., extend from) the second fluid port 268 of the connector 265. Once engaged, the ligature 316 may extend around the connector 265 of the umbilical 260, the first lock engagement feature 318a may engage the first locking feature 312, the ligature 316 may further extend around the connector 265 and fold back to the core 296 and / or the device coupling member 298, and the second lock engagement feature 318b may engage the second locking feature 314. This configuration ensures that the connector 290 is pressed against the connector 265 during use, and prevents the connector 290 from being detached from the umbilical 260, and reduces the forces acting on the device coupling member 298 caused by gravity and tubing extending proximally from the connector 290. Additionally, when the strap 316 is used as a stabilizing member 300, the first and second ports 292 can be designed to have less interference and / or friction with the fluid ports 266, 268 of the umbilical cord 260, which can allow the device coupling member 298 to engage the fluid ports 266, 268 more easily than when a tight friction fit is required to connect the connector 290 to the fluid ports 266, 268.

[0071] In some cases, the configuration of the connector 290 can include an actuatable stabilizing member 300 that can be configured to be adjusted relative to the device coupling member 298. In one example, the stabilizing member 300 can be adjusted to facilitate receiving a fluid port from an endoscope umbilical (connecting cable) and further adjusted to facilitate engaging the fluid port. Figures 12A-12CDepicted is a schematic cross-sectional illustration of a connector 290 including a stabilizing member 300 that can be actuated to facilitate receiving, engaging, and disengaging one or more fluid ports of an endoscope. FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C A connector 290 without a core is depicted, but it is contemplated that FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C Connector 290 depicted in FIG. 2 may include a core configured similarly or differently than core 296 .

[0072] Figures 12A-12C The configuration of the connector 290 with the stabilization member 300 depicted in FIG. 1 can be configured to be adjustable to receive, engage, and disengage a fluid port (e.g., the first fluid port 266 and / or other suitable fluid port with the engagement feature 267) of an endoscopic umbilical. In some embodiments, the stabilization member 300 can include an actuator 320 and a biasing member 322. Although Figures 12A-12C The stabilization member 300 is depicted in the first port 292a and configured to receive the first fluid port 266, but the stabilization member 300 may be located in other ports of the connector 290 and configured to receive other fluid ports of the umbilical of the endoscope as desired.

[0073] The actuator 320 can be configured to extend from the exterior of the device coupling member 298 through a slot 324 leading to and / or through a port 292 (e.g., the first port 292a and / or other suitable ports) of the connector 290. Alternatively or additionally, an actuatable portion of the actuator 320 can be embedded within the material of the device coupling member 298, wherein the material of the device coupling member 298 is configured such that the actuator 320 can be actuated through the material.

[0074] The actuator 320 may include an opening 326 configured to receive a fluid port of the umbilical cord. In some cases, the opening 326 may be a retaining member 336 of the actuator 320 or associated with the actuator 320, or may be in the retaining member 336 so that the retaining member 336 can adjust its position in response to actuation of the actuator 320.

[0075] The opening 326 can be any suitable shape and / or size that is configured to receive the fluid port when the actuator 320 is in the actuated position and to engage the fluid port when the actuator 320 is in the rest position (rest position). In one example, the opening 326 can be circular or substantially circular and sized to receive the fluid port, but this is not required.

[0076] The biasing member 322 can be located in the slot 324 near the port 292a of the connector 290. The biasing member 322 can be any suitable type of biasing member that is configured to facilitate biasing the actuator 320 and / or the retaining component 336 to a resting or engaged position and to facilitate movement of the actuator 320 from the resting or engaged position to an actuated position for receiving a fluid port into the stabilizing member 300 and / or disengaging a received fluid port from the stabilizing member 300. In one example, the biasing mechanism 322 can be a spring in the slot 324, such as Figures 12A-12C In another example, the biasing mechanism 322 can be a material of the device coupling member 298 having a spring constant configured to facilitate movement of the actuator 320 and / or the retaining member 336 discussed herein. In another example, the biasing mechanism 322 can be a material inserted into the slot 324 having a spring constant configured to facilitate movement of the actuator 320 discussed herein, wherein the material inserted into the slot 324 can be the same or different than the material of the device coupling member 298 defining the slot 324. Other suitable configurations of the biasing mechanism 322 are contemplated.

[0077] Figures 12A-12C A process for coupling the connector 290 with the first fluid port 266 is depicted. Fig. 12A The actuator 320 and the retaining component 336 of the stabilization member 300 are depicted in a first position (eg, a rest or biased position) that can be configured to engage a fluid port of an endoscope.

[0078] Fig. 12B The actuator 320 and / or retaining member 336 are depicted actuated in the direction of arrow A to a second position (e.g., a receiving or actuating position) such that the first fluid port 266 may be inserted into the first port 292a by adjusting the connector 290 in the direction of arrow B and advancing the first fluid port 266 through the opening 326 of the actuator 320. When the actuator 320 is actuated in the direction of arrow A, the biasing mechanism 322 may be compressed.

[0079] Fig. 12CThe first fluid port 266 is depicted fully inserted into the first port 292a through the retaining member 336 and / or the opening 326 of the actuator 320 so that the engagement feature 267 can be aligned with the opening 326. When the force in the direction of arrow A and acting on the biasing mechanism 322 is removed from the actuator 320, the actuator 320 can be adjusted (e.g., biased) in the direction of arrow C and can engage (e.g., clamped to and / or otherwise engaged) the engagement feature 267 of the first fluid port 266. In some cases, when the force in the direction of arrow A is removed from the actuator 320, the biasing mechanism 322 can automatically adjust the actuator 320 in the direction of arrow C, but this is not required. To disengage the connector 290 from the first fluid port, the actuator 320 can be inverted. Figures 12A-12C Steps in .

[0080] Fig.13 A schematic cross-sectional illustration of a connector 290 is depicted that includes a stabilizing member 300 that can be actuated to facilitate receiving, engaging, and disengaging one or more fluid ports of an endoscope. Fig.13 A connector 290 without a core is depicted, but it is contemplated that Fig.13 Connector 290 depicted in FIG. 2 may include a core configured similarly or differently than core 296 .

[0081] Fig.13 The configuration of the connector 290 with the stabilizing member 300 depicted in FIG. 2 can be configured to be adjusted to receive, engage, and disengage a fluid port (e.g., the first fluid port 266 and / or other suitable fluid port having the engagement feature 267, such as a ... 266) from an endoscope umbilical cord. Fig.13 The protrusions depicted Figures 12A-12C In some cases, the stabilization member 300 can include an actuator 320 having a first portion 320a and a second portion 320b, wherein the first portion 320a and the second portion 320b are configured to pivot about a pin 328. In some cases, a distal end of the actuator 320 (e.g., distal ends of the first portion 320a and the second portion 320b) can form a retaining member(s) 336 that are configured to engage one or more fluid ports of an endoscope.

[0082] exist Fig.13 In the configuration of connector 290 depicted in FIG. 1 , the material of device coupling member 298 may be elastic and may have a spring constant (elastic coefficient) such that the material may act as a biasing mechanism on actuator 320 and bias actuator 320 and / or retaining member(s) 336 to a position that is substantially equal to the material of device coupling member 298. Fig.13Alternatively or additionally, one or more biasing mechanisms (e.g., springs and / or other suitable biasing mechanisms) can be used to bias the first actuator component 320a and the second actuator component 320b to a static position (initial position, rest position).

[0083] In operation, a user can engage the first and second actuator components 320a, 320b and apply a force on the respective actuator components 320a, 320b in the direction of arrow F (e.g., applying a clamping or squeezing force or movement and / or other suitable movement to the actuator components 320a, 320b) to adjust the actuator 320 and / or the retaining component 336 from a first position (e.g., a closed or rest position) to a second position (e.g., an open, receiving or engaged position). When in the second position, the connector 290 can be moved toward the first fluid port 266 in the direction of arrow B until the engagement feature 267 is inside the first port 292a so that the actuator 320 and / or the retaining component 336 can snap or otherwise couple to the engagement feature 267 of the first fluid port 266. When the first fluid port 266 has been fully inserted into the first port 292a and the actuator 320, the force in the direction of arrow F can be removed and the actuator 320 and / or the retaining member 336 can be biased to the first position to engage the engagement feature 267 of the first fluid port 266. Fig.13 The stabilization member 300 is depicted in the first port 292a and may be configured to receive the first fluid port 266, but the stabilization member 300 may be located in other ports of the connector 290 and configured to receive other fluid ports of an endoscope umbilical as desired.

[0084] Fig.13 The material of the device coupling member 298 of the connector 290 depicted in the figure can be any suitable type of material that is configured to bias the actuator 320 to a rest position and minimize or reduce the possibility that the actuator 320 releases the fluid port in an unintended manner. Exemplary suitable materials for the device coupling member 298 include, but are not limited to, one or more of a flexible material, a material that provides sealing capabilities, an elastomeric material, EPDM, silicone, PEBA block copolymers, and / or other suitable materials.

[0085] Fig.13The material of the (one or more) retaining components 336 and / or the actuator 320 of the connector 290 depicted in the figure can be any suitable type of material configured to be biased by the material of the device coupling member 298 and / or other suitable biasing mechanisms. Exemplary suitable materials for the actuator 320 and / or retaining component 336 can include, but are not limited to, one or more of ABS, PP, PVC, polycarbonate, and / or other suitable materials. In one example, the actuator 320 and / or retaining component 336 can be formed of PVC, but this is not required.

[0086] Fig.14 Depicted is a schematic cross-sectional illustration of a connector 290 that includes a stabilizing member 300 that can be actuated to create a secure engagement between the connector 290 and one or more fluid ports of an endoscope. Fig.14 A connector 290 without a core is depicted, but it is contemplated that Fig.14 Connector 290 depicted in FIG. 2 may include a core configured similarly or differently than core 296 . Fig.14 The configuration of the connector 290 with the stabilizing member 300 depicted in FIG. 2 can be configured to be adjusted to receive, engage, and disengage a fluid port of an endoscope umbilical cord (e.g., the first fluid port 266 and / or other suitable fluid port having an engagement feature 267, such as, for example, Fig.14 In some cases, the stabilizing member 300 can include an outer member or component 330, one or more first engagement members or features 332 (e.g., barbs or extensions) extending from the device coupling member 298, and one or more second engagement features or components 334 extending radially inward from an inner surface of the outer member 330.

[0087] exist Fig.14 , the material of the device coupling member 298 can be resilient and / or elastic such that when the first port 292a of the device coupling member 298 moves in the direction of arrow B and extends over the first fluid port 266, the material can bend and engage around the first fluid port 266 and the engagement feature 267. In some cases, the tapered surface of the first engagement feature 332 can engage the tapered surface of the second engagement feature 334 to push the material of the device coupling member 298 tightly around the first fluid port in response to engaging the first engagement feature 332, although other suitable configurations are also contemplated.

[0088] The first engagement features 332 can extend completely around the outer circumference of the device coupling member 298 and / or one or more first engagement features 332 can be spaced apart from each other along the outer circumference of the device coupling member 298 (e.g., two spaced apart first engagement features 332, such as Fig.14 33). The first engagement feature 332 can have a tapered surface that tapers inwardly in the direction of arrow B and a shoulder surface proximate the tapered surface and configured to engage the second engagement feature 334 to prevent the device coupling member 298 from exiting the outer component 330.

[0089] The second engagement features 334 can extend completely around the inner circumference of the outer component 330 and / or one or more second engagement features 334 can be spaced apart from each other along the inner circumference of the outer component 330 (e.g., two spaced apart second engagement features 334, such as Fig.14 ). The second engagement feature 334 can have a tapered surface that tapers inwardly in the direction of arrow B and a distal tapered surface and is configured to engage the first engagement feature 332 to prevent the device coupling member 298 from exiting the shoulder surface of the outer component 330.

[0090] The outer component 330 can be configured to receive the device coupling member 298 and secure the device coupling member 298 therein by engagement of the first engagement feature 332 and the second engagement feature 334. Proximally of the second engagement feature 334, the outer component 330 can have an inner diameter of a first distance, and distally of the second engagement feature 334, the outer component 330 can have an inner diameter of a second distance that is less than the first distance so that the material of the device coupling member 298 is pressed against the first fluid port 266 when the shoulders of the first engagement feature 332 and the second engagement feature 334 engage and the first engagement feature abuts the inner surface of the outer component 330 defining the second distance.

[0091] Fig.14 The material of the outer member 330, the first engagement feature 332, and / or the second engagement feature 334 depicted in the figure can be any suitable type of material that is configured to be rigid but flexible so as to bend when the outer member 330 is engaged and / or disengaged with the device coupling member 298. Exemplary suitable materials for the actuator 320 include, but are not limited to, one or more of ABS, PP, PVC, polycarbonate, and / or other suitable materials. In one example, the actuator 320 can be formed of PVC, but this is not required.

[0092] Fig.14 The material of the device coupling member 298 of the connector 290 depicted in the figure can be any suitable type of material configured to elastically flex in response to the forces acting thereon. Exemplary suitable materials for the device coupling member 298 include, but are not limited to, elastomeric materials, EPDM, silicone, PEBA block copolymers, and / or other suitable materials.

[0093] In operation, the user can advance the outer member 330 and the device coupling member 298 in the direction of arrow B to engage the first fluid port 266. The outer member will contact the umbilical cord ( Fig.14 266), and the device coupling member 298 can be further advanced around the first fluid port 266 in the direction of arrow B. As the device coupling member 298 is advanced, the first engagement feature 332 (e.g., a tapered surface of the first engagement feature 332 and / or other portion of the first engagement feature 332) can extend radially outward from the device coupling member 298 and engage the second engagement feature 334 (e.g., a tapered surface of the second engagement feature 334 and / or other portion of the second engagement feature 334) extending radially inward from the outer member 330 to compress the material of the device coupling member 298 around the engagement feature 267 of the first fluid port 266 to secure the connector 290 to the first fluid port 266.

[0094] To release connector 290 from the first fluid port, a radially inward clamping or squeezing force or other suitable force can be applied to the outer surface of outer component 330 so that the first coupling feature and the second coupling feature can be disengaged and device coupling member 298 can be removed or otherwise disengaged from first fluid port 266 by adjusting device coupling member 298 in a direction opposite to arrow B. In some cases, when the clamping or squeezing force is applied to outer component 330, the first coupling feature and the second coupling feature can be misaligned to allow device coupling member 298 to be withdrawn from first fluid port 266 and / or outer component 330. Although connector 290 is depicted as being connected to the fluid port, the device coupling member 298 can be removed or otherwise disengaged from first fluid port 266 by adjusting device coupling member 298 in a direction opposite to arrow B. Fig.14 292a and is described with respect to the first port 292a and is configured to be coupled to the first fluid port 266, but the stabilization member 300 can be located in other ports of the connector 290 and configured to receive other fluid ports of the endoscope umbilical as desired.

[0095] Figure 15-16B A connector 290 is depicted having a stabilizing member 300 having an actuator 320 configured to adjust a retaining component 336 (e.g., a clamp and / or other suitable retaining component) between a first position configured to receive a fluid port and a second position configured to engage or couple to the received fluid port. Fig.15 depicts a schematic perspective view of connector 290, and Fig.16A and Fig. 16B A schematic perspective view of the components of the stabilization member 300 is depicted, wherein the device coupling member 298 is shown in phantom to illustrate the context of the components of the stabilization member 300. Figure 15-16B A connector 290 without a core is depicted, but it is contemplated that Figure 15-16BConnector 290 depicted in FIG. 2 may include a core configured similarly or differently than core 296 .

[0096] Figure 15-16B The configuration of the stabilization member 300 depicted in FIG. 29 may include an actuator 320, a retaining component 336, and a shaft 338, wherein the shaft 338 may rotate in response to actuation of the actuator 320. In some cases, the distal face (e.g., the surface facing the connector of the umbilical cord) may include an opening 340 for receiving the distal end of the shaft 338, but this is not required and the shaft 338 may be retained within the device coupling member 298. Figure 15-16B The configuration of the stabilizing member depicted in FIG. 4 can operate similarly to a click-actuated stylus and / or other similar actuation mechanisms, but this is not required.

[0097] Fig.16A The retention member 336 is depicted in a second position, the retention member 336 being configured to engage a receiving fluid port in the first port 292a from the endoscope. In addition to the actuator 320, the retention member 336, and the shaft 338, the depicted configuration of the stabilization member 300 may also include a first thrust member 342 and a second thrust member 344, as well as other suitable components. In some cases, the first thrust member 342 may be configured to rotate about the shaft 338, and the second thrust member 344 may be configured to rotate with the shaft 338 in response to movement of the first thrust member 342.

[0098] The retaining member 336 may be any suitable type of retaining member 336 configured to be adjusted between a first position and a second position. Fig.16A As depicted, the retaining member 336 can have a first portion 336a, a second portion 336b, and a middle portion 336c, wherein the first portion 336a and the second portion 336b can be circular, or can have one or more other suitable configurations configured to receive a fluid port from an endoscope. In some cases, the first portion 336a can be configured to adjust between a first position configured to receive a fluid port and a second position configured to engage the fluid port. Although not required, the first portion 336a can be located in the first port 292a of the connector 290, and the second portion 336b can be located in the second port 292b of the connector 290.

[0099] The retaining member 336 can be formed of any suitable material that is configured to have a bias or be biased. Exemplary suitable materials include, but are not limited to, metals, polymers, composites, alloys, shape memory materials, plastics, stainless steel, nickel titanium alloys (e.g., Nitinol), and / or other suitable materials. When the retaining member 336 is not formed of a shape memory material or is not elastic, the retaining member 336 can be configured to be biased to one or more positions by a biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring and / or other suitable biasing mechanism). In some cases, the retaining member 336 can be biased to a fluid port engagement position (e.g., such as Fig.16A depicted).

[0100] First thrust member 342 can take any suitable configuration that is configured to rotate about axis 338 in response to actuation of actuator 320. In some cases, first thrust member 342 can have a substantially circular cross-section and a chamfered distal surface or end that can be configured to engage a chamfered proximal surface or end of second thrust member 344.

[0101] The second thrust member 344 can take any suitable configuration that is configured to rotate with the shaft 338 in response to actuation of the actuator 320. In some cases, the second thrust member 344 can have an oval or elliptical cross-section and a chamfered proximal surface or end that can be configured to engage the chamfered distal surface or end of the second thrust member 344. The oval or elliptical cross-sectional shape of the second thrust member can be configured so that the outer surface of the second thrust member 344 can engage the retaining member 336 to adjust the retaining member 336 from the first position to the second position in response to actuation of the actuator 320. Fig.16A As depicted, the second thrust member 344 has been adjusted so that an outer surface thereof defining a first height contacts the intermediate portion 336c of the retaining member 336 such that the second portion 336b of the retaining member 336 is in a second position and is configured to engage a received fluid port (e.g., an engagement feature or other suitable feature of the received fluid port).

[0102] Fig. 16B The actuator 320 is depicted actuated in the direction of arrow D. Actuation of the actuator 320 may cause the first thrust member 342 to rotate about the shaft 338 so that the distal end of the first thrust member 342 may engage the proximal end of the second thrust member 344 to rotate the second thrust member 344 with the shaft 338 to the desired position. Fig. 16B The location depicted in Fig. 16BIn the depicted position, the second thrust member 344 has been adjusted so that its outer surface defining the second height contacts the middle portion 336c of the retaining member 336, so that the second portion 336b of the retaining member 336 is in the first position and is configured to receive the fluid port therethrough. The second height can be greater than the first height of the second thrust member so that when the surface defining the second height of the second thrust member 344 engages the middle portion 336c of the retaining member 336, the opening through the second portion 336b of the retaining member 336 is enlarged to receive the fluid port relative to when the surface defining the first height of the second thrust member 344 contacts the middle portion 336c. To return the retaining member and the stabilizing member to the second position for engaging the fluid port, the actuator 320 can be further actuated in the direction of arrow D and / or in one or more other suitable manners. In addition, although the second portion 336b of the retaining member 336 is in the Fig.16A and Fig. 16B Although depicted as adjusting about the first port 292a, the retaining member 336 may be configured to adjust and retain a fluid port in one or more other suitable ports of the connector 290.

[0103] The configuration of connector 290 using actuator 320, first engagement feature 332, second engagement feature 334, and / or retention member 336 depicted in FIGS. 12-16B can ensure that connector 290 remains engaged with one or more fluid ports of the umbilical cord (e.g., connector 265 of umbilical cord 260) during use and can prevent connector 290 from being detached from the umbilical cord. In addition, when used alone or in combination Figure 11-16B When the stabilizing member 300 is constructed in the embodiment of the present invention, the first port and the second port of the connector 290 can be designed to interfere with and / or rub less with the fluid port of the umbilical cord, which can allow the device coupling member 298 to engage the fluid port more easily than when a tight friction fit is required to connect the connector 290 to the fluid port.

[0104] Fig.17A and Fig. 17B The configuration of the connector 290 is depicted, which includes an elbow joint 346 located at a position between the second end 290b where the connector 290 can be coupled to a fluid port of an endoscope and the first end 290a where the connector 290 can be coupled to a fluid conduit. The lumen of the connector 290 can follow the angle of the joint, and thus, the lumen can form an adjustable elbow between the first end 290a of the connector 290 and the second end 290b of the connector 290.

[0105] The elbow joint 346 may include a ball component 348 and a socket component 350, but this is not required and other suitable configurations for the elbow joint 346 are contemplated. Fig.17A The first end 290 a of the connector 290 and the ball 348 are depicted rotated to a first position within or relative to the socket 350 . Fig. 17B The first end 290b of the connector 290 and the ball 348 are depicted rotated to a second position within or relative to the socket 350. In some cases, when the first end 290a of the connector 290 and the ball 348 are in the first position within or relative to the socket 350, because the first end 290a of the connector and the tubing connected thereto are located in the direction of gravity or the ground, rather than extending parallel to the ground from the connection position with the endoscope, the stress on the tubing and the connector can be reduced relative to when the first end 290a of the connector 290 and the ball 348 are in the second position within or relative to the socket 350, as shown in FIG. Fig. 17B Depicted.

[0106] Fig.18 and Fig.19 The connector 290 depicted in FIG. 2 may include a stabilizing member 300 having a tab 352 and an elbow bend 354 between a first end 290a and a second end 290b of the connector 290 to facilitate positioning of tubing coupled to the connector 290 tangentially to the umbilical cord when the connector 390 is coupled to one or more fluid ports of the umbilical cord. In some cases, the tab may be an engaging finger of a user to facilitate connecting the connector 290 to the one or more fluid ports and / or to facilitate removal of the connector 290 from the one or more fluid ports, and thus, may improve the stability of the connector 290 over time as the connector 290 is repeatedly engaged and disengaged from the fluid ports.

[0107] Fig.19 Depicted along Fig.18 A schematic cross-sectional view of the connector 290 taken at 19-19 in FIG. Fig.19 As shown, the elbow bend 354 can be at or about ninety degrees, however, it is contemplated that the elbow bend 354 can present one or more other suitable angles. In addition, the lumen or conduit 245c of the connector 290 and / or other lumens can follow the elbow bend 354 between the first end 290a and the second end 290b of the connector 290. Similar to the above with respect to Fig.17A and Fig. 17B As discussed, the elbow bend 354 of the connector 290 is configured relative to Figure 3 The configuration of connector 290 depicted in FIG. 1 can reduce stress on connector 290 and tubing connected to connector 290 because first end 290a of the connector and tubing connected thereto are located in the direction of gravity or the ground, rather than extending parallel to the ground from the connection location with the endoscope, which may be desirable when using Figure 3The result is when the connector 290 depicted in FIG.

[0108] In addition, if Fig.19 As depicted, the tab 352 can be substantially in-line with the port 292 of the connector 290 and transverse or substantially transverse to the lumen or conduit 245c at the first end 290a of the connector 290. Positioning the tab in-line or nearly in-line with the port 292 of the connector 290 can facilitate using the tab 352 to apply a desired force to the connector 290 and the port 292 to facilitate connection to a fluid port of an endoscope and / or facilitate using the tab 352 to apply a desired force to the connector 290 to facilitate removal of the connector 290 from a fluid port of an endoscope.

[0109] Additionally, although not depicted in the figures, various configurations of connector 290 may utilize one or more coupling components configured to couple connector 290 to one or more features of endoscope system 200 when connector 290 is disengaged from a fluid port of endoscope 100. In some cases, the coupling feature may be coupled to tubing to hold the tubing in a desired position when packaged.

[0110] The coupling component can take any suitable configuration configured to couple to tubing and / or components of an endoscope system. Example configurations of the coupling component include, but are not limited to, clips, hooks, buttons, hook-and-loop fasteners, magnetic features on or embedded in the connector 290, and / or one or more other suitable configurations. In some cases, the coupling component can be specifically configured to mate with one or more other components of the endoscope system 200, but this is not required.

[0111] In operation, the user can disconnect the connector 290 from the fluid port of the umbilical cord. Once the connector 290 is disconnected, the coupling component can be coupled to a processor and / or other suitable features of the endoscope system 200. Such a coupling component can reduce work for the user because the user will not need to maintain the connector 290 between procedures, and can prevent or reduce contamination issues because the connector 290 can be fixed to a known position between procedures.

[0112] It should be understood that the present disclosure is merely illustrative in many respects. Changes may be made in detail, particularly in shape, size, and arrangement of steps, without exceeding the scope of the present disclosure. To the extent appropriate, this may include using any features of an exemplary embodiment used in other embodiments. Of course, the scope of the present invention is defined in the language of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A connector for connecting a gas / lens cleaning line to a fluid line of an endoscope, the connector comprising: a core configured to be coupled to the gas / lens cleaning conduit; a device coupling member coupled to the core, the device coupling member defining a first port configured to couple with a first fluid port of an endoscope and a second port configured to couple with a second fluid port of the endoscope; and A stabilization member is configured to facilitate securing the device coupling member to the endoscope. 2 . The connector of claim 1 , wherein the stabilizing member comprises a ring in the first port, the ring having an inner surface, and the inner surface tapers toward a central axis of the first port.

3. The connector of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the stabilizing member comprises a ring and extends distally from the core into the first port.

4. The connector of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the core and the stabilizing member are an integral component, and the device coupling member extends over a portion of the integral component.

5. The connector of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the stabilization member comprises a band and a band connector, and the band is configured to extend around an umbilical portion of the endoscope and couple to the band connector.

6. The connector of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the stabilizing member comprises a groove extending between an outer surface of the device coupling member and the second port, and the groove facilitates engagement of the second port with the second fluid port via rotation of the device coupling member.

7. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the stabilizing member comprises: Actuator; and a retaining member in communication with the actuator; and Wherein when the actuator is in a first position, the retaining member is in a first configuration relative to the first port, and when the actuator is in a second position, the retaining member is in a second configuration relative to the first port.

8. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the stabilizing member comprises: Rigid external members; and an engagement member extending from the device coupling member; and Wherein the first port is configured to extend around the first fluid port of the endoscope, and the rigid outer member is configured to engage a locking member to secure the device coupling member to the endoscope.

9. A connector for connecting tubing to a fluid port of a medical device, the connector comprising: a first end configured to couple with the conduit and comprising a first lumen and a second lumen, the second lumen being coaxial with the first lumen; The second end includes: a first port in fluid communication with the first lumen and configured to engage a first fluid port of the medical device; and a second port in fluid communication with the second lumen and configured to engage a second fluid port of the medical device; and A stabilization feature is configured to facilitate securing the second end to the medical device when the first port engages the first fluid port.

10. The connector of claim 9, wherein the stabilizing feature is configured as a ring in the first port, and the ring is configured to center the first fluid port inside the first port and to center the second fluid port in the second port.

11. The connector of any one of claims 9 or 10, wherein the first lumen and the second fluid lumen form an elbow between the first end and the second end.

12. The connector of any one of claims 9-11, wherein the stabilizing feature comprises a tab at the first end extending transversely to the axis of the first lumen.

13. A connector for connecting tubing to a fluid port of a medical device, the connector comprising: a first end configured to couple with the conduit and comprising a first lumen and a second lumen, the second lumen being coaxial with the first lumen; The second end includes: a first port in fluid communication with the first lumen and configured to engage a first fluid port of the medical device; and a second port in fluid communication with the second lumen and configured to engage a second fluid port of the medical device; and Actuator; a retaining member in communication with the actuator; and Wherein the retaining member is configured to adjust to a fluid port engaging position in the first port in response to a first actuation of the actuator and to adjust to a fluid port disengaging position in response to a second actuation of the actuator.

14. The connector of claim 13, wherein the retaining member is biased into the fluid port engaging position.

15. A connector as claimed in any one of claims 13 or 14, wherein the material forming the second end biases the retaining member into the fluid port engaging position.

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