Non-removable connection system

Abstract

A non-removable connection system for a medical device, comprising: a first connector comprising a fluid coupling; a second connector comprising a respective fluid coupling portion connectable to the fluid coupling portion of the first connector, where the second connector comprises a hook portion and at least one locking protrusion. The non-removable connection system also includes a collar coupled to the first connector and including a respective hook portion engageable to the hook portion of the second connector by engagement rotation, where the hook portion prevents axial removal of the collar from the second connector in an engaged configuration. The collar further includes a respective locking protrusion engageable to the locking protrusion of the second connector by engagement rotation; in the coupled configuration, the locking protrusion prevents disengagement of rotation of the collar relative to the second connector.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application for invention with the application date of August 11, 2020, application number 202080071804.4, and invention title "Non-removable Connection System" by the applicant "Gambro Lundia AB". Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a non-removable connection system for medical devices, which is particularly configured to be connected to fluid lines, such as blood lines, infusion lines or monitoring lines. In particular, the connection system can be connected to the fluid lines of a dialysis machine, or can be directly attached to a dialysis machine or directly attached to a disposable kit / accessory of a dialysis machine. The present invention also relates to a disposable kit, which includes the fluid lines of a blood treatment device (such as a dialysis machine) and the connection system. Background Art

[0003] Common connection systems for medical purposes are known in the prior art, for example, for connecting fluid lines to each other or for connecting fluid lines to medical machines. In blood treatment devices (such as dialysis machines), connectors are commonly used to connect fluid lines, for example, to connect the return line and the access line to the corresponding vascular access system of a patient in a fluid-tight manner, and / or to connect an infusion line or a monitoring line to a blood or fluid circuit. In blood treatment devices, Luer-type connectors are often used. In addition to ensuring a fluid-tight seal and suitability for use in the medical field, in certain cases, it is also necessary for the connector to prevent involuntary or non-involuntary disconnection: for example, when the connector is used on the blood line of a dialysis machine, disconnection during the operation state of the machine can lead to dangerous consequences that may be fatal to the patient. Any unwanted disconnection may lead to aseptic problems and require operator intervention, sometimes including interruption of the treatment.

[0004] Document US8882726 relates to a drug delivery device that defines a reservoir for containing a liquid, such as a drug. The device includes a distal end having an end member, and a channel extends through the end member along a longitudinal axis. The end member is surrounded by a collar extending from the distal end, wherein the collar is provided with a plurality of external longitudinal ridges extending over the entire circumference of the collar: all longitudinal ridges have inclined surfaces. The device further includes a tubular wall having an internal conduit, wherein the interface of the tubular wall can be associated with the end member to define a fluid-tight connection. The tubular wall is also provided with an external flange configured to engage with a thread disposed in the inner sidewall of the collar, thereby allowing axial engagement between the tubular wall and the end member of the device. The tubular wall further includes a skirt provided with internal longitudinal protrusions that can cooperate with the longitudinal ridges and their inclined surfaces, thereby allowing the tightening rotation of the tubular wall and preventing the loosening rotation of the tubular wall. The applicant points out some disadvantages affecting the device described in US8882726 in terms of manufacturing, ease of use, and the impossibility of combining it with blood treatment devices. In particular, such a connector system can cause torsion of the fluid line during connection, which determines an undesirable restriction of the cross-section of the fluid line, which may reduce the drug or blood flow rate or determine the damage of the fluid line itself. In addition, the structure of the connector includes several undercuts and recesses, which makes the production very complex and thus expensive. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to at least partially solve one or more disadvantages and / or limitations of the previous solutions.

[0006] A first object is to provide a non-removable connector for medical applications that is adapted to connect disposable components, such as fluid lines. The aim is to avoid the need for multiple interventions and inspections during the setup of the medical device and during the subsequent treatment of the patient. Another object is to reduce the risk of connection loosening due to human error or other reasons, such as mechanical / thermal stress on the connector. Another object is to provide a non-removable connector that is easy to produce and inexpensive. These and more objects, which will become more apparent from the following description, are substantially achieved by a connection system and a disposable kit according to one or more of the following claims and / or embodiments. Summary of the Invention

[0008] An embodiment relates to a non-removable connection system (100) for a medical device, the connection system (100) comprising:

[0009] - a first connector (1) including a fluid coupling portion (2);

[0010] - A second connector (11), including a corresponding fluid coupling portion (12) which can be fluid-tightly connected to the fluid coupling portion (2) of the first connector (1) so that fluid can flow internally between the first connector (1) and the second connector (11), and the second connector (11) further includes a hook portion (13) and at least one locking member (14);

[0011] - A collar (20), coupled to the first connector (1) and including a corresponding hook portion (23) which can be engaged with the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) by an engaging rotation (ER) along an engaging direction, and in the engaged configuration, the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) prevent axial removal of the collar (20) from the second connector (11),

[0012] wherein the collar (20) further includes a corresponding at least one locking member (24) which can be engaged with the at least one locking member (14) of the second connector (11) by an engaging rotation (ER) along the engaging direction, and in the coupled configuration, the at least one locking member (24) of the collar (20) and the at least one locking member (14) of the second connector (11) prevent disengagement rotation of the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11), and the disengagement rotation is a rotation in the opposite direction with respect to the engaging rotation.

[0013] Another aspect relates to a non-removable connection system (100) for a medical device, the connection system (100) including:

[0014] - A first connector (1), including a fluid coupling portion (2);

[0015] - A second connector (11), including a corresponding fluid coupling portion (12) which can be fluid-tightly connected to the fluid coupling portion (2) of the first connector (1) so that fluid can flow internally between the first connector (1) and the second connector (11), and the second connector (11) further includes a hook portion (13) and at least one locking member (14);

[0016] - A collar (20), coupled to the first connector (1) and including a corresponding hook portion (23) which can be engaged with the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) by an axial engaging displacement (ED) along the engaging direction, and in the engaged configuration, the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) prevent axial removal of the collar (20) from the second connector (11),

[0017] Among them, the collar (20) further includes at least one corresponding locking member (24), and the at least one corresponding locking member can be engaged with at least one locking member (14) of the second connector along the engagement direction relative to the axial engagement displacement (ED) of the second connector (11) by the collar (20). In the coupled configuration, at least one locking member (24) of the collar (20) and at least one locking member (14) of the second connector (11) prevent the axial disengagement displacement of the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11), and the axial disengagement displacement is a displacement in the opposite direction relative to the axial engagement displacement, especially a linear displacement.

[0018] Another aspect relates to a non-removable connection system (100) for a medical device, the connection system (100) comprising:

[0019] - a first connector (1) including a fluid connection portion (2);

[0020] - a second connector (11) including a corresponding fluid connection portion (12), the corresponding fluid connection portion being connectable in a fluid-tight manner to the fluid connection portion (2) of the first connector (1) such that fluid can flow internally between the first connector (1) and the second connector (11), and the second connector (11) further includes a hook portion (13) and at least one locking member (14);

[0021] - a collar (20) coupled to the first connector (1) and including a corresponding hook portion (23), the corresponding hook portion being engageable with the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) through at least one of an engagement rotation and an axial engagement displacement (ER, ED) along the engagement direction. In the engaged configuration, the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) prevent the axial removal of the collar (20) from the second connector (11),

[0022] Among them, the collar (20) further includes at least one corresponding locking member (24), and the at least one corresponding locking member can be engaged with at least one locking member (14) of the second connector through at least one of an engagement rotation and an axial engagement displacement (ER, ED) of the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11) along the engagement direction. In the coupled configuration, at least one locking member (24) of the collar (20) and at least one locking member (14) of the second connector (11) prevent at least one of a disengagement rotation and an axial disengagement displacement of the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11), the disengagement rotation being a rotation in the opposite direction relative to the engagement rotation, and the axial disengagement displacement being a displacement in the opposite direction relative to the axial engagement displacement, especially a linear displacement.

[0023] Another solution relates to a non-removable connection system (100) for a medical device, the connection system (100) comprising:

[0024] - A first connector (1), comprising a fluid connection part (2);

[0025] - A second connector (11), comprising a corresponding fluid connection part (12), the corresponding fluid connection part being connectable in a fluid-tight manner to the fluid connection part (2) of the first connector (1) such that fluid can flow internally between the first connector (1) and the second connector (11), the second connector (11) further comprising at least one locking member (14);

[0026] - A collar (20), coupled to the first connector (1) and comprising a corresponding at least one locking member (24), the corresponding at least one locking member being engageable with the at least one locking member (14) of the second connector (11) by an axial engagement displacement (ED) along an engagement direction, the at least one locking member (24) of the collar (20) and the at least one locking member (14) of the second connector (11) preventing an axial disengagement displacement of the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11) in a coupling configuration,

[0027] The axial disengagement displacement is a displacement in a direction opposite to the axial engagement displacement, in particular a linear displacement.

[0028] In one solution according to the foregoing solution, the second connector (11) comprises a hook part (13), and the collar comprises a corresponding hook part (23), the corresponding hook part being engageable with the hook part (13) of the second connector (11) by an engagement rotation (ER) along the engagement direction, the hook part (23) of the collar (20) and the hook part (13) of the second connector (11) preventing an axial removal of the collar (20) from the second connector (11) in an engagement configuration.

[0029] Another solution relates to a non-removable connection system (100) for a medical device, the connection system (100) comprising:

[0030] - A first connector (1), comprising a fluid connection part (2);

[0031] - A second connector (11), comprising a corresponding fluid connection part (12), the corresponding fluid connection part being connectable in a fluid-tight manner to the fluid connection part (2) of the first connector (1) such that fluid can flow internally between the first connector (1) and the second connector (11), the second connector (11) further comprising a hook part (13) and at least one locking projection (14);

[0032] - A collar (20), connected to the first connector (1) and including corresponding hook portions (23), the corresponding hook portions being capable of engaging with the hook portions (13) of the second connector (11) through an axial engagement displacement (ER) along the engagement direction, and in the engaged configuration, the hook portions (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portions (13) of the second connector (11) prevent the axial removal of the collar (20) from the second connector (11).

[0033] Wherein, the collar (20) further includes corresponding at least one locking protrusion (24), the corresponding at least one locking protrusion being capable of engaging with at least one locking protrusion (14) of the second connector (11) through an axial engagement displacement (ER) of the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11) along the engagement direction, and in the coupled configuration, the at least one locking protrusion (24) of the collar (20) and the at least one locking protrusion (14) of the second connector (11) prevent the axial disengagement displacement of the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11), the disengagement displacement being a displacement in the opposite direction to the axial engagement displacement, in particular a linear displacement.

[0034] A first aspect relates to a non-removable connection system (100) for a medical device, the connection system (100) comprising:

[0035] - A first connector (1), including a fluid coupling portion (2);

[0036] - A second connector (11), including corresponding fluid coupling portions (12), the corresponding fluid coupling portions being capable of being connected to the fluid coupling portion (2) of the first connector (1) in a fluid-tight manner such that fluid can flow internally between the first connector (1) and the second connector (11), and the second connector (11) further includes a hook portion (13) and at least one locking protrusion (14);

[0037] - A collar (20), connected to the first connector (1) and including corresponding hook portions (23), the corresponding hook portions being capable of engaging with the hook portions (13) of the second connector (11) through an engagement rotation (ER) along the engagement direction, and in the engaged configuration, the hook portions (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portions (13) of the second connector (11) prevent the axial removal of the collar (20) from the second connector (11).

[0038] Wherein, the collar (20) further includes at least one corresponding locking protrusion (24), and the at least one corresponding locking protrusion can be engaged with at least one locking protrusion (14) of the second connector (11) by the collar (20) rotating relative to the second connector (11) along the engagement direction (ER). In the coupled configuration, at least one locking protrusion (24) of the collar (20) and at least one locking protrusion (14) of the second connector (11) prevent the collar (20) from rotating away from the second connector (11), and the rotation away is a rotation in the opposite direction relative to the engagement rotation.

[0039] In the second aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the connection system (100) can be configured to be in an unlocked state by an engagement rotation, wherein the collar (20) can be moved by rotating relative to the first connector (1), and at least one locking protrusion or locking member (24) of the collar (20) and at least one locking protrusion or locking member (14) of the second connector (11) are in an uncoupled configuration.

[0040] In the second-a aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the connection system (100) can be configured to be in an unlocked state by an axial engagement displacement, wherein at least one locking protrusion or locking member (24) of the collar (20) and at least one locking protrusion or locking member (14) of the second connector (11) are in an uncoupled configuration, and optionally, the collar (20) can be moved by rotating relative to the first connector (1).

[0041] In the third aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the connection system (100) can be configured to be in a locked state by an engagement rotation, wherein at least one locking protrusion (24) of the collar (20) and at least one locking protrusion (14) of the second connector (11) are in a coupled configuration, and the hook (23) of the collar (20) and the hook (13) of the second connector (11) are in an engaged configuration. In the locked state, the collar (20) is non-removably engaged with the second connector (11) by the engagement rotation, and at least one locking protrusion (14) and the hook (13) of the second connector (11) cooperate with at least one locking protrusion (24) and the hook (23) of the collar (20) respectively, thereby preventing the first connector (1) from detaching from the second connector (11), particularly an axial detachment.

[0042] In a 3a embodiment according to any of the foregoing embodiments, the connection system (100) can be configured to be in a locked state by an axial engagement displacement, wherein at least one locking projection or member (24) of the collar (20) and at least one locking projection or locking member (14) of the second connector (11) are in a coupled configuration, and the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) are in an engaged configuration. In the locked state, the collar (20) is non-removably engaged to the second connector (11) by the axial engagement displacement, and at least one locking projection or member (14) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) cooperate with at least one locking projection or member (24) and the hook portion (23) of the collar (20), respectively, so as to prevent the detachment of the first connector (1) from the second connector (11), in particular axial detachment.

[0043] In a 3b embodiment according to any of the foregoing embodiments, the connection system (100) can be configured to be in a locked state by an axial engagement displacement, wherein at least one locking projection or member (24) of the collar (20) and at least one locking projection or member (14) of the second connector (11) are in a coupled configuration. In the locked state, the collar (20) is non-removably engaged to the second connector (11) by the axial engagement displacement, and at least one locking projection or member (14) of the second connector (11) cooperates with at least one locking projection or member (24) so as to prevent the detachment of the first connector (1) from the second connector (11), in particular axial detachment.

[0044] In another embodiment according to any of the foregoing embodiments, the switching from the locked state to the unlocked state is prevented by at least one locking projection or locking member (14, 24).

[0045] In a 4th embodiment according to any of the foregoing embodiments, the first connector (1) and in particular the coupling portion (2) of the first connector (1) extends in length along the fluid flow axis, and the second connector (11) and in particular the coupling portion (12) of the second connector (11) extends in length along the corresponding fluid flow axis, wherein at least when the coupling portion (2) of the first connector (1) is connected to the coupling portion (12) of the second connector (11), the fluid flow axis of the first connector (1) is aligned with the fluid flow axis of the second connector (11).

[0046] In a 5th embodiment according to any of the foregoing embodiments, the engaged configuration determines an axial constraint between the first connector (1) and the second connector (11), in particular, the axial constraint is along the fluid flow axis of the first connector (1) and / or the fluid flow axis of the second connector (11).

[0047] In the sixth aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, a coupling configuration is defined at least at an end stage of the engagement rotation between the collar (20) and the second connector (11).

[0048] In the seventh aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the first connector (1) includes a main abutment portion (5), and the collar (20) includes a corresponding abutment portion (25) configured to contact the main abutment portion (5) of the first connector (1) when disposed in an abutting configuration.

[0049] In the eighth aspect according to the previous aspect, wherein, in the abutting configuration, the collar (20) is axially constrained relative to the first connector (1) at least along one axial direction such that at least when the connection system (100) is disposed in an engagement configuration, the collar (20) axially engages the first connector (1) to the second connector (11), in particular, the axial direction is parallel to, optionally coincident with, the fluid flow axis of the first connector (1).

[0050] In the ninth aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the first connector includes an auxiliary abutment portion (6) configured to block axial sliding of the collar (20) in a direction opposite to the axial direction.

[0051] In the tenth aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the collar (20):

[0052] - is axially constrained to the first connector (1) by the main abutment portion (5) and the auxiliary abutment portion (6) of the first connector (1), thereby substantially preventing axial movement of the collar (20) relative to the first connector (1); or

[0053] - is axially movable relative to the first connector within an axial gap defined between the main abutment portion (5) and the auxiliary abutment portion (6) of the first connector (1) and is axially constrained to the first connector (1) outside the axial gap,

[0054] In particular, the axial movement is along the fluid flow axis of the first connector (1) and / or the fluid flow axis of the second connector (11).

[0055] In the eleventh aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the first connector (1) includes a body having a tubular shape defining an internal passage (7) for fluid passage.

[0056] In the twelfth aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the main abutment portion (5) and the auxiliary abutment portion (6) extend radially away from the body.

[0057] In the 13th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the first connector (1) further includes a recess (8) disposed between the main abutting portion (5) and the auxiliary abutting portion (6).

[0058] In the 14th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the abutting portion (25) of the collar (20) is arranged in the recess (8) between the main abutting portion (5) and the auxiliary abutting portion (6) of the first connector (1).

[0059] In the 15th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the collar (20) is axially movable relative to the first connector (1) by an amount proportional to the distance between the main abutting portion (5) and the auxiliary abutting portion (6) of the first connector (1).

[0060] In the 16th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the fluid connection portion (2) of the first connector (1) includes a tip portion (2a) that defines an internal passage (7) for fluid delivery. In particular, the tip portion (2a) has a tapered outer surface.

[0061] In the 17th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the fluid connection portion (12) of the second connector (11) includes a terminal portion (12a) that defines an internal passage (17) for fluid delivery.

[0062] In the 18th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the terminal portion (12a) of the second connector (11) has a tapered inner surface that is optionally opposite in shape to the tapered outer surface of the tip portion (2a) of the first connector (1).

[0063] In the 19th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, at least a portion of the tip portion (2a) of the first connector (1) is configured to enter the terminal portion (12a) of the second connector (11). In particular, the tapered outer surface is coupled to the tapered inner surface, thereby connecting the first connector (1) and the second connector (11) in a fluid-tight manner.

[0064] In the 19a aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the first connector (1) abuts against the second connector (11) at least in the locked state.

[0065] In the 19b aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the outer surface of the first connector (1) abuts against the tapered inner surface of the second connector (11) at least in the locked state.

[0066] In the 20th embodiment according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, the collar (20) includes a body having a tubular shape, the body extending between a first opening (21) and a second opening (22), the first opening being configured to receive a second connector (11), in particular to receive a coupling portion (12), a hook portion (13) and at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11), and the second opening (22) receiving the first connector (1) by insertion.

[0067] In the 21st embodiment according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, the collar externally surrounds at least a portion of the first connector (1), and the body of the collar (20) is coaxial with the first connector (1).

[0068] In the 22nd embodiment according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, the second opening (22) is arranged in a recess (8) of the first connector (1) to allow coupling.

[0069] In the 23rd embodiment according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, the abutting portion (25) of the collar (20) extends radially inwards and is arranged at the second opening (22).

[0070] In the 24th embodiment according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, the at least one locking projection or member (24) of the collar (20) is arranged at the entrance of the first opening (21).

[0071] In the 25th embodiment according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) is placed between the at least one locking projection (24) of the collar (20) and the second opening (22).

[0072] In the 26th embodiment according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) is placed between the at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11) and the end portion (12a) of the coupling portion (12).

[0073] In the 27th embodiment according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) is arranged at the entrance of the first opening (21), the at least one locking projection (24) of the collar (20) is placed between the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and the second opening (22); and

[0074] - the at least one locking projection or member (14) of the second connector (11) is placed between the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) and the end portion (12a) of the coupling portion (12).

[0075] In the 28th embodiment according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector both include corresponding threads, which are configured to engage with each other, especially to engage with each other through engagement rotation to define an engagement configuration; or both include corresponding undercut joints, which are configured to engage with each other as a bayonet coupling, especially to engage with each other through engagement rotation to define an engagement configuration.

[0076] In a 29th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the collar (20) comprises a body having a tubular shape extending in depth between an inner side wall (20a) and an outer side wall (20b).

[0077] In the 30th embodiment according to any of the preceding embodiments, the collar (20) is mounted on the first connector (1) so that the body externally surrounds at least a portion of the first connector (11), in particular, surrounds at least a portion of the connecting portion (2) of the first connector (1).

[0078] In a 31st aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and in particular the thread of the collar (20) is arranged on the inner side wall (20a) of the collar (20).

[0079] In a 32nd aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the at least one locking protrusion (24) of the collar (20) is radially arranged on the same inner side wall (20a) of the collar (20).

[0080] In a 32nd aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the hook portion (23) of the collar is aligned with the at least one locking protrusion (24) of the collar (20).

[0081] In a 33rd aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the second connector (11) has a tubular shape defining an internal passage (17) for fluid transport, the tubular shape of the second connector (11) comprising an outer sidewall (11a).

[0082] In the 34th embodiment according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) and in particular the thread of the second connector (11) are arranged on the outer side wall (11a) of the second connector (11), and in particular, the hook portion (13) is arranged at the connecting portion (12) of the second connector (11).

[0083] In the 35th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11) is radially arranged on the outer wall (11a) of the second connector (11), and in particular, the at least one locking projection (14) is arranged at the coupling portion (12) of the second connector (11).

[0084] In the 36th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, in particular, the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) is juxtaposed with the at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11).

[0085] In the 37th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11) and the at least one locking projection (24) of the collar (20) each include one or more socket teeth, in particular a plurality of socket teeth, and more particularly, the socket teeth are wedge-shaped or have a serrated shape.

[0086] In the 38th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, when the socket teeth of the collar (20) face (and in particular contact) the socket teeth of the second connector (11), engagement rotation is allowed and disengagement rotation is prevented.

[0087] In the 39th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the socket teeth of the second connector (11) and the socket teeth of the collar (20) each radially and alternately define recesses and protrusions.

[0088] In the 40th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the second connector (11) defines a maximum obstructing outer diameter measured at the locking projection (14) and in particular at the protrusion of one or more socket teeth, wherein the collar (20) has a tubular shape and has a minimum inner diameter measured at the locking projection (24) and in particular at the protrusion of the socket teeth of the collar (20).

[0089] In the 41st aspect according to the previous aspect, the maximum obstructing outer diameter is higher than (greater than) the minimum inner diameter, such that when the socket teeth of the second connector (11) face (and in particular contact) the socket teeth of the collar (20), the protrusions of the socket teeth of the second connector (11) are inserted into the recesses of the socket teeth of the collar (20), and vice versa.

[0090] In another embodiment according to any of the foregoing embodiments, at least one locking member (14) of the second connector includes at least one recess (optionally an orifice), and at least one locking member (24) of the collar (20) includes at least one protrusion, the at least one protrusion of the collar (20) being configured to engage the recess of the second connector (11) in the locked state to define a non-removable axial engagement, in particular at least partially into the recess, in particular the protrusion extending radially inwards.

[0091] In another embodiment according to any of the foregoing embodiments, at least one locking member (14) of the second connector includes at least one protrusion, and at least one locking member (24) of the collar (20) includes at least one recess (optionally an orifice), the at least one protrusion of the second connector (11) being configured to engage the recess of the collar (20) in the locked state to define a non-removable axial engagement, in particular at least partially into the recess, in particular the protrusion extending radially outwards.

[0092] In another embodiment according to any of the foregoing embodiments, at least one locking protrusion or member (14) of the second connector (11) and at least one locking protrusion or member (24) of the collar (20) each include at least one protrusion extending radially outwards and inwards respectively, the protrusion of the collar (20) including a contact portion (24c) facing the inner volume of the collar (20), and the protrusion of the second connector (11) including a contact portion (14c) facing away from the fluid connection portion (12) of the second connector (11), when the connection system is arranged in the locked state, the contact portion (24c) of the protrusion (24) of the collar (20) abuts against the contact portion (14c) of the protrusion (14) of the second connector (11) to prevent axial detachment of the collar from the second connector.

[0093] In the embodiment according to the previous embodiment, the protrusion of the collar (20) defines a smaller minimum inner diameter, and the protrusion of the second collar defines a maximum outer diameter, the minimum inner diameter being less than the maximum outer diameter.

[0094] In another embodiment according to any of the foregoing embodiments, the collar (20) includes one or more fingers (26), the one or more fingers being arranged at the first opening (21) and in particular extending substantially parallel to the axis of the collar (20), in particular, the collar includes a plurality of fingers, the plurality of fingers (26) being arranged at the first opening and angularly distributed around the axis of the collar, the fingers (26) carrying at least one locking protrusion or member (24) of the collar (20), in particular carrying the protrusion of the collar (20).

[0095] In the solution according to the previous solution, the minimum inner diameter defined by the locking projection or member (24) of the collar is smaller than the maximum outer diameter defined by the locking projection or member (14) of the second connector (11), wherein the fingers (26) of the collar (20) are configured to bend radially outwards during the coupling of the locking projection (14) of the second connector with the locking projection (24) of the collar (20).

[0096] In solution 42 according to any of the previous solutions, the first connector is a male connector and the second connector is a female connector.

[0097] In solution 43 according to any of the previous solutions, at least when the connection system (100) is in the engaged configuration, at least a part of the second connector (11) and in particular at least a part of the coupling portion (12) of the second connector (11) is placed between the collar (20) and at least a part of the first connector (1), in particular between the collar (20) and at least a part of the coupling portion (2) of the first connector (1).

[0098] In solution 44 according to any of the previous solutions, both the first connector (1) and the second connector (11) are luer connectors.

[0099] In solution 45 according to any of the previous solutions, the first connector (1) extends in length between its coupling portion (2) and the corresponding connection port (9), which is configured to be connected to a fluid line (51) (such as a blood circuit (50a) or an infusion line (54) or a monitoring line (55)) of a medical machine (200) (in particular a blood treatment device, more particularly a dialysis machine).

[0100] In solution 46 according to any of the previous solutions, the second connector (11) extends in length between its coupling portion (12) and the connection port (19), which is configured to be connected to a fluid line (51) (such as a blood circuit (50a) or an infusion line (54) or a monitoring line (55)) of a medical machine (200) (in particular a blood treatment device, more particularly a dialysis machine).

[0101] In solution 47 according to any of the previous solutions, the connection system (100) includes a fluid line (51), the connection port (9) being fixed to the end of the fluid line (51) (such as a blood circuit (50a) or an infusion line (54) or a monitoring line (55)) of a medical machine (200) (in particular a blood treatment device, more particularly a dialysis machine), or the connection port (9) of the first connector (1) being directly fixed to the medical machine (200).

[0102] In the 48th solution according to any one of the foregoing solutions, the connection system (100) includes a fluid pipeline (51), wherein the second connector (11) extends in length between its coupling part (12) and the corresponding connection port (19), and the connection port (19) is fixed to the end of the fluid pipeline (51) (such as a tube, especially a plastic tube) of a medical machine (200) (especially a blood treatment device, more especially a dialysis machine), or the connection port (19) of the second connector (11) is directly fixed to the medical machine (200).

[0103] In the 49th solution according to any one of the foregoing solutions, the fluid pipeline (51) is a blood circuit (50a) or an infusion pipeline (54) or a monitoring pipeline (55) of a disposable kit (50) of a blood treatment device (200) (such as a dialysis machine).

[0104] In the 50th solution according to any one of the foregoing solutions, the collar (20) is coaxial with the first connector (1).

[0105] In the 51st solution according to any one of the foregoing solutions, the first connector (1) and the collar (20) are made into two separate parts that are subsequently axially coupled. At least when the second connector (11) is not coupled to the collar (20) and not coupled to the first connector (1), the collar (20) rotates freely relative to the first connector (1).

[0106] In another solution according to any one of the foregoing solutions (except solution 51), the first connector (1) and the collar (20) are made into an integral part. In particular, the collar (20) is axially and rotatably coupled to the first connector (1).

[0107] In the 52nd solution according to any one of the foregoing solutions, the first connector (1) is made of plastic material.

[0108] In the 53rd solution according to any one of the foregoing solutions, the collar (20) and / or the second connector (11) are made of plastic material.

[0109] In the 54th solution according to any one of the foregoing solutions, the locking part (14) of the second connector (11) and / or the locking part (24) of the collar (20) has a width measured parallel to the fluid flow axis, especially to prevent decoupling. The width is higher than the pitch of the hook part of the collar (20) and / or higher than the pitch of the hook part of the second connector (11).

[0110] In the 55th solution according to any one of the foregoing solutions, the first connector (1), the second connector (11) and the collar (20) are made of the same material.

[0111] Embodiment 56 relates to a non-removable connection system (100) for a medical device, the connection system (100) comprising:

[0112] - a first connector (1) including a fluid coupling portion (2);

[0113] - a second connector (11) including a corresponding fluid coupling portion (12), the corresponding fluid coupling portion being connectable in a fluid-tight manner to the fluid coupling portion (2) of the first connector (1) such that fluid can flow internally between the first connector (1) and the second connector (11), the second connector (11) further including a hook portion (13) and at least one locking projection (14);

[0114] - a collar (20) coupled to the first connector (1) and including a corresponding hook portion (23), the corresponding hook portion being engageable with the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) by an engaging rotation (ER) along an engagement direction, in the engaged configuration the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) preventing axial removal of the collar (20) from the second connector (11),

[0115] wherein the collar (20) further includes a corresponding at least one locking projection (24), the corresponding at least one locking projection being engageable with the at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11) by an engaging rotation (ER) of the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11) along the engagement direction, in the coupled configuration the at least one locking projection (24) of the collar (20) and the at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11) preventing disengagement rotation of the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11), the disengagement rotation being a rotation in the opposite direction to the engaging rotation;

[0116] wherein, by the engaging rotation, the connection system (100) can be configured in a locked state, wherein the at least one locking projection (24) of the collar (20) and the at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11) are in the coupled configuration, and the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) are in the engaged configuration, in the locked state the collar (20) is non-removably engaged to the second connector (11) by the engaging rotation, and the at least one locking projection (14) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) cooperate with the at least one locking projection (24) and the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) respectively, thereby preventing detachment of the first connector (1) from the second connector (11),

[0117] Among them, the collar (20) has a tubular shape extending between an inner side wall (20a) and an outer side wall (20b), and the hook portion (23) and at least one locking protrusion (24) are both arranged on the inner side wall (20a).

[0118] In claim 57 according to the previous aspect, the non-removable connection system (100) is a connection system according to any one of claims 1 to 55.

[0119] Claim 58 relates to a disposable kit (50) for a blood treatment device, the disposable kit comprising:

[0120] - A blood circuit (50a), comprising:

[0121] · An access line (52), configured to be connected to a patient (300) and to an inlet port (201a) of a blood treatment unit (201);

[0122] · A return line (53), configured to be connected to a patient (300) and to an outlet port (201b) of a blood treatment unit (201).

[0123]

[0124] In claim 59 according to the previous aspect, the disposable kit (50) comprises:

[0125] - An infusion line (54), connected to the blood circuit (52) and / or configured to be connected to a patient (300).

[0126] In claim 60 according to any one of the previous aspects 58 or 59, the disposable kit (50) comprises a monitoring line (55), the monitoring line being connected to the blood circuit (50a) or to the infusion line (54).

[0127] In claim 61 according to any one of the previous aspects 58 or 59 or 60, the disposable kit (50) comprises at least one connection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 57, which is connected to at least one of the access line (52), the return line (53), the infusion line (54) and the monitoring line (55).

[0128] In claim 62 according to any one of the previous aspects 58 to 61, the infusion line (54) comprises a calcium solution container (60b), wherein one end of the infusion line (54) is connected to the calcium concentrated solution container (60b), the connection system (100) is coupled to the infusion line (54), for example, one of the first connector (1) and the second connector (11) is connected to the one end, and the other of the first connector (1) and the second connector (11) is connected to the calcium solution container (60b).​

[0129] In the 63rd aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects 58 to 62, the calcium solution container (60b) is a syringe, and an end of the syringe includes or is connected to one of the first connector (1) and the second connector (11).

[0130] In the 64th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects 58 to 63, the infusion line (54) includes a citrate solution container (60a), wherein one end of the infusion line (54) is connected to the citrate concentrated solution container (60a), one of the first connector (1) and the second connector (11) is connected to the one end, and the other of the first connector (1) and the second connector (11) is connected to the citrate solution container (60a).

[0131] In the 65th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects 58 to 64, the citrate solution container (60a) is a bag, and an end of the bag includes or is connected to one of the first connector (1) and the second connector (11).

[0132] In the 66th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects 58 to 64, the disposable kit includes a blood warmer fitting (70) connected to the blood circuit (50a) and particularly placed on the return line, and an inlet (70a) and / or an outlet (70b) of the blood warmer fitting (70) is connected to the blood circuit (50a) through the at least one connection system (100).

[0133] In the 67th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects 58 to 66, the disposable kit includes an infusion line (54), and the infusion line is connected to the return line (53), particularly connected to the return line through the at least one connection system (100).

[0134] In the 68th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects 58 to 67, the disposable kit includes a monitoring line (55), the monitoring line is connected to the blood circuit through the at least one connection system (100), and the monitoring line (55) is configured to be connected to a pressure gauge or a thermometer or serve as an access part for blood sampling.

[0135] In the 69th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects 58 to 68, the disposable kit includes an auxiliary disposable fitting (80), such as a gas exchanger, an oxygenator, an auxiliary fluid device, and optionally, the fitting is connected to the blood circuit (50a) through a connection system (100).

[0136] In the 70th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects 58 to 69, the disposable kit includes an additional fitting (81) disposed between the patient's blood vessel access portion and the blood circuit, and the additional fitting (81) is connected to the blood circuit (50a) through a connection system (100).

[0137] The 71st aspect relates to a method of a connection system (100) optionally according to any one of the foregoing aspects 1 to 57, and the connection method includes the following steps:

[0138] Arrange the first connector (1) and the collar (20);

[0139] Arrange the second connector (11) to be separated from the first connector (1) and the collar (20);

[0140] Bring the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) close to the hook portion (23) of the collar (20), in particular, wherein the coupling portion (2) of the first connector (1) is aligned with the coupling portion (12) of the second connector (11);

[0141] Rotate the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11) along the engaging rotation's engaging direction to determine both the engaging configuration and the coupling configuration of the connection system (100), thereby defining the locked state.

[0142] In the 72nd aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the engaging rotation is defined by the relative rotation between the collar (20) and the second connector (11).

[0143] In the 73rd aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the engaging rotation is defined by the relative rotation between the collar (20) and the first connector (1).

[0144] In the 74th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the engaging rotation is defined by the relative rotation between the collar (20) and both the first connector (1) and the second connector (11), and the first connector (1) and the second connector (11) are rotatably coupled to each other.

[0145] In the 75th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, in the coupling configuration, particularly in the locked state, the rotation of the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11) is blocked, in particular, the blocked rotation is in a direction opposite to the engaging direction.

[0146] In the 76th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, in the coupling configuration, particularly in the locked state, the rotation of the collar (20) relative to the first connector (1) is blocked, in particular, the blocked rotation is in a direction opposite to the engaging direction.

[0147] In the 77th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, in the locked state, the first connector (1), the second connector (11) and the collar (20) are rotatably coupled or fixed to each other, thereby defining a single rigid body.

[0148] In the 78th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, in the locked state, relative movement between the first connector (1), the second connector (11) and the collar (20), in particular axial movement and rotational movement, is prevented.

[0149] In the 79th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the axial engagement displacement is a displacement oriented substantially parallel to the axes of the first and second connectors, in particular, the axial engagement displacement is a displacement oriented along the axes of the first and second connectors, in particular a displacement oriented along the axis of the connection system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0150] Some embodiments and aspects of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided for illustrative purposes only, wherein:

[0151] - Figure 1 and Figure 2 are perspective views of a connection system according to the present invention arranged in a locked state;

[0152] - Figure 2A and Figure 2B are Figure 2 cross-sectional views of the connection system;

[0153] - Figure 3 are exploded views of the connection system according to the present invention;

[0154] - Figure 3A are Figure 3 cross-sectional views;

[0155] - Figure 4 are perspective views of a connection system according to the present invention arranged in an unlocked state;

[0156] - Figure 4A are Figure 4 cross-sectional views;

[0157] - Figure 5 and Figure 6 are different embodiments of a disposable kit according to the present invention;

[0158] - Figure 7 are perspective views of another embodiment of the connection system;

[0159] - Figure 7A and Figure 7B are respectively in the unlocked state and the locked stateFigure 7 Cross-sectional view of an embodiment;

[0160] - Figure 8 Isometric view of another embodiment of the connection system;

[0161] - Figure 8A And Figure 8B Are cross-sectional views of an embodiment of Figure 8 In the unlocked and locked states, respectively;

[0162] - Figure 9 Isometric view of another embodiment of the connection system;

[0163] - Figure 9A Is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of Figure 9 In the unlocked state.

[0164] Definitions

[0165] In this detailed description, corresponding parts shown in the various figures are denoted by the same reference numerals. The figures may illustrate the invention by non-scaled representations; thus, the parts and components shown in the figures related to the purpose of the invention may be specifically related to the schematic representations.

[0166] Upstream and / or downstream

[0167] The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the forward direction or trajectory of a fluid configured to flow within a connector or along a fluid line during normal use of the device.

[0168] Non-removable

[0169] The phrase "non-removable" means that the connection system is in the locked state during normal use. As described below, in the locked state of the connection system, at least one locking projection 24 of the collar 20 and at least one locking projection 14 of the second connector 11 are in a coupled configuration, and the hook portion 23 of the collar 20 and the hook portion 13 of the second connector 11 are in an engaged configuration; in the locked state, the collar 20 is non-removably engaged with the second connector 11 by engaging rotation, and the locking projection 14 and the hook portion 13 of the second connector 11 cooperate with the locking projection 24 and the hook portion 23 of the collar 20, respectively, to prevent the detachment of the first connector 1 from the second connector 11. Detailed Description

[0170] Connection system 100

[0171] As Figures 1 to 4As shown, reference numeral 100 relates to a connection system for a medical device: the connection system 100 can be used to connect the fluid line 51 of a medical machine 200 (such as a blood treatment device, particularly a dialysis machine) in a fluid-tight manner, where the fluid line 51 can be the blood circuit 50a, infusion line 54, monitoring line 55, access line 52 or return line 53 of a disposable kit 50.

[0172] The connection system 100 includes a first connector 1, as Figure 3 shown in the exploded view of Figure 3A and the corresponding cross-sectional view in

[0173] The first connector 1 includes a body having a tubular shape and defining an internal channel 7 for fluid passage: the body and the internal channel 7 of the first connector 1 preferably extend along the same fluid flow axis in length between a connection port 9 and a coupling portion 2, and the connection port is configured to be fixedly / connected to the fluid line 51 in a fluid-tight manner or directly fixedly / connected to the medical machine 200 (or fitting). The connection port 9 can be a male connection port or a female connection port. Generally, the tube end is non-removably fixed within the connection port, for example, by gluing or bonding. The coupling portion 2 of the first connector 1 preferably has a tubular shape and includes a pointed end portion 2a surrounding the internal channel: the coupling portion 2 has a tapered outer surface such that the diameter of the coupling portion 2 decreases towards the pointed end portion 2a of the coupling portion 2. In particular, the tapered outer surface of the pointed end portion 2a of the coupling portion 2 has a cone angle included between 1° and 6°, more particularly included between 3° and 4°, and more specifically, the cone angle is equal to 3.44°. In one embodiment, the first connector 1 (particularly the coupling portion 2 of the first connector 1) is a Luer-type connector: this means that the dimensions of the coupling portion 2, the diameter of the internal channel 7 and the total length of the first connector 1 comply with the Luer standard. In a non-limiting embodiment, the first connector 1 has a length between 2 cm and 4 cm, and the internal channel 7 has an average diameter between 2 mm and 3 mm. The first connector 1 further includes a main abutting portion 5 disposed on the outer sidewall of the body, where the main abutting portion 5 defines a protrusion extending radially outward from the body. The abutting portion 5 can have a circular shape, such as a ring extending outward and connected to the body. In one embodiment, the first connector 1 can further include an auxiliary abutting portion 6 disposed on the outer sidewall of the body, where the auxiliary abutting portion 6 is axially spaced from the main abutting portion 5 by an axial gap, thereby defining a recess 8 between the main abutting portion 5 and the auxiliary abutting portion 6. As Figure 3 and Figure 3A shown, the auxiliary abutting portion 6 is axially disposed between the connection port 9 and the main abutting portion 5: similarly, the main abutting portion 5 is disposed between the coupling portion 2 and the auxiliary abutting portion 6.

[0174] In the illustrated embodiment, the first connector 1 is a male connector and is preferably made as a single piece from a plastic material (such as PVC, MBS, PC) or a metal material (such as stainless steel). The connection system 100 also includes a second connector 11, in Figure 3 exploded view of Figure 3AAs shown in the cross-sectional view, the second connector includes a body having a tubular shape and defining an internal passage 17 for fluid passage: The body and the internal passage 17 of the second connector 11 preferably extend along the same fluid flow axis in length between the connection port 19 and the coupling portion 12. The connection port is configured to be fixedly / connected to the fluid pipeline 51 in a fluid-tight manner or directly fixedly / connected to the medical machine 200 (or fitting). The connection port 19 can be a male connection port or a female connection port. Generally, the pipe end is non-removably fixed within the connection port 19, for example, by gluing or bonding. The coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11 is configured to be connected to the coupling portion 2 of the first connector 1 in a fluid-tight manner so that fluid can flow between the first connector 1 and the second connector 11, and vice versa. In particular, fluid can flow between the connection port 9 of the first connector 1 and the connection port 19 of the second connector 11, and vice versa. When the coupling portion 2 of the first connector 1 is connected to the coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11, the fluid flow axis of the first connector 1 coincides with the fluid flow axis of the second connector 11, and the internal passage 7 of the first connector 1 and the internal passage 17 of the second connector 11 define a single internal passage for fluid passage extending from the connection port 9 of the first connector 1 to the connection port 19 of the second connector 11. The coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11 preferably has a tubular shape and includes a distal end portion 12a surrounding the internal passage 17 and having a tapered inner surface such that the diameter of the tapered inner surface increases towards the distal end portion 12a. According to the disclosed embodiment, the tapered inner surface of the distal end portion 12a of the second connector 11 is opposite in shape to the tapered outer surface of the tip portion 2a of the first connector 1. In other words, both the coupling portion 2 of the first connector 1 and the coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11 have a conical shape. The tip portion 2a of the first connector 1 is configured to enter the distal end portion 12a of the second connector 11 and contact the distal end portion to define a fluid-tight connection: The tapered outer surface is configured to be coupled to the tapered inner surface to connect the first connector 1 and the second connector 11 in a fluid-tight manner. In particular, the tapered inner surface of the distal end portion 12a of the coupling portion 2 has a taper angle included between 1° and 6°, more particularly included between 3° and 4°. More specifically, the taper angle is equal to 3.44°. In a specific embodiment, the taper angle of the coupling portion 2 of the first connector 1 is equal to the taper angle of the coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11. In one embodiment, the second connector 11 (particularly the coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11) is a Luer-type connector: This means that the dimensions of the coupling portion 12, the diameter of the internal passage 17, and the total length of the second connector 11 comply with the Luer standard. In one embodiment, the second connector 11 has a length included between 2 cm and 3 cm, and the internal passage 17 has an average diameter included between 3 mm and 4 mm.

[0175] The second connector 11 may also include a hook portion 13 disposed on the outer sidewall 11a of the body of the second connector 11: In particular, the hook portion 13 may include threads, which are preferably disposed near the coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11. The threads of the hook portion 13 preferably extend from the end 12a of the second connector 11 and preferably emerge from the outer sidewall 11a of the body of the second connector 11. In an alternative embodiment, the hook portion 13 of the second connector 11 may include corresponding grooves or recesses to define a snap joint, such as a bayonet coupling ( Figure 8 as shown in the embodiment). The groove has a first tract extending substantially parallel to the axis of the second connector and a second tract extending substantially perpendicular to the first tract. Alternatively, the second tract may have an arcuate shape, with the recess facing the end 12a of the second connector 11.

[0176] The second connector 11 further includes at least one locking projection or member 14 disposed on the same outer sidewall 11a of the body of the second connector 11. In one embodiment, as Figure 3 shown, the at least one locking projection 14 is disposed between the hook portion 13 and the connection port 19: Similarly, the hook portion 13 is disposed between the at least one locking projection 14 of the second connector 11 and the end 12a. The at least one locking projection 14 projects radially outward from the body of the second connector 11: In particular, the at least one locking projection 14 includes a plurality of sleeve teeth, wherein the sleeve teeth are wedge-shaped or have a serrated shape. The sleeve teeth are preferably arranged to completely surround the tubular body of the second connector 11, as Figure 3 shown.

[0177] In an embodiment, the second connector 11 is a female connector and is preferably made as a single piece from a plastic material (such as PVC, MBS, PC) or a metal material (such as stainless steel). The second connector 11 may also include clamping means disposed on the outer sidewall 11a at the connection port 19: The clamping means is configured to allow an operator to firmly grasp the second connector 11, especially when it is necessary to connect with the first connector 1. The clamping means 15 preferably includes tabs projecting radially outward from the body of the second connector 11, particularly two radially opposed tabs.

[0178] The connection system 100 further includes in Figure 3 exploded view of Figure 3AThe collar 20 shown in the cross-sectional view, the collar presenting a body having a tubular shape: In particular, the collar extends in length between a first opening 21 and a second opening 22, and the tubular body includes an outer wall 20b and an inner wall 20a. In an embodiment not shown in the drawings, the body of the collar 20 may have a polygonal shape, such as a square, a rectangle, or a combination of a polygonal shape and a tubular shape. The collar 20 includes an internal passage laterally delimited by the first opening 21 and the second opening 22, wherein the opening 21 is configured to receive, by insertion, the second connector 11, in particular to receive the coupling portion 12, the hook portion 13, and at least one locking projection 14 of the second connector 11, while the second opening 22 allows the collar 20 to be mounted on and coupled to the first connector 1, as Figure 7 shown. More specifically, the second opening 22 receives the inserted first connector 1 such that the collar surrounds at least a portion of the first connector 1 externally and the body of the collar 20 is coaxial with the first connector 1. In particular, the collar 20 preferably includes a corresponding abutment portion 25 at the second opening 22, the corresponding abutment portion being configured to contact the main abutment portion 5 of the first connector 1 when set in an abutting configuration so that the collar 20 is axially constrained relative to the first connector 1 at least along one axial direction. In particular, the coupling portion 2 of the collar 20 is axially constrained towards the first connector 1, thereby preventing the collar 20 from axially moving beyond a certain limit towards the coupling portion 2 of the first connector 1. As Figure 6 shown in the cross-section, the abutment portion 25 of the collar 20 is arranged at the second opening 22 of the collar 20 and extends radially inwards.

[0179] In Figures 1 to 4In the disclosed embodiments shown, the first connector includes both a main abutting portion 5 and an auxiliary abutting portion 6 such that the abutting portion 25 of the collar is disposed between the main abutting portion 5 and the auxiliary abutting portion 6 of the first connector: Thus, the collar is axially constrained to the first connector 1 by the main abutting portion 5 and the auxiliary abutting portion 6 of the first connector 1, thereby substantially preventing axial movement of the collar 20 relative to the first connector 1. Alternatively or additionally, the collar 20 may be axially movable within an axial clearance defined between the main abutting portion 5 and the auxiliary abutting portion 6 of the first connector 1 relative to the first connector 1 and is axially constrained to the first connector 1 outside of this axial clearance. In particular, the collar 20 can axially move an amount proportional to the distance between the main abutting portion 5 and the auxiliary abutting portion 6 of the first connector 1. The axial movement is defined along the fluid flow axis of the first connector 1 and / or the second connector 11. In summary, if the first connector includes a main abutting portion 5 and an auxiliary abutting portion 6, the abutting portion 25 of the collar 20 is disposed at and particularly around the recess 8 of the first connector 1. In this specific embodiment, the inner diameter of the second opening 22 is smaller than the outer diameter of the main abutting portion 5 of the first connector 1, thereby preventing axial movement in this way. In other words, although the first connector 1 and the collar are different bodies made in one piece, they are axially coupled to each other and the collar 20 can move by rotating relative to the first connector 1. In an alternative embodiment not shown in the drawings, the collar 20 and the first connector 1 are made as one piece. In one embodiment, the collar 20 has a length measured along the axis of its tubular body that is included between 8 mm and 25 mm and a diameter that is included between 7 mm and 15 mm. The collar 20 may also include corresponding hook portions 23 that are configured to engage with the hook portions 13 of the second connector 11 by an engaging rotation ER (see Figure 2 ) along the engaging direction, thereby defining Figure 1 and Figure 2 the engaging configuration shown such that when the connection system 100 is set in this engaging configuration, the hook portions 23 of the collar 20 and the hook portions 13 of the second connector 11 prevent the collar 20 from being axially removed from the second connector 11. In one embodiment, the hook portions 23 of the collar include threads that are configured to engage with the threads of the second connector 11 by this engaging rotation. In one embodiment, the hook portions 23 are disposed on the inner sidewall 20a of the collar 20. In other words, in this engaging configuration, the collar 20 is screwed onto the second connector 11 by corresponding threads, thereby defining an axial constraint between the collar 20 and the second connector 11.

[0180] In an alternative embodiment, the hook portions 23 of the collar 20 include undercut joints (see Figure 8) and the hook portion 13 of the second connector 11 includes a corresponding undercut joint, wherein the undercut joint of the collar 20 is configured to axially engage with the undercut joint of the second connector 11, thereby defining a bayonet coupling, for example, by the same engaging rotation ER, so as to prevent the axial movement of the first connector 1 and the second connector 11, especially axial separation: this axial movement or axial separation is considered to be along the fluid flow axis of the first connector 1 or the second connector 11. In this alternative embodiment, the engaging rotation includes between 10° and 180°, especially between 15° and 95°.

[0181] Since the collar 20 is axially coupled to the first connector 1, when the connection system 100 is set in this engaging configuration, the first connector 1 is axially coupled to the second connector 11, thereby preventing the disconnection of the first connector 1 and the second connector 11. In particular, at the end stage of the engaging rotation, the respective hook portions 13, 23 of the second connector 11 and the collar 20 contribute to fastening the connection and preventing the disconnection between the coupling portion 2 of the first connector 1 and the coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11. During the engaging rotation ER, wherein the collar 20 rotates to determine the engaging rotation, due to the fact that the collar 20 can move freely by rotating relative to the first connector 1, it is allowed that the coupling portion 2 of the first connector 1 remains aligned with the coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11: once the connection between the coupling portion 2 of the first connector 1 and the coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11 is established, the collar 20 can still move freely by rotating relative to the first connector 1 and the second connector 11, so that the subsequent engaging rotation ER does not determine the friction between the coupling portion 2 of the first connector 1 and the coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11. In other words and according to an embodiment, during the engaging rotation, the first connector 1 and the second connector 11 can be aligned with each other without reciprocating rotation, while the collar 20 rotates relative to both the first connector 1 and the second connector 11 to determine the engagement of the hook portions 13, 23.

[0182] As Figure 8As shown, the hook portion 23 of the collar 20 may include a protrusion that extends radially inward and is configured to be inserted into a groove of the hook portion 13 of the second connector. The collar 20 further includes at least one corresponding locking protrusion 24 that can engage with at least one locking protrusion 14 of the second connector 11 by a mating rotation ER of the collar 20 relative to the second connector 11 along the engagement direction. The connection system 100 may be set in a coupled configuration, wherein at least one locking protrusion 24 of the collar 20 cooperates with at least one locking protrusion 14 of the second connector 11 to prevent a disengagement rotation of the collar 20 relative to the second connector 11: the disengagement rotation is a rotation in the opposite direction relative to the mating rotation. The coupled configuration is at least defined at an end stage of the mating rotation between the collar 20 and the second connector 11, which means that when the mating rotation is completed, the disengagement rotation of the collar 20 relative to the first connector 1 is prevented. Additionally, the coupled configuration may be defined at an intermediate or initial stage of the mating rotation ER: this means that once the hook portion 23 of the collar 20 engages with the hook portion 13 of the second connector 11, the respective locking protrusions 14, 24 of the second connector 11 and the collar 20 also cooperate with each other to prevent the disengagement rotation.

[0183] In one embodiment, the locking protrusion 24 is arranged on the inner side wall 20a of the collar such that the locking protrusion 24 and the hook portion 23 of the collar 20 are arranged side by side. In particular, at least one locking protrusion 24 of the collar may include a plurality of sleeve teeth, wherein the sleeve teeth are wedge-shaped or have a serrated shape. At least one locking protrusion 14 projects radially inward from the inner side wall 20a of the collar, as Figure 3 shown. When the sleeve teeth of the collar 20 face (and in particular contact) the sleeve teeth of the second connector 11, the mating rotation is allowed and the disengagement rotation is prevented.

[0184] The sleeve teeth of both the second connector 11 and the collar 20 are all circumferentially arranged around the outer side wall 11a of the second connector 11, and all circumferentially arranged around the inner side wall 20a of the collar 20. The sleeve teeth alternately define recesses and protrusions in the radial direction, such that the second connector 11 defines a maximum obstructive outer diameter measured at the protrusions of the sleeve teeth, and wherein the collar 20 defines a minimum inner diameter measured at the protrusions of the sleeve teeth of the collar 20: the maximum obstructive outer diameter is higher than the minimum inner diameter, such that when the sleeve teeth of the second connector 11 face or contact the sleeve teeth of the collar 20, the protrusions of the sleeve teeth of the second connector 11 are placed into the recesses of the sleeve teeth of the collar 20, and vice versa. This is clearly shown in the Figure 2B cross-sectional view, wherein the serrated shape of the locking protrusion allows the mating rotation and prevents the disengagement rotation.

[0185] In one embodiment, the sleeve teeth of the second connector 11 and the sleeve teeth of the collar 20 include respective sliding surfaces 14a, 24a that are inclined with respect to the outer surface of the second connector 11 and with respect to the inner wall 20a of the collar 20( Figure 2B ): Preferably, the sliding surface 24a is inclined at an angle of less than 60°. Each of the sleeve teeth of the second connector 11 and the sleeve teeth of the collar 20 further includes respective locking surfaces 14b, 24b that are substantially perpendicular with respect to the outer surface of the second connector 11 and with respect to the inner wall 20a of the collar 20: The sliding surfaces 14a, 24a and the locking surfaces 14b, 24b of each sleeve tooth are joined together at the apex defining a protrusion. In other words, the sliding surfaces 14a, 24a and the locking surfaces 14b, 24b of one sleeve tooth define a triangular tooth, wherein these teeth are radially arranged on the inner wall 20a of the collar 20 and on the outer wall 11a of the second connector 11. The sleeve teeth of the collar 20 are oriented in an opposite direction with respect to the sleeve teeth of the second connector 11 such that the locking surface 14b of the sleeve teeth of the second connector 11 can face the locking surface 24b of the collar 20. Each sliding surface 14a of the sleeve teeth of the second connector 11 is configured to cooperate or contact the respective sliding surface 24a of the sleeve teeth of the collar 20 such that rotational engagement is allowed: On the other hand, each locking surface 14b of the sleeve teeth of the second connector 11 is configured to contact the respective locking surface 24b of the sleeve teeth of the collar 20 when the connection system 100 is set in a coupled configuration, thereby preventing disengagement rotation: In particular, when the connection system 100 is set in a coupled configuration, each locking surface 14b of the sleeve teeth of the second connector 11 abuts against the respective locking surface 24b of the sleeve teeth of the collar 20.

[0186] In Figure 3 , Figure 3A , Figure 4 and Figure 4A In the illustrated embodiment, the hook 13 of the second connector 11 is placed between at least one locking protrusion 14 and the end portion 12a of the coupling portion 12, and at least one locking protrusion 24 of the collar 20 is arranged at the entrance of the first opening 21 such that the hook 23 of the collar 20 is placed between at least one locking protrusion 24 and the second opening 22.

[0187] In an alternative embodiment not shown in the drawings, at least one locking projection 14 of the second connector 11 is disposed between the hook portion 13 and the end portion 12a of the coupling portion 12, and the hook portion 23 of the collar 20 is arranged at the entrance of the first opening 21 such that at least one locking projection 24 of the collar 20 is disposed between the hook portion 23 and the second opening 22 of the collar 20. The connection system 100 can be configured in an unlocked state, in which the collar 20 can be moved by rotating relative to the first connector 1, and at least one locking projection 24 of the collar 20 and at least one locking projection 14 of the second connector 11 are in a non-coupled configuration, in which the locking projections do not cooperate with each other. The unlocked state is shown in Figure 4 wherein the first connector 1 and the second connector 11 are separated: when the first connector 1 and the second connector 11 are separated, the collar 20 is axially constrained to the first connector anyway by the main abutting portion 5 and the auxiliary abutting portion 6 of the first connector 1 cooperating with the abutting portion 25 of the collar. Additionally, when the hook portion 13 of the second connector 11 engages with the hook portion 23 of the collar 20, an unlocked state can also be defined, which defines an engaged configuration: this means that when the engagement rotation is in an initial or intermediate stage, at least one locking projection 24 of the collar 20 and at least one locking projection 14 of the second connector 11 have not yet cooperated, thus allowing the collar 20 to rotate away from the first connector 1. The connection system 100 can also be configured in a locked state, as shown in the cross-sectional views of Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 2A wherein at least one locking projection 24 of the collar 20 and at least one locking projection 14 of the second connector 11 are in a coupled configuration, and the hook portion 23 of the collar 20 and the hook portion 13 of the second connector 11 are in an engaged configuration. In this locked state, the collar 20 is non-removably engaged to the second connector 11 by the engagement rotation: in particular, at least one locking projection 14 and the hook portion 13 of the second connector 11 cooperate with at least one locking projection 24 and the hook portion 23 of the collar 20 respectively, thereby preventing the first connector 1 from detaching from the second connector 11. Furthermore, when the connection system 100 is set in the locked state, the coupling portion 2 of the first connector 1 is connected to and / or inserted into the coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11, thereby establishing a fluid tight seal between the first connector 1 and the second connector 11. Additionally, in this locked state, the abutting portion 25 of the collar 20 abuts against the main abutting portion 5 of the first connector 1, thereby preventing the axial movement of the first connector relative to the collar and thus preventing the separation of the first connector relative to the collar.

[0188] In one embodiment, when the collar 20 is threadedly engaged with the second connector 11, the collar may exhibit a slight axial movement relative to the second connector 11, especially at the initial or intermediate stages of the engagement rotation: This may occur when the width of the thread line of the second connector 11 is less than the pitch of the collar 20, and defining a gap therebetween will cause the axial movement of the collar relative to the second connector. In this case, the locking portions 14 and 24 of the second connector 11 and the collar 20 respectively should have a width greater than the gap measured parallel to the fluid flow axis to prevent separation. In the illustrated embodiment, when the connection system 100 is in the locked state and / or in the engaged configuration, the fluid flow axis of the first connector 1 coincides with the fluid flow axis of the second connector 11, and the collar is coaxial with this fluid flow axis.

[0189] Figure 8 , Figure 8A , Figure 8B and Figure 7 , Figure 7A and Figure 7B show additional embodiments of non-removable connection systems, wherein the second connector 11 includes at least one locking projection 24, and the collar includes a corresponding at least one locking projection 14. According to Figure 7 , Figure 7A and Figure 7B In the illustrated embodiment, no hook portions such as threads or bayonet couplings are provided on the second connector and the collar.

[0190] The locking projection 14 of the second connector 11 and the locking projection 24 of the collar 20 include at least one projection extending radially outward and inward respectively. The projection of the collar 20 includes an abutting portion 24c facing the inner volume of the collar 20, while the projection of the second connector 11 includes an abutting portion 14c facing away from the fluid coupling portion 12 of the second connector 11. As shown in the cross-sections of Figure 7B and Figure 8B , when the connection system is arranged in the locked state, the abutting portion 24c of the projection 24 of the collar 20 is configured to abut against the abutting portion 14c of the projection 14 of the second connector 11 to prevent the axial detachment of the collar from the second connector. According to Figure 8 , Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the embodiment, the collar 20 and the second connector 11 further include hook portions 23 and 13: In particular, Figure 8 shows a hook portion with a bayonet coupling. In any case, according to this embodiment, hook portions including corresponding threads can also be provided.

[0191] According to the foregoing embodiment, the locking projections 14, 24 of the second connector and the collar include projections such as wedge sleeve teeth: In any case, according to another embodiment, as shown in Figure 9 andFigure 9A As shown, the second connector includes a locking member 14 having at least one recess (optionally an orifice), and the collar 20 includes a locking member 24 having at least one protrusion: the protrusion of the collar 20 is configured to engage with the recess of the second connector 11 in the locked state: in particular, the protrusion of the collar 20 is configured to at least partially enter the recess to define an axial engagement. Thus, Figures 1 to 4A the illustrated embodiment defines a coupling configuration and a locked state by the rotational engagement ER of the collar 20 relative to the second connector 11: conversely, Figures 7 to 9A the embodiment of defines a coupling configuration and a locked state by an axial engagement displacement along the axes of the first and second connectors (i.e., the axis of the connection system). In other words, the connection system can be configured in the locked state by an axial engagement displacement, wherein the locking protrusion or member 24 of the collar 20 and the locking protrusion or member 14 of the second connector 11 are in a coupling configuration, wherein in this locked state, the collar 20 is non-removably engaged to the second connector 11 by an axial engagement displacement, and the locking protrusion or member 14 of the second connector 11 cooperates with the locking protrusion or member 24 to prevent the detachment of the first connector 1 from the second connector 11, particularly axial detachment. The axial engagement displacement is a displacement in which the collar and the second connector approach each other and are axially coupled. According to Figure 7 , Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 9 's embodiments, when arranged in the locked state, the collar 20 can rotate freely relative to the second connector 11 while preventing axial detachment between the collar and the second connector, and thus preventing axial detachment between the first connector and the second connector. It is worth noting that when the connection system is arranged in the locked state, the coupling portions 2 and 12 of the first connector 1 and the second connector 11 abut against each other to define a fluid-tight coupling.

[0192] Based on the above description, it should be understood that the present invention should not be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

[0193] Disposable kit 50

[0194] The present invention also relates to as Figure 5 and Figure 6A disposable kit 50 for a blood treatment device 200 (such as a dialysis machine) as shown. The disposable kit 50 includes a plurality of fluid lines 51, such as a blood circuit 50a, the blood circuit including an access line 52 configured to connect to a patient 300 and to an inlet port 201a of a blood treatment unit 201 (such as a blood filter, an ultrafilter, a hemodialysis filter, a dialyzer, a plasma filter, etc.). The blood circuit 50a further includes a return line 53 configured to connect to the patient 300 and to an outlet port 201b of the same blood treatment unit 201. In this configuration, blood should flow from the patient along the access line 52, through the blood treatment unit 201, and towards the return line 53, as Figure 5 and Figure 6 shown by the arrows depicted on the fluid lines. The disposable kit 50 may also include one or more infusion lines 54 connected to the blood circuit 52 and / or configured to connect to the patient 300. The infusion line 54 may include a container 60 connected to one end of the infusion line, and wherein the other end of the infusion line 54 is connected to the blood circuit or the patient. The container 60 is configured to hold an infusion fluid, and the container is made, for example, of a plastic material for medical applications: In particular, the container 60 may be a citrate solution container 60a containing a citrate concentrate solution, or a calcium solution container 60b containing a calcium concentrate solution, or an alternative fluid solution to be injected into the blood circuit during treatment. Figure 5 and Figure 6 show a (pre)infusion line 54 arranged upstream relative to the blood treatment unit 201 and connected to the citrate solution container 60a. The infusion line 54 is also placed upstream of a blood pump 91 to provide local anticoagulation to extracorporeal blood. At least one pump 90 may be associated with the infusion line 54 and configured to determine the fluid flow from the container 60 towards the other end of the infusion line 54 (such as towards the access line 52 or the return line 53). More specifically, pumps 90 and 91 are peristaltic pumps. Other infusion lines may be included in the circuit and are not shown. For example, a pre-infusion line for injecting an alternative fluid may be included upstream of the blood treatment unit 201 and downstream of the blood pump 91, and a post-infusion line for injecting an alternative solution into the return line 53 (such as into a venous air eliminator (not shown)). Figure 5 and Figure 6An additional infusion line 54 is also shown, which is arranged downstream relative to the blood treatment unit 201 and connected to a calcium solution container 60a, such as a syringe configured to hold a calcium solution. This infusion line is intended to be used for re-establishing the ionic balance during regional anticoagulation procedures. A blood pump 91 is associated with the access line 52 and / or the return line 53 to determine the blood flow through the treatment unit 201. The disposable kit 50 may also include a monitoring line 55 (not shown in the drawings), which is connected to either the blood circuit 50a or the infusion line 54 and is configured to be connected, for example, to a pressure gauge or a thermometer for parameter detection or to serve as an access point for blood sampling. The disposable kit 50 may also include a warming accessory 70, such as a bag or a line, and is schematically shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the warming accessory being connected to the blood circuit 50a (e.g., downstream of the treatment unit 201) and configured to warm the blood before it returns to the patient 300. In particular, the warming accessory 70 is connected in series to the return line 53 such that the inlet 70a of the warming accessory 70 is connected to the upstream tract of the return line 53 and the outlet 70b of the warming accessory 70 is connected to the downstream tract of the return line 53. The disposable kit 50 also includes at least one connection system 100 as described above, which can be connected to the access line 52, the return line 53, the infusion line 54, and the monitoring line 55. In Figure 5In this case, the connection system 100 connects the (calcium) infusion line 54 to the blood circuit; alternatively or additionally, the connection system can be used to connect the citrate solution container 60a to the pre-blood pump infusion line 54. Further, the connection system 100 can connect the inlet 70a and the outlet 70b of the warmer fitting 70 to the return line 53 to prevent any unwanted disconnection. The disposable kit 50 further includes a blood treatment unit 201 having: a blood inlet 201a connected to the access line 52; a blood outlet 201b connected to the return line 53; a fluid inlet 201c connected to a fluid delivery line 210, which is configured to be connected to a fresh treatment fluid source (not shown in the drawings); and a fluid outlet 201d connected to a fluid output line 211, which is configured to be attached to a drainage unit, such as a drainage bag. In an embodiment not shown in the drawings, the connection system 100 can also be used to connect the blood inlet 201a of the blood treatment unit 201 to the access line 52, the blood outlet 201b to the return line 53, the fluid inlet 201c to the fluid delivery line 210, and the fluid outlet 201d to the fluid output line 211 (if appropriate or necessary). The disposable kit 50 can also include a disposable fitting 80 (such as a gas exchanger, an oxygenator or an auxiliary fluid device) connected to the blood line 50a. In particular, the gas exchanger 80 can be connected in series to the return line 53. The gas exchanger 80 is configured to remove CO 2 from the blood before the blood returns to the patient 300. The gas exchanger includes a blood inlet 80a and a blood outlet 80b for connection to the return line 53: In an embodiment not shown in the drawings, the connection system 100 can also be used to connect the blood inlet 80a of the gas exchanger 80 to the upstream path of the return line 53 and the blood outlet 80b to the downstream path of the return line 53. The disposable kit can also include an additional fitting 81 connected to the blood circuit 50a through the connection system 100, such as Figure 6As shown. The additional accessory 81 is placed between the patient (especially the patient's blood vessel access part) and the access pipeline and return pipeline of the blood circuit; the additional accessory 81 includes: an arterial blood inlet 81a configured to be connected to the arterial access of the patient 300; an arterial blood outlet 81b connected to the access pipeline 52 of the disposable kit 50; a venous blood inlet 81c connected to the return pipeline 53 of the disposable kit 50; and a venous blood outlet 81d configured to be connected to the venous access of the patient 300. The connection system can be connected and placed between the arterial blood outlet 81b and the access pipeline 52, and between the venous blood inlet 81c and the return pipeline 53. Obviously, the disposable kit can include several additional elements (not shown / described as they are well known to those skilled in the art), such as a degassing chamber, a pressure monitoring component, an infusion or sampling site, a bubble detector, a venous clamp and an arterial clamp for blocking blood circulation, etc. The disposable kit can be a device for acute or chronic treatment and can present different configurations relative to the exemplary device shown. Although the present invention has been described in connection with the presently considered most practical and preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A non-removable connection system (100) for a medical device, the connection system comprising: - a first connector (1) including a fluid coupling portion (2); - a second connector (11) including a corresponding fluid coupling portion (12) which can be connected to the fluid coupling portion (2) of the first connector (1) in a fluid-tight manner such that fluid can flow internally between the first connector (1) and the second connector (11), the second connector (11) further including a hook portion (13) and at least one locking projection (14); - a collar (20) coupled to the first connector (1) and including a corresponding hook portion (23) which can be engaged with the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) by an engaging rotation (ER) along an engaging direction, in an engaged configuration the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) preventing axial removal of the collar (20) from the second connector (11), wherein the collar (20) further includes a corresponding at least one locking projection (24) which can be engaged with the at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11) by an engaging rotation (ER) of the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11) along the engaging direction, in a coupled configuration the at least one locking projection (24) of the collar (20) and the at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11) preventing a disengaging rotation of the collar (20) relative to the second connector (11), the disengaging rotation being a rotation in an opposite direction to the engaging rotation; wherein, by means of the engaging rotation, the connection system (100) can be configured at least to: o from a non-locked state, wherein the collar (20) can be moved by rotating relative to the first connector (1), and the at least one locking projection (24) of the collar (20) and the at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11) are in a non-coupled configuration; o to a locked state, wherein the at least one locking projection (24) of the collar (20) and the at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11) are in the coupled configuration, and the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) are in the engaged configuration, in the locked state the collar (20) is non-removably engaged with the second connector (11) by the engaging rotation, and the at least one locking projection (14) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) cooperate with the at least one locking projection (24) and the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) respectively to prevent detachment of the first connector (1) from the second connector (11).

2. The connection system according to claim 1, wherein: The first connector (1), in particular the coupling part (2) of the first connector (1), extends in length along the fluid flow axis; The second connector (11), in particular the coupling part (12) of the second connector (11), extends in length along the corresponding fluid flow axis; At least when the coupling part (2) of the first connector (1) is connected to the coupling part (12) of the second connector (11), the fluid flow axis of the first connector (1) is aligned with the fluid flow axis of the second connector (11), wherein the engagement configuration determines an axial constraint between the first connector (1) and the second connector (11), in particular, the axial constraint is along the fluid flow axis of the first connector (1) and / or the fluid flow axis of the second connector (11).

3. The connection system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first connector (1) includes a main abutment part (5), and the collar (20) includes a corresponding abutment part (25), the corresponding abutment part being configured to contact the main abutment part (5) of the first connector (1) when set in an abutment configuration, in which the collar (20) is axially constrained relative to the first connector (1) at least along one axial direction, such that at least when the connection system (100) is set in the engagement configuration, the collar (20) axially engages the first connector (1) to the second connector (11), in particular, the axial direction is parallel to, optionally coincides with, the fluid flow axis of the first connector (1). wherein the coupling configuration is defined at least at the end stage of the engagement rotation between the collar (20) and the second connector (11).

4. The connection system according to claim 3 of the preceding claims, wherein, The first connector includes an auxiliary abutment part (6), the auxiliary abutment part being configured to block the axial sliding of the collar (20) in a direction opposite to the axial direction, and wherein the collar (20): - is axially constrained to the first connector (1) by the main abutment part (5) and the auxiliary abutment part (6) of the first connector (1), thereby substantially preventing the axial movement of the collar (20) relative to the first connector (1); or - can axially move relative to the first connector within the axial gap defined between the main abutment part (5) and the auxiliary abutment part (6) of the first connector (1), and is axially constrained to the first connector (1) outside the axial gap, in particular, the axial movement is along the fluid flow axis of the first connector (1) and / or the fluid flow axis of the second connector (11).

5. The connection system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The first connector (1) includes a body having a tubular shape, defining an internal passage (7) for fluid passage. The main abutting portion (5) and the auxiliary abutting portion (6) extend radially away from the body. The first connector (1) further includes a recess (8) disposed between the main abutting portion (5) and the auxiliary abutting portion (6). Wherein, the abutting portion (25) of the collar (20) is arranged in the recess (8) between the main abutting portion (5) and the auxiliary abutting portion (6) of the first connector (1). Optionally, the collar (20) can axially move relative to the first connector (1) by an amount proportional to the distance between the main abutting portion (5) and the auxiliary abutting portion (6) of the first connector (1).

6. The connection system according to any one of the preceding claims, Wherein, The fluid connection portion (2) of the first connector (1) includes a tip portion (2a), the tip portion defining an internal passage (7) for fluid delivery. In particular, the tip portion (2a) has a conical outer surface. Wherein, the fluid connection portion (12) of the second connector (11) includes a terminal portion (12a), the terminal portion defining an internal passage (17) for fluid delivery. In particular, the terminal portion (12a) of the second connector (11) has a conical inner surface, which optionally has a shape opposite to the conical outer surface of the tip portion (2a) of the first connector (1). And wherein, at least a part of the tip portion (2a) of the first connector (1) is configured to enter into the terminal portion (12a) of the second connector (11). In particular, the conical outer surface is connected to the conical inner surface, thereby connecting the first connector (1) and the second connector (11) in a fluid-tight manner.

7. The connection system according to any one of the preceding claims, Wherein, The collar (20) includes a body having a tubular shape, the body extending between: A first opening (21), which is configured to receive the second connector (11), in particular to receive the connection portion (12), the hook portion (13) and at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11); And A second opening (22), which receives the first connector (1) by insertion. The second opening (22) is arranged in the recess (8) of the first connector (1) to allow connection. And the radially inwardly extending abutting portion (25) of the collar (20) is arranged at the second opening (22). The collar externally surrounds at least a part of the first connector (1), and the body of the collar (20) is coaxial with the first connector (1).

8. The connection system according to claim 7 of the preceding claims, Wherein: - the at least one locking protrusion (24) of the collar (20) is arranged at the entrance of the first opening (21), the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) being interposed between the at least one locking protrusion (24) of the collar (20) and the second opening (22); and - the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) is placed between the at least one locking protrusion (14) of the second connector (11) and the terminal end portion (12a) of the coupling portion (12); Wherein, the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector both include: - corresponding threads configured to engage with each other, in particular by engaging rotation, to define said engaged configuration; or - Respective undercut tabs configured to engage with each other as a bayonet coupling, in particular by rotation of said engagement, to define said engagement configuration.

9. A connection system according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The collar (20) comprises a body having a tubular shape, extending in depth between an inner side wall (20a) and an outer side wall (20b), the collar (20) being mounted on the first connector (1) such that the body externally surrounds at least a portion of the first connector (11), in particular around at least a portion of the coupling portion (2) of the first connector (1), the hook portion (23) of the collar (20), in particular the thread of the collar (20), being arranged on the inner side wall (20a) of the collar (20), The at least one locking projection (24) of the collar (20) is radially arranged on the same inner side wall (20a) of the collar (20), In particular, the hook portion (23) of the collar is aligned with the at least one locking projection (24) of the collar (20).

10. A connection system according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The second connector (11) has a tubular shape defining an inner passage (17) for fluid transport, the tubular shape of the second connector (11) comprising an outer side wall (11a), The hook portion (13) of the second connector (11), in particular the thread of the second connector (11), is arranged on the outer side wall (11a) of the second connector (11), in particular, the hook portion (13) is arranged at the coupling portion (12) of the second connector (11), The at least one locking protrusion (14) of the second connector (11) is radially arranged on the outer side wall (11a) of the second connector (11), in particular, the at least one locking protrusion (14) is arranged at the connecting portion (12) of the second connector (11), in particular, the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) is side by side with the at least one locking protrusion (14) of the second connector (11).

11. A connection system according to any one of the preceding claims, in, Both the at least one locking projection (14) of the second connector (11) and the at least one locking projection (24) of the collar (20) each include one or more sleeve teeth, particularly a plurality of sleeve teeth, and more particularly, the sleeve teeth are wedge-shaped or have a serrated shape such that when the sleeve teeth of the collar (20) face and in particular contact the sleeve teeth of the second connector (11), the engaging rotation is allowed and the disengaging rotation is prevented.

12. The connection system according to claim 11 preceding. Wherein, The sleeve teeth of the second connector (11) and the sleeve teeth of the collar (20) each radially and alternately define recesses and protrusions. The second connector (11) defines a maximum obstructive outer diameter measured at the protrusions of the sleeve teeth. The collar (20) has a tubular shape and presents a minimum inner diameter measured at the protrusions of the sleeve teeth of the collar (20). The maximum obstructive outer diameter is higher than the minimum inner diameter such that when the sleeve teeth of the second connector (11) face and in particular contact the sleeve teeth of the collar (20), the protrusions of the sleeve teeth of the second connector (11) are inserted into the recesses of the sleeve teeth of the collar (20), and vice versa.

13. The connection according to any one of the preceding claims. Wherein, The first connector (1) and the collar (20) are made as two separate parts that are subsequently axially coupled. At least when the second connector (11) is not coupled to the collar (20) and not coupled to the first connector (1), the collar (20) is freely rotatable relative to the first connector (1), and wherein when the connection system (100) is set in the engaging configuration, at least a part of the coupling portion (12) of the second connector (11) is placed between the collar (20) and at least a part of the coupling portion (2) of the first connector (1).

14. The connection system according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a fluid line (51). Wherein, The first connector (1) extends in length between its coupling portion (2) and the corresponding connection port (9), and the connection port (9) is fixed to the end of the fluid line (51) of the medical machine (200); and / or The second connector (11) extends in length between its coupling portion (12) and the corresponding connection port (19), and the connection port (19) is fixed to the end of the fluid line (51) of the medical machine (200).

15. A non-removable connection system (100) for a medical device, the connection system Comprising: - A first connector (1), the first connector including a fluid coupling portion (2); - A second connector (11), said second connector comprising corresponding fluid coupling portions (12), said corresponding fluid coupling portions being connectable in a fluid-tight manner to the fluid coupling portions (2) of said first connector (1) such that fluid can flow internally between said first connector (1) and said second connector (11), said second connector (11) further comprising at least one locking member (14); - A collar (20), said collar being coupled to said first connector (1) and comprising corresponding at least one locking member (24), said corresponding at least one locking member being engageable with at least one locking member (14) of said second connector (11) by an axial engagement displacement (ED) along an engagement direction, and in a coupled configuration at least one locking member (24) of said collar (20) and at least one locking member (14) of said second connector (11) prevent an axial disengagement displacement of said collar (20) relative to said second connector (11), said axial disengagement displacement being a displacement in a direction opposite to said axial engagement displacement, in particular a linear displacement, and wherein said connection system (100) can be configured by said axial engagement displacement to: - From a non-locked state, wherein said collar (20), at least one locking member (24) of said collar (20) and at least one locking member (14) of said second connector (11) are in a non-coupled configuration; to - A locked state, wherein at least one locking member (24) of said collar (20) and at least one locking member (14) of said second connector (11) are in said coupled configuration, and in said locked state, said collar (20) is non-removably engaged with said second connector (11) by said axial engagement displacement, and at least one locking member (14) of said second connector (11) cooperates with said at least one locking member (24) to prevent disengagement of said first connector (1) from said second connector (11), in particular axial disengagement.

16. The connection system according to the preceding claim, wherein, said axial engagement displacement is a displacement oriented substantially parallel to the axes of said first connector (1) and said second connector (11), in particular, said axial engagement displacement is a displacement oriented along the axes of said first connector (1) and said second connector (11), in particular a displacement oriented along the axis of said connection system.

17. The connection system according to claims 15 and 16 preceding, wherein, At least one locking member (14) of the second connector (11) and at least one locking member (24) of the collar (20) each include at least one protrusion extending radially outwardly and inwardly, respectively. The protrusion of the collar (20) includes an abutting portion (24c) facing the inner volume of the collar (20), and the protrusion of the second connector (11) includes an abutting portion (14c) facing away from the fluid coupling portion (12) of the second connector (11). When the connection system is arranged in the locked state, the abutting portion (24c) of the protrusion (24) of the collar (20) abuts against the abutting portion (14c) of the protrusion (14) of the second connector (11) to prevent axial detachment of the collar from the second connector.

18. The connection system according to any one of the preceding claims 15, 16, and 17, wherein, the second connector (11) includes a hook portion (13), and the collar includes a corresponding hook portion (23) that can be engaged with the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) by a mating rotation (ER) along the mating direction. In the mated configuration, the hook portion (23) of the collar (20) and the hook portion (13) of the second connector (11) prevent axial removal of the collar (20) from the second connector (11).

19. A disposable kit (50) for a blood treatment device, the disposable comprising: - a blood circuit (50a) including: · an access line (52) configured to be connected to a patient (300) and to an inlet port (201a) of a blood treatment unit (201); · a return line (53) configured to be connected to the patient (300) and to an outlet port (201b) of the blood treatment unit (201); - optionally, an infusion line (54) connected to the blood circuit (52) and / or configured to be connected to the patient (300); - optionally, a monitoring line (55) connected to the blood circuit (50a) or to the infusion line (54); - at least one connection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 18, which is connected to at least one of the access line (52), the return line (53), the infusion line (54), and the monitoring line (55).

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