Connection retention assembly

Abstract

A connector assembly may be used to couple a first connector and a second connector using a clip member. The first connector may have a central bore, an outer surface, and a slot extending radially inward from the outer surface to the bore. The slot may be configured to receive at least a portion of the clip member therein for limiting longitudinal movement of the clip relative to the first member. The second component may have a mating groove configured to engage with the engagement member of the clip component when the second component is positioned in the central bore of the first component for securing the second component in an engaged configuration relative to the first component. The second component may be removed from the central bore when a separating force is applied to displace the engagement member from the mating groove of the second component.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 18 / 920,685, filed October 18, 2024, entitled “CONNECTION RETENTION SYSTEM”. The entire contents of that application are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to medical fluid connectors, and more specifically, to a connector assembly comprising medical connectors that separate from each other due to applied forces. The separation may be caused by intentional or unintentional separation between the medical connectors. Background Technology

[0004] A peripheral intravenous (“PIVC”) catheter is a medical instrument inserted into a patient’s peripheral vein to deliver medical fluids to the patient. In an exemplary application, medical fluid is delivered to the patient, and the PIVC catheter is subsequently removed from the patient by a healthcare professional. However, these catheters are frequently displaced unintentionally. For example, a catheter subjected to an unexpected or accidental pulling force may pull on the IV fitting, causing the catheter to be pulled out of the patient. In other cases, the catheter is accidentally removed from both the patient and the healthcare professional. Unintentional or accidental displacement can result in patient blood loss, IV fluid loss, and delays in IV fluid delivery. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to at least some embodiments of this disclosure, it is recognized that unintentional displacement or disconnection of medical connectors (such as medical fluid lines) may cause harm to patients or caregivers, for example, by depriving patients of medication, increasing the likelihood of infection in patients, and exposing medical professionals to harmful drugs.

[0006] According to at least some embodiments, the connector assembly may include a first tubular component and a second tubular component, a connector, or a shaft, which may be configured to interconnect by insertion, longitudinal coverage, abutment, or otherwise forming a seal between the first and second tubular components. The connector assembly may also include clamping components or clips that can engage at least a portion of the first tubular component or its outer shaft and at least a portion of the second tubular component or its inner shaft to restrict relative movement between the first and second tubular components.

[0007] According to some embodiments, the clamping component can be used to prevent or constrain relative axial or longitudinal movement between the first tubular component and the second tubular component. Optionally, the clamping component can also be used to prevent or constrain relative rotation between the first tubular component and the second tubular component. Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the clamping component can be used to prevent or constrain relative longitudinal and rotational movement between the first tubular component and the second tubular component.

[0008] However, in some embodiments, the clamping components can also advantageously prevent or constrain relative longitudinal movement between the first and second tubular components, while allowing relative rotational movement. This ability of the first and second tubular components to rotate freely can prevent or eliminate tubular kinking.

[0009] The connector assembly can be configured such that the clamping component can prevent or restrain relative movement between the first tubular component and the second tubular component below a specific threshold disconnecting force between the first tubular component and the second tubular component.

[0010] In some embodiments, the connector assembly is capable of withstanding a disconnecting force (i.e., a relative axial force that pulls the first and second tubular components apart) on the first and second tubular components, a disconnecting force that would otherwise cause the first and second tubular components to disengage from each other. Such a disconnecting force may cause the first and second tubular components to break or malfunction, thereby damaging the connector assembly and rendering it inoperable.

[0011] This disclosure provides devices and methods for avoiding such unfortunate outcomes. These devices and methods can ensure patient safety under disengagement forces by using a unique clamp-connector assembly concept that allows the connector assembly to maintain engagement between the first and second tubular components within a normal or acceptable range of disengagement forces, while allowing the first and second tubular components to disengage from each other when a sufficient or significant disengagement force is applied. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Various features of illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate, not limit, the invention. The drawings include the following figures:

[0013] Figure 1 An IV kit connected to a patient is shown according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0014] Figure 2 A connector assembly in a disconnected state is shown according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0015] Figures 3A-3C The various aspects shown in this disclosure are as follows Figure 2 The separate component of the connector assembly.

[0016] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Partial cross-sectional views of connector assemblies in engaged and disengaged configurations according to various aspects of this disclosure are shown.

[0017] Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of a connector assembly in a mating configuration, taken along the longitudinal axis of the assembly according to various aspects of this disclosure, is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0018] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. It should be understood that the subject matter can be implemented without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the subject matter.

[0019] Furthermore, while this specification sets forth specific details of various embodiments, it should be understood that this specification is illustrative only and should not be construed as limiting in any way. Moreover, it is conceivable that although specific embodiments of this disclosure may be disclosed or illustrated in the context of IV kits, these embodiments can be used in other fluid delivery systems. Furthermore, various applications and modifications of these embodiments that may occur to those skilled in the art are also included within the general concepts described herein.

[0020] According to some embodiments, this disclosure provides a connector assembly having many features and advantages for medical applications. The connector or shaft may each include a device for engaging with mating parts, which can limit, constrain, or prevent rotational and / or longitudinal relative movement between the connectors. This can advantageously allow for safe and easy interconnection while allowing the intentional or unintentional application of a desired threshold disengagement force to ensure ease of use of the assembly and help avoid damage in the event of accidental disconnection.

[0021] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1 An IV kit 1 connected to a patient 10 according to various aspects of this disclosure is shown. The IV kit 1 includes a medication bag 12, an infusion chamber 14, and a fitting 22. The fitting 22 extends between the infusion chamber 14 of the IV kit 1 and the fluid connector assembly 100. To prevent the fitting 16 or catheter 18 from unintentionally shifting or breaking off from the patient, tape 26 is placed over the fitting 16 and catheter 18, such that the tape 26 engages the fitting 16, catheter 18, and patient 10.

[0022] Figure 2 A connector assembly 100 in a disconnected state is shown according to various aspects of this disclosure. Figure 2In the diagram, connector assembly 100 is shown in a disengaged state. As those skilled in the art will understand, components of the connector can be coupled to corresponding elements providing fluid management, such as valves, catheters, and other devices. Connector assembly 100 is designed for medical applications, such as IV kit 1 (e.g., Figure 1 (as shown) and other IV medical fluid delivery applications using catheters, as non-limiting examples, including PIVC catheters.

[0023] The connector assembly may include a first tubular component and a second tubular component, which may be configured to interconnect by insertion, longitudinal overlay, abutment, or otherwise forming a seal between the first and second tubular components, a connector, or a shaft. The connector assembly may also include a clamping component that may engage with at least a portion of the first tubular component and at least a portion of the second tubular component to restrict relative movement between the first and second tubular components.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the clamping component can be used to prevent or constrain relative axial or longitudinal movement between the first tubular component and the second tubular component. Optionally, the clamping component can also be used to prevent or constrain relative rotation between the first tubular component and the second tubular component. Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the clamping component can be used to prevent or constrain relative longitudinal and rotational movement between the first tubular component and the second tubular component.

[0025] However, in some embodiments, the clamping components can also advantageously prevent or constrain relative longitudinal movement between the first and second tubular components, while allowing relative rotational movement. This ability of the first and second tubular components to rotate freely can prevent or eliminate tubular kinking.

[0026] The connector assembly can be configured such that the clamping component can prevent or restrain relative movement between the first tubular component and the second tubular component below a specific threshold disconnecting force between the first tubular component and the second tubular component.

[0027] For example, in use, the connector assembly is typically subjected to opposing forces on the first and second tubular components, which may cause the first and second tubular components to disengage from each other. If the disengagement force is large enough, it may cause the first and second tubular components to break or otherwise malfunction, thereby damaging the connector assembly and rendering it inoperable. To avoid such an unfortunate outcome, and to ensure patient safety under significant disengagement forces, this disclosure provides a unique clamping component concept that enables the connector assembly to maintain engagement between the first and second tubular components within a normal or acceptable range of disengagement forces, while allowing the first and second tubular components to disengage from each other when sufficient or significant disengagement forces are applied.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the connector assembly can be configured to hold the first and second tubular components in an engaged configuration if the breaking force acting in the axial direction is less than approximately 4 pounds. However, if the breaking force exceeds 4 pounds, the engaging force generated by the clamping component and the connector assembly 100 can be overcome, thereby allowing disengagement between the first and second tubular components.

[0029] Therefore, the connector assembly can be configured to withstand a breaking force of up to 2 lbs, 2.5 lbs, 3 lbs, 3.5 lbs, or 4 lbs or greater, acting axially on the first and second tubular components. Furthermore, the connector assembly can be disengaged or allowed to separate from the first and second tubular components using forces greater than 3.8 lbs, 3.9 lbs, 4 lbs, 4.1 lbs, 4.2 lbs, 4.3 lbs, 4.4 lbs, or 4.5 lbs. These ranges have been found to provide significant benefits in maintaining the engagement between the first and second tubular components while allowing separation when the breaking force exceeds such thresholds, thus avoiding patient discomfort and trauma. Moreover, these ranges also provide highly beneficial ease of reconnection and structural integrity (i.e., reduced likelihood of breakage or operability) when attempting to reconnect the first and second tubular components after a disconnection event.

[0030] refer to Figure 2 The connector assembly 100 may include a first connector 102, a second connector 104, and a clamping component 106. The first connector may include a receiver region or a central bore or lumen 108 configured to receive at least a portion of the second connector 104 to allow fluid to flow between the first connector 102 and the second connector 104.

[0031] like Figure 2 As shown in an embodiment of connector assembly 100, the second connector 104 may include a tubular segment 110 that can be inserted into a lumen 108 to fluidly connect the first connector 102 and the second connector 104. The tubular segment 110 may include a reduced diameter relative to the proximal segment 112 of the second connector 104 to allow the tubular segment 110 to be received within the lumen 108.

[0032] The first connector 102 may include a spacer or slot 120, to which the clamping member 106 may extend at least partially. Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, the clamping component 106 can be inserted into the slot 120 and extends at least partially through the slot 120 via the hole 142, and protrudes radially into the lumen 108. According to some embodiments, the slot 102 may include one, two, three or more holes that allow a portion of the clamping component 106 to radially enter the lumen 108.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the tubular segment 110 of the second connector 104 may include a pawl or groove that can be engaged by a portion of the clamping member 106 extending into the lumen 108. Figure 2 As shown in the embodiments, the tubular segment 110 may include a circumferential groove 130 having a generally constant depth and shape, extending circumferentially around the outer surface of the tubular segment 110.

[0034] Although groove 130 is in Figure 2 The grooves are shown as continuous, uninterrupted grooves, but some embodiments may be configured to include more than one groove positioned at different longitudinal locations along the length of the tubular segment 110. Furthermore, the grooves may also be configured to be discontinuous, as multiple pawls extending into the surface of the tubular segment 110 are positioned differently around the circumferential direction of the tubular segment 110.

[0035] Alternatively, according to some embodiments, the groove may include two or more grooves with different depths to allow different degrees of engagement between the clamping component 106 and the groove (e.g., allowing more or fewer clamping components 1062 to protrude radially into the groove), thus allowing clinicians to selectively engage a given groove to achieve a desired engagement strength (i.e., enabling the connector assembly to withstand different levels of disconnection force depending on the groove engaged with the clamping component).

[0036] Figures 3A-3B The interconnection between the clamp component 106 and the first connector 102 is shown. As described above, the clamp component 106 can be inserted into the slot 122 of the first connector 102. Figure 3B A nested or engaged configuration between the clamping component 106 and the first connector 102 is shown. According to some embodiments, the outer surface of the clamping component 106 may advantageously be flush with or generally continuous with the outer surface of the first connector 102, thereby preventing accidental disconnection events or otherwise removing the clamping component 106 from the slot 122 of the first connector 102.

[0037] In addition, such as Figure 3B As shown, the clamping component 106 may include a protruding member 140 that engages with a hole 142 in the slot 122, thereby allowing the protruding member 140 to project radially into the lumen 108, as shown. Figure 3C As shown.

[0038] Now for reference Figure 4A and Figure 4B The connector assembly 100 is shown in a mating configuration. Figure 4A ) and out-of-configuration ( Figure 4B ).

[0039] like Figure 4A As shown, when in the engaged configuration, the protruding member 140 of the clamping member 106 can extend radially into the recess 130. As described above, the degree of engagement between the protruding member 140 and the recess 130 can depend on the structure and number of the protruding member 140 and the recess 130. In the illustrated example, the protruding member 140 can extend radially into the recess 130, allowing the second connector 104 to rotate freely relative to the first connector 102. This ability of the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 to rotate freely can prevent or eliminate pipe kinking. However, to limit or constrain the relative rotational movement between the first connector 102 and the second connector 104, a circumferential stop or other structure can be implemented as part of the top structure.

[0040] In addition, such as Figure 4A As shown, the lumen 108 of the first connector 102 can be configured to mate with the outer surface of the tubular segment 110. For example, as shown, the lumen 108 can have a stepped inner profile through which the inner diameter of the lumen 108 varies or gradually tapers to a smaller diameter in a direction away from the inlet or proximal end of the lumen 108 of the first connector 102. The tubular segment 110 can include a stepped outer profile that can mate with the stepped inner profile of the lumen 108. Figure 4A As shown, in the engagement position, the clamping component 106 engages with the recess 130, and the longitudinal alignment of the first connector 102 relative to the second component 104 allows the stepped outer contour of the tubular segment 110 to match, contact, or be positioned to be tightly aligned with the stepped inner contour of the lumen 108. In this way, an engagement configuration can be achieved when the second connector 104 is inserted into the lumen 108 of the first connector 102 at a precise and correct depth, such that the recess 130 aligns with the protruding member 140, and the shoulder 150 of the second connector 104 abuts against the proximal end portion of the first connector 102.

[0041] Reference Figure 4B As described above, when sufficient disconnecting force is applied, the second connector 104 can be longitudinally removed from the lumen 108 of the first connector 102. During this process, the protruding member 140 can be pushed out of the groove 130 due to the disconnecting force.

[0042] In some embodiments, the groove 130 and the protruding member 140 may have corresponding geometries that allow for desired engagement. These features may define surfaces that can slide relative to each other during disengagement when the axial disengagement force overcomes the radial force of the clamping member 106. In other words, once the clamping member 106 is positioned within the slot 122, the clamping member 106 will tend to resist radial expansion, thus pushing the protruding member 140 radially inward.

[0043] For example, in some embodiments, the groove 130 and the protruding member 140 may each include circular surfaces that can mate with each other. However, it is conceivable that other geometries, such as squares, triangles, or other such cross-sections, may be implemented to provide initial resistance, after which failure of relative engagement will allow the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 to separate.

[0044] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the connector assembly taken along its longitudinal axis is shown. As described above, the protruding member 140 may extend through the hole 142 of the first connector 102 to engage with the recess 130 of the first connector 102. As shown, the clamping member 106 may include the protruding member.

[0045] Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the clamping component 106 and the slot 122 may extend circumferentially around at least half of the circumference of the outer and inner axes of the first connector 102 and the second connector 104. The degree of circumferential overlap or extension of these components may be at least half, 60%, 70%, or more of the circumference of these components.

[0046] As shown and described above, the connector assembly 100 can be operated using a simple procedure of placing the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 into a fluid coupling configuration, such as by inserting the second connector 104 into the first connector 102. The clamping component 106 can engage with the second connector when both the clamping component 106 and the second connector 104 are engaged with or positioned in an engagement configuration with the first connector 102. The clamping component 106 can be engaged with the first connector 102 before or after the second connector 104 is inserted into or engaged with the first connector. Subsequently, if displaced or disconnected, the second connector 104 can be conveniently reattached or re-engaged to the first connector 102 by a clinician.

[0047] The features of this disclosure provide a first compressible member and a second compressible member, which can be used as valves to regulate the fluid path therebetween. The first and second compressible members are located in a first connector and a second connector, respectively. If the first connector and the second connector are separated, whether unintentionally or intentionally, the fluid path to each of the first and second compressible members is closed or blocked to prevent fluid loss therefrom. The features of this disclosure also provide that, when the first and second compressible members are separated, either the first or second compressible member can be cleaned and sterilized, and the first and second compressible members can be reconnected to form a fluid channel therebetween.

[0048] Description of this technical topic

[0049] For example, the subject matter technique is illustrated by the various aspects described below. For convenience, various examples of the various aspects of the subject matter technique are described as numbered articles (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided as examples and do not limit the subject matter technique. It should be noted that any subordinate articles can be combined in any combination and placed into their respective independent articles, for example, article 1, article 11, article 17, article 23, article 26, or article 29. Other articles can be presented in a similar manner.

[0050] Clause 1. A connector assembly comprising: a clamp member having an engagement member; an outer shaft having a central bore, an outer surface, and a slot extending radially inward from the outer surface into the bore, the slot being configured to receive at least a portion of the clamp member therein for limiting longitudinal movement of the clamp relative to the outer shaft; and an inner shaft having a mating groove configured to engage with the engagement member of the clamp member when the inner shaft is positioned in the central bore of the outer shaft for securing the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft in the engagement configuration, wherein the inner shaft is removable from the central bore when a separation force is applied to displace the engagement member from the mating groove of the inner shaft.

[0051] Clause 2. The connector assembly according to Clause 1, wherein the clip includes a circular ring.

[0052] Clause 3. The connector assembly according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the clip includes a C-shape.

[0053] Clause 4. The connector assembly according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein, in the connection configuration, the clip is fully adapted to the slot.

[0054] Clause 5. The connector assembly according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the outer surface of the clip is continuous with the outer surface of the outer shaft.

[0055] Clause 6. The connector assembly according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the engaging member of the clip includes a radial protrusion that, when in an assembled condition, extends radially inward into a mating groove of the inner shaft.

[0056] Clause 7. The connector assembly according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the inner shaft includes a first segment and a second segment, the diameter of the first segment being smaller than the diameter of the second segment.

[0057] Clause 8. The connector assembly according to Clause 7, wherein the first segment includes a mating groove.

[0058] Clause 9. The connector assembly according to Clause 7, wherein the inner shaft includes a cylindrical profile.

[0059] Clause 10. The connector assembly according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the slot extends circumferentially about 50% of the circumference of the outer shaft.

[0060] Clause 11. The connector assembly according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the slot extends circumferentially about 60% of the circumference of the outer shaft.

[0061] Clause 12. The connector assembly according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the slot extends circumferentially about 70% of the circumference of the outer shaft.

[0062] Clause 13. The connector assembly according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the slot extends circumferentially about 75% of the circumference of the outer shaft.

[0063] Clause 14. The connector assembly according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the mating groove extends circumferentially about half of the circumference of the inner shaft.

[0064] Clause 15. The connector assembly according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the mating groove extends circumferentially about 60% of the circumference of the inner shaft.

[0065] Clause 16. The connector assembly according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the mating groove extends circumferentially about 70% of the circumference of the inner shaft.

[0066] Clause 17. A connector assembly comprising: an outer shaft having a central bore and a slot extending radially inward from its outer surface into the central bore; an inner shaft adaptable to the outer shaft bore, the inner shaft having a mating groove that aligns with the slot when the inner shaft is inserted into the outer shaft bore; and a clamp capable of being secured to the outer shaft and extending at least partially through the slot into the mating groove for constraining at least one of rotational or axial movement of the outer shaft relative to the inner shaft.

[0067] Clause 18. The connector assembly according to Clause 17, wherein the clamp includes a circular ring.

[0068] Clause 19. The connector assembly according to any one of Clauses 17-18, wherein the clamp comprises a C-shape.

[0069] Clause 20. A connector assembly according to any one of clauses 17-19, wherein the outer surface of the clamp is continuous with the outer surface of the outer shaft.

[0070] Clause 21. A connector assembly according to any one of Clauses 17-20, wherein the clamp includes an engagement member having a radial protrusion that, when in an assembly condition, extends radially inward into a mating groove of the inner shaft.

[0071] Clause 22. The connector assembly according to any one of clauses 17-21, wherein the inner shaft comprises a first segment and a second segment, the diameter of the first segment being smaller than the diameter of the second segment.

[0072] Clause 23. The connector assembly according to Clause 22, wherein the first segment includes a mating groove.

[0073] Clause 24. The connector assembly according to Clause 22, wherein the inner shaft includes a cylindrical profile.

[0074] Clause 25. The connector assembly according to any one of clauses 17-24, wherein the slot extends circumferentially about 50% of the circumference of the outer shaft.

[0075] Clause 26. The connector assembly according to any one of Clauses 17-25, wherein the slot extends circumferentially about 60% of the circumference of the outer shaft.

[0076] Clause 27. The connector assembly according to any one of Clauses 17-26, wherein the slot extends circumferentially about 70% of the circumference of the outer shaft.

[0077] Clause 28. The connector assembly according to any one of clauses 17-27, wherein the slot extends circumferentially about 75% of the circumference of the outer shaft.

[0078] Clause 29. The connector assembly according to any one of Clauses 17-28, wherein the mating groove extends circumferentially about half of the circumference of the inner shaft.

[0079] Clause 30. The connector assembly according to any one of clauses 17-29, wherein the mating groove extends circumferentially about 60% of the circumference of the inner shaft.

[0080] Clause 31. The connector assembly according to any one of Clauses 17-30, wherein the mating groove extends circumferentially about 70% of the circumference of the inner shaft.

[0081] Clause 32. The connector assembly according to any one of Clauses 17-31, wherein the inner shaft is removable from the central bore when a separating force is applied to displace the clamp from the mating groove of the inner shaft.

[0082] Clause 33. A method of securing a connector assembly, comprising: inserting an inner shaft into a central bore of an outer shaft, the inner shaft having a mating groove extending around at least a portion of the inner shaft, the outer shaft having a slot extending radially inward from its outer surface into the central bore; engaging a clamp with the outer shaft; and engaging a protruding member of the clamp with the mating groove to constrain at least one of rotational or axial movement of the outer shaft relative to the inner shaft.

[0083] Clause 34. The method according to Clause 33 further includes aligning the matching groove of the inner shaft with the slot of the outer shaft.

[0084] Clause 35. The method according to any one of Clauses 33-34, wherein the engagement comprises inserting the engagement member onto the outer shaft and causing at least a portion of the engagement member to extend through the slot into the mating groove.

[0085] Clause 36. The method according to any one of clauses 33-35, wherein the connection includes longitudinally aligning the clamp with the slot.

[0086] Clause 37. The method according to any one of Clauses 33-36, wherein the connection comprises positioning the outer surface of the clamp as continuous with the outer surface of the outer shaft.

[0087] Clause 38. The method according to any one of Clauses 33-37, wherein the engagement includes constraining the longitudinal movement of the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft.

[0088] Clause 39. The method according to Clause 38, wherein the engagement includes allowing rotational movement of the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft.

[0089] Clause 40. The component or method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the component includes a valve retaining ring assembly.

[0090] Other considerations:

[0091] In some embodiments, any clause herein may be subordinate to any independent clause or any dependent clause. In one aspect, any clause (e.g., dependent or independent clause) may be combined with any other one or more clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses). In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., step, operation, device, or component) referenced in a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words referenced in one or more clauses, sentences, phrases, or paragraphs. In one aspect, some words may be removed from each clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, additional words or elements may be added to a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, the subject matter technique may be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements, functions, or operations described herein. In one aspect, the subject matter technique may be implemented using additional components, elements, functions, or operations.

[0092] This disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. This disclosure provides various examples of the subject matter, and the subject matter is not limited to these examples. Numerous modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects.

[0093] Unless otherwise expressly stated, elements referred to in the singular are not intended to mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more." Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "some" refers to one or more. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter genders (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. The use of titles and subtitles (if any) is for convenience only and does not limit the invention.

[0094] The term “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example or illustration.” Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” should not be construed as preferred or advantageous to other aspects or designs. In one respect, the various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0095] For example, phrases like "aspect" do not imply that such an aspect is essential to the present subject matter, or that such an aspect applies to all configurations of the present subject matter. Disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. For example, phrases like "an aspect" may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. For example, phrases like "an embodiment" do not imply that such an embodiment is essential to the present subject matter, or that such an embodiment applies to all constructions of the present subject matter. Disclosure relating to an embodiment may apply to all embodiments or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. For example, phrases like "an embodiment" may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. For example, phrases like "configuration" do not imply that such a configuration is essential to the present subject matter, or that such a configuration applies to all configurations of the present subject matter. Disclosure relating to a configuration may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. Such a construction of the phrase may refer to one or more configurations, and vice versa.

[0096] In one respect, unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, sizes, dimensions, and other specifications set forth in this specification, including those in the appended claims, are approximate rather than precise. In another respect, they are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the functions they pertain to and with the custom of the art to which they belong.

[0097] In one respect, the term "linkage" can refer to a direct connection. In another respect, the term "linkage" can refer to an indirect connection.

[0098] For example, the terms “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear,” etc., used in this disclosure should be understood to refer to any frame of reference rather than a general gravitational frame of reference. Therefore, the top surface, bottom surface, front surface, and rear surface can extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravitational frame of reference.

[0099] Various items may be arranged differently (e.g., in different orders or divided in different ways) without departing from the scope of the subject matter. All structural and functional equivalents of the elements throughout the various aspects described in this disclosure are known to or will be known to those skilled in the art, expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to be covered by the claims. Furthermore, the disclosure herein is not intended to be made public, whether or not such disclosure is expressly recited in the claims. Under paragraph 6 of 35 USC §112(f), elements of a claim will not be interpreted unless the element is clearly stated using the phrase “means”, or, in the case of a method claim, the element is stated using the phrase “for the step of…”. Furthermore, the scope of the terms “comprising,” “having,” etc., is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “including,” as interpreted when “including” is used as a transitional word in a claim.

[0100] The title, background, summary, description of the drawings, and abstract of this disclosure are incorporated herein by reference and are provided as illustrative examples rather than as limiting descriptions. This application is filed on the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the detailed description, it will be apparent that the description provides illustrative examples, and various features are combined in various embodiments to simplify the disclosure. This disclosure approach should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than expressly stated in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the appended claims, the inventive subject matter lies in all features of fewer than those in a single disclosure configuration or operation. The appended claims are thus incorporated into the detailed description, wherein each claim is independently claimed as a separate subject matter.

[0101] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but rather to conform to the full scope consistent with the language claims and to include all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, none of the claims are intended to include subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirements of 35 U.S.SC §101, 102, or 103, nor should they be interpreted in this manner.

Claims

1. A connector assembly, comprising: A clip component having a connecting member; An outer shaft having a central bore, an outer surface, and a slot extending radially inward from the outer surface into the bore, the slot being configured to receive at least a portion of the clamp component therein for limiting longitudinal movement of the clamp relative to the outer shaft; as well as An inner shaft having a matching groove configured to engage with a coupling member of the clamping component when the inner shaft is positioned in the center bore of the outer shaft, for securing the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft in the engagement configuration, and the inner shaft being removable from the center bore when a separation force is applied to displace the coupling member from the matching groove of the inner shaft.

2. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The clip includes a circular ring.

3. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The clip has a C-shaped design.

4. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein, In the connection configuration, the clip fits perfectly into the slot.

5. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The clamp's engaging member includes a radial protrusion that, when in assembly condition, extends radially inward into a matching groove on the inner shaft.

6. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The inner shaft includes a first segment and a second segment, wherein the diameter of the first segment is smaller than the diameter of the second segment.

7. The connector assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The first segment includes a matching groove.

8. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The slot extends circumferentially about 50% of the circumference of the outer shaft.

9. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The matching groove extends circumferentially around at least half of the circumference of the inner shaft.

10. A connector assembly, comprising: An outer shaft having a central bore and a slot extending radially inward from its outer surface into the central bore; An inner shaft that can be fitted into the outer shaft bore has a matching groove that aligns with the slot when the inner shaft is inserted into the outer shaft bore. as well as A clamp, which can be fixed to the outer shaft and extends at least partially through the slot into the mating groove, is used to restrict at least one of the rotational or axial movement of the outer shaft relative to the inner shaft.

11. The connector assembly of claim 10, wherein, The clamp includes a coupling member having a radial protrusion that, when in assembly condition, extends radially inward into a matching groove of the inner shaft.

12. The connector assembly of claim 10, wherein, The inner shaft includes a first segment and a second segment, wherein the diameter of the first segment is smaller than the diameter of the second segment.

13. The connector assembly of claim 12, wherein, The first segment includes a matching groove.

14. The connector assembly of claim 10, wherein, The slot extends circumferentially about 50% of the circumference of the outer shaft.

15. The connector assembly of claim 10, wherein, The matching groove extends circumferentially around at least half of the circumference of the inner shaft.

16. A method for securing a connector assembly, comprising: An inner shaft is inserted into the center bore of an outer shaft, the inner shaft having a matching groove extending around at least a portion of the inner shaft, and the outer shaft having a slot extending radially inward from its outer surface into the center bore. Connect the clamp to the outer shaft; and The protruding member of the clamp engages with the matching groove to restrict at least one of the rotational or axial movement of the outer shaft relative to the inner shaft.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising aligning the matching groove of the inner shaft with the slot of the outer shaft.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The engagement includes inserting the engagement member onto the outer shaft and causing at least a portion of the engagement member to extend through the slot into the mating groove.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein, The engagement includes restricting longitudinal movement of the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The engagement includes allowing rotational movement of the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft.

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