Retaining device and mounting method

Abstract

The retaining device (10) includes: a support portion that supports a filter (70) extending axially, restricts the axial displacement of the filter (70), and allows the filter (70) to rotate about the axial direction; a first receiving portion (24) that receives a first side port (84) extending radially from the side surface (78) of the filter (70) and restricts the radial displacement of the first side port (84) when the filter (70) supported on the support portion rotates in a predetermined direction about the axial direction; and a side connection port (34) that is displaced toward the first side port (84) disposed on the first receiving portion (24) and is capable of connecting to the first side port (84).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a filter holding device and an installation method. Background Technology

[0002] The dialysis apparatus includes a holding device for detachably holding a filter. The filter may be, for example, a blood purifier connected to the blood circulation pathway, or a filter for purifying the dialysate supplied to the blood purifier. The holding device includes multiple connection ports for connecting corresponding tubes to multiple ports of the filter. The holding device may include, for example, a connection mechanism capable of connecting the multiple ports to the multiple connection ports via a lever operation (e.g., see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-177973 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] To connect the connector to the filter's port, force needs to be applied in the direction of the port. If force is applied to the filter for connection, the filter may shift, and a large shift may cause the connection to fail. If the filter is to be securely fixed to prevent shifting during connection, the installation work will be increased.

[0008] The present invention was made in view of such a problem, and one of its exemplary objects is to provide a technique for improving the operability of installing a filter in a holding device.

[0009] Technical means for solving technical problems

[0010] One aspect of the holding device of the present invention includes: a support portion that supports a filter extending axially, restricts axial displacement of the filter, and allows rotation of the filter about the axial direction; a receiving portion that, when the filter supported on the support portion rotates in a predetermined direction about the axial direction, receives a side port extending radially from the side of the filter and restricts radial displacement of the side port; and a side connection port that is displaced toward the side port disposed on the receiving portion and is capable of connecting to the side port.

[0011] Another aspect of the present invention is an installation method. This method includes: a step of supporting an axially extending filter on a support portion of a retaining device; a step of rotating the filter supported on the support portion in a predetermined direction about the axial direction and inserting a side port extending radially from the side of the filter into a receiving portion of the retaining device; and a step of connecting a side connection port of the retaining device to the side port disposed on the receiving portion.

[0012] Invention Effects

[0013] According to the present invention, the operability of installing filters into the retaining device can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a side view that schematically shows the configuration of the holding device according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a front view that schematically shows the configuration of the holding device according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view that roughly represents the internal structure of the filter.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a side view that roughly shows the configuration of the retaining device with the filter removed.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a front view that roughly shows the configuration of the retaining device with the filter removed.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a diagram that roughly shows the structure of the first support.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a diagram that roughly shows the structure of the first support.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a diagram that roughly represents the structure of the first receiving part.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a diagram that roughly represents the structure of the first receiving part.

[0023] Figure 10 This is a diagram that roughly represents the structure of the rotation suppression part.

[0024] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the installation method of the implementation method.

[0025] Figure 12 This is a diagram that roughly illustrates the installation method of the filter into the retaining device.

[0026] Figure 13This is a diagram that roughly shows the structure of the first receiving part in the modified example.

[0027] Figure 14 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates the construction of the first receiving part in other variations.

[0028] Figure 15 This is a side view that schematically shows the configuration of the holding device in the second embodiment.

[0029] Figure 16 This is a front view that schematically shows the configuration of the holding device in the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Hereinafter, the embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same elements in the description, and repeated descriptions are omitted where appropriate. To aid understanding, the aspect ratios of the constituent elements in the drawings may not necessarily correspond to the actual aspect ratios.

[0031] (First Embodiment)

[0032] Figure 1 This is a side view that schematically shows the configuration of the holding device 10 in the first embodiment. Figure 2 This is a front view schematically showing the configuration of the holding device 10 according to the first embodiment. The holding device 10 holds the filter 70 and is a device for connecting to the filter 70. The filter 70 is, for example, a particulate filter used for filtering and purifying the dialysate used in dialysis treatment. The holding device 10 is, for example, provided in a dialysis monitoring device used for monitoring dialysis treatment.

[0033] The filter 70 has a housing 72 that extends axially in a cylindrical shape, and a filter material such as hollow fiber is provided inside the housing 72. As a port that serves as an inlet or outlet for liquid flowing inside the filter 70, the filter 70 has a first end port 80, a second end port 82, a first side port 84, and a second side port 86.

[0034] A first end port 80 extends axially from a first end 74 of the housing 72. A second end port 82 extends axially from a second end 76 of the housing 72 opposite to the first end 74. A first side port 84 and a second side port 86 extend radially from a side 78 of the housing 72. The first side port 84 is located near the first end 84. The second side port 86 is located near the second end 76.

[0035] The filter 70 may have ribs 88 that project radially from the side 78 of the housing 72. The ribs 88 may be provided, for example, between the first side port 84 and the second side port 86. The ribs 88 may be located at a position that coincides with the first side port 84 and the second side port 86 when viewed from the central axis of the filter 70.

[0036] In this specification, the direction in which the filter 70 extends is sometimes referred to as the axial direction, sometimes as the radial direction orthogonal to the axial direction, and sometimes as the circumferential direction. In the accompanying drawings, to aid in understanding the embodiment, the axial direction is shown as the z-axis. The x-direction and y-direction, orthogonal to the z-direction, are one of the radial directions. The direction in which the first side port 84 and the second side port 86 extend from the filter 70 in its connected state with the holding device 10 is defined as the +y direction.

[0037] Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the filter 70. The filter 70 includes hollow fibers 90 and sealing material 92 disposed inside the housing 72. The hollow fibers 90 extend axially from a first end 74 toward a second end 76 of the housing 72. The sealing material 92 is disposed at the first end 74 and the second end 76 of the housing 72, respectively, and fixes both ends of the hollow fibers 90.

[0038] The first end port 80 and the second end port 82 are connected to the flow path inside the hollow fiber 90. For example, liquid flowing in from the second end port 82 and passing through the inside of the hollow fiber 90 can flow out from the first end port 80. The first side port 84 and the second side port 86 are connected to the flow path outside the hollow fiber 90. For example, liquid flowing in from the second end port 82 and passing through the hollow fiber 90 can flow out from the first side port 84 or the second side port 86. Furthermore, each port 80, 82, 84, and 86 of the filter 70 can be either the inflow side or the outflow side, and can be appropriately set according to the method of using the filter 70.

[0039] Each port 80, 82, 84, and 86 has a narrow diameter portion 80a, 82a, 84a, and 86a. The narrow diameter portions 80a, 82a, 84a, and 86a engage with the retaining device 10 to secure the filter 70 to the retaining device 10. A gasket 94 is inserted into the inside of each port 80, 82, 84, and 86.

[0040] Figure 4 This is a side view that schematically shows the configuration of the retaining device 10, indicating from... Figure 1 The filter 70 is removed. Figure 5 This is a front view that schematically shows the configuration of the holding device 10, indicating from... Figure 2 The filter 70 is removed.

[0041] The retaining device 10 includes a main body 12, a first arm 14, and a second arm 16. The main body 12 is a portion that extends axially in a manner parallel to the filter 70. The first arm 14 and the second arm 16 are portions that extend radially from the main body 12. For example, the first arm 14 extends radially from the upper vertical side of the main body 12, and the second arm 16 extends radially from the lower vertical side of the main body 12. The first arm 14 and the second arm 16 are axially separated, and the filter 70 is disposed between the first arm 14 and the second arm 16.

[0042] The holding device 10 also includes: a first support portion 20, a second support portion 22, a first receiving portion 24, a second receiving portion 26, a first end connection port 30, a second end connection port 32, a first side connection port 34, a second side connection port 36, a first operating lever 38, and a second operating lever 40.

[0043] A first support portion 20 is provided on the first arm 14. The first support portion 20 receives and supports the first end port 80 of the filter 70. The first support portion 20 restricts the axial displacement of the first end port 80 and restricts the x-direction displacement of the first end port 80. The first support portion 20 allows the y-direction displacement of the first end port 80 and allows rotation about the axial direction.

[0044] The first support portion 20 has a recess 20a for receiving the first end port 80. The first support portion 20 has an engaging portion 20c, which has a cutout 20b that engages with the narrow diameter portion 80a of the first end port 80. The engaging portion 20c has a thickness in the axial direction. The engaging portion 20c is inserted between the first end 74 of the filter 70 and the first end port 80, restricting the axial and x-direction displacement of the first end port 80.

[0045] A first end connection port 30 is provided in the first support portion 20. The first end connection port 30 extends axially and is capable of axial displacement. The front end of the first end connection port 30 is located in the recess 20a of the first support portion 20. The first end connection port 30 is displaced toward the first end port 80 disposed in the recess 20a of the first support portion 20 and inserted into the interior of the first end port 80. The first end connection port 30 is configured to maintain the connection state inserted into the interior of the first end port 80 by a force-applying unit such as a spring. In the connected state, the first end connection port 30 abuts against the gasket 94 on the inner side of the first end port 80 and is watertightly connected to the first end port 80. The first end connection port 30 is configured to be displaceable in a direction of separation from the first end port 80 and is capable of maintaining the disengaged state of separation from the first end port 80. The first end connection port 30 is configured to allow switching between the connected state and the disengaged state by operating the first operating lever 38. The first operating lever 38 can be located, for example, on the side of the first arm 14.

[0046] Figure 6 This is a diagram that schematically shows the structure of the first support portion 20, equivalent to... Figure 2 or Figure 5 Sectional view along line AA. Figure 6 The position of the first end connection port 30, and the positions of the first end port 80 and the narrow diameter portion 80a located at the connection position opposite to the first end connection port 30 are indicated by dashed lines. The cut 20b extends in the y-direction toward the connection position corresponding to the first end connection port 30, and is configured such that its width w1 in the x-direction is constant. The width w1 of the cut 20b in the x-direction is smaller than the diameter d1 of the first end port 80 and larger than the diameter d2 of the narrow diameter portion 80a. By inserting the first end port 80 into the cut 20b and moving it deep, the first end port 80 can be configured or guided to a connection position where it can connect with the first end connection port 30.

[0047] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the first support portion 20, illustrating a variation where the width of the cutout 20b in the x-direction is not constant. Figure 7 In the example, the width w2 in the x-direction near the entrance of the cutout 20b is relatively large, and the width in the x-direction decreases to w1 towards the connection position corresponding to the first end connection port 30 (i.e., towards the depth). The width w2 near the entrance of the cutout 20b is larger than the diameter d1 of the first end port 80. By increasing the width w2 near the entrance of the cutout 20b, the first end port 80 can be easily inserted into the first support portion 20. In addition, by decreasing the width w1 near the connection position of the cutout 20b, the first end port 80 can be properly guided to the connection position corresponding to the first end connection port 30.

[0048] return Figure 4 or Figure 5 A second support portion 22 is provided on the second arm 16. The second support portion 22 receives and supports the second end port 82 of the filter 70. The second support portion 22 restricts the axial displacement of the second end port 82 and restricts the x-direction displacement of the second end port 82. The second support portion 22 allows the y-direction displacement of the second end port 82 and allows rotation about the axial direction.

[0049] The second support portion 22 can be constructed in the same manner as the first support portion 20. The second support portion 22 has a recess 22a for receiving the second end port 82. The second support portion 22 has an engaging portion 22c, which has a cutout 22b that engages with the narrow diameter portion 82a of the second end port 82. The engaging portion 22c has a thickness in the axial direction. The engaging portion 22c is inserted between the second end 76 of the filter 70 and the second end port 82, restricting the axial displacement of the second end port 82. The width w in the x-direction of the cutout 22b is smaller than the diameter of the second end port 82 but larger than the diameter of the narrow diameter portion 82a.

[0050] A second end connection port 32 is provided on the second support portion 22. The second end connection port 32 extends axially and is capable of axial displacement. The front end of the second end connection port 32 is located in the recess 22a of the second support portion 22. The second end connection port 32 is displaced toward the second end port 82 disposed on the second support portion 22 and inserted into the interior of the second end port 82. The second end connection port 32 is the same as the first end connection port 30 and is configured to maintain the connection state inserted into the interior of the second end port 82 by a force-applying unit such as a spring. The second end connection port 32 abuts against the gasket 94 on the inner side of the second end port 82 and is watertightly connected to the second end port 82. The second end connection port 32 is configured to be displaceable in a direction of separation from the second end port 82 and can maintain the disengaged state of separation from the second end port 82. The second end connection port 32 is configured to allow switching between the connection state and the disengagement state by operating the second operating lever 40. The second operating lever 40 can be located, for example, on the side of the second arm 16.

[0051] A drain port 28 can be provided at the lower part of the second support portion 22. The drain port 28 has, for example, an inclined surface, configured to discharge liquid accumulated in the recess 22a of the second support portion 22 to the outside. By providing the drain port 28, when the connection between the second end port 82 and the second end connection port 32 is disconnected, it is possible to prevent the liquid flowing out from the second end port 82 from accumulating in the second support portion 22.

[0052] The first support portion 20 and the second support portion 22 are configured to cooperate in positioning the central axis of the filter 70. The filter 70, supported by the first support portion 20 and the second support portion 22, is able to rotate circumferentially about the central axis.

[0053] A first receiving portion 24 is provided on the main body portion 12. The first receiving portion 24 receives and holds the first side port 84 of the filter 70. The first receiving portion 24 restricts the axial displacement of the first side port 84 and restricts the radial displacement of the first side port 84. The first receiving portion 24 restricts the range of rotation of the first side port 84 about the axial direction.

[0054] The first receiving portion 24 has a recess 24a for receiving the first side port 84. The first receiving portion 24 has an engaging portion 24c, which has a cutout 24b that engages with the narrow diameter portion 84a of the first side port 84. The engaging portion 24c has a thickness in the y-direction or radial direction. The engaging portion 24c is inserted between the side surface 78 of the filter 70 and the first side port 84, restricting the radial displacement of the first side port 84. The width w3 of the cutout 24b in the z-direction is smaller than the diameter of the first side port 84 but larger than the diameter of the narrow diameter portion 84a.

[0055] A first side connection port 34 is provided on a first receiving portion 24. The first receiving portion 24 extends in the radial or y-direction and is capable of displacement in the radial or y-direction. The front end of the first side connection port 34 is located in the recess 24a of the first receiving portion 24. The first side connection port 34 is displaced toward the first side port 84 disposed on the first receiving portion 24 and inserted into the interior of the first side port 84. The first side connection port 34 is the same as the first end connection port 30 and is configured to maintain the connection state inserted into the interior of the first side port 84 by a force-applying unit such as a spring. The first side connection port 34 abuts against the gasket 94 on the inner side of the first side port 84 and is watertightly connected to the first side port 84. The first side connection port 34 is configured to be displaceable in a direction that separates it from the first side port 84 and is capable of maintaining the released state that separates it from the first side port 84. The first side connection port 34 is configured such that, for example, the connection state and the de-connection state can be switched by operating the first operating lever 38. The first operating lever 38 is configured such that, for example, the states of the first end connection port 30 and the first side connection port 34 are switched via a linkage mechanism.

[0056] The cut 24b of the first receiving portion 24 extends in the x-direction toward the connection position corresponding to the first side connection port 34. The cut 24b is configured such that the axial width w4 near the entrance of the cut 24b is larger, and the axial width decreases to w3 toward the connection position corresponding to the first side connection port 34. By increasing the width w4 near the entrance of the cut 24b, the first side port 84 can be easily inserted into the first receiving portion 24. In addition, by decreasing the width w3 near the connection position of the cut 24b, the first side port 84 can be properly guided to the connection position corresponding to the first side connection port 34.

[0057] Figure 8 This is a diagram that roughly represents the structure of the first receiving part 24, equivalent to... Figure 2 or Figure 5 BB line section view. Figure 8The filter 70 shown is supported by a first support portion 20 and a second support portion 22, and a first side port 84 is positioned at a position offset circumferentially from the first receiving portion 24. The filter 70 is rotatable about a central axis 96. If the filter 70 is rotated in the specified mounting direction (e.g., clockwise) indicated by arrow R, the first side port 84 can be positioned on the first receiving portion 24, as shown by the dashed line. The narrow diameter portion 84a of the first side port 84 positioned on the first receiving portion 24 is positioned inside the cutout 24b. The first side port 84 positioned on the first receiving portion 24 contacts the inner surface 24b of the engaging portion 24c, and radial or y-direction displacement is restricted by the engaging portion 24c. The first side port 84 positioned on the first receiving portion 24 cannot be rotated further in the specified mounting direction (e.g., clockwise) indicated by arrow R. As a result, the first side port 84 is guided to a connection position opposite to the first side connection port 34.

[0058] Figure 8 It also describes the structure of the switching unit 42 used to switch the connection state and the deactivation state of the first side connection port 34. Figure 8 A switching section 42 indicates the released state. The switching section 42 includes a base 44, a guide 46, a spring 48, and a cam 50. The base 44 is a plate-shaped member with a first side connection port 34. The guide 46 is a rod-shaped member extending radially or y-direction from the first receiving portion 24. The base 44 is capable of displacement radially or y-direction along the guide 46. The spring 48 is provided on the outer periphery of the guide 46, applying force to the base 44 toward the first receiving portion 24 in the radial or y-direction. The cam 50 is disposed between the first receiving portion 24 and the base 44, switching the distance between the first receiving portion 24 and the base 44.

[0059] Figure 9 The switching section 42 indicates the connection state. When the cam 50 is rotated to reduce the distance between the first receiving part 24 and the base 44, the base 44 is subjected to force by the spring 48, and the first side connection port 34 is inserted into the interior of the first side port 84. If the cam 50 is rotated in the connection state, it can return to the previous state. Figure 8 The cam 50 is in the released state. The cam 50 is mechanically connected to the first operating lever 38, and the cam 50 can be rotated by operating the first operating lever 38.

[0060] return Figure 4 or Figure 5 A second receiving portion 26 is provided on the main body portion 12. The second receiving portion 22 receives and holds the second side port 86 of the filter 70. The second receiving portion 26 can be configured similarly to the first receiving portion 24. The second receiving portion 26 restricts the axial displacement of the second side port 86 and restricts the radial displacement of the second side port 86. The second receiving portion 26 restricts the range of rotation of the second side port 86 about the axial direction.

[0061] The second receiving portion 26 has a recess 26a for receiving the second side port 86. The second receiving portion 26 has an engaging portion 26c, which has a cutout 26b that engages with the narrow diameter portion 86a of the second side port 86. The engaging portion 26c has a thickness in the y-direction or radial direction. The engaging portion 26c is inserted between the side surface 78 of the filter 70 and the second side port 86, restricting the radial displacement of the second side port 86. The width w3 of the cutout 26b in the z-direction is smaller than the diameter of the second side port 86 but larger than the diameter of the narrow diameter portion 86a.

[0062] A second side connection port 36 is provided on the second receiving portion 26. The second receiving portion 26 extends in the radial or y-direction and is capable of displacement in the radial or y-direction. The front end of the second side connection port 36 is located in the recess 26a of the second receiving portion 26. The second side connection port 36 is displaced toward the second side port 86 disposed on the second receiving portion 26 and inserted into the interior of the second side port 86. The second side connection port 36 is the same as the first side connection port 34 and is configured to maintain the connection state inserted into the interior of the second side port 86 by a force-applying unit such as a spring. The second side connection port 36 abuts against the gasket 94 on the inner side of the second side port 86 and is watertightly connected to the second side port 86. The second side connection port 36 is configured to be displaceable in a direction that separates it from the second side port 86 and is capable of maintaining the released state that separates it from the second side port 86. The second side connection port 36 is configured such that, for example, the connection state and the de-connection state can be switched by operating the second operating lever 40. The second operating lever 40 is configured such that, for example, the states of the second end connection port 32 and the second side connection port 36 are switched via a linkage mechanism.

[0063] The cutout 26b of the second receiving portion 26 is the same as that of the first receiving portion 24, extending in the x-direction toward the connection position corresponding to the second side connection port 36. The cutout 26b is configured such that the axial width w4 near the entrance of the cutout 26b is larger, and the axial width decreases to w3 toward the connection position corresponding to the second side connection port 36. By increasing the width w4 near the entrance of the cutout 26b, the second side port 86 can be easily inserted into the second receiving portion 26. Furthermore, by decreasing the width w3 near the connection position of the cutout 26b, the second side port 86 can be appropriately guided to the connection position corresponding to the second side connection port 36.

[0064] The retaining device 10 may also include a rotation suppression part 52. The rotation suppression part 52 is provided on the main body 12 and protrudes from the main body 12 in the radial or y-direction. The rotation suppression part 52 has a protrusion 54 that engages with the rib 88 of the filter 70. The protrusion 54 is located at a position offset in the x-direction from the center of the first side connection port 34, and at a position offset by Δx in the direction toward the entrance of the cutout 24b of the first receiving part 24. The protrusion 54 suppresses the rotation of the filter 70 by engaging with the rib 88 of the filter 70. The protrusion 54 does not completely suppress the rotation of the filter 70, and the rib 88 of the filter 70 can pass over the protrusion 54 to a certain extent. The convex surface of the protrusion 54 allows the rib 88 of the filter 70 to easily pass over the protrusion 54.

[0065] Figure 10 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates the structure of the rotation suppression part 52. (Equivalent to...) Figure 1 or Figure 4 CC line section view. Figure 10 This indicates that the first side port 84 of the filter 70 is configured in a connection position opposite to the first side connection port 34. Figure 10 The rib 88a, indicated by the dashed line, represents the state when not in the connection position. When the filter 70 is rotated in the prescribed installation direction (e.g., clockwise) as shown by arrow R, the rib 88a can pass over the protrusion 54. The rotation of the rib 88a in the direction opposite to arrow R after passing over the protrusion 54 is suppressed by the protrusion 54. Furthermore, when a stronger force is applied to the filter 70 to rotate it in the direction opposite to arrow R, the rib 88a can pass over the protrusion 54.

[0066] Next, the installation method of filter 70 to retaining device 10 will be described. Figure 11 This diagram schematically illustrates the method of installing the filter 70 into the holding device 10 according to an embodiment. First, the filter 70 is inserted into the support portion of the holding device 10, so that the filter 70 is supported on the support portion of the holding device 10 (S10). For example, by inserting the first end port 80 into the first support portion 20 and the second end port 82 into the second support portion 22, the filter 70 can be arranged between the first support portion 20 and the second support portion 22.

[0067] Figure 12 This diagram schematically illustrates the process of inserting the first end port 80 into the first support portion 20 of the retaining device 10. (See diagram below.) Figure 12As indicated by arrow Y, by moving the filter 70 in the +y direction, the narrow diameter portion 80a of the first end port 80 can be inserted into the cutout 20b of the first support portion 20. At this time, the filter 70 is installed with the first side port 84 extending in a direction different from the +y direction. Therefore, when the first end port 80 is inserted into the first support portion 20, interference between the first side port 84 and the first receiving portion 24 can be prevented.

[0068] return Figure 11 Next, the filter 70, supported by the first support portion 20 and the second support portion 22, is rotated in the prescribed installation direction, and the side port of the filter 70 is inserted into the receiving portion of the retaining device 10 (S12). For example, as Figure 8 As shown, by rotating the filter 70 in the mounting direction indicated by arrow R, the first side port 84 can be inserted into the first receiving part 24, and the second side port 86 can be inserted into the second receiving part. At this time, further rotation of the filter 70 is suppressed by the engagement of the rib 88 of the filter 70 with the protrusion 54 of the rotation suppression part 52.

[0069] Next, the end connector of the retaining device 10 is connected to the end port of the filter 70, and the side connector of the retaining device 10 is connected to the side port of the filter 70. For example, by operating the first operating lever 38 of the retaining device 10, the first end connector 30 can be connected to the first end port 80, and the first side connector 34 can be connected to the first side port 84. Similarly, by operating the second operating lever 40 of the retaining device 10, the second end connector 32 can be connected to the second end port 82, and the second side connector 36 can be connected to the second side port 86. Each connector 30, 32, 34, 36 is connected, for example, by connecting to... Figure 9 The switching unit 42 shown has the same mechanism, and maintains the connection state of applying force to the corresponding port.

[0070] Furthermore, when the filter 70 is removed from the retaining device 10, a method is adopted that... Figure 11 The reverse steps are then followed. First, by operating the first operating lever 38 and the second operating lever 40, the corresponding connection ports 30, 32, 34, and 36 can be separated from the respective ports 80, 82, 84, and 86. Next, by rotating the filter 70 in the direction opposite to the installation direction, the first side port 84 can be removed from the first receiving part 24, and the second side port 86 can be removed from the second receiving part 26. Finally, by pulling the filter 70 forward or in the -y direction, the filter 70 can be removed from the holding device 10.

[0071] According to this embodiment, the filter 70 can be installed in the retaining device 10 through three steps: inserting the filter 70 into the retaining device 10, rotating the filter 70, and operating the operating lever. This improves the ease of installation and removal of the filter 70. According to this embodiment, by rotating the filter 70 to insert its side port into the receiving portion of the retaining device 10, the radial displacement of the filter 70 can be limited by the receiving portion. Therefore, when connecting the connection port to each port of the filter 70, even if force is applied to the filter 70 in both the axial and radial directions, displacement of the filter 70 can be prevented. As a result, connection failure due to positional misalignment during filter 70 connection can be prevented, further improving the ease of installation and removal of the filter 70.

[0072] Figure 13 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates the structure of the first receiving part 24 in the modified example, corresponding to the above. Figure 8 . Figure 13 The first receiving portion 24 shown is mounted to the main body portion 12 via a spring 60. The spring 60 applies force to the first receiving portion 24 in the +y direction relative to the main body portion 12. The spring 60 applies force in the direction that stretches the first side port 84, which is inserted into the first receiving portion 24, in the +y direction. As a result, the first side port 84 makes more firm contact with the inner surface 24d of the first receiving portion, limiting the displacement of the first side port 84. Therefore, the spring 60 can function as a rotation suppressor to inhibit the rotation of the first side port 84, which is located at the connection position opposite to the first side connection port 34.

[0073] The first receiving portion 24 is mounted to the main body portion 12 via a spring 60 extending in the y-direction, and therefore can be slightly displaced relative to the main body portion 12 in the x and z directions. That is, the first receiving portion 24 can swing relative to the main body portion 12 in the x and z directions. As a result, even if the first side port 84 is positioned off-design due to manufacturing tolerances of the filter 70, the first side port 84 at the offset position can be received by slightly swinging the first receiving portion 24.

[0074] Furthermore, a structure similar to that of the spring 60 can be added between the main body 12 and the second receiving part 26. Additionally, a structure similar to that of the spring 60 can also be added between the first arm 14 and the first support part 20, or between the second arm 16 and the second support part 22. In this case, the first support part 20, the second support part 22, the first receiving part 24, and the second receiving part 26 can each swing independently relative to the main body 12. This allows for the absorption of positional shifts in the first end port 80, the second end port 82, the first side port 84, and the second side port 86 caused by manufacturing tolerances, etc.

[0075] Figure 14This is a diagram that schematically illustrates the structure of the first receiving part 35 in other variations, corresponding to the above. Figure 8 . Figure 14 The first receiving portion 24 shown has a detection portion 62 that detects the insertion of the first side port 84 into the first receiving portion 24. The detection portion 62 is a rod-shaped member extending in the x-direction, and its front end is located in the recess 24a of the first receiving portion 24. If the first side port 84 is inserted into the first receiving portion 24, the detection portion 62 is displaced in the +x direction to detect the insertion of the first side port 84. The detection portion 62 is mechanically connected, for example, to a switching suppression mechanism or locking mechanism that suppresses the rotation of the cam 50.

[0076] When the insertion of the first side port 84 is detected by the detection unit 62, the switching unit 42 can also release the lock of the cam 50 based on the detection, and automatically switch from the released state to the connected state. In this case, the first side connection port 34 can be automatically connected to the first side port 84 simply by properly inserting the first side port 84 into the first receiving unit 24.

[0077] When the insertion of the first side port 84 is detected by the detection unit 62, the switching unit 42 can also release the lock of the cam 50 to allow rotation. In this case, the switching unit 42 does not automatically switch states based on the detection by the detection unit 62, but switches states based on the operation of the first operating lever 38. When the insertion of the first side port 84 is not detected by the detection unit 62, the switching unit 42 locks the cam 50 to suppress rotation. In this case, the first operating lever 38 cannot be operated, and state switching based on the operation of the first operating lever 38 is suppressed. According to this modified example, the operating lever-based connection operation can be performed only when the first side port 84 is properly inserted into the first receiving part 24, and poor connection can be prevented.

[0078] The configuration of the switching unit 42 and the detection unit 62 in the modified example can also be applied to the second receiving unit 26.

[0079] (Second Implementation)

[0080] Figure 15 This is a side view that schematically shows the configuration of the holding device 110 in the second embodiment. Figure 16 This is a front view that schematically shows the configuration of the retaining device 110 according to the second embodiment. The retaining device 110 of the second embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment in that it has a support portion 112 that supports the side surface 78 of the housing 72 of the filter 70 instead of the first end port 80 and the second end port 82 of the filter 70. Hereinafter, the retaining device 110 of the second embodiment will be described with a focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and the common points will be omitted as appropriate.

[0081] The holding device 110 has the same main body 12 as in the first embodiment. The holding device 110 does not have a first arm 14 and a second arm 16. The holding device 110 also includes a support portion 112, a first receiving portion 24, a second receiving portion 26, a first side connection port 34, a second side connection port 36, and an operating lever 114. The first receiving portion 24, the second receiving portion 26, the first side connection port 34, and the second side connection port 36 can be configured in the same way as in the first embodiment described above.

[0082] The support portion 112 extends radially from the main body portion 12. The support portion 112 is, for example, located near the center of the main body portion 12, between the first receiving portion 24 and the second receiving portion 26. The support portion 112 grips and holds the housing 72 of the filter 70. The support portion 112 restricts the axial displacement of the filter 70, allowing the filter 70 to rotate about its axial direction. Multiple support portions 112 may also be provided at axial intervals.

[0083] The operating lever 114 is located on the side of the main body 12. By operating the operating lever 114, the connection state and disconnection state of the first side connection port 34 and the second side connection port 36 can be switched.

[0084] Next, the installation method of the filter 70 to the retaining device 110 will be described. The installation method is the same as in the first embodiment, and can be achieved by connecting with... Figure 11 The same process is followed for installation. First, insert the filter 70 into the support 112. Next, rotate the filter 70 in the prescribed installation direction and insert the side port into the receiving part. For example, the first side connection port 34 can be inserted into the first receiving part 24, and the second side connection port 36 can be inserted into the second receiving part. Next, connect the side connection port to the side port. For example, by operating the operating lever 114 of the operating retaining device 110, the first side connection port 34 can be connected to the first side port 84, and the second side connection port 36 can be connected to the second side port 86. Alternatively, using a connector (not shown), the tube can also be connected to at least one of the first end port 80 and the second end port 82.

[0085] In the above embodiment, the filter 70 is shown to have four ports. The number of ports a filter has is not limited to four; it can also have two, three, or more than five ports. The filter may have at least one end port and at least one side port. In this case, the retaining device 10 may have at least one support, at least one receiving portion, at least one end connection port, and at least one side connection port. In this case, the retaining device 110 may have at least one support, at least one receiving portion, and at least one side connection port.

[0086] In the above embodiments, filter 70 is shown as a particulate filter for filtering dialysate, but holding devices 10 and 110 can also be used to hold and connect filters for any purpose. For example, filter 70 can also be a dialyzer for hemodialysis. In this case, the first end port 80 and the second end port 82 can also be inlet and outlet connected to the blood circulation path, and the first side port 84 and the second side port 86 can also be inlet and outlet for dialysate.

[0087] The present invention has been described above based on embodiments. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various design changes and modifications are possible, all of which are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0088] The following describes several aspects of the present invention.

[0089] A first aspect of the present invention is a retaining device comprising: a support portion that supports a filter extending axially, restricts the axial displacement of the filter, and allows rotation of the filter about the axial direction; a receiving portion that, when the filter supported on the support portion rotates in a predetermined direction about the axial direction, receives a side port extending radially from the side of the filter and restricts the radial displacement of the side port; and a side connection port that is displaced toward the side port disposed on the receiving portion and is capable of connecting to the side port. According to the first aspect, by rotating the filter to insert the side port into the receiving portion, the radial displacement of the filter can be restricted. As a result, even when a radial force is applied to the filter to connect the side connection port to the side port, positional displacement of the filter can be prevented. This improves the operability of filter installation.

[0090] A second aspect of the invention is a retaining device as described in the first aspect, wherein the receiving portion allows the side port to displace in a predetermined direction toward a connection position opposite to the side connection port, and restricts further displacement of the side port from the connection position in the predetermined direction. According to the second aspect, by limiting the rotation range of the side port inserted into the receiving portion, the side port can be guided to an appropriate connection position. As a result, the operability of filter installation can be improved.

[0091] A third aspect of the invention is a retaining device as described in the second aspect, wherein the receiving portion has a cutout extending in the predetermined direction toward the connection position. According to the third aspect, by providing the cutout in the receiving portion, the side port can be guided to the appropriate connection position by rotating the filter. As a result, the operability of filter installation can be improved.

[0092] The fourth aspect of the invention is a retaining device as described in the third aspect, wherein the cut has a shape in which the opening width in the axial direction decreases toward the connection position. According to the fourth aspect, by reducing the opening width toward the connection position, the side port of the insertion receiving portion can be guided to the appropriate connection position. As a result, the operability of filter installation can be improved.

[0093] The fifth aspect of the present invention is a retaining device as described in any one of the first to fourth aspects, further comprising a rotation suppression part that, when the side port is configured in a connection position opposite to the side connection port, suppresses rotation of the filter in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction. According to the fifth aspect, since the side port can be prevented from shifting from the proper connection position, the workability of filter installation can be improved.

[0094] The sixth aspect of the invention is a retaining device as described in the fifth aspect, wherein the rotation suppression portion has a protrusion that engages with a rib provided on the side of the filter. According to the sixth aspect, since the side port can be prevented from shifting from the proper connection position by means of the protrusion engaging with the rib of the filter, the workability of installing the filter can be improved.

[0095] The seventh aspect of the invention is a retaining device as described in the fifth aspect, wherein the receiving portion of the rotation suppression portion has a force-applying unit that applies a force to pull the side port disposed on the receiving portion radially. According to the seventh aspect, since the side port can be suppressed from shifting from its proper connection position by pulling the side port radially, the workability of filter installation can be improved.

[0096] The eighth aspect of the present invention is a retaining device as described in any one of the first to seventh aspects, further comprising a switching unit that switches between a connected state in which the side connector is forced toward the side port and a deactivated state in which the side connector is separated from the side port. According to the eighth aspect, since the connected and deactivated states can be switched by the switching unit, the operability of connecting the side connector to the side port can be improved.

[0097] The ninth aspect of the present invention is a retaining device as described in the eighth aspect, further comprising a detection unit that detects that the side port is positioned at a connection position opposite to the side connection port, and a switching unit configured to switch from the deactivated state to the connected state based on the detection by the detection unit. According to the ninth aspect, since the connection state can be automatically switched upon detecting that the side port is positioned at an appropriate connection position, the operability of connecting the side connection port to the side port can be improved.

[0098] The tenth aspect of the present invention is a holding device as described in the eighth aspect, further comprising: a detection unit that detects that the side port is configured in a connection position opposite to the side connection port; and a switching suppression unit configured to allow switching based on the state of the switching unit when detected by the detection unit, and to suppress switching based on the state of the switching unit when not detected by the detection unit. According to the tenth aspect, by providing the switching suppression unit, connection operation is allowed only when the side port is configured in an appropriate connection position, thus preventing connection defects caused by positional misalignment of the side port.

[0099] The eleventh aspect of the present invention is a retaining device as described in any one of the first to tenth aspects, further comprising a main body on which the support portion is mounted, and the receiving portion being mounted on the main body in a manner that allows it to swing relative to the main body. According to the eleventh aspect, if the side port deviates from its designed position due to manufacturing tolerances, etc., the side port located at the deviated position can also be inserted into the receiving portion by swinging the receiving portion relative to the main body.

[0100] The 12th embodiment of the invention is a retaining device as described in any one of the 1st to 11th embodiments, wherein the support portion supports an end port extending axially from the end of the filter. According to the 12th embodiment, the filter can be supported in a manner rotatable about a central axis by supporting the end port of the filter.

[0101] The 13th aspect of the present invention is a retaining device as described in the 12th aspect, further comprising an end connection port connected to the end port in the support portion. According to the 13th aspect, since the end connection port can be connected to the end port supported in the support portion, the workability of installing the filter can be improved.

[0102] The 14th embodiment of the present invention is a retaining device as described in any one of the 1st to 11th embodiments, wherein the support portion includes a first support portion and a second support portion, the first support portion supporting a first end port extending axially from a first end of the filter, and the second support portion supporting a second end port extending axially from a second end of the filter opposite to the first end. According to the 14th embodiment, by supporting both ends of the filter, the filter can be supported in a manner that allows it to rotate about a central axis.

[0103] The 15th embodiment of the present invention is a retaining device as described in the 14th embodiment, further comprising: a first end connection port that is axially displaced in the first support portion and connected to the first end port; and a second end connection port that is axially displaced in the second support portion and connected to the second end port. According to the 15th embodiment, since the first end connection port and the second end connection port can be connected to the first end port and the second end port, the operability of filter installation can be improved.

[0104] The sixteenth aspect of the present invention is an installation method comprising: a step of supporting an axially extending filter on a support portion of a retaining device; a step of rotating the filter supported on the support portion in a predetermined direction about the axial direction and inserting a side port extending radially from the side of the filter into a receiving portion of the retaining device; and a step of connecting a side connection port of the retaining device to the side port disposed in the receiving portion. According to the sixteenth aspect, since the filter can be fixed to the retaining device and the side connection port connected to the side port through three steps of insertion, rotation, and connection, the workability of filter installation can be improved.

[0105] Industrial availability

[0106] According to the present invention, the operability of installing filters into the retaining device can be improved.

[0107] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0108] 10…holding device, 12…main body, 14…first arm, 16…second arm, 20…first support, 22…second support, 24…first receiving part, 26…second receiving part, 30…first end connection port, 32…second end connection port, 34…first side connection port, 36…second side connection port, 38…first operating lever, 40…second operating lever, 42…switching part, 52…rotation suppression part, 54…protrusion, 62…detection part, 70…filter, 74…first end, 76…second end, 78…side, 80…first end port, 82…second end port, 84…first side port, 86…second side port, 88…rib.

Claims

1. A holding device comprising: A support portion that supports the filter extending axially, restricts the axial displacement of the filter, and allows the filter to rotate about the axial direction. A receiving portion, which, when the filter supported on the support portion rotates in a predetermined direction about the axial direction, receives a side port extending radially from the side of the filter, and restricts the radial displacement of the side port, and The side connection port is displaced toward the side port disposed on the receiving part, and is able to connect to the side port.

2. The holding device as claimed in claim 1, The receiving part allows the side port to move toward the connection position opposite to the side connection port in the predetermined direction, and restricts the side port from moving further away from the connection position in the predetermined direction.

3. The holding device as claimed in claim 2, The receiving portion has a cutout extending toward the connection location in the prescribed direction.

4. The holding device as claimed in claim 3, The cut has a shape in which the opening width in the axial direction decreases toward the connection position.

5. The holding device as claimed in claim 1, It also includes a rotation suppression part, which, when the side port is configured in a connection position opposite to the side connection port, suppresses the rotation of the filter in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction.

6. The holding device as claimed in claim 5, The rotation suppression part has a protrusion that engages with a rib provided on the side of the filter.

7. The holding device as claimed in claim 5, The receiving portion of the rotation suppression portion has a force-applying unit that applies a force that pulls the side port of the receiving portion along the radial direction.

8. The holding device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, It also includes a switching unit that switches between a connected state in which the side connector is subjected to force toward the side port and a deactivated state in which the side connector is separated from the side port.

9. The holding device as claimed in claim 8, It also includes a detection unit that detects when the side port is configured in a connection position opposite to the side connection port; The switching unit is configured to switch from the deactivated state to the connected state upon detection by the detection unit.

10. The holding device as claimed in claim 8, It also includes: a detection unit that detects when the side port is configured in a connection position opposite to the side connection port, and The switching suppression unit is configured to allow switching based on the state of the switching unit when detected by the detection unit, and to suppress switching based on the state of the switching unit when not detected by the detection unit.

11. The holding device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, It also includes a main body for mounting the support portion; The receiving part is mounted on the main body in a manner that allows it to swing relative to the main body.

12. The holding device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, The support portion supports an end port that extends axially from the end of the filter.

13. The holding device as claimed in claim 12, It also has an end connection port that connects to the end port in the support portion.

14. The holding device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, The support portion includes a first support portion and a second support portion, the first support portion supporting a first end port extending axially from a first end of the filter, and the second support portion supporting a second end port extending axially from a second end of the filter opposite to the first end.

15. The holding device as claimed in claim 14, It also includes: a first end connection port, which is displaced axially within the first support portion and connected to the first end port; and The second end connection port is displaced axially within the second support portion and connected to the second end port.

16. An installation method, comprising: The process of supporting the axially extending filter on the support portion of the retaining device. The process of rotating the filter supported on the support in a predetermined direction about the axial direction and inserting the side port extending radially from the side of the filter into the receiving part of the retaining device, and The process of connecting the side connection port of the holding device to the side port disposed on the receiving part.

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