Fluid connector assembly

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a fluid connector assembly that provides neutral fluid displacement without overlapping the connector. A fluid connector assembly may include a housing and a pair of connectors (e.g., luers) coupled with the housing. A compressible member is located within the housing. The first connector and the second connector each include a strut having an opening. The compressible member may seal the opening of the first connector to prevent fluid ingress. However, when the post of the second connector is inserted into the housing, the post of the second connector displaces the compressible member such that the compressible member creates a fluid path, thus allowing fluid flow through the interior volume of the housing. Further, a compressible member seals the housing until each of the first and second connectors is coupled thereto to form a fluid path through the strut.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to medical fluid connectors and, more particularly, to controlling fluid flow. Background Art

[0002] Needleless connectors (including neutral shift needleless connectors) provide a solution for providing medical fluids to patients. In an exemplary embodiment, the needleless connector assembly facilitates fluid transfer between a medical fluid supply source and a catheter line. The medical fluid supply source and the catheter line are secured to respective Luer pieces, which are secured to a connector body. To transfer fluid, the Luer piece connected to the medical supply source is inserted into the connector body and overlaps the center post of the Luer piece connected to the catheter line.

[0003] Overlap between the luer and the center post can cause problems. For example, movement of the luer relative to the center post (or vice versa) can cause contact between the luer and the center post, increasing the risk of the center post cracking or breaking. When this happens, the damaged area causes fluid leakage, resulting in fluid loss and contamination. Additionally, luers used with neutral shift connectors are often incompatible luers, making them susceptible to fluid leakage. Utility Model Content

[0004] According to at least some embodiments disclosed herein, components used with neutral fluid displacement, such as luers and struts, may break when they overlap and contact each other, which may cause medical fluid leakage and reduce medical delivery to the patient. When the damaged component is located in the connector body, it may not be easy for medical professionals to find that the component is damaged, resulting in delayed response time.

[0005] Aspects of the present disclosure provide a needleless fluid connector assembly that provides a neutral fluid displacement connection while eliminating the risk of damaging one or more components of the needleless fluid connector assembly. Neutral fluid displacement limits or prevents fluid from entering a catheter lumen during connection or disconnection of a medical fluid.

[0006] Therefore, various aspects of the present disclosure provide a fluid connector assembly, comprising: a housing including a first end fluidly connected to a second end through a cavity; a compressible member disposed in the housing, the compressible member including at least one sealing element; and a gate, a first connector configured to be connected to the housing at a first end, the first connector being configured to convey fluid through the housing; and a second connector configured to be connected to the housing at a second end, the second connector being configured to receive fluid from the housing.

[0007] Some examples of the present disclosure provide a fluid connector assembly comprising: a shell comprising a first end fluidly connected to a second end through a cavity; a compressible member disposed in the shell, the compressible member comprising: at least one sealing element; and a gate valve; a first connector configured to be connected to the shell at a first end, the first connector being configured to transport fluid through the shell; and a second connector configured to be connected to the shell at a second end, the second connector being configured to receive fluid from the shell; wherein the compressible member is configured to deform from an expanded structure to a compressed structure when the first connector is connected to the shell; and wherein the compressible member is configured to deform substantially toward a first side of the cavity in the compressed structure.

[0008] Thus, the present application addresses a number of operational challenges encountered in prior neutral shift connector assemblies that are prone to breakage.

[0009] The other characteristics and advantages of the subject technology will be described in the following description, and some characteristics and advantages will become clear from the description, or can be understood by practicing the subject technology. The advantages of the subject technology will be realized and obtained through the structures specifically pointed out in the written description and embodiments and the accompanying drawings.

[0010] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the subject technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The following describes various features of illustrative embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate rather than limit the present invention. The accompanying drawings include the following figures:

[0012] Figure 1 An IV set coupled to a patient is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 2 A perspective view of a fluid connector assembly for use with an IV set in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0014] Figure 3 An exploded view of a fluid connector assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown, showing additional features.

[0015] Figure 4 A partial cross-sectional view of a fluid connector assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown showing a first connector, an insert, and a compressible member positioned in a housing.

[0016] Figure 5A partial cross-sectional view of a fluid connector assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown showing a first connector, a second connector, an insert, and a compressible member inserted into a housing.

[0017] Fig. 6A A partial cross-sectional view of an insert according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0018] Figure 6B A bottom perspective view of an insert according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0019] Figure 7 A perspective view of a first connector is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 8 Methods for regulating intravenous fluids according to aspects of the present disclosure are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] In the following detailed description, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a full understanding of the subject technology. It should be understood that the subject technology can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known structures and techniques are not shown in detail to avoid confusing the subject technology.

[0022] Furthermore, although the present specification sets forth specific details of various embodiments, it should be understood that the description is illustrative only and should not be construed as limiting in any way. Additionally, it is contemplated that although specific embodiments of the present disclosure may be disclosed or illustrated in the context of an intravenous ("IV") kit, these embodiments may be used in other fluid delivery systems. Furthermore, various applications of such embodiments and modifications thereof that may occur to those skilled in the art are also included in the general concepts described herein.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the present disclosure includes various features and advantages for maintaining separation between the strut and the luer, thereby minimizing the possibility of damaging the strut and / or the luer.

[0024] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 An IV set 1 coupled to a patient 10 is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The IV set 1 includes a medication bag 12, a drip chamber 14, and tubing 22. The tubing 22 extends between the drip chamber 14 and the fluid connector assembly 100 of the IV set 1. To prevent the tubing 16 or catheter 18 from being accidentally dislodged or disconnected from the patient, a tape 26 is placed on the tubing 16 and catheter 18 such that the tape 26 engages the tubing 16, catheter 18, and the patient 10.

[0025] Figure 2A perspective view of a fluid connector assembly 100 for use with an IV set according to various aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The fluid connector assembly 100 is designed for medical applications, such as an IV set 1 (e.g., Figure 1 ) and other IV medical fluid delivery applications using catheters, including, by way of non-limiting example, a peripheral intravenous catheter ("PIVC").

[0026] Fluid connector assembly 100 provides the regulating fluid path of the parts that runs through fluid connector assembly 100.As shown in the figure, fluid connector assembly 100 comprises housing 102, and it is used as the center body that carries and / or connects one or more parts.Housing 102 can comprise cylindrical or roughly cylindrical main body.Additionally, housing 102 can comprise hollow or roughly hollow main body, and this main body forms the internal volume that holds one or more parts.In certain embodiments, housing 102 is made of polycarbonate, polycarbonate acrylonitrile butadiene styrene blend or another material (such as plastic or metal).

[0027] The fluid connector assembly 100 further includes a connector 104 and a connector 106, each of which can be coupled to the housing 102, including being mechanically coupled to the housing. As shown, the housing 102 includes an end 105 and an end 107, and the connector 104 and the connector 106 are connected to the end 105 and the end 107, respectively. The connectors 104 and 106 can be referred to as a first connector and a second connector, respectively. Likewise, the end 105 and the end 107 can be referred to as a first end and a second end, respectively. However, for the connectors 104 and 106 and the ends 105 and 107, "first" and "second" can be interchangeable. Likewise, each of the connectors 104 and 106 can be referred to as a medical connector. In some embodiments, the connector 106 is connected to a medical fluid, such as a drug bag 12 (e.g. Figure 1 In addition, in some embodiments, the connector 104 is connected to the catheter line (e.g., Figure 1 The catheter line delivers the medical fluid to the catheter, such as catheter 18 (e.g. Figure 1104 and 106). Likewise, each of the connectors 104 and 106 can take the form of a Luer piece that is designed to prevent fluid from leaking through their respective connections to the housing 102. In this regard, each of the connectors 104 and 106 can comply with standards established by the International Standards Organization ("ISO") to improve patient safety, minimize medical fluid leakage, and reduce misconnections with other connection devices. In some embodiments, each of the connectors 104 and 106 may not comply with standards established by ISO. In some embodiments, the connectors 104 and 106 are made of polycarbonate, a polycarbonate acrylonitrile butadiene styrene blend, or another material such as plastic or metal.

[0028] The connector 104 includes a post 108 including an opening at an end of the post 108 that is fluidly connected to the Figure 2 104 and 106). As a result, the fluid outlet 110 is used as a fluid transmission position of the fluid connector assembly 100. Similarly, the connector 106 includes a pillar 112 having an opening 114. The opening 114 is used as a fluid inlet of the fluid connector assembly 100. Therefore, the opening 114 is used as a fluid receiving position of the fluid connector assembly 100. Each of the pillars 108 and 112 can pass through the connectors 104 and 106 at the center or at least approximately the center. The pillars 108 and 112 can be referred to as the first pillar and the second pillar, respectively. However, "first" and "second" can be used interchangeably. Similarly, each of the pillars 108 and 112 includes a conical or substantially conical shape. However, other shapes are also possible, including but not limited to cylindrical shapes.

[0029] Figure 3 An exploded view of a fluid connector assembly 100 according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown, wherein additional features are shown. Connector 104 includes an opening 116 formed in a post of connector 104. Opening 116 represents a fluid inlet for connector 104. Opening 116 is fluidly connected to fluid outlet 110. Additionally, each of connectors 104 and 106 includes a connector portion integral with a corresponding post. For example, connector 104 includes connector portion 118, and connector 106 includes connector portion 120. As shown in FIG. Figure 3As shown, pillars 108 and 112 extend through connector portions 118 and 120, respectively. Fluid connector assembly 100 further includes an insert 180. In some embodiments, insert 180 is located between connector 104 and housing 102. In some embodiments, insert 180 is made of polycarbonate, polycarbonate acrylonitrile butadiene styrene blend, or another material (such as plastic or metal). In some embodiments, connector 104 is welded to insert 180. In some embodiments, insert 180 is welded to housing 102. In some embodiments, connector 104 is welded to insert 180, and housing 102 is welded to insert 180. In some embodiments, fluid connector assembly 100 includes four parts, connector 104, insert 180, housing 102, and compressible member 122. In some embodiments, when insert 180, housing 102, and compressible member 122 are welded together, fluid connector assembly 100 includes less than two parts. In some embodiments, when the insert 180 and the housing 102 or the compressible member 122 are welded together, the fluid connector assembly 100 includes less than two parts.

[0030] Additionally, the fluid connector assembly 100 includes a compressible member 122. In some embodiments, the compressible member 122 can be elastically compressed. Therefore, the compressible member 122 can be compressed by an external force (or by multiple external forces) and then return to its initial uncompressed state when the external force is removed. The compressible member 122 is designed to regulate the fluid flowing through the fluid connector assembly 100. Therefore, the compressible member 122 is used as a valve for the fluid connector assembly 100. This will be described in detail below.

[0031] Figure 4 A partial cross-sectional view of a fluid connector assembly 100 according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown, showing a connector 104 and a compressible member 122 positioned in a housing 102. Based on a hollow design, the housing 102 includes an interior volume 124 that forms a three-dimensional space or void in the housing 102, thereby allowing the housing 102 to accommodate one or more components. For example, the compressible member 122 and a portion of the insert 180 are positioned in the interior volume 124. The housing 102 further includes an inner surface 126 or wall that at least partially defines the interior volume 124 of the housing 102.

[0032] Additionally, a portion of the insert 180 is located within the compressible member 122. In this regard, the compressible member 122 includes an interior volume 128 within the gate valve 132 through which a portion of the insert 180 passes. The gate valve 132 of the compressible member 122 further includes an inner surface 130 or wall that at least partially defines the interior volume 128 of the compressible member 122. In some embodiments, the gate valve 132 is a diaphragm. In some embodiments, a portion of the gate valve is a diaphragm. Similarly, as Figure 4 As shown, the inner surface 130 of the compressible member 122 surrounds the insert 180. In addition, the inner surface 130 of the compressible member 122 is in contact with the insert 180. Due to this relationship between the inner surface 130 and the insert 180, the compressible member 122 prevents the fluid from flowing through the insert 180. In some embodiments, the gate valve 132 of the compressible member 122 provides a liquid sealing structure that forms a seal between the insert 180 and the compressible member 122 to prevent fluid leakage between the insert 180 and the compressible member 122. In some embodiments, the gate valve 132 can be integral with the compressible member 122, and in some embodiments, the gate valve 132 can be separate from the compressible member 122. In some embodiments, the compressible member 122 is made of liquid silicone rubber or another material (such as plastic).

[0033] The compressible member 122 further includes a primary seal 133 and a secondary seal 134 extending circumferentially within the interior volume 124 of the housing 102. Figure 4 As shown, the primary seal 133 and the secondary seal 134 can prevent fluid flow by contacting the inner surface 126 of the housing 102. However, when the connector 106 ( Figure 3 When the connector 106 (as shown) is coupled to the housing 102, the post 112 of the connector 106 can engage the compressible member 122, thereby causing the primary seal 133 and the auxiliary seal 134 to translate based on the force provided by the post 112.

[0034] In addition, compressible member 122 includes dimension 136, which defines the longitudinal dimension of the major axis of compressible member 122. When no external force acts on compressible member 122 to displace (e.g., compress) compressible member 122, the longitudinal dimension of compressible member 122 is defined by dimension 136. Therefore, dimension 136 of compressible member 122 represents an initial dimension, and Figure 4 The size and shape of the compressible member 122 shown in represent an initial size and shape.

[0035] Figure 5A partial cross-sectional view of a fluid connector assembly 100 according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown, showing a connector 106 inserted into a housing 102. As shown, the post 112 of the connector 106 is at least partially disposed in the housing 102 and engages the compressible member 122, thereby causing the compressible member 122 to shift. For example, the compressible member 122 is compressed and reduced to a size less than the dimension 136 ( Figure 4 8 (an initial uncompressed size shown in ). Based on the displacement of the compressible member 122, each of the internal volume 128 and the inner surface 130 of the compressible member 122 changes. For example, the internal volume 128 is reduced and expanded around the insert 180, and the inner surface 130 of the compressible member 122 no longer circumferentially engages the inner surface 126. In addition, the displacement of the compressible member 122 causes the primary seal 133 and the auxiliary seal 134 of the compressible member 122 to separate from the inner surface 126. As a result, fluid passing through the strut 112 of the connector 106 can travel through the internal volume 124, through the gate valve 132, through the insert 180, and further through the opening 116 of the strut 108. Therefore, in the displaced configuration of the compressible member 122, the opening 116 of the strut 108 is fluidly connected to the primary seal 133 and the auxiliary seal 134 of the compressible member 122. In some embodiments, gate valve 132 prevents fluid flow when connector 106 moves 0.5 mm away from housing 102. In some embodiments, gate valve 132 prevents flow when connector 106 moves less than 0.5 mm away from housing 102.

[0036] The compressible member 122 is shaped so that its deformation can be highly predictable and repeatable. Therefore, the compressible member 122 is intended to undergo more deformation in the portion between the gate valve 132 and the connector 106 than in the portion between the gate valve 132 and the insert 180. Figure 5 As shown, both the auxiliary seal 134 and the main seal 133 deform axially toward the gate valve 132 and deform radially toward one side of the internal volume 124 where the gate valve 132 is located. The gate valve 132 is designed to deform axially on one side as well. This deformation allows a fluid path to be formed between the compressible member 122 and the inner surface 126. This design deformation can allow the fluid to reach the target outlet of the housing 102, which is the gate valve 132 in this case, which guides the fluid through the insert 180 and into the connector 104.

[0037] Arrows illustrate the fluid path through the fluid connector assembly 100. When a medical fluid line is connected to the connector 106, the fluid enters the opening 114 (i.e., the fluid inlet) of the connector 106. The fluid can then pass through the channel 144 of the support 112 and enter the interior volume 124 of the housing 102. The fluid can then pass through the space between the gate valve 132 and the inner surface 126 to enter the insert 180. The fluid can then enter the opening 116 of the support 108 and subsequently pass through the channel 146 of the support 108. The fluid can flow out of the fluid connector assembly 100 through the fluid outlet 110 formed in the support 108.

[0038] Upon removal of the connector 106, the compressible member 122 expands and returns to its original shape and size. At this point, the compressible member 122 returns to having a dimension 136, which represents the original longitudinal dimension of the compressible member 122 before being displaced by the struts 112 of the connector 106. In addition, after the connector 106 is removed, the primary seal 133 and the secondary seal move back into circumferential contact with the inner surface 126, and the primary seal 133 and the secondary seal 134 prevent fluid from passing therethrough. Additionally, the interior volume 128 of the compressible member 122 returns to its previous uncompressed volume, and the gate valve 132 of the compressible member 122 returns to its position against the inner surface 126, thereby preventing fluid from passing therethrough.

[0039] Based on the fluid flow through the fluid connector assembly 100, the fluid connector assembly 100 provides a neutral fluid displacement, wherein during the connection or disconnection between the fluid connector assembly 100 and the catheter lumen, or when the medical fluid line is connected to or disconnected from the connector 106, blood and / or other fluids are prevented or at least substantially restricted from entering the catheter lumen (not shown) positioned in the connector 104 and fluidly connected to the fluid connector assembly 100. However, unlike conventional neutral fluid displacement connector assemblies, the struts 108 of the connector 104 are not inserted into the struts 112 of the connector 106. In other words, the struts 112 of the connector 106 do not overlap with the struts 108 of the connector 104. As shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, there is a gap or spacing between struts 108 and struts 112. Thus, when connectors 104 and 106 are coupled to housing 102, struts 108 and 112 are separated by the gap in a direction along a longitudinal axis passing through housing 102, connectors 104 and 106, and compressible member 122.

[0040] Despite the gap, the main seal 133 and the auxiliary seal 134 promote the flow of fluid around one side of the compressible member 122. For example, the auxiliary seal 134 promotes the fluid leaving the pillar 112 to enter the first side of the internal volume 124 and prevents the fluid from flowing into the second side of the internal volume 124. Similarly, the main seal 133 further promotes the fluid to flow through the first side of the internal volume 124. As a result, the fluid entering the fluid connector assembly 100 is retained in the connector 106, the internal volume 124, the insert 180 and the connector 104. Based on these features and functions, unlike the positive fluid displacement connector assembly, the fluid connector assembly 100 will not force the fluid into the catheter lumen during the connection or disconnection event. Similarly, unlike the negative fluid displacement connector assembly, the fluid connector assembly 100 does not allow the fluid to return to the catheter lumen during the connection or disconnection event. Therefore, the fluid connector assembly 100 includes a neutral displacement connector assembly without overlapping pillars. In some embodiments, the fluid connector assembly 100 generates a positive fluid displacement during the connection or disconnection event. In some embodiments, fluid connector assembly 100 produces less than 0.01 mL of positive fluid displacement during a connect or disconnect event.

[0041] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B An insert 180 is shown. Fig. 6A A partial cross-sectional view of the insert 180 is shown. In some embodiments, the insert is generally cylindrical in shape. In some embodiments, the insert 180 includes two orifices, a fluid channel 182 and an air channel 184. In some embodiments, the insert 180 may include only the fluid channel 182. The insert 180 may include an edge 188 around which the inner surface 130 of the compressible member 122 is assembled. When the connector 106 is coupled to the housing 102, the gate valve 132 moves with the deformation of the compressible member 122, thereby moving the inner surface 130 and causing the inner surface 130 to cover the edge 188. The insert 180 further includes a groove 190 designed to collect fluid and guide the fluid into the fluid channel 182. The groove 190 may extend circumferentially around the insert 180, or in some embodiments may only partially extend around the insert 180. According to aspects of the present disclosure, the fluid channel 182 guides the fluid from the internal volume 124 of the housing 102 to the opening 116 of the connector 104. The air passage 184 supplies air into the interior volume 124 to facilitate fluid flow through the fluid connector assembly. Figure 6B As shown, the side of the insert 180 that engages the connector 104 includes a recess 186 to ensure proper alignment with the connector 104. In some embodiments, the insert 180 may include two or more recesses 186.

[0042] Figure 7 A connector 104 according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, the connector 104 includes two apertures, a channel 146 for directing fluid and an air channel 194. In some embodiments, the connector 104 may include only the channel 146. The side of the connector 104 that interfaces with the insert 180 may include a protrusion 192 to ensure proper alignment with the insert 180. In some embodiments, the connector 104 may include two or more protrusions 192.

[0043] Figure 8 A flow chart 300 is shown in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure, wherein a method for regulating an intravenous fluid is shown. The fluid connector assembly shown or described herein is capable of performing the steps of the method shown in flow chart 300. In this regard, a fluid connector assembly with a neutral fluid shift can perform the steps of the method shown in flow chart 300.

[0044] In step 302, a housing is provided. The housing may serve as a central body of a fluid connector assembly. The housing may include an interior volume designed to house or at least partially house one or more components of the fluid connector assembly.

[0045] In step 304, a compressible member is accommodated at the housing. In addition, the compressible member is accommodated in the internal volume of the housing. In addition, the compressible member can be elastically compressed based on an external force and return to its original shape after the external force is removed.

[0046] In step 306, a first connector is received at a first end of the housing. The first connector may include a pillar and an opening formed in the pillar. The pillar including the opening of the pillar may be coupled to an insert and inserted into the housing, the insert contacting the compressible member. Likewise, the pillar of the first connector may form a fluid outlet for the fluid connector assembly.

[0047] In step 308, a second connector is received at the second end of the housing. The second connector may include a strut that engages the compressible member. Likewise, the strut of the second connector may include an opening that forms a fluid inlet for the fluid connector assembly.

[0048] In step 310, the compressible member is displaced based on accommodating the second connector. The displacement of the compressible member may include compression that reduces the size (e.g., length) of the compressible member. However, based on the elastic characteristics of the compressible member, the compressible member may return to its initial size and shape when the second connector no longer engages the compressible member.

[0049] In step 312, the seal is broken based on the displacement of the compressible member. The breaking of the seal allows the intravenous fluid entering the second connector to pass through the opening of the strut of the first connector. In addition, when connecting or disconnecting with the fluid connector assembly, the seal promotes neutral fluid displacement by limiting or preventing blood and / or other fluids from entering the catheter lumen.

[0050] Likewise, based on the positions of the struts of the first and second connectors within the housing, the struts do not overlap one another. In other words, the strut of the first connector ("first strut") does not enter the strut of the second connector ("second strut"), and the second strut does not surround the first strut. In this regard, a gap positioned along the longitudinal axis of the first and second struts provides separation between the first and second struts, thereby minimizing the possibility of contact between the struts, which could cause damage to at least one of the first and second struts.

[0051] Features of the present disclosure provide a fluid connector assembly having a compressible member that can be displaced to form a fluid passage therebetween. When the first and second connectors are coupled together with a housing that carries the compressible member, the compressible member can compress and allow fluid to flow while also providing multiple seals to prevent unwanted fluid leakage. However, if the connector that displaces the compressible member is removed, whether accidentally or intentionally, the fluid passage of the fluid connector assembly is closed or blocked to prevent fluid loss therefrom because the compressible member returns to its uncompressed state and closes the fluid passage. Features of the present disclosure also provide that either of the first and second connectors can be cleaned and disinfected when the first and second connectors are separated, and the first and second connectors can be coupled together again so that the compressible member forms a fluid passage between them.

[0052] Description of this subject technology

[0053] For example, the subject technology is illustrated according to the various aspects described below. For convenience, various examples of various aspects of the subject technology are described according to numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided only as examples and do not limit the subject technology. It should be noted that any subordinate clauses can be combined in any combination and placed in corresponding independent clauses, such as clause 1, clause 8, or clause 15. Other clauses can be presented in a similar manner.

[0054] Item 1 A fluid connector assembly comprising: a housing including a first end fluidly connected to a second end through a cavity; a compressible member disposed within the housing, the compressible member comprising: at least one sealing element; and a gate valve; a first connector configured to be coupled to the housing at the first end, the first connector being configured to convey fluid through the housing; and a second connector configured to be coupled to the housing at the second end, the second connector being configured to receive fluid from the housing.

[0055] Clause 2. The fluid connector assembly of Clause 1, wherein the second end of the housing comprises: a first path configured to direct fluid into the second connector, and a second path configured to draw in air.

[0056] Clause 3. The fluid connector assembly of Clause 2, wherein the second connector comprises an ambient air port in fluid communication with the second pathway.

[0057] Clause 4. The fluid connector assembly of Clause 3, wherein the second connector is configured to provide air to the cavity when the first connector is coupled to the first end of the housing.

[0058] Clause 5. The fluid connector assembly of Clause 4, wherein the second connector includes at least one protrusion configured to align with the at least one recess of the second end of the housing.

[0059] Clause 6. The fluid connector assembly of clause 1, wherein the compressible member is configured to deform substantially toward the first side of the cavity in the compressed configuration.

[0060] Clause 7. The fluid connector assembly of Clause 6, wherein the gate valve is located on the first side of the cavity.

[0061] Clause 8. The fluid connector assembly of clause 7, wherein the gate valve is configured to translate from the second position when the compressible member is in the compressed configuration.

[0062] Clause 9. The fluid connector assembly of clause 8, wherein the gate valve is configured to allow fluid to travel to the second end of the housing and into the second connector when the gate valve is in the second position.

[0063] Clause 10 The fluid connector assembly of Clause 1, wherein the compressible member further comprises a first portion and a second portion separated by a gate valve.

[0064] Clause 11. The fluid connector assembly of clause 10, wherein the first portion extends from the gate valve toward the first end of the housing, and the second portion extends from the gate valve toward the second end of the housing.

[0065] Clause 12. The fluid connector assembly of Clause 11, wherein the first portion is configured to undergo more deformation than the second portion when the first connector is coupled to the first end of the housing.

[0066] Clause 13. The fluid connector assembly of Clause 1, wherein the at least one sealing element is configured to extend radially within the cavity of the housing.

[0067] Clause 14. The fluid connector assembly of Clause 13, wherein the at least one sealing element comprises a primary seal and a secondary seal.

[0068] Clause 15. The fluid connector assembly of clause 14, wherein the secondary seal is positioned proximate the first end of the housing and the primary seal is located in a cavity between the first end and the second end of the housing.

[0069] Clause 16 The fluid connector assembly of clause 1, wherein the compressible member is configured to deform from an expanded configuration to a compressed configuration when the first connector is coupled to the housing.

[0070] Clause 17. The fluid connector assembly of clause 16, wherein the at least one sealing element is configured to prevent fluid communication between the first end and the second end through the gate valve when the compressible member is in the expanded configuration.

[0071] Clause 18. The fluid connector assembly of clause 17, wherein the at least one sealing element is configured to allow fluid communication between the first end and the second end through the gate valve when the compressible member is in the compressed configuration.

[0072] Item 19 A fluid connector assembly comprising: a shell including a first end fluidly connected to a second end through a cavity; a compressible member disposed within the shell, the compressible member comprising: at least one sealing element; and a gate valve; a first connector configured to be connected to the shell at a first end, the first connector being configured to transport fluid through the shell; and a second connector configured to be connected to the shell at a second end, the second connector being configured to receive fluid from the shell; wherein the compressible member is configured to deform from an expanded structure to a compressed structure when the first connector is connected to the shell; and wherein the compressible member is configured to deform substantially toward a first side of the cavity in the compressed structure.

[0073] Clause 20: The fluid connector assembly of clause 19, wherein the gate valve is configured to allow fluid to flow through the gate valve between the first end and the second end when the compressible member is in the compressed configuration.

[0074] Additional considerations

[0075] In some embodiments, any one of the clauses herein can be dependent on any one of the independent clauses or any one of the dependent clauses. In one aspect, any one of the clauses (e.g., dependent clauses or independent clauses) can be combined with any other one or more clauses (e.g., dependent clauses or independent clauses). In one aspect, the claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, operations, means or parts) narrated in a clause, sentence, phrase or paragraph. In one aspect, the claim may include some or all of the words narrated in one or more clauses, sentences, phrases or paragraphs. In one aspect, some of the words in each of the clauses, sentences, phrases or paragraphs can be removed. In one aspect, additional words or elements can be added to clauses, sentences, phrases or paragraphs. In one aspect, the subject technology can be implemented without utilizing some of the parts, elements, functions or operations described herein. In one aspect, the subject technology can be implemented utilizing additional parts, elements, functions or operations.

[0076] The present disclosure is provided to enable those skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. The present disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Multiple modifications to these aspects are very clear to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects.

[0077] Unless otherwise specified, reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more." Unless otherwise specified, the term "some" refers to one or more. Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter genders (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the disclosure.

[0078] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example or illustration." Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. In one aspect, the various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered to be at least equivalent.

[0079] Phrases such as "aspects" do not mean that such aspects are essential to the subject technology, or that such aspects apply to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure associated with an aspect may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as "an aspect" may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. Phrases such as "embodiments" do not mean that such embodiments are essential to the subject technology, or that such embodiments apply to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure associated with an embodiment may apply to all embodiments or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as "an embodiment" may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. Phrases such as "constructions" do not mean that such constructions are essential to the subject technology, or that such constructions apply to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure associated with a construction may apply to all configurations or one or more constructions. A construction may provide one or more examples. Phrases such constructions may refer to one or more constructions, and vice versa.

[0080] In one aspect, unless otherwise indicated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, sizes, dimensions, and other specifications in this specification, including those set forth in the claims that follow, are approximate and not exact. In one aspect, they are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the functions to which they are related and with the customary practices in the art to which they belong.

[0081] In one aspect, the term "coupled" or the like may refer to a direct coupling. In another aspect, the term "coupled" or the like may refer to an indirect coupling.

[0082] Terms such as "top", "bottom", "front", "rear", etc. used in this disclosure should be understood to refer to an arbitrary reference frame other than the common gravitational reference frame. Thus, the top surface, bottom surface, front surface, and rear surface may extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in the gravitational reference frame.

[0083] Without departing from the scope of the subject technology, various items may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a different order, or divided in a different manner). All structural and functional equivalents of the elements of the various aspects described throughout the present disclosure are known to or will be known to those of ordinary skill in the art in the future, and are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. In addition, regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly stated in the claims, the content disclosed herein is not intended to be committed to the public. Under the terms of the sixth paragraph of 35 U.S.C. §112, the elements of the claims will not be interpreted unless the phrase "means" is used to clearly state the element, or in the case of a method claim, the phrase "step for..." is used to state the element. In addition, for the scope of the terms "including", "having", etc. used, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "including", as explained when "including" is used as a transitional word in the claims.

[0084] The title, background technology, utility model content, figure description and abstract of the present disclosure are incorporated into the present disclosure hereby, and are provided as illustrative examples of the present disclosure, rather than restrictive descriptions. The submission of this application is based on the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the specific implementation, it can be seen that the description provides illustrative examples, and in order to simplify the present disclosure, various features are combined together in various embodiments. This disclosure method should not be interpreted as reflecting the intention that the subject matter claimed for protection requires more features than those explicitly stated in each claim. On the contrary, as reflected in the following claims, the utility model subject matter lies in less than all the features of a single disclosed construction or operation. The claims below are therefore incorporated into the detailed description, and each claim is independently a subject matter claimed for protection.

[0085] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims and including all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, no claim is intended to encompass subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirements of 35 U.S.C. §101, 102, or 103, nor should they be interpreted in such a manner.

Claims

1. A fluid connector assembly, characterized in that: It includes: a housing including a first end in fluid communication with a second end through a cavity, A compressible member is disposed in the housing, the compressible member comprising: at least one sealing element; and gate; a first connector configured to be coupled to the housing at the second end, the first connector configured to receive fluid from the housing; and A second connector is configured to be coupled to the housing at the first end, the second connector being configured to deliver fluid to the housing.

2. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The compressible member is configured to deform from an expanded configuration to a compressed configuration when the second connector is coupled to the housing.

3. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: At least a portion of the gate valve is configured to translate from a first position to a second position when the second connector is coupled to the housing.

4. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 3, It is characterized in that the compressible member being configured to deform substantially toward the first side of the cavity when the second connector is coupled to the housing; and Wherein, the gate valve is configured to deform substantially toward the first side of the cavity when the second connector is coupled to the housing.

5. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The gate valve is configured to allow fluid to pass into the first connector when the gate valve is in a second position.

6. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second end of the housing further comprises an insert, the insert comprising: a first path configured to direct fluid into the first connector, and A second path is configured to deliver air to the cavity.

7. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that: The first connector includes an air orifice in fluid communication with the second path.

8. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: The first connector is configured to provide air to the cavity when the second connector is coupled to the first end of the housing.

9. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: The first connector includes at least one protrusion configured to align with at least one recess of the insert.

10. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The compressible member further includes a first portion and a second portion separated by the gate valve.

11. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that: The first portion extends from the gate valve toward a first end of the housing, and the second portion extends from the gate valve toward a second end of the housing.

12. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that: The first portion is configured to undergo more deformation than the second portion when the first connector is coupled to the housing.

13. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one sealing element is configured to extend circumferentially within the cavity of the housing.

14. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that: The at least one sealing element includes a primary seal and a secondary seal.

15. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that The secondary seal is positioned proximate the first end of the housing, and the primary seal is located between the secondary seal and the gate valve.

16. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The compressible member is configured to deform from an expanded configuration to a compressed configuration when the second connector is coupled to the housing.

17. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that The at least one sealing element is configured to prevent fluid communication between the first end and the second end when the compressible member is in the expanded configuration.

18. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that The at least one sealing element is configured to allow fluid communication between the first end and the second end when the compressible member is in a compressed configuration.

19. A fluid connector assembly, characterized in that: It includes: a housing including a first end in fluid communication with a second end through a cavity, A compressible member is disposed in the housing, the compressible member comprising: at least one sealing element; and gate; a first connector configured to be coupled to the housing at the second end, the first connector configured to receive fluid from the housing; and a second connector configured to be coupled to the housing at the first end, the second connector configured to deliver fluid to the housing; wherein the compressible member is configured to deform from an expanded configuration to a compressed configuration when the second connector is coupled to the housing; and Wherein the compressible member is configured to deform substantially toward the first side of the cavity in a compressed configuration.

20. The fluid connector assembly according to claim 19, wherein: The gate valve is configured to allow fluid to flow through the gate valve between the first end and the second end when the compressible member is in a compressed configuration.

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