Connector

Abstract

A connector, in particular a fluid connector system, includes first and second connector portions that can be coupled together to form a fluid passageway therethrough and that can prevent or allow separation as desired. The connector portion may include a connector housing and a cover portion. The connector housing includes a connector body and an engagement portion. The connector body defines a tube opening and a mating opening. The connector body defines a flow path between the tube opening and the mating opening. The engagement portion at least partially surrounds the connector body. The engagement portion defines an engagement lip extending radially toward the connector body and is configured to releasably engage the connector housing. The flow path includes at least one portion perpendicular to the engagement portion. Fluid flowing through the flow path exerts a normal force on the connector housing and prevents release of the connector housing from the mating connector portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model generally relates to a medical fluid connector, and more particularly to a fluid connector system with a valve assembly, wherein the valve assembly can be connected together to form a fluid passage. Background Art

[0002] Medical connections are widely used in fluid delivery systems, such as those used in connections to intravenous (IV) fluid lines, blood access, hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, enteral nutrition, medicine bottle access, and other procedures.

[0003] In some cases, a medical connection may become displaced or disconnected in an unintended manner. For example, medical tubing of an IV set coupled to a catheter may become displaced when unintended or unexpected forces are applied to the catheter, which may exceed the design limitations of the catheter securing method. Unintended or unexpected forces may be applied to the tubing and / or catheter when a patient moves or turns over in the bed, or when the tubing or another portion of the IV set becomes caught on a portion of the bed (e.g., a railing), or when a patient panics, becomes disoriented, or fidgets to the extent that the medical tubing is accidentally or intentionally pulled away from the patient or from the medical equipment to which the tubing is coupled.

[0004] In some applications, high pressure medical fluids (up to or exceeding 325 psi) may be used for certain medical infusions. In some applications, the medical connection may be disconnected when the high pressure medical fluid passes through the connection. Utility Model Content

[0005] In accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein, it is recognized that unintended displacement or disconnection of a medical connection (e.g., a medical fluid line) may result in harm to a patient or caregiver, such as by depriving the patient of medication, increasing the likelihood of infection for the patient, and exposing the caregiver to harmful medications.

[0006] Therefore, aspects of the present disclosure provide a connector including a first connector part, the first connector part including: a connector housing, the connector housing including: a connector body defining a pipe opening and a mating opening, wherein the connector body defines a flow path between the pipe opening and the mating opening; and a coupling portion at least partially surrounding the connector body, the coupling portion defining a coupling lip extending radially toward the connector body, wherein the coupling lip is configured to releasably couple the connector housing with the mating connector part, wherein the flow path includes at least one portion perpendicular to the coupling portion, wherein a fluid flowing through the flow path exerts a normal force on the connector housing and prevents the connector housing from being released from the mating connector part.

[0007] In some cases, the present disclosure provides a connector comprising a first connector portion defining a pipe opening and a mating opening, wherein the first connector portion defines a flow path between the pipe opening and the mating opening; and a second connector portion comprising defining a second pipe opening and a second mating opening, wherein the second connector portion defines a second flow path between the second mating opening and the pipe opening, wherein when the first connector portion and the second connector portion are engaged, the mating opening of the first connector portion and the second mating opening of the second connector portion are fluidically connected, wherein the flow path or the second flow path includes at least one portion perpendicular to the overlapping portion of the first connector portion and the second connector portion, wherein the fluid flowing through the flow path or the second flow path exerts a normal force on the overlapping portion of the first connector portion and the second connector portion and prevents the first connector portion from being released from the second connector portion.

[0008] Thus, the present application addresses several operational challenges encountered in prior art fluid connections and provides numerous improvements that enable users to increase safety and efficiency while more easily and accurately providing fluid connections.

[0009] Additional features and advantages of the subject technology will be described in the following description, and in part will be apparent from the description, or can be understood through the practice of the subject technology. The advantages of the subject technology will be realized and obtained through the structures particularly pointed out in the written description and its 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] Various features of illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate and not to limit the present invention. The accompanying drawings include the following figures:

[0012] Figure 1 A fluid connector for use with an IV set coupled to a patient is shown in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 2 A perspective view of a separated fluid connector according to aspects of the present invention is shown.

[0014] Figure 3 According to aspects of the present disclosure, Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of a separated fluid connector.

[0015] Figure 4 According to aspects of the present disclosure, Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a connected fluid connector.

[0016] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a separated fluid connector according to aspects of the present invention is shown.

[0017] Figure 6 It shows that according to various aspects of the present invention Figure 5 Exploded view of the fluid connector.

[0018] Figure 7 According to aspects of the present disclosure, Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a connected fluid connector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] In the following detailed description, many specific details are set forth to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject technology. It should be understood that the subject technology can be practiced without some of these specific details. In other cases, well-known structures and technologies are not shown in detail to avoid obscuring the subject technology.

[0020] In addition, 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 interpreted as limiting in any way. In addition, it is contemplated that although specific embodiments of the present disclosure may be disclosed or illustrated in the context of an IV set, these embodiments may be used in other fluid delivery systems. In addition, various applications of these embodiments and modifications thereof that may occur to those skilled in the art are also covered by the general concepts described herein.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the present application discloses various features and advantages of a fluid connector system. The fluid connector system can provide effective and safe maintenance of fluid connections, such as connections used to transfer medical fluids to or from a patient. When pulling or tensile forces are applied to the fluid connector system, such as when a patient moves or when medical tubing is pulled away from the patient, the fluid connector system can maintain the fluid pathway by preventing unintentional disconnection.

[0022] When the pulling force or tension exceeds a threshold value, the fluid connector system can also prevent harm to the patient or caregiver by allowing disconnection or separation between the parts of the connector system. When disconnection or separation occurs between the parts of the connector system, the fluid connector system can also prevent harm to the patient or caregiver by blocking the fluid pathway. In addition, by allowing the parts of the system to be reassembled after disconnection or separation occurs, the fluid connector system can provide effective and safe reconstruction of the fluid pathway. Advantageously, the fluid connector described herein can prevent blood loss, IV fluid loss, infection and / or drug delivery delays. In some applications, the design of the fluid connector can facilitate effective cleaning and disinfection of components.

[0023] Additionally, in some applications, the fluid connector system can prevent accidental disconnection during certain events or applications and selectively allow disconnection or separation between portions of the connector system when the pulling or tensioning force exceeds a threshold. For example, the fluid connector system can be configured to resist disconnection or separation during high pressure infusions (fluid pressures up to or exceeding 325 psi) or during other clinical operations that may cause the fluid connector system to accidentally disconnect. The fluid connector system can also selectively allow disconnection or separation between portions of the connector system when the pulling or tensioning force exceeds a threshold.

[0024] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 An example of a fluid connector system 100 in use according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The connector system 100 couples with tubing of an IV set for directing fluid to a patient 10. The IV set may include a medication bag 12, a drip chamber 14, tubing 16, and an IV catheter 18.

[0025] The connector system 100 fluidically connects the tubing 16 to the IV catheter 18. Although the connector system 100 is shown as being coupled between the drug bag 12 and the patient 10 along the fluid pathway of the IV kit, it should be understood that the connector system 100 can be connected within other fluid pathways, such as between the patient and the IV pump or between the patient and the dialysis machine. The connector system 100 can also be connected along another portion of the fluid pathway. For example, the connector system 100 can be connected along a proximal portion of the fluid pathway, such as between the tubing 16 and the drug bag 12 or other fluid treatment device. In another example, any one of the first and second portions of the fluid connector 100 can be directly coupled to another fluid delivery device, such as a catheter or a drug bag.

[0026] Figure 2 A perspective view of a separated fluid connector 200 is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 3 According to aspects of the present disclosure, Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the separated fluid connector 200. Figure 4 According to aspects of the present disclosure, Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a fluid connector 200 connected to the Figure 2-Figure 4 , the fluid connector 200 provides fluid access to the patient while allowing for a selectable "fusible line" or quick disconnect that allows the fluid connector 200 to be controlled disconnected if excessive force is applied and allows the connection to be maintained during a high pressure infusion or other procedure. As described herein, the fluid connector 200 can allow for a controlled disconnection at a predetermined level of force to prevent accidental removal of the catheter from the patient or to prevent accidental disconnection during a high pressure infusion procedure.

[0027] As shown, the fluid connector 200 provides a flow path or fluid passage from one end of the fluid connector 200 to the opposite end of the fluid connector 200. As shown, the fluid connector 200 includes a first connector portion 210 and a second connector portion 240 that couple together to form a fluid passage.

[0028] In the depicted example, the first connector portion 210 allows fluid to flow into and out of the patient or any other part of the IV kit. In the depicted example, the first connector portion 210 includes a coupling recess or end portion 212 to be connected to a mating tubing or Luer connector. In some embodiments, the tubing can be adhered to the first connector portion 210 at the coupling recess or end portion 212. As shown, the mating tubing or Luer connector can be in fluid communication with the flow path 216a. In some embodiments, the flow path 216a can be in fluid communication with the annular flow path 216b defined in the body of the first connector portion 210. Therefore, the fluid can enter and exit the fluid connector 200 through the mating Luer connector via the flow paths 216a, 216b defined in the first connector portion 210.

[0029] In addition, the second connector portion 240 allows fluid to flow into and out of a fluid source or any other part of an IV set. In the depicted example, the second connector portion 240 can be connected to a fluid source or other part of an IV set. In the depicted example, the second connector portion 240 includes a coupling recess or end portion 242 to be connected to a mating tubing or Luer connector. In some embodiments, tubing can be adhered to the second connector portion 240 at the coupling recess or end portion 242. As shown, the mating tubing or Luer connector can be in fluid communication with a flow path 246. Fluid can enter and exit the fluid connector 200 through the second mating Luer connector via a flow path 246 defined in the second connector portion 240.

[0030] During operation, the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 can be coupled together to allow flow between the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240. In the example shown, the first connector portion 210 can define a mating opening 218 in fluid communication with the annular flow path 216b. As described herein, the flow path 216b can be in fluid communication with the flow path 216a to allow fluid communication with a tubing or other IV set component coupled to the end portion 212 of the first connector portion 210. Similarly, the second connector portion 240 can define a mating opening 248 in fluid communication with the flow path 246 and the tubing or other IV set component coupled to the end portion 242 of the second connector portion 240. When the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 are coupled together, fluid can flow between the mating opening 218 of the first connector portion 210 and the mating opening 248 of the second connector portion 240, thereby allowing flow between the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first connector portion 210 may include one or more alignment features 223 to align features of the second connector portion 240 with the first connector portion 210, thereby facilitating physical coupling of the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 and facilitating fluid communication therebetween. In some embodiments, the alignment features 223 may include radial protrusions extending from the body of the first connector portion 210.

[0032] In the illustrated example, the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 each include a valve member 230, 260, respectively, to control flow through the connector 200. In particular, the valve members 230, 260 allow fluid to flow between the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 when the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 are connected, and prevent fluid flow when the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 are disconnected.

[0033] In the illustrated example, the first valve member 230 is movable within the valve cavity 214 to allow flow through the mating opening 218 and to prevent flow through the mating opening 218. In the blocking position, the first valve member 230 can block, obstruct or seal the mating opening 218 to prevent flow through the mating opening 218. In some embodiments, the first valve member 230 can include a seal 232 disposed between the first valve member 230 and the valve cavity 214 to isolate the mating opening 218 in the sealed position. During operation, the first valve member 230 can move within the valve cavity 214 to be spaced apart from the mating opening 218 and allow flow through the mating opening 218. In some embodiments, the first valve member 230 can move toward the end portion 212 of the first connector portion 210 to allow fluid to flow through the mating opening 218. Alternatively, the valve cavity 214 can have a generally cylindrical volume and allow radial outward flow into the mating opening 218. In some embodiments, the first valve member 230 includes a biasing member 234 to urge the first valve member 230 toward the blocking position. As shown, mating of the first connector portion 210 with the second connector portion 240 may displace the first valve member 230 to the flow position and allow flow through the mating opening 218 .

[0034] In the illustrated example, the second valve member 260 is movable within the valve cavity 244 to allow flow through the mating opening 248 and to prevent flow through the mating opening 248. In the blocking position, the second valve member 260 can block, obstruct or seal the mating opening 248 to prevent flow through the mating opening 248. During operation, the second valve member 260 can move within the valve cavity 244 to be spaced apart from the mating opening 248 and allow flow through the mating opening 248. In some embodiments, the second valve member 260 can move toward the end portion 242 of the second connector portion 240 to allow flow through the mating opening 248. Optionally, the valve cavity 244 can have a generally annular volume and allow radial inward flow into the mating opening 248. In some embodiments, the second valve member 260 includes a biasing member 264 to urge the second valve member 260 toward the blocking position. As shown, the mating of the first connector portion 210 with the second connector portion 240 can shift the second valve member 260 to the flow position and allow flow through the mating opening 248.

[0035] In the example shown, the first connector part 210 and the second connector part 240 can be engaged to fix or hold the first connector part 210 and the second connector part 240 together. As shown, the first connector part 210 and the second connector part 240 can be connected together by fixing a part of the first connector part 210 around the second connector part 240. In the example shown, the first connector part 210 includes or defines one or more engagement fingers 220. As shown, the engagement finger 220 extends axially away from the end portion 212 of the first connector part 210. Optionally, the engagement finger 220 can be arranged circumferentially around the flow path 216b and / or the mating opening 218 of the first connector part 210. In certain embodiments, the engagement finger 220 can each define a ridge or lip 222 extending radially inwardly toward the flow path 216b and / or the mating opening 218. Similarly, the second connector part 240 defines a ridge 252. Optionally, the ridges 252 can be disposed circumferentially around the flow path 246 and / or the mating opening 248 of the second connector portion 240. During operation, the engagement fingers 220 of the first connector portion 210 can engage with the ridges 252 of the second connector portion 240 to couple the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240. In some embodiments, the lip 222 of the engagement fingers 220 can engage with the ridges 252 of the second connector portion 240.

[0036] In the illustrated example, the engagement finger 220 and / or lip 222 of the first connector portion 210 engages the ridge 252 of the second connector portion 240 to prevent the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 from moving in a direction away from each other. In some instances of the present disclosure, the engagement of the engagement finger 220 against the ridge 252 can define a snap fit or snap engagement between the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240. In some embodiments, the engagement finger 220 can be deflected to facilitate engagement or disengagement of the engagement finger 220 with the ridge 252.

[0037] Although the engagement finger 220 is configured to prevent the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 from separating, the engagement finger 220 and / or the ridge 252 are also configured to allow the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 to separate when a threshold force is exceeded between the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the threshold force for separating the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 is greater than or equal to about five pounds (22.25 Newtons). When the engagement finger 220 of the first connector portion 210 is biased or bent in a direction away from the ridge 252, the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 will separate. In the example shown, the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 can separate from each other while maintaining the ability to reconnect the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 together. In some embodiments, the resistance or force to assembly and separation between the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 can be configured such that the force required to assemble the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 is less than the force required to separate the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240.

[0038] During operation, the connector 200 can prevent the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 from accidentally disconnecting during certain applications (e.g., high-pressure fluid infusion). In the example shown, the connector 200 can guide the fluid flow to selectively prevent the engagement fingers 220 of the first connector portion 210 from disengaging from the ridges 252 of the second connector portion 240 using hydraulic force.

[0039] In the illustrated example, the first connector portion 210 can direct the fluid to flow along the flow paths 216a, 216b to generate or apply an outward radial force to hold the second connector portion 240 relative to the first connector portion 210. As shown, the flow path 216b can include one or more turns to apply an outward radial or normal force (or normal force component) on the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240. In some embodiments, the flow path 216b can include a turn to direct the flow into the mating opening 218 of the first connector portion 210. Optionally, the mating opening 218 can be arranged to be substantially perpendicular to a portion of the flow path 216b to allow the flow flowing into the mating opening 218 to be directed to turn substantially vertically. As shown, the mating opening 218 can be axially aligned with the engagement features of the connector 200, such as the engagement fingers 220 of the first connector portion 210 and the ridges 252 of the second connector portion 240. Thus, in some embodiments, the turn in the flow path 216b to direct the flow into the mating opening 218 can generate or apply a retaining force that is perpendicular or orthogonal to (or transverse to) the engagement fingers 220 of the first connector portion 210 and / or the ridges 252 of the second connector portion 240.

[0040] In the depicted example, the fluid flow through the flow paths 216a, 216b of the first connector portion 210 can generate or apply an outward radial, normal or orthogonal force on the body of the first connector portion 210. As shown, the fluid flow can generate an outward force on the body of the first connector portion 210 around the annular flow path 216b. In some embodiments, the outward force on the body of the first connector portion 210 can deflect the body radially or outwardly. Optionally, when the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 are connected or matched, the outward force on the body of the first connector portion 210 can deflect the ridge 252 of the second connector portion 240 toward the engagement finger 220 of the first connector portion 210 to fix or lock the engagement between the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240.

[0041] In some embodiments, the housing cover 250 can be aligned with the engagement finger 220 to selectively prevent radial or outward deflection of the engagement finger 220. During operation, when the engagement finger 220 and the ridge 252 are pushed radially outward toward the housing cover 250 by the body of the first connector portion 210, the engagement finger 220 and the ridge 252 can be captured between the housing cover 250 and the body of the first connector portion 210, thereby preventing the engagement finger 220 from disengaging from the ridge 252 of the second connector portion 240. In some embodiments, when the fluid pressure is insufficient to push the body of the first connector portion 210 radially outward, the housing cover 250 can allow the engagement finger 220 to deflect radially or outward, thereby allowing the engagement finger 220 to disengage from the ridge 252 of the second connector portion 240. In some embodiments, the housing cover 250 can be rotationally separated from the second connector portion 240 and allowed to rotate freely relative to the second connector portion 240.

[0042] As described herein, the fluid flow through the first connector portion 210 and the fluid pressure generated thereby can prevent the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 from accidentally disengaging. In some embodiments, the connector 200 can prevent the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 from accidentally separating due to high separation forces caused by high fluid pressure. Advantageously, as the fluid pressure through the connector 200 increases, the retention force between the first connector portion 210 and the second connector portion 240 increases similarly. In some embodiments, the retention force between the first connector 210 and the second connector portion 240 increases proportionally with the fluid pressure. In some embodiments, the connector 200 can be configured to maintain connection or engagement during high pressure or high pressure injection (approximately or in excess of 325psi). In addition, the connector 200 can be configured to maintain connection or engagement in response to the fluid pressure through the connector 200 when subjected to an external separation force (e.g., an unintentional pull of the connector). In some embodiments, the amount of external separation force that the connector 200 can resist can be proportional to the fluid pressure through the connector 200.

[0043] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a separated fluid connector 300 is shown in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Figure 6 It shows that according to various aspects of the present invention Figure 5 An exploded view of the fluid connector 300. Figure 7 According to aspects of the present disclosure, Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a fluid connector 300 connected to the substrate. Figure 5-Figure 7 , the fluid connector 300 provides fluid access to the patient while allowing for a selectable "fusible line" or quick disconnect that allows the fluid connector 300 to disconnect in a controlled manner if excessive force is applied and allows the connection to remain during high pressure infusions or other procedures.

[0044] As shown, the fluid connector 300 provides a flow path or fluid passage from one end of the fluid connector 300 to the opposite end of the fluid connector 300. As shown, the fluid connector 300 includes a first connector portion 320 and a second connector portion 340 that couple together to form a fluid passage.

[0045] In the depicted example, the first connector portion 320 allows fluid to flow into and out of any other part of the patient or IV kit. In the depicted example, the first connector portion 320 includes a tubing portion 310 that defines a coupling recess or end portion 312 to be connected to a mating tubing or Luer connector. In some embodiments, the tubing can adhere to the tubing portion 310 at the coupling recess or end portion 312. As shown, the tubing portion 310 can be in fluid communication with a flow path 326a. In some embodiments, the flow path 326a can be in fluid communication with one or more flow paths 326b defined in the body of the first connector portion 320. Therefore, fluid can enter and exit the fluid connector 300 via the mating Luer connector via the tubing portion 310 and flow paths 326a, 326b defined in the first connector portion 320.

[0046] In addition, the second connector portion 340 allows fluid to flow into and out of a fluid source or any other part of an IV set. In the depicted example, the second connector portion 340 can be connected to a fluid source or other part of an IV set. In the depicted example, the second connector portion 340 includes a coupling recess or end portion 342 to be connected to a mating tubing or Luer connector. In some embodiments, tubing can be adhered to the second connector portion 340 at the coupling recess or end portion 342. As shown, the mating tubing or Luer connector can be in fluid communication with a flow path 346. Fluid can enter and exit the fluid connector 300 through the second mating Luer connector via a flow path 346 defined in the second connector portion 340.

[0047] During operation, the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 can be coupled together to allow flow between the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340. In the example shown, the first connector portion 320 can define a mating opening 328 in fluid communication with one or more flow paths 326b. As described herein, the flow path 326b can be in fluid communication with the flow path 326a to allow fluid communication with the tubing or other IV set components coupled to the end portion 312 of the tubing portion 310. Similarly, the second connector portion 340 can define a mating opening 348 in fluid communication with the flow path 346 and the tubing or other IV set components coupled to the end portion 342 of the second connector portion 340. When the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 are coupled together, fluid can flow between the mating opening 328 of the first connector portion 320 and the mating opening 348 of the second connector portion 340, thereby allowing flow between the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340.

[0048] In the illustrated example, the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 each include a septum 330, 360, respectively, to control flow through the connector 300. In particular, the septum 330, 360 allows fluid to flow between the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 when the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 are connected, and prevents fluid flow when the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 are disconnected. In some cases, the septum 330, 360 can be formed of silicone.

[0049] In the illustrated example, the first diaphragm 330 can move within the diaphragm cavity 324 to allow flow through the mating opening 328 and to prevent flow through the mating opening 328. In the blocking position, the first diaphragm 330 can block, block or seal the mating opening 328 to prevent flow through the mating opening 328. During operation, the first diaphragm 330 can move within the diaphragm cavity 324 to be spaced apart from the mating opening 328 and allow flow through the mating opening 328. In some embodiments, the first diaphragm 330 can move toward the tube portion 310 to allow fluid to flow through the mating opening 328. Optionally, the diaphragm cavity 324 can have a generally cylindrical volume and allow radial outward flow into the mating opening 328. In some embodiments, the first diaphragm 330 includes a corrugated or bellows portion 334 to urge the first diaphragm 330 to the blocking position. As shown, the mating of the first connector portion 320 with the second connector portion 340 can displace the first diaphragm 330 to the flow position and allow flow through the mating opening 328. In some embodiments, the first diaphragm 330 may include one or more air channels 333 to allow the bellows portion 334 and / or the first diaphragm 330 to expand and contract substantially when the first diaphragm 330 moves between the blocking position and the flow position. The air channel 333 of the first diaphragm 330 may be in fluid communication with the environment via air channels 323, 313 disposed in the first connector portion 320 and the tube portion 310, respectively.

[0050] In the example shown, the second diaphragm 360 can move within the valve cavity 344 to allow flow through the mating opening 348 and to prevent flow through the mating opening 348. In the blocking position, the second diaphragm 360 can block, block or seal the mating opening 348 to prevent flow through the mating opening 348. During operation, the second diaphragm 360 can move within the valve cavity 344 to be spaced apart from the mating opening 348 and allow flow through the mating opening 348. In some embodiments, the second diaphragm 360 can move toward the end portion 342 of the second connector portion 340 to allow flow through the mating opening 348. Optionally, the valve cavity 344 can have a generally annular volume and allow radial inward flow into the mating opening 348. In some embodiments, the second diaphragm 360 includes a corrugated or bellows portion 364 to urge the second diaphragm 360 to the blocking position. As shown, the mating of the first connector portion 320 with the second connector portion 340 can displace the second diaphragm 360 to the flow position and allow flow through the mating opening 348. In some embodiments, the second diaphragm 360 can include one or more air channels to allow the bellows portion 364 and / or the second diaphragm 360 to expand and contract substantially when the second diaphragm 360 moves between the blocking position and the flow position. The air channel of the second diaphragm 360 can be in fluid communication with the environment via an air channel 343 disposed in the second connector portion 340.

[0051] In the example shown, the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 can be engaged to fix or hold the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 together. As shown, the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 can be coupled together by fixing a portion of the first connector portion 320 in the second connector portion 340. In the example shown, the first connector portion 320 includes or defines one or more snap-fit ​​fittings 321. As shown, the snap-fit ​​fittings 321 extend radially away from the body of the first connector portion 320. Optionally, the snap-fit ​​fittings 321 can be arranged circumferentially around the flow path 326b and / or the mating opening 328 of the first connector portion 320. In addition, as shown, the second connector portion 340 can include an engagement ring 350 to receive a portion of the first connector portion 320. The engagement ring 350 can define a groove 351. Optionally, the groove 351 can be arranged circumferentially around the flow path 346 and / or the mating opening 348 of the second connector portion 340. During operation, the snap fitting 321 of the first connector portion 320 may engage with the groove 351 of the engagement ring 350 to couple the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 .

[0052] In the example shown, the snap fitting 321 of the first connector portion 320 engages the groove 351 of the engagement ring 350 to prevent the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 from moving in a direction away from each other. In some embodiments, the snap fitting 321 or the groove 351 can be deflected to facilitate engagement or disengagement of the snap fitting 321 with the groove 351.

[0053] Although the snap fitting 321 and the groove 351 are configured to prevent the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 from separating, the snap fitting 321 and / or the groove 351 are also configured to allow the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 to separate when a threshold force is exceeded between the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the threshold force for separating the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 is greater than or equal to about five pounds (22.25 Newtons). When the snap fitting 321 of the first connector portion 320 is biased or bent out of engagement with the groove 351, the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 can separate from each other while maintaining the ability to reconnect the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 together. In some embodiments, the resistance or force to assembly and separation between the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 can be configured such that the force required to assemble the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 is less than the force required to separate the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340.

[0054] During operation, the connector 300 can prevent the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 from accidentally disconnecting during certain applications (e.g., high-pressure fluid infusion). In the example shown, the connector 300 can guide the fluid flow to selectively prevent the snap fitting 321 of the first connector portion 320 from disengaging from the groove 351 of the second connector portion 340 using hydraulic force.

[0055] In the illustrated example, the first connector portion 320 can direct the fluid to flow along the flow paths 326a, 326b to generate or apply an outward radial force to hold the second connector portion 340 relative to the first connector portion 320. As shown, the flow path 326b can define one or more turns or angled portions to apply an outward radial or normal force component on the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340. In some embodiments, the flow path 326b can include an angled portion 326c to direct the flow into the mating opening 328 of the first connector portion 320. Optionally, the mating opening 328 can be arranged substantially perpendicular to a portion of the flow path 326b to allow the angled portion 326c to direct the flow into the mating opening 328 to include a vertical component. As shown, the mating opening 328 can be axially aligned with the engagement features of the connector 300, such as the snap fitting 321 of the first connector portion 320 and the groove 351 of the engagement ring 350. Thus, in some embodiments, the angled portion 326c in the flow path for directing fluid into the mating opening 328 can generate or apply a retaining force that includes a normal or orthogonal component to the snap fitting 321 of the first connector portion 320 and / or the groove 351 of the engagement ring 350.

[0056] In the illustrated example, the fluid flow through the flow path 326b and / or the angled portion 326c of the first connector portion 320 can generate or apply an outward radial, normal or orthogonal force component on the body of the first connector portion 320. As shown, the fluid flow can generate an outward force on the body of the first connector portion 320 around the flow path 326b and the angled portion 326c. In some embodiments, the outward force on the body of the first connector portion 320 can deflect the body radially or outwardly. Optionally, when the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 are connected or matched, the outward force on the body of the first connector portion 320 can deflect the snap fitting 321 of the first connector portion 320 toward the groove 351 or the engagement ring 350 of the second connector portion 340 to fix or lock the engagement between the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340.

[0057] As described herein, the fluid flow through the first connector portion 320 and the fluid pressure generated thereby can prevent the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 from accidentally disengaging. In some embodiments, the connector 300 can prevent the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 from accidentally separating due to high separation forces caused by high fluid pressure. Advantageously, the connector 300 can isolate forces and allow neutral flow, so that as the fluid pressure through the connector 300 increases, the retention force between the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 similarly increases. In some embodiments, the retention force between the first connector portion 320 and the second connector portion 340 increases proportionally with the fluid pressure. In some embodiments, the connector 300 can be configured to maintain connection or engagement during high pressure or high pressure injection (approximately or in excess of 325psi). In addition, the connector 300 can be configured to maintain connection or engagement in response to the fluid pressure through the connector 300 when subjected to an external separation force (e.g., an unintentional pull of the connector). In some embodiments, the amount of external separation force that the connector 300 can resist can be proportional to the fluid pressure through the connector 300.

[0058] Description of this subject technology

[0059] For example, the subject technology is described according to the various aspects described below. For convenience, various examples of aspects of the subject technology are described according to numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided as examples and do not limit the subject technology. It should be noted that any dependent clauses can be combined in any combination and placed in the corresponding independent clauses (e.g., clause 1 or clause 5). Other clauses can be presented in a similar manner.

[0060] Item 1. A connector comprising: a first connector portion, the first connector portion comprising: a connector housing, the connector housing comprising: a connector body defining a pipe opening and a mating opening, wherein the connector body defines a flow path between the pipe opening and the mating opening; and an engagement portion at least partially surrounding the connector body, the engagement portion defining an engagement lip extending radially toward the connector body, wherein the engagement lip is configured to releasably engage the connector housing with the mating connector portion, wherein the flow path includes at least one portion perpendicular to the engagement portion, wherein a fluid flowing through the flow path exerts a normal force on the connector housing and prevents the connector housing from being released from the mating connector portion.

[0061] Clause 2. The connector of clause 1, wherein the flow path defines at least one turn.

[0062] Clause 3. The connector of clause 1, wherein the mating opening is disposed perpendicular to a portion of the flow path.

[0063] Clause 4. The connector of Clause 1, wherein the flow path includes a central portion adjacent the tube opening.

[0064] Clause 5. The connector of Clause 1, wherein the flow path includes an annular portion adjacent the mating opening.

[0065] Clause 6. The connector of Clause 5, wherein fluid flow from the annular portion of the flow path to the mating opening exerts a normal force on the connector housing.

[0066] Clause 7. The connector of Clause 1, wherein the flow path includes an angled portion adjacent the mating opening.

[0067] Clause 8. The connector of Clause 7, wherein fluid flow from the angled portion of the flow path toward the mating opening exerts a normal force on the connector housing.

[0068] Clause 9. The connector of clause 1, wherein the first connector portion further comprises: a movable seal configured to selectively prevent fluid flow through the mating opening, and to move and allow fluid flow through the mating opening.

[0069] Clause 10. The connector of Clause 9, wherein the movable seal is disposed within the cavity of the connector body.

[0070] Clause 11. The connector of Clause 9, wherein the movable seal is urged toward the mating opening by a biasing member.

[0071] Clause 12. The connector of Clause 9, wherein the movable seal comprises a bellows.

[0072] Clause 13. The connector according to Clause 1 further includes: a second connector portion, including a second pipe opening and a second mating opening, wherein the second connector portion defines a second flow path between the second mating opening and the pipe opening, wherein when the first connector portion and the second connector portion are engaged, the mating opening of the first connector portion and the second mating opening of the second connector portion are fluidically connected, and the first connector portion and the second connector portion are configured to be in a separable engagement when the fluid flow through the flow path is below a critical rate, and to be in a locked engagement when the fluid flow through the flow path is above a critical rate.

[0073] Clause 14. The connector of Clause 13, wherein fluid flow through the second flow path exerts a normal force on the connector housing and the second connector portion and prevents release of the first connector portion from the second connector portion.

[0074] Clause 15. The connector of Clause 13, wherein the second connector portion extends into a cavity of a connector body of the first connector portion.

[0075] Clause 16. The connector of clause 13, wherein the second connector portion further comprises: a movable seal configured to selectively prevent fluid flow through the second mating opening, and to move and allow fluid flow through the second mating opening.

[0076] Clause 17. The connector of clause 13, wherein the second connector portion further comprises: a second engagement portion defining a second engagement lip extending radially away from the second connector portion, wherein the second engagement lip is configured to releasably engage the engagement lip of the first connector portion.

[0077] Item 18. A connector comprising a first connector portion defining a pipe opening and a mating opening, wherein the first connector portion defines a flow path between the pipe opening and the mating opening; and a second connector portion comprising defining a second pipe opening and a second mating opening, wherein the second connector portion defines a second flow path between the second mating opening and the pipe opening, wherein when the first connector portion and the second connector portion are engaged, the mating opening of the first connector portion and the second mating opening of the second connector portion are fluidically connected, wherein the flow path or the second flow path includes at least one portion perpendicular to the overlapping portion of the first connector portion and the second connector portion, wherein the fluid flowing through the flow path or the second flow path exerts a normal force on the overlapping portion of the first connector portion and the second connector portion and prevents the first connector portion from releasing from the second connector portion.

[0078] Clause 19. A connector according to Clause 18, wherein the first connector portion and the second connector portion are configured to be in a separable engagement state when the fluid flow through the flow path or the second flow path is below a critical rate, and to be in a locked engagement state when the fluid flow through the flow path or the second flow path is above a critical rate.

[0079] Clause 20. A connector as described in Clause 18, wherein the first connector portion includes: a movable seal configured to selectively prevent fluid from flowing through the mating opening, and to move and allow fluid to flow through the mating opening; and wherein the second connector portion includes: a second movable seal configured to selectively prevent fluid from flowing through the second mating opening, and to move and allow fluid to flow through the second mating opening.

[0080] Further considerations

[0081] In some embodiments, any of the clauses herein may be subordinate to any of the independent clauses or any of the dependent clauses. In one aspect, any clause (e.g., dependent or independent clause) may be combined with any other one or more clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clause). In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, operations, means, or parts) cited in a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words cited in one or more clauses, sentences, phrases, or paragraphs. In one aspect, some words in each clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph may be removed. In one aspect, additional words or elements may be added to a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented without utilizing some components, elements, functions, or operations described herein. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented utilizing additional components, elements, functions, or operations.

[0082] The present disclosure is provided to enable any person 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. Various modifications to these aspects will be easily clear to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects.

[0083] Unless otherwise specified, references to elements in the singular are not intended to mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more." Unless otherwise specified, the term "some" refers to one or more. Masculine pronouns (such as his) include the feminine and neuter genders (such as her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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 aspects, 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. The phrases of such embodiments may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. Phrases, such as "configurations", do not mean that such configurations are essential to the subject technology, or that such configurations apply to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure associated with configurations may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. Such configurations may refer to one or more configurations, and vice versa.

[0086] In one aspect, unless otherwise stated, 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 that is consistent with the functions to which they are related and the customary practices in the art to which they belong.

[0087] 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.

[0088] Terms such as "top", "bottom", "front", "back", etc., if used in this disclosure, should be understood to refer to an arbitrary reference frame, not the ordinary gravitational reference frame. Thus, the top surface, bottom surface, front surface, and back surface can extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in the gravitational reference frame.

[0089] Various items may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a different order, or divided in a different way), all without departing from the scope of the subject technology. All structural and functional equivalents of the elements of various aspects described throughout the present disclosure that are known or will be known to those of ordinary skill in the art 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 contributed to the public. No claim element shall be interpreted according to the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6, unless the element is explicitly described using the phrase "means for...", or in the case of a method claim, the element is described using the phrase "step for...". In addition, for the scope of the terms "including", "having", etc. used, such terms are intended to be open in a manner similar to the term "comprising", as explained when "comprising" is used as a transitional word in the claims.

[0090] The title, background, overview, brief description of the drawings and abstract of the present disclosure are incorporated into the present disclosure and are provided as illustrative examples of the present disclosure, rather than as restrictive descriptions. It should be understood when submitting this application that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the detailed description, it can be seen that the description provides illustrative examples, and for the purpose of streamlining the present disclosure, various features are combined together in each embodiment. The method of the present disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting such an intention that the subject matter claimed for protection requires more features than the features explicitly stated in each claim. On the contrary, as reflected in the following claims, the subject matter of the utility model lies in less than all the features of a single disclosed construction or operation. The following claims are thus incorporated into the detailed description, and each claim is independently a subject matter claimed for protection.

[0091] 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 to encompass 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 connector, characterized in that: include: A first connector part comprising: A connector housing, the connector housing comprising: a connector body defining a tube opening and a mating opening, wherein the connector body defines a flow path between the tube opening and the mating opening; and an engagement portion at least partially surrounding the connector body, the engagement portion defining an engagement lip extending radially toward the connector body, wherein the engagement lip is configured to releasably engage the connector housing with the mating connector portion, wherein the flow path comprises at least one portion perpendicular to the joining portion, wherein Fluid flowing through the flow path exerts a normal force on the connector housing and prevents release of the connector housing from the mating connector portion.

2. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flow path defines at least one turn.

3. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mating opening is disposed perpendicular to a portion of the flow path.

4. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flow path includes a central portion adjacent the tube opening.

5. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flow path includes an annular portion adjacent the mating opening.

6. The connector according to claim 5, characterized in that: Fluid flow from the annular portion of the flow path toward the mating opening exerts a normal force on the connector housing.

7. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flow path includes an angled portion adjacent the mating opening.

8. The connector according to claim 7, characterized in that: Fluid flow from the angled portion of the flow path toward the mating opening exerts a normal force on the connector housing.

9. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first connector portion further comprises: A movable seal is configured to selectively prevent fluid flow through the mating opening and is configured to move and allow fluid flow through the mating opening.

10. The connector according to claim 9, characterized in that: The movable seal is disposed within the cavity of the connector body.

11. The connector according to claim 9, characterized in that: The movable seal is urged toward the mating opening by a biasing member.

12. The connector according to claim 9, characterized in that The movable seal includes a bellows.

13. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that Further including: The second connector part includes a second pipe opening and a second mating opening, wherein the second connector part defines a second flow path between the second mating opening and the pipe opening, wherein when the first connector part and the second connector part are engaged, the mating opening of the first connector part and the second mating opening of the second connector part are fluidically connected, and the first connector part and the second connector part are configured to be in a separable engagement when the fluid flow through the flow path is below a critical rate, and to be in a locked engagement when the fluid flow through the flow path is above a critical rate.

14. The connector according to claim 13, characterized in that: Fluid flow through the second flow path exerts a normal force on the connector housing and the second connector portion and prevents release of the first connector portion from the second connector portion.

15. The connector according to claim 13, characterized in that: The second connector portion extends into the cavity of the connector body of the first connector portion.

16. The connector according to claim 13, characterized in that The second connector portion further comprises: A movable seal is configured to selectively prevent fluid flow through the second mating opening and is configured to move and allow fluid flow through the second mating opening.

17. The connector according to claim 13, characterized in that: The second connector portion further comprises: A second engagement portion defines a second engagement lip extending radially away from the second connector portion, wherein the second engagement lip is configured to releasably engage the engagement lip of the first connector portion.

18. A connector, characterized in that: include: a first connector portion defining a pipe opening and a mating opening, wherein the first connector portion defines a flow path between the pipe opening and the mating opening; and comprising a second connector portion defining a second pipe opening and a second mating opening, wherein the second connector portion defines a second flow path between the second mating opening and the pipe opening, wherein the mating opening of the first connector portion and the second mating opening of the second connector portion are in fluid communication when the first connector portion and the second connector portion are engaged, Wherein the flow path or the second flow path includes at least one portion perpendicular to the overlapping portion of the first connector part and the second connector part, wherein the fluid flowing through the flow path or the second flow path exerts a normal force on the overlapping portion of the first connector part and the second connector part and prevents the first connector part from being released from the second connector part.

19. The connector according to claim 18, characterized in that The first and second connector portions are configured to be in a releasable engagement when fluid flow through the flow path or the second flow path is below a critical rate, and to be in a locked engagement when fluid flow through the flow path or the second flow path is above a critical rate.

20. The connector according to claim 18, characterized in that The first connector part comprises: a movable seal configured to selectively prevent fluid flow through the mating opening and configured to move and allow fluid flow through the mating opening; and Wherein, the second connector part comprises: A movable seal is configured to selectively prevent fluid flow through the second mating opening and is configured to move and allow fluid flow through the second mating opening.

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