Coupler for Luer connector

Abstract

A coupler for a Luer connector, the coupler comprising: a first fitting having a first fluid passage and a first pawl; a first fitting rotatably coupled to the first fitting about an axis of rotation, and a second fitting rotatably coupled to the first fitting about an axis of rotation, the second fitting having a second fluid passage in fluid communication with the first fluid passage, and a second pawl oriented in slidable mating abutment engagement with the first pawl; a Luer connector coupled to the first fitting or the second fitting and in fluid communication with a respective first or second fluid passage; and a port coupled to the other of the first fitting or the second fitting and in fluid communication with a respective first or second fluid passage; such that relative rotation of the coupled fitting portions causes the mating first and second pawls to generate audible and / or tactile vibrations as they slide relative to each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to connectors for vascular access devices (VADs). More specifically, the present disclosure relates to Luer connectors that limit the tightening torque that can be applied to a mating Luer fitting of another VAD when coupling the other VAD to the Luer connector. Background Art

[0002] Vascular access devices (VADs) are commonly used therapeutic devices that include intravenous (IV) catheters. There are two general classifications of VADs: peripheral catheters and central venous catheters. When delivering fluids or medications, several types of access hubs, ports, or valves are connected to the VAD. Luer connectors are a common way to interconnect or connect syringes, catheters, collared needles, IV tubing, etc. Luer connectors consist of male and female interlocking tubes that taper slightly to better hold together, even if it is just a simple press / twist fit. Luer connectors can optionally include an additional threaded outer rim to make them more secure by threading the corresponding, matching male and female parts of the devices to be connected.

[0003] Standard Luer connectors have a tendency to lock or jam after their male and female parts are coupled to each other, making them difficult to separate. Jamming is more prevalent when the mating Luer connectors are made of the same material, or when the connection was made several days ago. Another potential jamming condition occurs when the Luer connector parts are over-tightened during their initial connection by applying excessive rotational torque forces to them. Trying to release a jammed Luer fitting with pliers or other hand tools wastes the clinician's time and can cause inconvenience to the patient. Utility Model Content

[0004] The Luer connector disclosed herein limits the maximum assembly torque applied to the male connector part and the female connector part. When the desired torque threshold is exceeded, the corresponding relative ratchets that slidably match each other in abutment engagement contact limit the maximum torque applied during Luer assembly by sliding over each other. The torque threshold is selected to be high enough to ensure that the fluid is tightly connected, but below the level that causes the matching Luer connector parts to get stuck. In some embodiments, the relative ratchets also produce audible and / or tactile vibrations, such as the "click" sound when the relative ratchets jump over each other. In this way, the medical staff assembling the Luer connector knows that the assembly is safe when they hear the "click". Therefore, the relative ratchets in the currently disclosed coupling prevent the assembly from being over-tightened. In some embodiments, the relative ratchets are "one-way" ratchets that allow the click-tightening rotation of the Luer connection part (e.g., during a clockwise, relative tightening motion), but are locked in place during the loosening of the connection part.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a coupler for a Luer connector, the coupler comprising a first fitting having a first fluid passage and a first pawl. A second fitting is rotationally coupled to the first fitting about a rotation axis. The second fitting has a second fluid passage in fluid communication with the first fluid passage, and a second pawl oriented to slidably match and abut engage with the first pawl. The Luer connector is coupled to the first fitting or the second fitting and is in fluid communication with its corresponding first fluid passage or second fluid passage; and a port is coupled to the other of the first fitting or the second fitting and is in fluid communication with its corresponding first or second fluid passage. The port is in turn coupled to other VADs. When a matching Luer connector of another device is tightened to the Luer connector of the coupler, relative rotation of the coupled fitting portions causes the matching first and second pawls to produce audible and / or tactile vibrations as they slide relative to each other, such as when the Luer portion is tightened above a specified torque threshold.

[0006] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, one of the first or second pawls includes a ratchet, and the other of the first or second pawls includes an offset pawl in slidably mating abutment engagement with the ratchet, wherein the pawl defines a pawl translation axis. In some embodiments, the first and second pawl profiles of the matching ratchet and pawl allow the accessory coupled to the Luer connector to rotate clockwise relative to the accessory coupled to the port when a first rotational torque threshold is applied, but prevent corresponding relative counterclockwise rotation between these accessories. In some embodiments, the matching ratchet and pawl are oriented circumferentially around the rotation axis of the accessory, wherein the pawl translation axis is parallel to the rotation axis. In other embodiments, the ratchet and pawl are oriented on a pawl engagement plane that is orthogonal to the rotation axis of the accessory, wherein the pawl translation axis is parallel to the pawl engagement plane.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a Luer connector coupler, the coupler comprising a first fitting having a Luer connector and a first pawl, the Luer connector being in fluid communication with a first portion of a mating male connector. The coupler also comprises a second fitting having a second portion of a mating male connector rotationally coupled to its first portion about an axis of rotation, a port in fluid communication with the first and second portions of the male connector, and a second pawl oriented to slidably mate with the first pawl in abutting engagement. Relative rotation of the coupled fitting portions causes the mating first and second pawls to generate audible and / or tactile vibrations as they slide relative to each other.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a coupler for a luer connector, comprising: a first fitting having a first fluid passage and a first detent; and a second fitting rotationally coupled to the first fitting about a rotation axis, the second fitting having a second fluid passage in fluid communication with the first fluid passage, and a second detent oriented to slidably matingly engage with the first detent; a luer connector coupled to the first fitting or the second fitting and in fluid communication with its respective first or second fluid passage; and a port coupled to the other of the first fitting or the second fitting and in fluid communication with its respective first or second fluid passage; such that relative rotation of the coupled fitting portions causes the mating first and second detents to produce audible and / or tactile vibrations as they slide relative to each other.

[0009] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, one of the first pawl or the second pawl includes a ratchet wheel, and the other of the first pawl or the second pawl includes an offset pawl in slidable mating abutment engagement with the ratchet wheel, the pawl defining a pawl translation axis.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first and second pawl profiles of the mating ratchet and pawl allow the fitting coupled to the luer connector to rotate relative to the fitting coupled to the port when a first rotational torque threshold is applied in a first rotational direction, but prevent corresponding relative reverse rotation between the fittings in an opposite rotational direction.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, mating ratchet and pawl are oriented circumferentially about the rotational axis of the accessory, wherein the pawl translation axis is parallel to the rotational axis.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ratchet and pawl are oriented in a pawl engagement plane that is orthogonal to the rotational axis of the accessory, wherein the pawl translation axis is parallel to the pawl engagement plane.

[0013] One aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a coupler for a luer connector, comprising: a first fitting having a luer connector in fluid communication with a first portion of a mating male connector and a first detent; and a second fitting having a second portion of the mating male connector rotationally coupled to the first portion thereof about a rotational axis, a port in fluid communication with the first and second portions of the male connector, and a second detent oriented for slidable mating abutment engagement with the first detent; such that relative rotation of the coupled fitting portions causes the mating first and second detents to produce audible and / or tactile vibrations as they slide relative to each other.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, one of the first pawl or the second pawl includes a ratchet wheel, and the other of the first pawl or the second pawl includes an offset pawl in slidable mating abutment engagement with the ratchet wheel, the pawl defining a pawl translation axis.

[0015] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first and second pawl profiles of the mating ratchet and pawl allow the fitting coupled to the luer connector to rotate relative to the fitting coupled to the port when a first rotational torque threshold is applied in a first rotational direction, but prevent corresponding relative reverse rotation between the fittings in an opposite rotational direction.

[0016] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ratchet and pawl are oriented circumferentially about the rotational axis of the accessory, wherein the pawl translation axis is parallel to the rotational axis.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ratchet and pawl are oriented in a pawl engagement plane that is orthogonal to the rotational axis of the accessory, wherein the pawl translation axis is parallel to the pawl engagement plane.

[0018] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the plug-in connector further includes: a necked bushing defining an engagement surface and formed on the first fitting or the second fitting; and an offset matching cantilever finger protruding from the other of the first fitting or the second fitting, the finger defining a protruding ridge protruding tangentially relative to its cantilever translation axis, the protruding ridge being offsetly engaged with the engagement surface of the necked bushing, thereby preventing relative axial separation of the first fitting and the second fitting while allowing relative rotation therebetween about the rotation axis.

[0019] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the coupling further comprises: the first and second portions of the male connector in a nested orientation, and a circumferential fluid seal therebetween for preventing fluid communication outside the coupling.

[0020] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the fluid seal comprises an O-ring.

[0021] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the connector further includes: the first part and the second part of the plug-in connector are in a nested orientation and are coaxial with the rotation axis; the corresponding first pawl or the second pawl of the inner connector part in the nested connector part protrudes radially outward from its outer peripheral wall; and the corresponding first pawl or the second pawl of the outer connector part in the nested connector part protrudes radially inward from its inner peripheral wall and is slidably engaged with the corresponding first pawl or the second pawl of the inner part of the first part and the second part.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the connector further includes: an outer connecting head portion of the nested connecting head portion defines a plurality of symmetrical, circumferentially spaced first pawls or second pawls, and the first pawls or the second pawls respectively define outer tips axially aligned with the rotation axis; and an inner connecting head portion of the nested connecting head portion defines at least one first pawl or second pawl, and the at least one first pawl or second pawl respectively defines an inner tip axially aligned with the rotation axis.

[0023] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the outer tip includes a ratchet wheel and the inner tip includes a biased pawl in slidable mating abutting engagement with the ratchet wheel, the pawl defining a pawl translation axis.

[0024] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, one of the first pawl or the second pawl includes a ratchet, and the other of the first pawl or the second pawl includes an offset pawl slidably matingly abuttingly engaged with the ratchet, the pawl defining a pawl translation axis parallel to the rotational axis of the accessory.

[0025] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first and second pawl profiles of the mating ratchet and pawl allow the fitting coupled to the luer connector to rotate relative to the fitting coupled to the port when a first rotational torque threshold is applied in a first rotational direction, but prevent corresponding relative reverse rotation between the fittings in an opposite rotational direction.

[0026] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the connector further includes: the first and second parts of the plug-in connector are in a nested orientation and are coaxial with the rotation axis; the first part of the plug-in connector defines a first axial end, which is oriented along a first axial plane orthogonal to the rotation axis of the accessory; the second part of the plug-in connector defines a second axial end, which is oriented along a second axial plane orthogonal to the rotation axis of the accessory and is oppositely oriented to the first axial end; the corresponding first pawl or second pawl of the first connector part protrudes axially outward from its first axial end; and the corresponding first pawl or second pawl of the second connector part protrudes axially outward from its second axial end and is slidably engaged with the corresponding first pawl or second pawl of the first connector part.

[0027] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, one of the first pawl or the second pawl includes a ratchet wheel, and the other of the first pawl or the second pawl includes an offset pawl in slidable mating abutment engagement with the ratchet wheel, the pawl defining a pawl translation axis.

[0028] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ratchet and pawl are oriented in a pawl engagement plane that is orthogonal to the rotational axis of the accessory, wherein the pawl translation axis is parallel to the pawl engagement plane. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are further described in the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0030] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a Luer connector end portion of a Luer connector of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a port connector end of a Luer connector;

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of a Luer connector;

[0033] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Another exploded view of a Luer connector;

[0034] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Axial cross-sectional view of the Luer connector;

[0035] Figures 6 and 6A are Figure 5 a cross-sectional view of a Luer connector; and

[0036] Figure 7 is another embodiment of a Luer connector.

[0037] To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures. The figures are not drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Aspects of various embodiments of the Luer connector disclosed herein limit the maximum assembly torque applied to the corresponding male and female Luer connector parts of the connector and another vascular access device (VAD). When the desired torque threshold is exceeded, the corresponding relative pawls that are slidably matched to each other in abutment engagement contact limit the maximum torque applied during Luer assembly by sliding over each other. The torque threshold is selected to be high enough to ensure a fluid-tight connection, but below the level that causes the matching Luer connector parts to get stuck. In some embodiments, the relative pawls also produce audible and / or tactile vibrations, such as a "click" sound when the relative pawls jump over each other. In some embodiments, the relative pawls are pawls and ratchets, wherein the pawl translation axis is parallel to the rotation axis of the connector. In other embodiments, the pawl translation axis is a plane oriented orthogonal to the rotation axis or perpendicular to the rotation axis. In some embodiments, the relative pawls are "one-way" pawls that allow a click-tightening rotation of the Luer connection portion (e.g., during a clockwise, relative tightening motion), but lock in place during the loosening of the connection portion. Thus, the opposing detents within the presently disclosed coupling prevent the assembly from being over-tightened.

[0039] In the present disclosure, where applicable, the convention is followed where the distal end of a device is the end closest to the patient, e.g., for delivering one or more drugs to the patient via a Luer connector disclosed herein, and the proximal end of the device is the end distal to the patient and closest to the clinician or other medical personnel. With respect to terms used in the present disclosure, the following definitions are provided.

[0040] As used herein, the use of “a”, “an” and “the” includes both the singular and the plural.

[0041] As used herein, the term "Luer connector" refers to a connecting collar that is a standard way to attach syringes, catheters, collared needles, IV tubing, etc. to each other. The Luer connector consists of a male and female interlocking tubes that are slightly tapered to better hold together even if it is just a simple press / twist fit. The Luer connectors can optionally include an additional threaded outer rim to make them more secure. The male end of the Luer connector connects to the flush syringe and can interlock and connect to the female end located on the vascular access device (VAD). The Luer connector also has a distal channel that releasably attaches the Luer connector to the hub of the VAD, and a proximal channel that releasably attaches the Luer connector to the barrel of the syringe.

[0042] As used herein, ISO 80369-7:2016 defines the specifications for a standard Luer connector, including a 6% taper between the distal and proximal ends. The male standard Luer connector increases from the distal open end to the proximal end. The female standard Luer connector decreases from the proximal open end to the distal end. According to ISO 80369-7:2016, the outer cross-sectional diameter of the male standard Luer connector measured 0.75 mm from the distal end of the tip is between 3.970 mm and 4.072 mm. The length of the male standard Luer taper is between 7.500 mm and 10.500 mm. The outer cross-sectional diameter measured 7.500 mm from the distal end of the tip is between 4.376 mm and 4.476 mm. As used herein, the phrases "male standard Luer connector" and "female standard Luer connector" shall refer to connectors having the dimensions described in ISO 80369-7, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0043] As will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art, although descriptive terms such as "tip," "hub," "thread," "protrusion / insertion," "tongue," "bevel," "wall," "top," "side," "bottom," and other terms (as applicable) are used throughout this specification to facilitate understanding, they are not intended to limit any components that may be used in combination or alone or that require a specified spatial orientation to implement the various aspects of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0044] Before describing several exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details of construction or processing steps set forth in the following description. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments or can be practiced or implemented in many ways. For example, where the Luer connector disclosed herein has first and second mating fitting parts shown in one configuration (e.g., mating male and female connections), in other embodiments, the position and orientation of the mating fitting parts are reversed.

[0045] The contents of the examples in this specification are provided to help fully understand the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications may be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Moreover, for the sake of clarity and brevity, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations are omitted.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first accessory of the Luer connector includes a distal end having a needleless Luer connector. In one or more embodiments, the needleless connection includes at least one thread and other features in all combinations that allow it to engage with a corresponding thread or multiple threads of a corresponding connector.

[0047] According to further exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the configuration of the structural elements constituting the needleless connector includes a collar protruding from the distal end of the barrel, the collar including at least one thread to connect to a corresponding thread or threads of a corresponding connector.

[0048] According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the presently disclosed embodiment, the collar or needleless connector may be bent or elastically deformed to allow for better interference fit compliance with a corresponding connector.

[0049] According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the needleless connector may include female threads whose size and thread pattern will engage with a standard ISO594-2 type male fitting and / or male threads whose size and thread pattern will engage with a standard ISO 594-2 type female fitting. An example of an ISO594-2 type fitting is a Q-type fitting.

[0050] In one or more embodiments, the male connector or female connector can be selected from the group consisting of a needleless connector, a catheter Luer connector, a stopcock, and a hemodialysis connector. In one or more embodiments, the needleless connector is selected from Q-Syte connector, MaxPlus, MaxPlus Clear, MaxZero, UltraSite, Caresite, InVision-Plus, Safeline, OneLink, V-Link, ClearLink, NeutraClear, Clave, MicroClave, MicroClave Clear, Neutron, NanoClave, Kendall, Nexus, InVision, Vadsite, Bionector, etc. In one or more embodiments, the male connector or connector can be an intravenous tube end or a stopcock connected to the port of a Luer connector.

[0051] Now refer to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1-5A first aspect of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. A luer connector 10 facilitates coupling to a vascular access device (VAD) 11. The luer connector 10 has a first fitting 12, the distal end of which incorporates a threaded luer connector 14. In some embodiments, the luer connector 14 is a male connector portion, while in other embodiments it is a female connector portion. Figure 5 As shown, the Luer connector 14 mates with the corresponding threaded Luer connector 15 of the VAD 11. The second fitting 16 of the Luer connector 10 has a port connector 18 on its proximal end, as shown, which facilitates connection to a catheter. In other embodiments, the port connector 18 is configured to receive other types of known VAD connection devices, such as Luer connectors, drug infusion ports, etc. The first fitting 14 and the second fitting 16 are rotationally coupled to each other and fluidly connected, wherein the first fluid passage 20 of the first fitting is fluidly connected to the Luer connector 14 and the second fluid passage 22 of the second fitting. The second fluid passage 22 is in fluid communication with the port 18. The periphery of the second fitting 16 defines a tongue 24 for grasping by a clinician when attaching the Luer connector 10 to other VADs.

[0052] Also refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the first fitting 12 and the second fitting 16 of the Luer connector 10 are rotationally coupled together by a male connector. The Luer connector 10 incorporates a first male connector 26 in its first fitting 14, which includes an O-ring seat 28 for receiving an O-ring 30. The first male connector 26 is mated with a corresponding second male connector 32 in a nested orientation about a common coaxial rotation axis. The O-ring 30 is a circumferential fluid seal between the first male connector 26 and the second male connector 32 that is used to prevent fluid communication outside the Luer connector 10. Although the first male connector 26 is a male connector and the second male connector 32 is a matching female connector, in other embodiments, they are reversed, such that the female second male connector is incorporated in the first fitting and the male first male connector is incorporated in the second fitting.

[0053] refer to Figure 3-5 , the second male connector 32 has a necked bushing 34 that defines an engagement surface 36. The proximal end of the first male connector 26 incorporates a plurality of offset, mating cantilevered fingers 38. Each cantilevered finger 38 defines a protruding ridge 40 that protrudes tangentially relative to its cantilevered translation axis. Each protruding ridge 40 is in offset engagement with the engagement surface 36 of the necked bushing 34, thereby preventing relative axial separation of the first fitting 12 and the second fitting 16 while allowing relative rotation therebetween about their common rotational axis.

[0054] The first male connector 26 of the first fitting 12 defines a pair of first detents 42 that project radially outward from an outer peripheral wall 44 thereof. The second male connector 32 of the second fitting 16 defines a plurality of second detents 46 that project radially inward from an inner peripheral wall 48 thereof. The respective first detents 42 and second detents 46 respectively define outer tips that are aligned with the axis of rotation of the Luer connector 10. These respective detent tips are oriented to slidably abut against each other so that relative rotation of the coupled first fitting portion 12 and second fitting portion 16 causes the matching first detents 42 and second detents 46 to produce audible and / or tactile vibrations as they slide relative to each other. Figure 1 -6, the matching first pawl 42 and second pawl 46 produce a "click" sound when sliding relative to each other.

[0055] Figure 6 and enlarged Fig. 6A It is along Figure 5 6-6 of the cross-sectional view of the Luer connector 10, which shows the corresponding first pawl 42 and second pawl structure 46. The first pawl 42 and the second pawl structure 46 are opposed and abutted, respectively, and the pawl and ratchet mechanism. The inner peripheral wall 48 of the second fitting 16 includes a plurality of circumferentially arranged ratchet teeth 50, which extend radially inward from the axial open end 52 of the inner peripheral wall. The circumferentially arranged ratchet teeth 50 engage a pair of pawls 54, which are oriented 180 degrees around the outer peripheral wall 44 of the first fitting 16 and protrude radially outward therefrom. In other embodiments, the Luer connector has at least one pawl, while other embodiments have more than two pawls. The profile of each pawl 54 includes a first pawl slope on the first face 56 and a second pawl slope on the second face 60 that is significantly steeper than the first slope. Each ratchet tooth 50 includes a first slope on the first tooth surface 62 and a second slope on the second tooth surface 64 that is significantly steeper than the first slope.

[0056] When the ratchet teeth 50 and the pawls 54 are slidably matingly abuttingly engaged with each other, the first fitting 12 can rotate relative to the inner second fitting 16 in a first direction, but cannot rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction. In particular, the first fitting 12 is rotatable relative to the second fitting 16 when the first face 56 of each pawl 54 translates about the pawl translation axis P (oriented orthogonally to the drawing, which is parallel to the rotation axis of the coupling 10), whereby the first fitting 12 slides over the first inclined surface 62 of each ratchet tooth 50 (see rotation arrow T). Relative rotation of the coupled fitting parts 14 and 14 in direction T causes the mating first pawl (pawl 54) and second pawl (ratchet tooth 50) to produce an audible and / or tactile vibration (i.e., a "click") when they slide relative to each other. In contrast, contact between the second pawl face 60 of each pawl 50 and the second face 64 of each ratchet tooth 50 prevents the first fitting 14 from rotating relative to the second fitting 16 in the opposite direction (see rotation arrow L). The selectively varying configuration and profile of the ratchet teeth 50 and the mating pawls 54 adjust the torque applied necessary to slide them relative to each other. The applied torque threshold is selected to ensure adequate fluid sealing of the luer connector 10 to any VAD threaded into its luer connector 14, but below an over-tightening torque threshold that may cause galling or seizure of the coupling with the VAD.

[0057] Reference now Figure 1 , Figure 5 6, when the clinician screws the auxiliary VAD device 11 with the Luer fitting 15 into the Luer connector 14 of its corresponding Luer connector 10, it tightens the connection. The clinician may optionally choose to grasp the reed protrusions on the periphery of the second fitting 16 when screwing into the VAD 11. When the tightening torque applied by the clinician in the rotational direction T exceeds a threshold level sufficient to rotate the first fitting 12 relative to the second fitting 16, the pawl 54 and the ratchet 50 slide relative to each other, thereby producing a tactile and audible detectable "click" sound. The click tightening sound indicates to the treating clinician that the matching Luer connector portions 14 and 15 are in a fluid-tight state and no further tightening is required. Further efforts by the clinician to increase the tightening torque on the Luer connector 14 only cause the first fitting 14 to rotate / freewheel relative to the second fitting 16 without any further relative tightening of the Luer connector portion 14 and the VAD 11. Therefore, it is not possible to over-tighten the VAD 11 connection to the Luer connector 10.

[0058] Figure 7Another embodiment of a Luer coupler 70 is shown having a first fitting 72 having a first pawl detent 74 oriented on an axial end thereof and a second fitting 76 having a second ratchet pawl 78 located on an axial end thereof. The pawl detent 74 and the ratchet pawl 78 are oriented to slidably abut one another in a pawl engagement plane that is orthogonal to the rotational axis of the fittings 72, 76. In the reverse pawl orientation of the figure, the translation axis of the pawl 74 is parallel to the pawl engagement plane. All other structural features of the Luer coupler 72 are similar to those of the Luer coupler 10.

[0059] The Luer connector embodiments disclosed herein are constructed of medical grade materials known to those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the described fitting portions are made of polypropylene polymers. The seals are made of fiber-filled polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) polymers and / or polyisoprene polymers.

[0060] References throughout the specification to "one embodiment," "certain embodiments," "various embodiments," "one or more embodiments," or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearance of phrases such as "in one or more embodiments," "in certain embodiments," "in various embodiments," "in one embodiment," or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout the specification is not necessarily referring to the same embodiment of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, it should be understood that the phrases and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. As used herein, "includes," "comprising," or "having," and variations thereof, are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and their equivalents as well as additional items. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled," and variations thereof, should be interpreted broadly; they include direct and indirect mounting, connection, support, and coupling. Furthermore, "connected" and "coupled" are not limited to physical, mechanical, or electrical connections or couplings.

[0061] References throughout the specification to "one embodiment," "certain embodiments," "various embodiments," "one or more embodiments," or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearance of phrases such as "in one or more embodiments," "in certain embodiments," "in various embodiments," "in one embodiment," or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout the specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0062] Although the disclosure herein has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrations of the principles and applications of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the present disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to include modifications and variations within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A connector for a Luer connector, characterized in that include: a first fitting having a first fluid passage and a first detent; a second fitting rotationally coupled to the first fitting about a rotational axis, the second fitting having a second fluid passage in fluid communication with the first fluid passage, and a second pawl oriented for slidable mating abutting engagement with the first pawl; a luer connector coupled to the first fitting or the second fitting and in fluid communication with the first or second fluid passageway, respectively; as well as a port coupled to the other of the first fitting or the second fitting and in fluid communication with its respective first or second fluid passageway; Relative rotation of the coupled accessory parts is caused to produce an audible and / or tactile vibration of the mating first and second pawls as they slide relative to each other.

2. The coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that One of the first pawl or the second pawl includes a ratchet wheel, and the other of the first pawl or the second pawl includes a biased pawl in slidable mating abutting engagement with the ratchet wheel, the pawl defining a pawl translation axis.

3. The coupling according to claim 2, characterized in that The first and second pawl profiles of the mating ratchet and pawl permit rotation of the fitting coupled to the luer connector relative to the fitting coupled to the port upon application of a first rotational torque threshold in a first rotational direction, but prevent corresponding relative reverse rotation between the fittings in an opposite rotational direction.

4. The coupling according to claim 2, characterized in that Mating ratchet and pawl are oriented circumferentially about the rotational axis of the accessory, with the pawl translation axis parallel to the rotational axis.

5. The coupling according to claim 2, characterized in that The ratchet and pawl are oriented in a pawl engagement plane that is orthogonal to the rotational axis of the accessory, wherein the pawl translation axis is parallel to the pawl engagement plane.

6. A connector for a Luer connector, characterized in that include: a first fitting having a luer connector in fluid communication with a first portion of a mating male connector and a first detent; as well as a second fitting having a second portion of the mating male connector rotationally coupled to the first portion thereof about a rotational axis, a port in fluid communication with the first and second portions of the male connector, and a second pawl oriented for slidable mating abutting engagement with the first pawl; Relative rotation of the coupled fitting parts is caused to produce an audible and / or tactile vibration of the mating first and second pawls as they slide relative to each other.

7. The coupling according to claim 6, characterized in that One of the first pawl or the second pawl includes a ratchet wheel, and the other of the first pawl or the second pawl includes a biased pawl in slidable mating abutting engagement with the ratchet wheel, the pawl defining a pawl translation axis.

8. The coupling according to claim 7, characterized in that The first and second pawl profiles of the mating ratchet and pawl permit rotation of the fitting coupled to the luer connector relative to the fitting coupled to the port upon application of a first rotational torque threshold in a first rotational direction, but prevent corresponding relative reverse rotation between the fittings in an opposite rotational direction.

9. The coupling according to claim 8, characterized in that The ratchet and pawl are oriented circumferentially about the rotational axis of the accessory, with the pawl translation axis parallel to the rotational axis.

10. The coupling according to claim 8, characterized in that The ratchet and pawl are oriented in a pawl engagement plane that is orthogonal to the rotational axis of the accessory, wherein the pawl translation axis is parallel to the pawl engagement plane.

11. The coupling according to claim 6, characterized in that The plug-in connector further comprises: a necked bushing defining an engagement surface and formed on the first fitting or the second fitting; and an offset mating cantilever finger projecting from the other of the first or second fittings, the finger defining a projecting ridge projecting tangentially relative to its cantilever translation axis, the projecting ridge engaging the engagement surface of the necked bushing to prevent relative axial separation of the first and second fittings while allowing relative rotation therebetween about the rotational axis.

12. The coupling according to claim 11, characterized in that Further included are the first and second portions of the male connector in a nested orientation and a circumferential fluid seal therebetween for preventing fluid communication outside of the coupling.

13. The coupling according to claim 12, characterized in that The fluid seal includes an O-ring.

14. The coupling according to claim 11, characterized in that Further including: The first and second parts of the male connector are in a nested orientation and are coaxial with the rotational axis; The first or second pawl of the inner connector part of the nested connector parts protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral wall thereof; and The corresponding first pawl or second pawl of the outer connecting head part of the nested connecting head parts protrudes radially inward from the inner peripheral wall thereof and is slidably relatively abutted with the corresponding first pawl or second pawl of the inner part of the first part and the second part.

15. The coupling according to claim 14, characterized in that Further including: an outer one of the nested connector portions defining a plurality of symmetrical, circumferentially spaced first or second detents, the first or second detents respectively defining an outer tip axially aligned with the rotational axis; and An inner one of the nested connector portions defines at least one first detent or a second detent, each defining an inner tip axially aligned with the rotational axis.

16. The coupling according to claim 15, characterized in that The outer tip includes a ratchet wheel and the inner tip includes a biased pawl in slidable mating abutting engagement with the ratchet wheel, the biased pawl of the inner tip defining a pawl translation axis.

17. The coupling according to claim 16, characterized in that One of the first pawl or the second pawl includes a ratchet wheel, and the other of the first pawl or the second pawl includes a biased pawl in slidable mating abutting engagement with the ratchet wheel, the pawl defining a pawl translation axis parallel to the rotational axis of the accessory.

18. The coupling according to claim 17, characterized in that The first and second pawl profiles of the mating ratchet and pawl permit rotation of the fitting coupled to the luer connector relative to the fitting coupled to the port upon application of a first rotational torque threshold in a first rotational direction, but prevent corresponding relative reverse rotation between the fittings in an opposite rotational direction.

19. The coupling according to claim 18, characterized in that Further including: The first portion of the male connector defines a first axial end oriented along a first axial plane orthogonal to the rotational axis of the fitting; the second portion of the male connector defining a second axial end oriented along a second axial plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the fitting and oriented opposite to the first axial end; A first pawl of the first accessory protrudes axially outward from a first axial end thereof; as well as The second pawl of the second accessory protrudes axially outward from the second axial end thereof and is slidably in relative abutment engagement with the corresponding first pawl or second pawl.

20. The coupling according to claim 19, characterized in that The ratchet and pawl are oriented in a pawl engagement plane that is orthogonal to the rotational axis of the accessory, wherein the pawl translation axis is parallel to the pawl engagement plane.

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