Torsional connector coupling assembly

Abstract

The utility model relates to a torsion connector connection assembly comprising a first connector which is provided with a matching part with a first opening and a first torsion member arranged in the matching part. The first torsion member is rotatable relative to the mating portion. The torsion connector coupling assembly includes a second connector having a second torsion member with a second channel, and a coupling portion having a second opening and disposed at least partially within the second torsion member. The second torsion member is configured to be coupled to the first torsion member such that rotation of the second torsion member causes rotation of the first torsion member such that the first channel, the first opening, the second channel, and the second opening align to form a fluid passageway. The first connector is configured to separate from the second connector in response to a force exceeding a threshold force.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 454,884, filed on March 27, 2023, entitled “TORSIONAL CONNECTOR COUPLING ASSEMBLY,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to connectors and, more particularly, to connector couplings. Background Art

[0004] Medical treatments often involve infusing a patient with a medical fluid (e.g., saline solution or liquid medication) using an intravenous (IV) catheter that is connected to a fluid source, such as an IV bag, by an arrangement of flexible tubing and fittings, commonly referred to as an "IV set." Typically, the tubing or catheters are coupled or secured to one another to allow fluid communication between different portions of the tubing or catheter.

[0005] In some applications, such tubes or conduits may become dislodged due to improper securing and / or when the coupling is subjected to forces greater than those for which the coupling was designed. Utility Model Content

[0006] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a twist connector coupling assembly, which includes: a first connector, the first connector including a mating portion having a first opening, and a first twist member disposed in the mating portion and having a first channel, the first twist member being rotatable relative to the mating portion; and a second connector, the second connector including a second twist member having a second channel, and a coupling portion having a second opening and at least partially disposed in the second twist member, the second twist member being configured to be coupled to the first twist member to couple the first connector to the second connector. Rotation of the second twist member causes rotation of the first twist member, thereby causing alignment and fluid communication between the first channel, the first opening, the second channel, and the second opening to form a fluid passage extending from the first connector to the second connector when the first connector is coupled to the second connector. The first connector is configured to separate from the second connector in response to a pull-out force exceeding a predetermined threshold force.

[0007] In some embodiments, the twist connector coupling assembly further includes a sleeve coupled to the second connector and at least partially surrounding the twist member, wherein the sleeve is rotatable relative to the coupling portion. The sleeve includes a protrusion configured to be disposed within a groove of the mating portion to secure the sleeve in an unlocked position when a fluid passage is formed. The mating portion includes a ring having a groove configured to receive the protrusion to secure the sleeve in the unlocked position. The protrusion has a natural state and a compressed state, the protrusion is biased to the natural state, and securing the protrusion within the groove causes the protrusion to transition from the natural state to the compressed state.

[0008] In some embodiments, the sleeve is coupled to the second torsion member such that rotation of the sleeve causes rotation of the second torsion member. The sleeve includes a groove configured to receive a ring of the mating portion when the first connector is coupled to the second connector.

[0009] In some embodiments, the extraction force is a force applied to the first connector along a central axis of the first connector, and the central axis extends at least along a length of the first connector. When the first connector is coupled to the second connector, the central axis extends through the first connector and the second connector.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first torsion member and the second torsion member each have a locked position and an unlocked position, such that when the first connector is coupled to the second connector, the second torsion member in the unlocked position causes the first torsion member to be in the unlocked position. The first torsion member and the second torsion member are both biased to the locked position.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first torsion member is biased so that the first channel is not aligned with the first opening.

[0012] In some embodiments, the second torsion member is biased so that the second channel is not aligned with the second opening.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first torsion member includes a key member extending at least partially through the mating portion, and the second torsion member includes a key hole sized and shaped to receive the key member to secure the key member within the key hole.

[0014] In some embodiments, the second connector includes an outlet portion coupled to the coupling portion, the outlet portion having a passage extending at least partially into the coupling portion.

[0015] In some embodiments, the mating portion includes a first interior space and the coupling portion includes a second interior space, such that when the first connector is coupled to the second connector and a fluid passage is formed, the first interior space is in fluid communication with the second interior space.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first connector is configured to remain coupled to the second connector when the extraction force does not exceed a predetermined threshold force.

[0017] In some embodiments, the twist connector coupling assembly has a first configuration, and in the first configuration, the first connector is coupled to the second connector such that the mating portion is at least partially disposed within the second connector and the fluid passage is blocked.

[0018] In some embodiments, the twist connector coupling assembly has a second configuration, and in the second configuration, the first connector is coupled to the second connector such that the mating portion is at least partially disposed within the second connector and a fluid passage is formed.

[0019] In some embodiments, the twist connector coupling assembly has a third configuration, and in the third configuration, the first connector is decoupled from the second connector and the fluid passage is blocked.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first connector is coupled to the first portion of the tubing at the first end and the second connector is coupled to the second portion of the tubing at the output portion.

[0021] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a twist connector coupling assembly, the twist connector coupling assembly comprising: a first connector, the first connector comprising a first end, a mating portion disposed near a second end opposite to the first end and having a first opening and a first internal space, and a first twist member disposed in the first internal space, the first twist member having a first passage extending through the mating portion and a key member, the first twist member being rotatable relative to the mating portion, wherein the first twist member has a locked position and an unlocked position, and the first twist member is biased to the locked position; a second connector, comprising a second twist member having a second passage and a key hole, the output portion having a second outlet, and a second output portion having a second outlet. The first connector is configured to be detached from the second connector in response to a pull-out force exceeding a predetermined threshold force.

[0022] One or more embodiments of the present invention relate to a twist connector coupling assembly, which comprises: a first connector, which comprises an inlet portion disposed near a first end and having an inlet, a mating portion disposed near a second end opposite to the first end and having a first opening and a first internal space; and a first twist member disposed in the first internal space, the first twist member having a first channel and a key member extending through the mating portion, the first twist member being rotatable relative to the mating portion, wherein the first twist member has a locked position and an unlocked position, and the first twist member is biased to the locked position; a second connector, which comprises a second twist member having a second channel and a key hole, and an output having an outlet. A portion, a coupling portion having a second interior space and disposed between a second torsion member and an output portion, the coupling portion having a second opening and at least partially disposed within the second torsion member, the key hole being configured to receive the key member to couple the first connector to the second connector, wherein the second torsion member has a locked position and an unlocked position, and the second torsion member is biased to the locked position; and a sleeve coupled to the second torsion member and partially surrounding the second torsion member, the sleeve being rotatable relative to the coupling portion so that rotation of the sleeve causes the second torsion member to rotate from the locked position to the unlocked position, the sleeve including a groove configured to receive a ring of the mating portion to secure the sleeve to the mating portion when the first connector is coupled to the second connector. Rotation of the sleeve causes rotation of the second torsion member, which causes rotation of the first torsion member, which causes alignment and fluid communication between the first channel, the first opening, the second channel, and the second opening to form a fluid passage between the first interior space and the second interior space, so that when the first connector is coupled to the second connector, the fluid passage extends from the first connector to the second connector. The first connector is configured to be separated from the second connector in response to a pull-out force exceeding a predetermined threshold force.

[0023] It should be understood that, in light of the present disclosure, various configurations of the subject technology will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art, wherein the various configurations of the subject technology are shown and described by way of illustration. As will be appreciated, the subject technology can have other and different configurations, and its several details can be modified in various other aspects, all without departing from the scope of the subject technology. Therefore, the overview, drawings and detailed description are considered to be illustrative in nature, rather than restrictive. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate the disclosed embodiments and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments. In the drawings:

[0025] Figure 1is a system schematic diagram showing a twist connector coupling assembly in use according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 2 According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the first configuration Figure 1 A perspective side view of a twist connector coupling assembly.

[0027] Figure 3A According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1 A perspective side view of a twist connector coupling assembly with a first connector separated from a second connector.

[0028] Figure 3B According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 3A A cross-sectional side view of a twist connector coupling assembly.

[0029] Figure 4 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1 A perspective side view of a twist connector coupling assembly with a first connector separated from a second connector.

[0030] Figure 5 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view of a twist connector coupling assembly.

[0031] Fig. 6A According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the second configuration Figure 1 A perspective side view of a twist connector coupling assembly.

[0032] Figure 6B According to various aspects of the present disclosure Fig. 6A A cross-sectional side view of a twist connector coupling assembly.

[0033] Figure 6C According to various aspects of the present disclosure Fig. 6A An enlarged cross-sectional side view of a twist connector coupling assembly.

[0034] Figure 7 According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the third configuration Figure 1 A cross-sectional side view of a twist connector coupling assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The disclosed twist connector coupling assembly or coupling assembly includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector is configured to be coupled to the second connector. The coupling assembly can have a first configuration, a second configuration, and a third configuration. In the first configuration, the first connector is coupled to the second connector, and a fluid passage is blocked, preventing fluid from flowing from the first connector to the second connector. In the second configuration, the first connector is coupled to the second connector, and a fluid passage is formed to allow fluid to flow from the first connector to the second connector. In the third configuration, the first connector is decoupled from the second connector.

[0036] The coupling assembly can be configured to couple a first portion of a tubing to a second portion of a tubing. For example, the first portion of the tubing can be coupled to a first connector and the second portion of the tubing can be coupled to a second connector. The first portion of the tubing and / or the second portion of the tubing can also be coupled to a patient or a fluid source. In some embodiments, the coupling assembly allows fluid to flow from the first portion of the tubing to the second portion of the tubing. For example, a first connector can be coupled to a second connector so that a fluid pathway is formed through the first connector and the second connector to allow fluid to flow from the first portion of the tubing through the first connector and the second connector to the second portion of the tubing. The fluid pathway can allow fluid to flow from the second portion of the tubing through the second connector and the first connector to the first portion of the tubing.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first connector and the second connector provide a one-way fluid flow. For example, when the first connector is coupled to the second connector, the fluid can flow from the second connector to the first connector, but cannot flow from the first connector to the second connector. In some embodiments, the separation of the first connector from the second connector causes the fluid flow from the second connector to the first connector to stop, thereby preventing leakage when the first connector is separated from the second connector. In some embodiments, when the first connector is separated from the second connector, the first connector is disinfected (for example, via a disinfected cloth or disinfection device) or replaced by a new disinfected connector to prevent infection or contamination that may occur when the first connector is reused without disinfection. In some embodiments, the first connector is configured to separate based on a force exceeding a predetermined threshold force. When a force exceeding a predetermined threshold force (for example, a pull-out force) is applied to the first connector, the first connector can be separated from the second connector. The pull-out force can be a force occurring along the longitudinal axis of the first connector. In some embodiments, the pull-out force is generated by dragging or pulling the first part of the pipe fitting coupled to the first connector. Alternatively, the pull-out force applied to the first connector can be generated by dragging or pulling the second connector and / or the second part of the pipe fitting coupled to the second connector.

[0038] In some embodiments, once the first connector is separated from the second connector, the first connector is configured to reconnect to the second connector. For example, once the first connector is separated from the second connector (e.g., due to a disconnection event), the first connector can be configured to allow reconnection to the second connector after the disconnection event.

[0039] The detailed description set forth below is intended to be a description of the various configurations of the subject technology, rather than being intended to represent the only configuration that can practice the subject technology. The detailed description includes specific details, so as to provide a thorough understanding of the subject technology. However, it is clear to those skilled in the art that the subject technology can be practiced without these specific details. In some cases, well-known structures and components are shown in the form of block diagrams to avoid blurring the concept of the subject technology. For ease of understanding, similar components are marked with the same element number. Reference numerals may have additional letter suffixes to represent different instances of common elements, and common elements are generally referred to by the same numerals without suffix letters.

[0040] Although the following description is directed to the connection of medical accessories for the administration of medical fluids using the disclosed coupling, it should be understood that the description is only an example of use and does not limit the scope of the claims. The various aspects of the disclosed coupling can be used in any application that requires securing the connection of various pipes and accessories.

[0041] The disclosed connector assembly overcomes several challenges found with certain conventional connectors. One challenge with certain conventional connectors is that certain conventional connectors may be improperly secured. In addition, during use, certain conventional connectors may be designed to release or shift in response to relatively low pull-out forces. For example, certain conventional connectors may release in response to the pull-out forces experienced during a patient turning over in bed, a patient grabbing tubing or lines on a bed rail, moving a patient to a different bed, pediatric patients fidgeting, and / or adult patients losing their sense of direction pulling out their lines. In fact, the 2017 Vascular Access Association (AVA) Annual Scientific Meeting reported that the displacement rate for 1,000 patients with peripheral IVs was 10%, equivalent to approximately 33 million displacements per year in the United States alone. Because accidental or unintentional displacement of tubing, catheters, or accessories may interrupt the administration of medical fluids, it is undesirable to use certain conventional connectors.

[0042] Therefore, according to the present disclosure, it is advantageous to provide a coupler and coupler / connector assembly as described herein that allows improved fixation of an accessory or connector. The disclosed coupler and coupler / connector assembly are constructed as described herein to allow secure retention of a first connector while allowing separation after a disconnection event.

[0043] Figure 1 is a system schematic diagram showing a twist connector coupling assembly in use according to various aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 2 According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the first configuration Figure 1 A perspective side view of a twist connector coupling assembly. Figure 3A According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1 A perspective side view of a twist connector coupling assembly with a first connector separated from a second connector. Figure 3B According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 3A A cross-sectional side view of a twist connector coupling assembly. Figure 4 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1 A perspective side view of a twist connector coupling assembly with a first connector separated from a second connector.

[0044] Reference Figure 1-Figure 4 , a twist connector coupling assembly ("coupling assembly") 100 allows fluid (e.g., medical fluid) to flow from a fluid source 500 to a patient end 600 by releasably placing a portion of a tubing or line in fluid communication with another portion of the tubing or line. The coupling assembly 100 may include a first connector 102 and a second connector 140. The first connector 102 may be configured to couple to the second connector 140. In some embodiments, the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 140 are one-way connectors. In the depicted example, portions of the tubing may be terminated with a connector / valve, such as the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 140. In some embodiments, fluid from the fluid source 500 flows through the coupling assembly 100 to the patient end 600. A cannula or needle may be inserted into the patient at the patient end 600, thereby allowing the medical fluid to flow from the fluid source 500 through the coupling assembly 100 to the patient at the patient end 600. In some embodiments, separation of the first connector 102 from the second connector 140 interrupts or prevents flow from the fluid source 500 to the patient end 600 .

[0045] In some embodiments, the coupling assembly 100 includes a central axis AA, and the first connector 102 and the second connector 140 are coupled in series along the central axis AA. The first connector 102 and / or the second connector 140 can allow for connection and / or disconnection of pipes to allow for selective fluid communication therebetween. The central axis AA can extend longitudinally along the length of the first connector 102 and the second connector 140.

[0046] The coupling assembly 100 may have a first configuration ( Figure 2 ), the second structure ( Fig. 6A ) and the third construction ( Figure 7). In the first configuration, the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, and the flow of fluid from the first connector 102 to the second connector 140 is interrupted. In the second configuration, the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, and a fluid passage is formed between the first connector 102 and the second connector 140 to allow the fluid to flow from the first connector 102 to the second connector 140. In some embodiments, in response to the engagement of the sleeve of the second connector 140, the coupling assembly 100 is converted from the first configuration to the second configuration. In some embodiments, the coupling assembly 100 is converted from the second configuration to the third configuration in response to a disconnection event. Disconnection may even occur when a pull-out force is applied to the first connector 102 causing the first connector 102 to move axially relative to the second connector 140. In some embodiments, when the pull-out force applied to the first connector 102 exceeds a predetermined threshold force, axial movement of the first connector 102 relative to the second connector 140 is caused.

[0047] In some embodiments, the first connector 102 is coupled to a first portion of a pipe to allow the first portion of the pipe to be connected and / or disconnected from the second connector 140. The first connector 102 may include a first end 101 and a second end 103. The first end 101 may be coupled to the pipe (e.g., the first portion of the pipe), and the second end 103 may be configured to be coupled to the second connector 140. For example, the second end 103 of the first connector 102 may be configured to be coupled to the first end 141 of the second connector 140. In some embodiments, a portion of the pipe may be coupled or engaged with the first end 101 of the first connector 102. The first connector 102 may be in fluid communication with the pipe via the first end 101 to allow fluid to pass through the first connector 102.

[0048] In some embodiments, the first end 101 may have a flat surface to allow the clinician to easily clean and disinfect the first end 101. The first end 101 may be fluidly connected to the second end 103. The first end 101 and the second end 103 may be arranged along the longitudinal length of the first connector 102. For example, the first end 101 and the second end 103 may be arranged along the central axis AA. The first end 101 and / or the second end 103 may include an opening or channel to allow the first end 101 and / or the second end 103 to be in fluid communication with one or more elements (e.g., pipe fittings, connectors, valves, collars, accessories, etc.). For example, the first end 101 may be coupled to a tube, and the second end 103 may include one or more openings 139 to allow fluid to pass through the first connector 102 and the fluid to flow out of the first connector 102. The opening 139 may be configured to be in fluid communication with an opening (e.g., opening 156) of the second connector 140 to allow fluid to flow from the first connector 102 to the second connector 140.

[0049] In some embodiments, the first connector 102 is configured to be coupled to the second connector 140 so that fluid flows into the first connector 102 and out of the second connector 140. For example, the first connector 102 may include an inlet (e.g., inlet 110) configured to receive the fluid, and the second connector 140 may include an outlet (e.g., outlet 170) configured to allow the fluid to exit the second connector 140. In some embodiments, the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, and the coupling assembly 100 in the second configuration causes the inlet (e.g., inlet 110) of the first connector 102 to be in fluid communication with the outlet (e.g., outlet 170) of the second connector 140.

[0050] In some embodiments, the fluid can flow out or flow through the first connector 102 via the second end 103 disposed opposite the first end 101. The flow path through the first connector 102 can have a straight fluid passage to make flushing easier and reduce the risk of hemolysis. Optionally, the first connector 102 may include features (e.g., raised features, gripping features) disposed on the outer surface of the first connector 102 to allow the clinician to more easily manipulate or operate the first connector 102. Some embodiments of the first connector 102 can provide a connector that is compatible with connectors of other parts of the fluid delivery system. The first connector 102 can be generally cylindrical.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first connector 102 includes an inlet portion 120 disposed near the first end 101 and a mating portion 130 disposed near the second end 103. The inlet portion 120 can be configured to be coupled to the mating portion 130. In some embodiments, the inlet portion 120 and the mating portion 130 form an integral structure, thereby forming the first connector 102. The inlet portion 120 can be configured to be coupled to a portion of a pipe fitting, allowing the first connector 102 to be in fluid communication with the portion of the pipe fitting. For example, the inlet portion 120 can include an inlet 110 configured to allow a fluid to enter the inlet portion 120. The inlet portion 120 can also include a channel 113 to allow a fluid to flow within the inlet portion 120. The channel 113 can be disposed within the inlet portion 120 and extend from the first end 101 to a body 116 of the inlet portion 120.

[0052] In some embodiments, the mating portion 130 is disposed opposite the entrance portion 120 and is configured to be coupled to the second connector 140 to secure the first connector 102 to the second connector 140. For example, the mating portion 130 may include a coupling ring 132 configured to be received by or disposed in a groove (e.g., groove 159) of the second connector 140 to secure and couple the first connector 102 to the second connector 140, as described below. The ring 132 may be disposed on the mating portion 130 proximate the second end 103. In some embodiments, the ring 132 is configured to be received by and engaged with a corresponding groove (e.g., groove 159) of the second connector 140 to secure the first connector 102 to the second connector 140.

[0053] refer to Figure 2-3B , between the first end 101 and the second end 103, the inlet portion 120 can be coupled to the mating portion 130. The inlet portion 120 can be disposed near the first end 101 and can include a channel 113 and an interior space 117. The channel 113 can lead to the interior space 117. For example, the channel 113 can be in fluid communication with the interior space 117. In some embodiments, a portion of the tube is coupled to the inlet portion 120 such that the portion of the tube is in fluid communication with the channel 113. The portion of the tube in fluid communication with the channel 113 also causes the portion of the tube to be in fluid communication with the interior space 117.

[0054] In some embodiments, the inlet portion 120 includes a body 116. The body 116 may include an interior space 122, which may be in fluid communication with the channel 113. The diameter of the channel 113 may be smaller than the inner diameter of the body 116. In some embodiments, the volume of the channel 113 is smaller than the volume of the interior space 122 of the body 116. The channel 113 may be in fluid communication with the interior space 122 of the body 116, such that the body 116 (e.g., the interior space 117) is configured to accommodate a larger volume of fluid than the channel 113. In some embodiments, the interior space 122 is in fluid communication with the interior space 135 of the mating portion 130.

[0055] The mating portion 130 can be disposed near the second end 103 and can include one or more openings 139, a channel 137, an interior space 135, and a torsion member 136. The interior space 122 of the inlet portion 120 can be in fluid communication with the interior space 135 of the mating portion 130. In some embodiments, a fluid flows into the inlet 110, enters the interior space 122 through the channel 113, and flows into the interior space 135. The opening 139 can be configured to allow fluid communication with the interior space 135. For example, the opening 139 can be in fluid communication with the interior space 135 to allow fluid to flow from the interior space 135 through the opening 139.

[0056] The torsion member 136 can be disposed within the interior space 135. The torsion member 136 can extend from within the interior space 135. For example, the torsion member 136 can extend the length of the mating portion 130. In some embodiments, the torsion member 136 is a spring-like structure. For example, the torsion member 136 can be biased to a locked position. The torsion member 136 can be switched from the locked position to the unlocked position in response to a rotational force. Since the torsion member 136 is biased to the locked position, the removal of the rotational force causes the torsion member 136 to return to the locked position.

[0057] In the locked position, the passage 127 (see Figure 6B ) may be misaligned or out of alignment (e.g., not in a straight line) with the opening 139. When the torsion member 136 is in the locked position, fluid communication between the interior space 135 and the opening 139 may be prevented due to the misalignment or misalignment of the passage 127 with the opening 139. The torsion member 136 may be transitioned to an unlocked position, thereby aligning the passage 127 with the opening 139 and allowing fluid communication between the interior space 135 and the opening 139. The torsion member 136 may be transitioned from the locked position to the unlocked position by rotating the torsion member 136 relative to the mating portion 130 and the inlet portion 120. For example, the torsion member 136 may be disposed within the interior space 135 of the mating portion 130 and may be configured to rotate relative to the mating portion 130 to align the passage 127 with the opening 139.

[0058] In some embodiments, the torsion member 136 includes a key member 138. The key member 138 may extend from the torsion member 136 and may be disposed within a channel 137 of the mating portion 130. The key member 138 may extend from the first connector 102 beyond the second end 103. In some embodiments, the key member 138 protrudes from the first connector 102. The key member 138 disposed within the channel 137 may help secure the torsion member 136 within the interior space 135 of the mating portion 130. In some embodiments, the key member 138 is configured to be received by a portion of the second connector 140 so that rotation of the portion of the second connector 140 causes rotation of the key member 138 and rotation of the torsion member 136 relative to the mating portion 130 and the inlet portion 120. The rotation of the torsion member 136 may cause the channel 127 to align with the opening 139. The key member 138 may have a particular shape, and a portion of the second connector 140 that receives the key member 138 may have a corresponding shape to securely receive the key member 138.

[0059] Continue to refer Figure 2-3B, the mating portion 130 may include a ring 134. The ring 134 may be disposed along the outer circumference or periphery of the mating portion 130. In some embodiments, the ring 134 is disposed between the first end 101 and the second end 103. The ring 134 may be disposed at the junction of the inlet portion 120 and the mating portion 130. The ring 134 may include one or more grooves 133, which are configured to receive a portion of the second connector 140 (e.g., the protrusion 152). The groove 133 may be configured to receive and secure a portion of the second connector 140 (e.g., the protrusion 152) to secure the first connector 102 to the second connector 140 and to maintain the torsion member 136 in the unlocked position, as described in detail below.

[0060] The first connector 102 may be configured to be coupled to the second connector 140. The second connector 140 may include a torsion member 142, a sleeve 150, a coupling portion 155, and an output portion 160. The coupling portion 155 may be configured to be coupled to the outlet portion 160. In some embodiments, the coupling portion 155 and the output portion 160 form an integral structure, thereby forming the second connector 140.

[0061] In some embodiments, the second connector 140 is coupled to the second portion of the tubing to allow the second portion of the tubing to be connected and / or disconnected from the first connector 102. The second connector 140 may include a first end 141 and a second end 143. The first end 141 may be configured to be coupled to the first connector 102, and the second end 143 may be connected to the tubing (e.g., the second portion of the tubing). In some embodiments, a portion of the tubing may be coupled or engaged with the second end 143 of the second connector 140. The second connector 140 may be in fluid communication with the tubing via the second end 143 to allow fluid to pass through the second connector 140. In some embodiments, the first end 141 may have a flat surface to allow a clinician to easily clean and disinfect the first end 141. The first end 141 may be fluidly connected to the second end 143. The first end 141 and the second end 143 may be arranged along the longitudinal length of the second connector 140. For example, the first end 141 and the second end 143 may be arranged along the central axis AA. The first end 141 and / or the second end 143 may include an opening to allow the first end 141 and / or the second end 143 to be in fluid communication with one or more components (eg, tubing, connectors, valves, collars, fittings, etc.).

[0062] In some embodiments, the fluid can flow out or flow through the second connector 140 via the second end 143 disposed opposite the first end 141. The flow path through the second connector 140 can have a straight fluid passage to make flushing easier and reduce the risk of hemolysis. Optionally, the second connector 140 may include features (e.g., raised features, gripping features) disposed on the outer surface of the second connector 140 to allow the clinician to more easily manipulate or operate the second connector 140. Some embodiments of the second connector 140 can provide a connector that is compatible with connectors of other parts of the fluid delivery system. The second connector 140 can be substantially cylindrical.

[0063] In some embodiments, the second connector 140 includes a coupling portion 155 disposed near the first end 141 and an output portion 160 disposed near the second end 143. The output portion 160 can be configured to be coupled to a portion of the tubing, allowing the second connector 140 to be in fluid communication with the portion of the tubing and to be in fluid communication with the patient via the portion of the tubing. For example, the output portion 160 can include a channel 164 to allow the flow of fluid within the output portion 160. The channel 164 can be disposed within the output portion 160 and extend the length of the output portion 160. In some embodiments, the channel 164 extends into the coupling portion 155. The channel 164 can include an outlet 170. The outlet 170 can be disposed at a distal end of the channel 164 and can be disposed near the second end 143.

[0064] In some embodiments, the coupling portion 155 is disposed opposite the output portion 160 near the first end 141. When the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, the coupling portion 155 can be disposed near the first connector 102 (e.g., the mating portion 130). For example, as described below, when the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, the coupling portion 155 can be configured to be disposed near a portion of the first connector 102. The coupling portion 155 may include an interior space 167 and one or more openings 156. The opening 156 may be in fluid communication with the interior space 167.

[0065] In some embodiments, the output portion 160 includes a channel 164 and a tube 162. The channel 164 can extend through the tube 162. The channel 164 can include a proximal end 161, which can include a channel opening 176. The channel 164 can include an outlet 170, which can be arranged relative to the channel opening 176 and the proximal end 161. The channel 164 can allow the outlet 170 to be in fluid communication with the channel opening 176, so that the fluid (e.g., from the first connector 102) entering the channel 164 at the channel opening 176 flows through the channel 164 and flows out of the outlet 170. The tube 162 can be configured to receive and be coupled to a portion of the tubing (e.g., a second portion of the diameter). In some embodiments, the tube 162 includes a groove 169 disposed on the inner surface of the tube 162. The groove 169 can be configured to help fix a portion of the tubing in the tube 162. For example, a portion of a tubing may be inserted into the tube 162 , and the groove 169 may be configured to help prevent the portion of the tubing from being accidentally removed or separated from the second connector 140 .

[0066] The coupling portion 155 can be coupled to the output portion 160 such that the channel 164 extends into the interior space 167 of the coupling portion 155. In some embodiments, the channel opening 176 is disposed within the interior space 167. For example, the channel opening 176 can be disposed within the interior space 167 such that a fluid entering the opening 156 flows into the interior space 167 and flows to the channel opening 176. The fluid can then flow from the channel opening 176 to the outlet 170 via the channel 164.

[0067] The second connector 140 may include a torsion member 142. In some embodiments, the torsion member 142 is substantially similar to the torsion member 136. The torsion member 142 may be coupled to the coupling portion 155 and may be disposed near the first end 141. In some embodiments, the torsion member 142 is coupled to the coupling portion 155 so that the coupling portion 155 is at least partially disposed within the torsion member 142. In some embodiments, the torsion member 142 is a spring-like structure. For example, the torsion member 142 may be biased to a locked position, similar to the torsion member 136. The torsion member 142 may be converted from the locked position to the unlocked position in response to a rotational force. Since the torsion member 142 is biased to the locked position, the removal of the rotational force causes the torsion member 142 to return to the locked position. In some embodiments, rotating the torsion member 142 relative to the coupling portion 155 causes the torsion member 142 to be in the unlocked position, thereby allowing a fluid passage from the first connector 102 to the second connector 140 to be formed through the torsion member 142.

[0068] The torsion member 142 may include a channel 147. The channel 147 may allow fluid to communicate through the torsion member 142. In some embodiments, when the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, the torsion member 142 is disposed between the mating portion 130 and the coupling portion 155. The torsion member 142 in the locked position prevents fluid communication between the first connector 102 and the second connector 140. For example, the torsion member 142 in the locked position blocks the fluid passage between the opening 139 and the opening 156. In the locked position, the channel 147 (see Figure 6B ) may be misaligned or misaligned with the opening 156 of the coupling portion 155, thereby blocking the fluid passage from the first connector 102 to the second connector 140.

[0069] Figure 5 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view of a coupling assembly. Fig. 6A According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the second configuration Figure 1 A perspective side view of a coupling assembly.

[0070] Figure 6B According to various aspects of the present disclosure Fig. 6A A cross-sectional side view of a coupling assembly. Figure 6C According to various aspects of the present disclosure Fig. 6A An enlarged cross-sectional side view of a coupling assembly. Figure 7 According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the third configuration Figure 1 A cross-sectional side view of a coupling assembly.

[0071] refer to Figure 5-Figure 7 When the torsion member 142 is converted to the unlocked position (e.g., by rotation of the torsion member 142 relative to the coupling portion 155), the channel 147 is aligned with the opening 156. When the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140 and the torsion member 142 is in the unlocked position, the channel 147 is aligned with the opening 139 and the opening 156 to allow a fluid passage from the first connector 102 to the second connector 140.

[0072] In some embodiments, when the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, the torsion member 142 in the unlocked position causes the torsion member 136 to be in the unlocked position. For example, the torsion member 142 may include a key hole 144. When the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, the key hole 144 may be configured to receive the key member 138. In some embodiments, coupling the first connector 102 to the second connector 140 causes the key member 138 to align with the key hole 144 so that the key member 138 at least partially extends into the key hole 144. The key hole 144 may be sized and shaped to match the size and shape of the key member 138 so that when the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, the key hole 144 can receive and secure the key member 138.

[0073] The key member 138 inserted and fixed in the key hole 144 produces a coupling of the torsion member 136 with the torsion member 142, so that the rotation of the torsion member 142 causes the rotation of the torsion member 136. In some embodiments, when the torsion member 142 is coupled to the torsion member 136, moving the torsion member 142 from the locked position to the unlocked position causes the torsion member 136 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position. The torsion member 136 and the torsion member 142 are coupled together and in the unlocked position to allow a fluid passage to be formed from the first connector 102 to the second connector 140.

[0074] In some embodiments, the torsion member 136 and the torsion member 142 are coupled together and in the unlocked position so that the channel 127 is aligned with the opening 139, and the channel 147 is aligned with the opening 139 and the opening 156, thereby causing the channel 147 to be aligned with the channel 127. The alignment of the channel 127 with the opening 139, the channel 147 and the opening 156 causes the first connector 102 to be in fluid communication with the second connector 140. For example, when the channel 127 is aligned with the opening 139, the channel 147 and the opening 156, the fluid can flow from the interior space 135 through the channel 127, the opening 139, the channel 147 and the opening 156 into the interior space 167 and the channel 164. This can cause a fluid passage ( Figure 6B-6C ).

[0075] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 5-6C, the second connector 140 may include a sleeve 150. The sleeve 150 may be disposed around the torsion member 142, the coupling portion 155, and the output portion 160. For example, the sleeve 150 may surround the torsion member 142 and the coupling portion 155. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the output portion 160 is disposed within the sleeve 150. The sleeve 150 may be configured to move relative to the torsion member 142, the coupling portion 155, and / or the output portion 160. In some embodiments, the sleeve 150 is configured to extend beyond the first end 141. For example, the sleeve 150 may move along the central axis relative to the torsion member 142, the coupling portion 155, and / or the output portion 160 such that the sleeve 150 moves between the first end 141 and the second end 143. In some embodiments, the sleeve 150 is configured to be axially locked in place to prevent axial movement. The sleeve 150 may be axially locked in place such that it extends beyond the first end 141 ( Figure 5 ).

[0076] In some embodiments, the sleeve 150 can be axially locked in place at multiple positions. For example, the sleeve 150 can be axially locked in place so that the edge of the sleeve 150 is flush with the surface of the torsion member 142 ( Figure 3A ), or the sleeve 150 extends beyond the first end 141 while still surrounding the torsion member 142 ( Figure 5 In some embodiments, the sleeve 150 extends beyond the first end 141 such that when the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, at least a portion of the mating portion 130 is disposed within the sleeve 150. The sleeve 150 can be biased to an extended position such that the sleeve 150 extends beyond the first end 141 and away from the output portion 160.

[0077] The sleeve 150 may include a groove 159 configured to receive the ring 132 of the mating portion 130. In some embodiments, when the mating portion 130 of the first connector 102 is inserted and disposed within the sleeve 150, the sleeve 150 may be secured to the mating portion 130 by the friction fit of the ring 132 within the groove 159. Disposing the ring 132 within the groove 159 secures the sleeve 150 to the first connector 102 (e.g., the mating portion 130). The securing of the ring 132 within the groove 159 prevents the sleeve 150 from moving relative to the mating portion 130 along the central axis AA. This reduces the accidental separation of the first connector 102 (e.g., the mating portion 130) from the second connector 140 (e.g., the sleeve 150). In some embodiments, the ring 132 disposed within the groove 159 allows the sleeve 150 to rotate relative to the mating portion 130.

[0078] In some embodiments, sleeve 150 includes a proximal end 151 and a distal end 153. Sleeve 150 may include a protrusion 152 disposed at the proximal end of sleeve 150. Protrusion 152 may be biased toward proximal end 151. For example, protrusion 152 may have a natural state and a compressed state. In some embodiments, protrusion 152 is configured to be in a compressed state due to the application of pressure to protrusion 152. In the compressed state, protrusion 152 may move toward distal end 153 compared to when protrusion 152 is in the natural state. Protrusion 152 may include a biasing element to bias the protrusion in the natural state (e.g., toward proximal end 151).

[0079] In some embodiments, sleeve 150 has a locked position ( Figure 2 ) and unlocked position ( Fig. 6A ). The sleeve 150 may be biased to a locked position. The application of a rotational force may cause the sleeve 150 to transition from the locked position to the unlocked position. In some embodiments, when the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, the sleeve 150 may be fixed in the unlocked position by fixing the protrusion 152 into the groove 133 of the ring 134. Fixing the protrusion 152 in the groove 133 may keep the sleeve 150 in the unlocked position. In some embodiments, during the rotation of the sleeve 150, the protrusion 152 presses against the ring 134, so that the protrusion 152 is in a compressed state. The sleeve 150 may be rotated until the protrusion 152 is disposed and fixed in the groove 133, so that the protrusion 152 is in a natural state. The protrusion 152 is disposed and fixed in the groove 133 so that the sleeve 150 is fixed in the unlocked position. The sleeve 150 in the unlocked position causes the torsion member 142 to be in the unlocked position. In other words, when the sleeve 150 is fixed in the unlocked position, the torsion member 142 is fixed in the unlocked position.

[0080] The sleeve 150 can be coupled to the torsion member 142 such that rotation of the sleeve 150 causes the torsion member 142 to rotate to the unlocked position. For example, rotating the sleeve 150 relative to the coupling portion 155 and / or the output portion 160 to the unlocked position can cause the torsion member 142 to rotate to the unlocked position. In some embodiments, when the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, rotating the sleeve 150 relative to the coupling portion 155 and / or the output portion 160 causes the torsion member 142 to rotate, and the torsion member 136 rotates due to the key member 138 being disposed within the key hole 144. The channel 127 and the channel 147 can be aligned such that when the channel 127 is aligned with the opening 139, the channel 147 is aligned with the opening 139. The rotation of the torsion member 142 and the torsion member 136 due to the rotation of the sleeve 150 can align the channel 127 with the opening 139, the channel 147, and the opening 156, thereby causing a fluid passage to be formed between the first connector 102 and the second connector 140.

[0081] In some embodiments, a rotational force is applied to the sleeve 150 to cause the sleeve 150 to rotate, which causes the torsion member 142 and the torsion member 136 to rotate. The rotation of the torsion member 142 and the torsion member 136 can cause the torsion member 142 and the torsion member 136 to be in an unlocked position. Since the torsion member 142 and the torsion member 136 are biased to the locked position, the removal of the rotational force can cause the torsion member 142 and the torsion member 136 to return to the locked position. In some embodiments, when the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, the protrusion 152 is fixed in the groove 133 so that the sleeve 150 (and the torsion member 142 and the torsion member 136) remain in the unlocked position. When the protrusion 152 is pushed out of the recess 133, this causes the sleeve 150 to return to the locked position. Because the sleeve 150 is biased to the locked position, the sleeve 150 (and the torsion member 142 and the torsion member 136) can be converted back to the locked position.

[0082] Reference Figures 6A-6C The sleeve 150 fixed in the unlocked position places the torsion member 142 and the torsion member 136 in the unlocked position and forms a fluid passage (by Figure 6B For example, sleeve 150, torsion member 142, and torsion member 136 in the unlocked position allow fluid to flow from inlet 110 to interior space 135, through passage 127, opening 139, passage 147, and opening 156 to interior space 167, and through passage 164 to outlet 170.

[0083] The coupling assembly 100 can be configured to be converted from a first configuration to a second configuration. In the first configuration, the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140, and the sleeve 150 is in a locked position. When the coupling assembly 100 is in the first configuration, since the passage 127 is not aligned with the opening 139 and thus blocks the opening 139, and the passage 147 is not aligned with the opening 156 and thus blocks the opening 156, the fluid is prevented from flowing from the first connector 102 to the second connector 140. When the sleeve 150 is rotated to the unlocked position, the torsion member 142 and the torsion member 136 are caused to move to the unlocked position, forming a fluid passage between the first connector 102 and the second connector 140, so that the coupling assembly 100 is in the second configuration.

[0084] refer to Figure 7 , the coupling assembly 100 can be configured as a third configuration. In the third configuration, the first connector 102 is separated from the second connector 140. The coupling assembly 100 can be converted from the second configuration to the third configuration by removing the protrusion 152 from the groove 133 and moving the sleeve 150 to the locked position. The protrusion 152 is removed from the groove 133 by applying pressure toward the distal end 153 to the protrusion 152, and the sleeve 150 is biased to the locked position, so that the sleeve 150 returns to the locked position. When the sleeve 150 moves to the locked position, the torsion member 136 and the torsion member 142 can be converted to the locked position, thereby blocking the fluid passage from the first connector 102 to the second connector 140. By removing the first connector 102 from the sleeve 150, the first connector 102 can be separated from the second connector 140.

[0085] In some embodiments, the opening 139 and / or the opening 156 include a sealing element 124. The sealing element 124 can be configured to prevent fluid from leaking from the opening 139 and / or the opening 156 when the first connector 102 is coupled to the second connector 140. In some embodiments, the sealing element 124 prevents fluid from leaking from the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 140. In some embodiments, when a fluid passage is formed between the first connector 102 and the second connector 140, the sealing element 124 disposed in or on the opening 139 and / or the opening 156 prevents fluid from leaking or wasting. The sealing element 124 can be an O-ring, an adhesive, a tube, or any other type of element configured to prevent leakage from the opening 139 and / or the opening 156.

[0086] In some embodiments, the first connector 102 is configured to be separated from the second connector 140 due to a disconnection event caused by a pull-out force. For example, the pull-out force (e.g., force F) can be applied to the first connector 102 by being applied directly to the first connector 102 or indirectly to the first connector 102, such as being applied to a pipe coupled to the first connector 102. The pull-out force can cause the first connector 102 to move axially away from the second connector 140 along the central axis AA, thereby separating the first connector 102 and the second connector 140. In some embodiments, separating the first connector 102 from the second connector 140 requires removing the ring 132 from the groove 159. For example, in response to the pull-out force, the ring 132 can be removed from the groove 159, such that the second connector 140 (e.g., the sleeve 150) is no longer coupled and fixed to the first connector 102 (e.g., the mating portion 130).

[0087] In some embodiments, applying the extraction force causes the protrusion 152 to be removed from the groove 133, and since the sleeve 150 is biased to the locked position, the sleeve 150 is rotated to the locked position. When the extraction force is applied, the protrusion 152 is removed from the groove 133, the sleeve 150 is rotated to the locked position, and the mating portion 130 is removed from the sleeve 150, thereby separating the first connector 102 from the second connector 140.

[0088] In some embodiments, when the force F exceeds a predetermined threshold force, the first connector 102 is separated from the second connector 140. For example, if the force F is less than the predetermined threshold force, the first connector 102 may not be separated from the second connector 140. The predetermined threshold force prevents unintentional or accidental separation based on small forces or movements. The predetermined threshold force can be based on the flexibility and / or rigidity of the ring 132, the groove 159, the protrusion 152, the groove 133 and / or the sleeve 150. For example, the higher the rigidity of the ring 132, the groove 159, the protrusion 152, the groove 133 and / or the sleeve 150, the higher the predetermined threshold force. In some embodiments, the mating portion 130 includes a plurality of rings 132 disposed at different positions, and the sleeve 150 includes a corresponding number of grooves 159 to increase the friction between the mating portion 130 and the sleeve 150, thereby preventing the mating portion 130 (and the first connector 102) from accidentally separating from the second connector 140. In some embodiments, when the extraction force exceeds a predetermined threshold force, the ring 132 of the mating segment 130 may fail to remain in the groove 159 of the sleeve 150 , thereby allowing the first connector 102 to be separated from the second connector 140 .

[0089] In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold force is approximately 4 pounds (lb). The predetermined threshold force can be from about 1 lb to about 8 lb, about 3 lb to about 7 lb, about 4 lb to about 6 lb, or greater than 8 lb. For example, a patient can insert a needle / catheter into their skin, and the needle / catheter can be coupled to the first connector 102 or the second connector 140. The patient may leave the infusion pump or accidentally pull the fluid line coupled to the first connector 102 or the second connector 140, and the force exceeds 4 lb, then the first connector 102 can be automatically released or separated from the second connector 140, effectively closing the fluid passage between the first connector 102 and the second connector 140, as described herein.

[0090] In some embodiments, when the first connector 102 is separated from the second connector 140, the user sterilizes the first connector 102 and reconnects the first connector 102 to the second connector 140 by inserting the mating portion 130 back into the sleeve 150 and moving the sleeve 150 from the locked position to the unlocked position. In some embodiments, the user can sterilize the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 140. Reconnecting the first connector 102 to the second connector 140 causes the coupling assembly 100 to be converted from the third configuration to the first configuration. Moving the sleeve 150 from the locked position to the unlocked position causes the coupling assembly 100 to be converted from the second configuration to the third configuration.

[0091] The disclosure described herein includes at least the following items:

[0092] Clause 1. A twist connector coupling assembly, the twist connector coupling assembly comprising: a first connector, the first connector comprising a mating portion having a first opening, and a first twist member disposed within the mating portion and having a first channel, the first twist member being rotatable relative to the mating portion; and a second connector, the second connector comprising a second twist member having a second channel, and a coupling portion having a second opening and at least partially disposed within the second twist member, the second twist member being configured to couple to the first twist member to couple the first connector to the second connector. Rotation of the second twist member causes rotation of the first twist member, thereby causing alignment and fluid communication between the first channel, the first opening, the second channel, and the second opening to form a fluid passage extending from the first connector to the second connector when the first connector is coupled to the second connector. The first connector is configured to separate from the second connector in response to a pull-out force exceeding a predetermined threshold force.

[0093] Clause 2. The torsion connector coupling assembly of clause 1, further comprising a sleeve coupled to the second connector and at least partially surrounding the torsion member, wherein the sleeve is rotatable relative to the coupling portion.

[0094] Clause 3. The twist connector coupling assembly of clause 2, wherein the sleeve includes a protrusion configured to be disposed within a recess of the mating portion to secure the sleeve in an unlocked position when the fluid passage is formed.

[0095] Clause 4. The twist connector coupling assembly of clause 3, wherein the mating portion comprises a ring having a groove configured to receive the protrusion to secure the sleeve in the unlocked position.

[0096] Clause 5. The twist connector coupling assembly of clause 3, wherein the projection has a natural state and a compressed state, the projection is biased to the natural state, and securing the projection within the groove causes the projection to transition from the natural state to the compressed state.

[0097] Clause 6. The torsion connector coupling assembly of Clause 2, wherein the sleeve is coupled to the second torsion member such that rotation of the sleeve causes rotation of the second torsion member.

[0098] Clause 7. The twist connector coupling assembly of Clause 2, wherein the sleeve includes a groove configured to receive a ring of the mating portion when the first connector is coupled to the second connector.

[0099] Clause 8. The twist connector coupling assembly of Clause 1, wherein the extraction force is a force applied to the first connector along a central axis of the first connector, and the central axis extends at least along a length of the first connector.

[0100] Clause 9. The twist connector coupling assembly of Clause 8, wherein the central axis extends through the first connector and the second connector when the first connector is coupled to the second connector.

[0101] Item 10. A torsion connector coupling assembly according to Item 1, wherein the first torsion member and the second torsion member both have a locked position and an unlocked position, so that when the first connector is coupled to the second connector, the second torsion member in the unlocked position causes the first torsion member to be in the unlocked position.

[0102] Clause 11. The twist connector coupling assembly of Clause 10, wherein the first twist member and the second twist member are both biased to a locked position.

[0103] Clause 12. The twist connector coupling assembly of Clause 1, wherein the first twist member is biased so that the first channel is not aligned with the first opening.

[0104] Clause 13. The twist connector coupling assembly of Clause 1, wherein the second twist member is biased so that the second channel is not aligned with the second opening.

[0105] Clause 14. The twist connector coupling assembly of clause 1, wherein the first twist member includes a key member extending at least partially through the mating portion, and the second twist member includes a key hole sized and shaped to receive the key member to secure the key member within the key hole.

[0106] Clause 15. The twist connector coupling assembly of Clause 1, wherein the second connector includes an outlet portion coupled to the coupling portion, the outlet portion having a passage extending at least partially into the coupling portion.

[0107] Clause 16. The twist connector coupling assembly of clause 1, wherein the mating portion includes a first interior space and the coupling portion includes a second interior space, such that when the first connector is coupled to the second connector and a fluid passage is formed, the first interior space is in fluid communication with the second interior space.

[0108] Clause 17. The twist connector coupling assembly of Clause 1, wherein the first connector is configured to remain coupled to the second connector when the extraction force does not exceed a predetermined threshold force.

[0109] Clause 18. The twist connector coupling assembly of clause 1, wherein the twist connector coupling assembly has a first configuration, and in the first configuration, the first connector is coupled to the second connector such that the mating portion is at least partially disposed within the second connector and the fluid passage is blocked.

[0110] Clause 19. The twist connector coupling assembly of clause 1, wherein the twist connector coupling assembly has a second configuration, and in the second configuration, the first connector is coupled to the second connector such that the mating portion is at least partially disposed within the second connector and a fluid passage is formed.

[0111] Clause 20. The twist connector coupling assembly of Clause 1, wherein the twist connector coupling assembly has a third configuration, and in the third configuration, the first connector is decoupled from the second connector and the fluid passage is blocked.

[0112] Clause 21. The twist connector coupling assembly of Clause 1, wherein the first connector is coupled to a first portion of the tubular at the first end portion and the second connector is coupled to a second portion of the tubular at the output portion.

[0113] Item 22. A twist connector coupling assembly, the twist connector coupling assembly comprising: a first connector, the first connector comprising a first end, a mating portion disposed near a second end opposite to the first end and having a first opening and a first interior space, and a first twist member disposed in the first interior space, the first twist member having a first channel extending through the mating portion and a key member, the first twist member being rotatable relative to the mating portion, wherein the first twist member has a locked position and an unlocked position, and the first twist member is biased to the locked position; a second connector, comprising a second twist member having a second channel and a key hole, an output portion having an outlet, having a second interior space and and a coupling portion disposed between the second torsion member and the output portion, the coupling portion having a second opening and being at least partially disposed within the second torsion member, the key hole being configured to receive the key member to couple the first connector to the second connector, wherein the second torsion member has a locked position and an unlocked position, and the second torsion member is biased to the locked position, and rotation of the second torsion member causes rotation of the first torsion member, which causes alignment and fluid communication between the first channel, the first opening, the second channel, and the second opening to form a fluid passage between the first interior space and the second interior space, so that when the first connector is coupled to the second connector, the fluid passage extends from the first connector to the second connector. The first connector is configured to be separated from the second connector in response to a pull-out force exceeding a predetermined threshold force.

[0114] Item 23. A twist connector coupling assembly, the twist connector coupling assembly comprising: a first connector, the first connector comprising an inlet portion disposed near a first end and having an inlet, a mating portion disposed near a second end opposite to the first end and having a first opening and a first interior space; and a first torsion member disposed in the first interior space, the first torsion member having a first channel and a key member extending through the mating portion, the first torsion member being rotatable relative to the mating portion, wherein the first torsion member has a locked position and an unlocked position, and the first torsion member is biased to the locked position; a second connector, comprising a second torsion member having a second channel and a key hole, an output portion having an outlet, and a first torsion member having a second channel and a key hole. The invention relates to a coupling portion having a second internal space and disposed between the second torsion member and the output portion, the coupling portion having a second opening and at least partially disposed within the second torsion member, the key hole being configured to receive the key member to couple the first connector to the second connector, wherein the second torsion member has a locked position and an unlocked position, and the second torsion member is biased to the locked position; and a sleeve coupled to the second torsion member and partially surrounding the second torsion member, the sleeve being rotatable relative to the coupling portion so that rotation of the sleeve causes the second torsion member to rotate from the locked position to the unlocked position, the sleeve including a groove configured to receive a ring of the mating portion to secure the sleeve to the mating portion when the first connector is coupled to the second connector. Rotation of the sleeve causes rotation of the second torsion member, which causes rotation of the first torsion member, which causes alignment and fluid communication between the first channel, the first opening, the second channel, and the second opening to form a fluid passage between the first internal space and the second internal space, so that when the first connector is coupled to the second connector, the fluid passage extends from the first connector to the second connector. The first connector is configured to be separated from the second connector in response to a pull-out force exceeding a predetermined threshold force.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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 torsion connector assembly, characterized in that: The twist connector coupling assembly comprises: a first connector including a mating portion having a first opening, and a first torsion member disposed in the mating portion and having a first passage, the first torsion member being rotatable relative to the mating portion; and a second connector including a second torsion member having a second passage, and a coupling portion having a second opening and at least partially disposed within the second torsion member, the second torsion member being configured to couple to the first torsion member to couple the first connector to the second connector, wherein rotation of the second torsion member causes rotation of the first torsion member, thereby causing alignment and fluid communication between the first channel, the first opening, the second channel, and the second opening to form a fluid passage extending from the first connector to the second connector when the first connector is coupled to the second connector, Wherein, the first connector is configured to separate from the second connector in response to a pull-out force exceeding a predetermined threshold force.

2. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: Further including: A sleeve is coupled to the second connector and at least partially surrounds the torsion member, wherein the sleeve is rotatable relative to the coupling portion.

3. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The sleeve includes a protrusion configured to be disposed within the groove of the mating portion to secure the sleeve in an unlocked position when a fluid passage is formed.

4. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that: The mating portion includes a ring having a groove configured to receive the protrusion to secure the sleeve in the unlocked position.

5. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that: The projection has a natural state and a compressed state, the projection is biased to the natural state, and securing the projection within the groove causes the projection to transition from the natural state to the compressed state.

6. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The sleeve is coupled to the second torsion member such that rotation of the sleeve causes rotation of the second torsion member.

7. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The sleeve includes a groove configured to receive a ring of the mating portion when the first connector is coupled to the second connector.

8. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The extraction force is a force applied to the first connector along a central axis of the first connector, and the central axis extends at least along a length of the first connector.

9. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: When the first connector is coupled to the second connector, the central axis extends through the first connector and the second connector.

10. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first torsion member and the second torsion member each have a locked position and an unlocked position, such that when the first connector is coupled to the second connector, the second torsion member in the unlocked position causes the first torsion member to be in the unlocked position.

11. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first torsion member is biased to misalign the first passage with the first opening.

12. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second torsion member is biased to misalign the second passage with the second opening.

13. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first torsion member includes a key member extending at least partially through the mating portion, and the second torsion member includes a key hole sized and shaped to receive the key member to secure the key member within the key hole.

14. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The second connector includes an outlet portion coupled to the coupling portion, the outlet portion having a passage extending at least partially into the coupling portion.

15. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mating portion includes a first interior space and the coupling portion includes a second interior space, such that when the first connector is coupled to the second connector and a fluid passage is formed, the first interior space is in fluid communication with the second interior space.

16. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The twist connector coupling assembly has a first configuration, and in the first configuration, the first connector is coupled to a second connector such that the mating portion is at least partially disposed within the second connector and a fluid passage is blocked.

17. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The twist connector coupling assembly has a second configuration, and in the second configuration, the first connector is coupled to the second connector such that the mating portion is at least partially disposed within the second connector and a fluid passage is formed.

18. The twist connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The twist connector coupling assembly has a third configuration, and in the third configuration, the first connector is decoupled from the second connector and the fluid passage is blocked.

19. A torsion connector assembly, characterized in that: The twist connector coupling assembly comprises: a first connector including a first end, a mating portion disposed proximate a second end opposite the first end and having a first opening and a first interior space, and a first torsion member disposed within the first interior space, the first torsion member having a key member and a first passage extending through the mating portion, the first torsion member being rotatable relative to the mating portion, wherein the first torsion member has a locked position and an unlocked position, and the first torsion member is biased to the locked position; a second connector including a second torsion member having a second passage and a key hole, an output portion having an outlet, a coupling portion having a second interior space and disposed between the second torsion member and the output portion, the coupling portion having a second opening and at least partially disposed within the second torsion member, the key hole being configured to receive the key member to couple the first connector to the second connector, wherein the second torsion member has a locked position and an unlocked position, and the second torsion member is biased to the locked position, and wherein rotation of the second torsion member causes rotation of the first torsion member, thereby causing alignment and fluid communication between the first channel, the first opening, the second channel, and the second opening to form a fluid pathway between the first interior space and the second interior space, such that when the first connector is coupled to the second connector, the fluid pathway extends from the first connector to the second connector, Wherein, the first connector is configured to separate from the second connector in response to a pull-out force exceeding a predetermined threshold force.

20. A torsion connector assembly, characterized in that: The twist connector coupling assembly comprises: A first connector including an inlet portion disposed near a first end and having an inlet, a mating portion disposed near a second end opposite the first end and having a first opening and a first interior space; and a first torsion member disposed in the first interior space, the first torsion member having a key member and a first passage extending through the mating portion, the first torsion member being rotatable relative to the mating portion, wherein the first torsion member has a locked position and an unlocked position, and the first torsion member is biased to the locked position; a second connector including a second torsion member having a second passage and a key hole, an output portion having an outlet, a coupling portion having a second interior space and disposed between the second torsion member and the output portion, the coupling portion having a second opening and at least partially disposed within the second torsion member, the key hole being configured to receive the key member to couple the first connector to the second connector, wherein the second torsion member has a locked position and an unlocked position, and the second torsion member is biased to the locked position, and a sleeve coupled to the second torsion member and partially surrounding the second torsion member, the sleeve being rotatable relative to the coupling portion such that rotation of the sleeve causes the second torsion member to rotate from a locked position to an unlocked position, the sleeve including a groove configured to receive a ring of the mating portion to secure the sleeve to the mating portion when the first connector is coupled to the second connector, wherein rotation of the sleeve causes rotation of the second torsion member, which causes rotation of the first torsion member, thereby causing alignment and fluid communication between the first channel, the first opening, the second channel, and the second opening to form a fluid pathway between the first interior space and the second interior space, such that when the first connector is coupled to the second connector, the fluid pathway extends from the first connector to the second connector, Wherein, the first connector is configured to separate from the second connector in response to a pull-out force exceeding a predetermined threshold force.

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