Connector coupling assembly

Abstract

A connector coupling assembly includes a body portion defining a cavity and a luer portion extending in the cavity, a proximal connector disposed at least partially in the cavity of the body portion, a distal connector slidably coupled to the body portion, and a compressible valve member mounted in the cavity of the proximal connector. The distal connector includes first and second arms hingedly or pivotally coupled to each other. The valve member may have an interior chamber and a slit extending from a distal end portion of the valve member into the interior chamber. When the distal connector is coupled to the mating connector, the valvable member is compressed and the slit is opened such that a fluid path extending from the inlet port through the interior chamber to the outlet port of the luer portion is opened to fluidly communicate the proximal connector with the mating connector.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 502,264, filed on May 15, 2023, entitled “CONNECTOR COUPLING ASSEMBLY WITH REMOVABLE AND REPLACEABLE INTEGRATEDLUER ​​CONNECTOR,” 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, through an arrangement of flexible tubing and fittings commonly referred to as an "IV set." Typically, the tubing or catheters are coupled or affixed to one another to allow fluid communication between different portions of the tubing or catheter.

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

[0006] In at least some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a connector assembly comprising: a body portion having an inner surface and a Luer portion, the inner surface defining a cavity terminating at an open end of the body portion and the Luer portion extending in the cavity and through the open end; a proximal connector at least partially disposed in the cavity of the body portion and defining an inlet port and having an inner surface defining the cavity of the proximal connector; a distal connector slidably coupled to the body portion and comprising: a first arm and a second arm, the first arm and the second arm being hingedly or pivotally coupled to the body portion , and defining (i) an outer surface of the distal connector, and (ii) an inner surface of the distal connector, the inner surface defining a cavity terminating at an open end of the distal connector; and a compressible valve member mounted in the cavity of the proximal connector and including an internal chamber and a slit extending from a distal end portion of the compressible valve member into the internal chamber, wherein, when the distal connector is coupled to a mating connector, the compressible valve member is compressed and the slit is opened so that a fluid path extending from an inlet port through the internal chamber to an outlet port of the Luer portion is opened to fluidly connect the proximal connector to the mating connector.

[0007] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a connector assembly, comprising: a body portion having an inner surface and a Luer portion, the inner surface defining a cavity terminating at an open end of the body portion, and the Luer portion extending in the cavity and through the open end; a proximal connector, the proximal connector being at least partially disposed in the cavity of the body portion and defining an inlet port, and having an inner surface defining the cavity of the proximal connector, wherein a fluid path extends from the inlet port through the Luer portion to an outlet port of the Luer portion; a distal connector slidably coupled to the body portion and configured to couple to a mating connector; and a compressible valve member, the compressible valve member The component is installed in the cavity of the proximal connector and includes an internal chamber and a slit extending from the distal end of the compressible valve member into the internal chamber; and a strut that is connected to the fluid path and extends longitudinally in the fluid path from the compressible valve member toward the outlet port of the luer portion, wherein when the distal connector is connected to the mating connector, the strut is displaced away from the outlet port of the luer portion to compress the compressible valve member, open the slit, and allow fluid to flow through the fluid path and into the mating connector via the outlet port, and wherein when the force applied to the proximal connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the spring member expands and exerts a force on the strut to displace the strut toward the outlet port of the luer portion, thereby sealing the outlet port.

[0008] It should be understood that, according to the present disclosure, the various structures of the subject technology will become clear to those skilled in the art, wherein the various structures 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 utility model content, the accompanying drawings and the specific embodiments should be regarded as illustrative and non-restrictive in nature. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the description serve to explain the principles of embodiments of the disclosure.

[0010] In the attached figure:

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an extension kit including a connector assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a connector assembly coupled with a mating needleless connector is shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 3 Some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown Figure 2 A partial perspective view of a connector assembly.

[0014] Figure 4 An operational view showing separation of the connector assembly from the mating needleless connector due to pivotal opening of the distal connector of the connector assembly when the connector assembly is subjected to a proximal force higher than a predetermined threshold according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 5 An operational cross-sectional view of a proximal connector of a connector assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown, the proximal connector being separated from the connector assembly for swabbing.

[0016] Figure 6 An operational cross-sectional view of a proximal connector of a connector assembly coupled to the remainder of the connector assembly after swabbing is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 7 is an elevation view of a detachable connector assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 8 Some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a connector assembly.

[0019] Fig. 9 According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 8 Detailed view of the connector assembly.

[0020] Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view of an arm for a connector assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] Fig.11 According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Fig.10 Cross-sectional view of the arm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The disclosed connector assembly includes a main body portion having an inner surface defining a cavity, the cavity terminating at an open end of the main body portion, and including a plurality of wings, the proximal connector being at least partially disposed in the cavity and configured to be coupled to a source of medical fluid, and the distal connector being slidably coupled to the main body portion via the plurality of wings and configured to be coupled to a mating needleless connector. The inner surface of the main body portion may include a plurality of recesses recessed therein. In some embodiments, the plurality of wings may extend from an outer surface of the proximal connector to an outer surface of the distal connector. The main body portion may also include a Luer portion extending in the cavity and through its open end.

[0023] The proximal connector may define an inlet port and may have an inner surface of a cavity defining the proximal connector. The fluid path may extend from the inlet port through the Luer portion to the outlet port of the Luer portion. The proximal connector may also include a compressible valve member mounted therein. The compressible valve member may have an internal chamber and a slit extending from the distal end portion of the compressible valve member into the internal chamber. The pillar may extend longitudinally from the distal end portion of the compressible valve member toward the outlet port of the Luer portion in the fluid path. The distal end of the pillar may extend into the Luer portion. The distal connector may include a first arm and a second arm, which are pivotally or hingedly connected to each other and define the outer surface of the distal connector. Each of the first and second arms may include at least one pawl extending radially outwardly from the outer surface of the distal connector for engaging a corresponding recess in a plurality of recesses of the main body portion.

[0024] When the force applied to the proximal connector exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., a high extraction force), the pawls of the first and second arms can disengage from the recesses in the main body portion to allow the distal connector to translate distally relative to the proximal connector and to pivot the first and second arms radially outward to separate the mating connector from the distal connector. When the pawls disengage from the recesses, the compressed valve member can expand like a spring and move the strut distally accordingly. Although the compressible valve member is described in the present disclosure as having features configured to move the strut, it should be understood that the present disclosure also contemplates embodiments in which a spring member or other biasing device is used to move or bias the strut. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a spring member can be used with a valve to provide features that allow or hinder fluid flow and move or bias the strut.

[0025] As the strut moves distally, the protrusions on the arms of the strut can exert a distal force on the corresponding first and second arms of the distal connector, causing the distal connector to move or translate distally. In particular, when the compressible valve member expands, each wing can slide along the narrow slot of each of the first and second arms to allow the distal connector to translate distally relative to the proximal connector. As the compressible valve member continues to expand, the inclined surface of each narrow slot can push the inclined portion of the wing to cause the first and second arms of the distal connector to pivot radially outward and widen the opening at the open end of the distal connector. As the compressible valve member continues to expand distally, the compressible valve member can continue to exert a force on the strut, which causes the closed end of the strut to move or otherwise shift toward the outlet port of the Luer portion to seal the outlet port.

[0026] As the first and second arms continue to pivot radially outward, the mating connector can then be released and completely separated from the distal connector. In this state, the outlet port of the Luer portion can be sealed by a seal located at the closed end of the pillar, thereby closing the fluid path and advantageously preventing microorganisms from entering the fluid path. More advantageously, the sealed outlet port can prevent the medical fluid (e.g., IV fluid) from further flowing out or otherwise overflowing the fluid path via the outlet port of the Luer portion when the mating connector is disconnected. Because the first and second arms are advantageously designed to release the mating needleless connector when a pulling force exceeding a threshold pulling force is applied. Therefore, the connector assembly (e.g., but not limited to a Texium type valve) and the mating connector (e.g., but not limited to a Smartsite type valve) can be automatically closed when separated, thereby preventing leakage or overflow of the medical fluid when accidentally disconnected due to a higher extraction force exceeding a predetermined threshold force. The proximal connector can be detachably connected to the rest of the connector assembly (i.e., the main body and the distal connector assembly) to advantageously allow the Luer portion of the proximal connector to be scrubbed or otherwise disinfected. Then, the remainder of the connector assembly (i.e., the main body and distal connector assembly) can be discarded and replaced with a new sterile main body and distal connector assembly. When disassembling or separating from the connector assembly, the mating connector can also be scrubbed or otherwise sterilized before being reattached to the connector assembly.

[0027] After scrubbing, the mating connector can be reconnected to a new sterile connector assembly. When the mating connector is reconnected to the distal connector, the Luer portion of the main body portion can be advanced into the interior of the mating connector, and the top surface of the mating connector can apply a force to push the multiple arms of the strut proximally, which in turn can displace the closed end of the strut away from the outlet port of the Luer portion of the main body portion, compressing the compressible valve member so that the slit of the valve member opens. In the open position of the slit, the closed end of the strut is displaced from the outlet port of the Luer portion, so that the open slit reopens the fluid path and allows the medical fluid to flow through the outlet port of the Luer portion and into the mating connector via the lumen and channel of the strut. Thus, the administration of IV fluid from the fluid line to the catheter via the new sterile connector assembly can be resumed.

[0028] In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, when subjected to a lower extraction force, such as a force less than or equal to a predetermined proximal threshold (extraction) force, the connector assembly can be configured to advantageously retain the mating connector within the distal connector such that the fluid pathway remains open and medical fluid (e.g., IV fluid) can be delivered from the fluid line into the catheter for administration to the patient.

[0029] The connector assemblies of the various embodiments described herein (as compared to conventional couplers and related infusion systems in which a withdrawal force exceeding a predetermined threshold would result in actual displacement or separation of the catheter by releasing or otherwise separating from the mating connector) are therefore advantageous in preventing displacement of the catheter, potentially resulting in bleeding, drug leakage, and excessive sounding of alarms to alert the clinician of the displacement.

[0030] The detailed description set forth below is intended to be a description of the various configurations of the subject technology, and is not intended to represent the unique configuration that can practice the subject technology. The specific embodiments include specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology. However, it is clear to those skilled in the art that the subject technology can be implemented without these specific details. In some cases, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid blurring the concept of the subject technology. For ease of understanding, identical components are marked with identical element numbers. Reference numerals may be appended with letter suffixes to indicate the individual instances of common elements, while common elements are generally referred to by the same numerals without suffix letters.

[0031] Although the following description relates to using the disclosed connector assembly to connect medical accessories for the administration of medical fluids, it should be understood that the description is merely an example of use and does not limit the scope of the claims. The various aspects of the disclosed couplings can be used in any application where it is desired to secure connections of various tubing and accessories.

[0032] The disclosed connector assembly overcomes multiple challenges found with certain conventional connectors used during PIVC blood extraction. 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 when a patient turns over in bed, a patient grabs tubing or lines on a bed rail, a patient is moved to a different bed, a pediatric patient is fidgeting, and / or an adult patient who loses their sense of direction pulls out their lines. In fact, the 2017 Vascular Access Association (AVA) Annual Scientific Meeting reported that the displacement rate for 1000 patients with peripheral IV catheters was 10%, with approximately 33 million displacements occurring each year in the United States alone. Because the accidental or unintentional movement of tubing, catheters, or accessories may interrupt the administration of medical fluids, it is undesirable to use certain conventional connectors.

[0033] Therefore, in accordance with the present disclosure, it would be advantageous to provide a connector assembly as described herein that allows for improved securement of an accessory or connector.The disclosed connector assembly is constructed as described herein to allow secure retention of a connector while allowing for intentional removal of the connector as desired.

[0034] Figure 1 2 is a perspective view of an extension kit including a connector assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the extension kit 200 may include a tubing 217, which is configured to be connected to a medical fluid (e.g., IV fluid) source (not shown). As shown, the extension kit 200 may also include a detachable connector assembly 201, for selectively delivering medical fluid to the catheter assembly 221A via a mating connector 202 (e.g., a needleless connector). The extension kit 200 may also include a mating Luer piece 203 (e.g., a male Luer connector), for coupling the connector assembly 201 to the tubing 217. As will be described in further detail below, the fluid path 238 may at least partially start from the lumen of the tubing 217, pass through the lumen of the mating Luer piece 203, the connector assembly 201, and the mating connector 202. Therefore, the medical fluid may be delivered to the catheter 221B of the catheter assembly 221A via the fluid path 238.

[0035] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a connector assembly coupled with a mating needleless connector is shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3 Some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown Figure 2 A partial perspective view of the connector assembly. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, continue to refer to Figure 1, the connector assembly 201 may include a body portion 205, a proximal connector 214 at least partially disposed in the body portion 205, and a distal connector 212 slidably coupled to the body portion 205. The body portion 205 may have an inner surface and a luer portion 227, the inner surface defining a cavity 208 terminating at an open end 262 of the body portion 205, and the luer portion extending in the cavity 208 and through the open end 262 of the body portion 205. The inner surface of the body portion 205 may include a plurality of notches 282 recessed therein. In some embodiments, the body portion 205 may include a plurality of wings 210. In some embodiments, the plurality of wings 210 may extend from an outer surface of the proximal connector 214 to an outer surface 215 of the distal connector 212. As will be described in further detail below with respect to the operation of the connector assembly 201, the distal connector 212 may be slidably coupled to the proximal connector 214 via the plurality of wings 210. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of wings 210 may have a proximal end 260 and a distal end forming an open end 262. Each wing 210 may have an inner surface 264 including a first linear portion 266 extending proximally from the open end 262, an inclined portion 252 extending proximally and radially outwardly from the first linear portion 266, and a second linear portion 270 extending proximally from the inclined portion 252.

[0036] In some embodiments, the proximal connector 214 can be at least partially disposed in the cavity 208 of the body portion 205. The proximal connector 214 can define the inlet port 206 and can have an inner surface 219 that defines the cavity 216 of the proximal connector 214. The compressible valve member 218 can be installed in the cavity 216 of the proximal connector 214. The compressible valve member 218 can include an internal chamber 276 and a slit 274 extending from a distal end portion of the compressible valve member 218 into the internal chamber 276. For example, in some embodiments, the compressible valve member 218 can be a split diaphragm type compressible valve member.

[0037] In some embodiments, the fluid path 238 can extend from the inlet port 206 through the luer portion 227 to the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227. The strut 220 can be disposed in the luer portion 227 so as to extend longitudinally in the fluid path 238 from the proximal end portion of the compressible valve member 218 toward the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227. In some embodiments, the strut 220 can define a lumen 228 and can have an open end 244, an opposing closed end 246, and a channel 248 through a sidewall between the open end 244 and the closed end 246. In some embodiments, the strut 220 can include a seal 226 on an outer side surface of the closed end 246 to prevent fluid from flowing through the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227. As shown, the strut 220 can have a plurality of arms 222 extending from the strut 220 and along the exterior of the luer portion 227 toward the outlet port 242. The strut 220 can also include a pair of protrusions 224 (such as Figure 4 ), one protrusion 224 of the pair of protrusions extends radially outward from the outer surface of each corresponding arm 222 of the support 140.

[0038] According to various embodiments, the distal connector 212 can have first and second arms 211 and 213 that are pivotable relative to each other (eg, Figure 4 ). For example, in some embodiments, the first and second arms 211 and 213 may each include a pair of hinged portions having coupling holes. The hinged portions of the first and second arms 211 and 213 and the corresponding coupling holes may be coaxially aligned so that the pivot pin may be inserted into the aligned coupling holes at opposite sides of the first and second arms 211 and 213. Thus, the pair of hinged portions of the first arm 211 may be rotatably coupled to the pair of hinged portions of the second arm 213, thereby pivotally coupling the first and second arms 211 and 213 of the distal connector 212 to each other.

[0039] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ability to pivot the first and second arms 211 and 213 is provided by the body portion 205 having a pivot hole or a pivot pin, and the first and second arms 211 and 213 have the other of the pivot hole or the pivot pin. The pivot holes can be located on opposite sides of the body 205, and each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 can have a pair of pivot pins configured to be received in the pivot holes.

[0040] refer to Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , which shows a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly 201 in direction AA and a detailed view thereof, the main body portion 205 includes a pivot hole 272, and each of the first arm 211 and the second arm 213 includes a pivot pin 278 configured to be positioned in the pivot hole 272.

[0041] The second arm 213 is Fig.10 2 and 3 , and shows an inner surface 237 of the distal connector 212 that defines a cavity 243 that terminates in the open end 225 of the distal connector. The second arm 213 includes first and second pivot pins 278, each of which is positioned along a lateral side portion of the second arm so that the second arm 213 can pivot about an axis extending between the first and second pivot pins 278. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first and second pivot pins 278 are positioned radially relative to each other. Although the second arm 213 is shown separately for clarity, it should be understood that the present disclosure contemplates that the first arm 211 can have the same or similar features as the second arm 213.

[0042] Fig.11 It is shown in Fig.10 FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the second arm 213 along line CC, showing that in some embodiments, the pivot pin 278 can be configured to have a partial circular cross-section. The partial circular cross-section is configured so that the first pivot pin 278 of each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 can be inserted into the first pivot hole 272 of the body, and the second pivot pin 278 of each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 can be inserted into the second pivot hole 272 of the body, so that the first pivot pin 278 of the first and second arms 211 and 213 can be located in the space of the first pivot hole 272, and the second pivot pin 278 of the first and second arms 211 and 213 can be located in the space of the second pivot hole 272.

[0043] With the pivot pin 278 of each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 positioned in the pivot hole 272, the partial circular cross-section of each pivot pin 278 having a circumference less than 180 degrees can allow each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 to pivot relative to the main body portion 205. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, each pivot pin has a circular circumference extending approximately an angle AP around the axial center of the pivot pin 278. In some embodiments, the angle AP is between approximately 10 degrees and approximately 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle AP is between approximately 90 degrees and approximately 175 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle AP is between approximately 120 degrees and approximately 160 degrees. Fig.11 In the embodiment shown, angle AP is 158 degrees.

[0044] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the proximal and distal ends of the first and second arms 211 and 213 are configured to move toward and away from the main body portion 205 when any one of the first or second arms 211 and 213 is pivoted. In order to allow the proximal and distal ends of the first and second arms 211 and 213 to move toward and away from the main body portion 205, a pivot pin is located between the proximal and distal ends of the first and second arms 211 and 213. The movement of the proximal and distal ends of the first and second arms 211 and 213 toward and away from the main body portion 205 can also be achieved by the lateral side of each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 having a slope at its proximal end portion. On the other hand, when the first and second arms 211 and 213 are coupled to the pivot hole, a space is generated between the first and second arms 211 and 213 from the pivot pin toward the proximal ends of the first and second arms 211 and 213.

[0045] When the distal connector 212 moves in the distal direction relative to the proximal connector 214, the first and second arms 211 and 213 pivot so that the distal ends of the first and second arms 211 and 213 move radially outward. When the distal ends of the first and second arms 211 and 213 move radially outward, the mating connector 202 can be separated from the distal connector.

[0046] As shown, the first and second arms 211 and 213 can define (i) an outer surface 215 of the distal connector 212 and (ii) an inner surface 237 of the distal connector 212, which defines a cavity 243 that terminates at the open end 225 of the distal connector 212. The inner surface 237 of the distal connector 212 can have at least one stop 230 (e.g., a stop member 230) extending radially inward from the inner surface 221. Figure 4 As shown, when the mating connector 202 is coupled to the distal connector 212, each protrusion 224 can abut a corresponding one of the at least one stop 230 to prevent accidental expansion of the compressible valve member 218 and distal movement of the strut 220.

[0047] As further described, each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 can include at least one detent 209 extending radially outward from the outer surface 215 of the distal connector 212. When the distal connector 212 is coupled to the mating connector 202, the detents 209 of the first and second arms 211 and 213 engage with the plurality of notches 282 to prevent the mating connector 202 from separating from the distal connector 212 when the force F (i.e., the force in the proximal direction) applied to the proximal connector 214 is less than or equal to a predetermined proximal threshold (extraction) force.

[0048] In some embodiments, the outer surface 215 defined by the first and second arms 211 and 213 of the distal connector 212 may have a slot 250 at least partially recessed therein. The slot 250 may have a linear surface 251 extending proximally from a distal end 255 of the slot 250, and an inclined surface 254 extending from the linear surface 251 to a proximal end 253 of the slot 250. As shown, the inclined portion 252 of each wing 210 may be parallel to the inclined surface 254 of each slot 250, and the first linear portion 266 of each wing 210 may be parallel to the linear surface 251 of each slot 250. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when the force F applied to the proximal connector 214 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the pawl 209 may be disengaged from the notch 282, thereby causing the distal connector 212 to translate distally relative to the proximal connector 214. When the pawl 209 is disengaged from the notch 282, the inclined surface 254 of the slot 250 can push the inclined portion 252 of the wing 210 to radially pivot the first and second arms 211 and 213 outward and widen the open end 225 of the distal connector 212 to release the mating connector 202 (such as Figure 4 shown).

[0049] In operation, the connector assembly 201 can generally be coupled at its distal end to a mating or corresponding connector 202 and at its proximal end to a mating Luer connector 203. In some embodiments, the mating or corresponding connector 202 can be a needleless connector and the mating Luer connector 203 can be a male Luer connector. Figure 2 As described in , the mating connector 202 can be inserted into and coupled to the open end 225 of the distal connector 212, and the mating Luer connector 203 can be inserted into and coupled to the inlet port 206 of the proximal connector 214. In some embodiments, the mating connector 202 can include threads 239 for mating with complementary threads 175 in the open end 125 of the distal connector 212. When the distal connector 212 is coupled to the mating connector 202, at least one detent 209 engages at least one notch 282 to prevent the mating connector 202 from being separated from the distal connector 212 when a predetermined proximal threshold (extraction) force is applied to the proximal connector 214 or below the force.

[0050] Figure 2Depicted is the coupling configuration of the mating connector 202 and the distal connector 212 of the connector assembly 201 when a force F less than or equal to a predetermined proximal threshold (pull-out) force is applied to the proximal connector 214. For example, the connector assembly 201 may be subjected to a pull-out force in a proximal direction due to a patient rolling over in bed, a patient grabbing tubing or lines on a bed rail, moving a patient to a different bed, a pediatric patient fidgeting, and / or a disoriented adult patient pulling on their lines. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when subjected to a lower pull-out force, such as a force F less than or equal to a predetermined proximal threshold (pull-out) force, the connector assembly 201 can be configured to retain the mating connector 202 within the distal connector 212 such that the fluid path 238 remains open and medical fluid (e.g., IV fluid) can be administered from the fluid line or tubing 217 (which can be fluidly connected to a fluid container, such as an IV bag (not shown)) into the catheter assembly 221A (e.g., Figure 1 Specifically, Figure 2 As shown, when the distal connector 212 is coupled to the mating connector 202 , the closed end 246 of the strut 220 (along with the attached seal 226 ) can be displaced away from the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 to allow flow through the fluid pathway 238 via the luer portion 227 .

[0051] As shown, in the coupled configuration of the mating connector 202 and the distal connector 212, the luer portion 227 can extend through the top surface 207 of the mating connector 202 into the mating luer piece of the mating connector 202 to displace the flexible valve 204 of the mating connector 202. Thus, when the mating connector 202 is coupled to the distal connector 212, the mating connector 202 can apply a force to push the plurality of arms 222 of the strut 220 proximally, which in turn can cause the strut 220 to compress the compressible valve member 218 proximally and displace the closed end 246 of the strut 220 away from the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227. Due to the compression, the slit 274 at the distal end portion of the compressible valve member 218 can open, thereby placing the internal chamber 276 of the compressible valve member 218 in fluid communication with the lumen 228 of the support 220 and allowing fluid to flow through the fluid path 238 via the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 into the mating connector 202. For example, Figure 2 As shown, the plurality of arms 222 and struts 220 can be forced away from the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 by the top surface 207. In the open position, the closed end 246 of the strut 220 is displaced from the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227, thereby allowing medical fluid to flow between the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 and the lumen 228 of the strut 220 through the channel 248.

[0052] Figure 4 An operational view of a connector assembly 201 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown, and when the connector assembly 201 is subjected to a proximal-directed force F above a predetermined threshold, the connector assembly is separated from the mating connector 202 due to the pivoting opening of the distal connector 212 of the connector assembly 201. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when subjected to a higher extraction force (e.g., a force F exceeding a predetermined proximal threshold (extraction) force), the connector assembly 201 can be configured to release or otherwise separate the mating connector 202 from the distal connector 212, at which time the fluid path 238 can be closed and the medical fluid (e.g., IV fluid) can not continue to enter the fluid line or tubing 217 (which can be fluidly connected to a fluid container, such as an IV bag (not shown)). In some embodiments, the predetermined proximal threshold (extraction force) can be approximately 5 pounds (lb). For example, if a patient with catheter 221A inserted into their skin leaves the infusion pump or accidentally pulls on the fluid line or tubing 217, and the force exceeds 5 pounds, the connector assembly 201 can automatically release or disengage the mating connector 202, effectively closing the fluid path 238 connecting the patient and the infusion fluid source, as will be described in further detail below. The connector assembly 201 of the various embodiments described herein (by releasing or otherwise disengaging from the mating connector 202, compared to conventional couplers and related infusion systems where a pull-out force exceeding a predetermined threshold will result in displacement or separation of the actual catheter) is therefore advantageous in preventing displacement of the catheter 221B, potentially resulting in bleeding, drug leakage, and excessive sounding of alarms to alert clinicians of the displacement.

[0053] In particular, if Figure 4 As shown, when the force applied to the proximal connector 214 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the pawl 209 can disengage from the notch 282 to allow the distal connector 212 to translate distally relative to the proximal connector 214 and pivot the first and second arms 211 and 213 radially outward to separate the mating connector 202 from the distal connector 212, which will be described in further detail below. For example, in operation, when the proximal extraction force F applied to the proximal connector 214 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the extraction force F can cause the pawl 209 of the first and second arms 211 and 213 to disengage from the notch 282 of the wing 210 or otherwise displace from the notch of the wing. When the pawl 209 disengages from the notch 282, the compressed valve member 218 can expand and correspondingly move the strut 220 distally. As the strut 220 moves distally, the protrusion 224 on each of the plurality of arms 222 of the strut 220 can exert a distal force on the corresponding stop 230 against which it abuts, thereby causing the distal connector 212 to move or translate distally. Figure 4As shown, as the compressible valve member 218 expands, the first linear portion 266 of each wing 210 can slide along the linear surface 251 of the slot 250 to allow the distal connector 212 to translate distally relative to the proximal connector 214. As each wing 210 continues to slide along the linear surface 251 of each slot 250 until the point at which the inclined surface 254 of each slot 250 contacts and abuts the inclined portion 252 of each wing 210, the distal connector 212 can continue to translate distally. As the compressible valve member 218 continues to expand, the inclined surface 254 of each slot 250 can push the inclined portion 252 of the wing 210 to pivot the first and second arms 211 and 213 radially outward and widen the opening at the open end 225 of the distal connector 212. As the compressible valve member 218 continues to expand distally, the compressible valve member 218 can continue to exert a force on the strut 220 , which causes the closed end 246 of the strut 220 to move or otherwise displace toward the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 to seal the outlet port 242 .

[0054] As shown, as the first and second arms 211 and 213 continue to pivot radially outward, the mating connector 202 can then be released and completely separated from the distal connector 212. In this state, the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 is sealed by the seal 226 at the closed end 246 of the strut 220, thereby closing the fluid path 238 and advantageously preventing microorganisms from entering the fluid path 238. Further advantageously, the sealed outlet port 242 can prevent medical fluids (e.g., IV fluids) from further flowing out of the fluid path 238 or otherwise escaping through the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 when the mating connector 202 is disconnected.

[0055] Thus, the first and second arms 211 and 213 are advantageously designed to release the mating needleless connector 202 when a withdrawal force F exceeding a threshold withdrawal force is applied to the tubing 217 and the proximal connector 214. In this way, the connector assembly 201 (e.g., but not limited to a Texium-type valve) and the mating connector 202 (e.g., but not limited to a SmartSite-type valve) can automatically close when separated, thereby preventing (i) the ingress of microorganisms into the fluid path 138, and (ii) leakage or spillage of medical fluids upon accidental disconnection due to a higher withdrawal force exceeding a predetermined threshold force. The above construction is superior to existing catheter deflection devices or connectors, which may or may not be adhesive-based and can only prevent catheter deflection at lower withdrawal forces. These existing catheter dislodging devices or connectors are not designed to prevent catheter dislodging at higher extraction forces, but may release in response to higher extraction forces (e.g., in excess of 5 pounds of force) experienced by patients pulling out their tubing due to rolling over in bed, patients grabbing tubing or lines on bed rails, moving patients to different beds, pediatric patients fidgeting, and / or disoriented adult patients.

[0056] Figure 5 An operational cross-sectional view of the proximal connector 214 of the connector assembly 201 is shown, which is separated from the connector assembly 201 for scrubbing, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 6 An operational cross-sectional view of the proximal connector 214 of the connector assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown coupled to the remainder of the connector assembly 201 after scrubbing. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the first and second arms 211 and 213 of the distal connector 212 can be clamped together or otherwise exert opposite forces on the first and second arms 211 and 213 to pivot the first and second arms 211 and 213 radially inward to an initial state before pivoting radially outward. Figure 5 The pivoting state shown returns to Figure 6 Non-pivoted condition shown.

[0057] like Figure 5As shown, the proximal connector 214 can be separated or otherwise disassembled from the rest of the connector assembly 201. For example, in the connection or assembly configuration of the connector assembly 201, the proximal connector can be connected in the cavity 208 of the main body portion 205. As shown, the inner surface of the main body portion 205 can include a plurality of threads 290, and the outer surface of the proximal connector 214 can include complementary threads 292 for engaging with the threads 290 of the main body portion. In order to separate or otherwise disassemble the proximal connector 214 from the rest of the connector assembly 201, the proximal connector 214 can be screwed out or otherwise unscrewed and removed from the cavity 208 of the main body portion 205. Although the separation of the proximal connector 214 from the rest of the connector assembly 201 is described herein with respect to threaded engagement, various embodiments are not limited to the aforementioned configuration, and the proximal connector 21 can alternatively be removably connected to the main body portion by any other suitable connection or fastening method.

[0058] An advantage of the above configuration in which the proximal connector 214 is removably coupled to the remainder of the connector assembly is that the Luer portion of the proximal connector 214 (the Luer portion removed from the cavity 208 of the body portion 205) can subsequently be scrubbed or otherwise sterilized. In some embodiments, the remainder of the connector assembly 201 (i.e., the body portion 205 and distal connector 212 assembly) can be discarded and replaced with a new sterile body portion 205 and distal connector 212 assembly without damaging or otherwise contaminating the fluid path 238. Figure 6 As shown, the proximal connector 214 can then be attached or coupled to the new and sterile body portion 205 and distal connector 212 assembly.

[0059] Similarly, when separated or otherwise disassembled from the connector assembly 201, the mating connector 202 may also be scrubbed or otherwise disinfected. Figure 2As shown, the mating connector 202 can then be reconnected to the connector assembly 201. For example, after the mating connector 202 is sterilized, the mating connector 202 can then be coupled or connected to a new sterile connector assembly 201. The mating connector 202 can be advanced toward the luer portion 227 of the distal connector 212. As the mating connector 202 is advanced toward the luer portion 227 of the distal connector 212, the luer portion 227 can be advanced into the interior of the mating connector 202 and compress the valve member 204 of the mating connector 202. As the luer portion 227 further enters the interior of the mating connector 202, the top surface 207 of the mating connector 202 can apply a force to push the multiple arms 222 of the strut 220 proximally, which in turn can compress the compressible valve member 218 and displace the closed end 246 of the strut 220 away from the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 For example, as previously described, the plurality of arms 222 and struts 220 can be forced away from the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 by engagement of the distal end portions 223 of the arms 222 against the top surface 207 of the mating connector 202. In the open position, the closed ends 246 of the struts 220 are displaced from the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227, thereby reopening the fluid path 238 and allowing medical fluid to flow through the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 and into the mating connector 202 via the lumen 228 and channel 248 of the struts 220. Thus, administration of IV fluid from the fluid line or tubing 217 to the catheter 221B via the new sterile connector assembly 201 can be resumed.

[0060] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when subjected to a lower extraction force, such as a force less than or equal to a predetermined proximal threshold (extraction) force, the connector assembly 201 can be configured to retain the mating connector 202 within the distal connector 212 such that the fluid path 238 remains open and medical fluid (e.g., IV fluid) can be administered from the fluid line or tubing 217 into the catheter 221B. Specifically, when the distal connector 212 is coupled to the mating connector 202, the closed end 246 of the strut 220 (along with the attached seal 226) can be displaced away from the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 to allow flow through the fluid path 238 via the luer portion 227.

[0061] For example, the subject technology is illustrated according to the various aspects described below. For convenience, various examples of various aspects of the subject technology are described according to numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided only as examples and do not limit the subject technology. It should be noted that any dependent clauses can be combined in any combination and placed in corresponding independent clauses, such as clause 1 or clause 5. Other clauses can be presented in a similar manner.

[0062] Item 1 A connector assembly comprising: a body portion having an inner surface and a Luer portion, the inner surface defining a cavity terminating in an open end of the body portion and the Luer portion extending in the cavity and through the open end; a proximal connector at least partially disposed in the cavity of the body portion and defining an inlet port and having an inner surface defining the cavity of the proximal connector; a distal connector slidably coupled to the body portion and comprising: a first arm and a second arm, the first arm and the second arm being hingedly or pivotally connected to each other and / or coupled to the body portion, and and defining (i) an outer surface of the distal connector, and (ii) an inner surface of the distal connector, the inner surface defining a cavity terminating at an open end of the distal connector; and a compressible valve member mounted in the cavity of the proximal connector and including an internal chamber and a slit extending from a distal end portion of the compressible valve member into the internal chamber, wherein, when the distal connector is coupled to a mating connector, the compressible valve member is compressed and the slit is opened so that a fluid path extending from an inlet port through the internal chamber to an outlet port of the Luer portion is opened to fluidly connect the proximal connector to the mating connector.

[0063] Item 2: A connector assembly according to Item 1, wherein: the inner surface of the main body portion includes a plurality of recesses recessed therein, and each of the first arm and the second arm includes at least one pawl extending radially outward from the outer surface of the distal connector; and when the distal connector is connected to the mating connector, the pawls of the first arm and the second arm engage with the plurality of recesses to prevent the mating connector from separating from the distal connector when the force applied to the proximal connector is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

[0064] Item 3: A connector assembly according to Item 2, wherein, when a force applied to the proximal connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the pawls of the first arm and the second arm disengage from the plurality of notches to allow the distal connector to translate distally relative to the proximal connector and to cause the first arm and the second arm to pivot radially outward to separate the mating connector from the distal connector.

[0065] Item 4 The connector assembly according to any one of Items 1-3 further includes a strut disposed in the Luer portion, the strut extending longitudinally in the fluid path from the distal end portion of the compressible valve member toward the outlet port of the Luer portion, wherein when the distal connector is coupled to the mating connector, the closed end of the strut is displaced away from the outlet port of the Luer portion to allow fluid to flow through the fluid path and into the mating connector via the outlet port.

[0066] Item 5. The connector assembly of Item 4, wherein the strut includes a plurality of arms extending from the strut and along the exterior of the luer portion toward the outlet port, wherein when the mating connector is coupled to the distal connector, the mating connector applies a force to push the plurality of arms proximally, compressing the compressible valve member and displacing the closed end of the strut away from the outlet port of the luer portion.

[0067] Clause 6. The connector assembly of clause 5, wherein the closed end of the strut seals the outlet port of the Luer portion to prevent fluid from flowing out of the fluid path through the outlet port of the Luer portion when the distal connector is separated from the mating connector.

[0068] Item 7 The connector assembly of Item 6, wherein when a force applied to the proximal connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the compressible valve member expands and exerts a force on the strut to shift the closed end of the strut toward the outlet port of the Luer portion, thereby sealing the outlet port.

[0069] Item 8: A connector assembly according to any one of Items 2-7, wherein the outer surface of each of the first and second arms of the distal connector includes a narrow groove at least partially recessed therein, and the narrow groove includes a linear surface extending proximally from the distal end of the narrow groove, and an inclined surface extending from the linear surface toward the proximal end of the narrow groove.

[0070] Item 9: A connector assembly according to Item 8, wherein the main body portion includes a plurality of wings that slidably connect the distal connector to the proximal connector, each of the plurality of wings includes a proximal end and a distal end, an inner surface, the inner surface including a first linear portion extending from the distal end to the proximal end, an inclined portion extending proximally and radially outwardly from the first linear portion, and a second linear portion extending proximally from the inclined portion.

[0071] Item 10: A connector assembly according to Item 9, wherein the inclined portion of each of the plurality of wings is parallel to the inclined surface of the corresponding slot of the first and second arms of the distal connector, and the first linear portion is parallel to the linear surface of the slot.

[0072] Item 11: A connector assembly according to Item 10, wherein, when a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to the proximal connector and the pawls of the first arm and the second arm disengage from the plurality of notches, the first linear portion slides along the linear surface of the narrow slot to allow the distal connector to translate distally relative to the proximal connector.

[0073] Item 12: A connector assembly according to Item 11, wherein, when a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to the proximal connector and the pawls of the first arm and the second arm disengage from the plurality of notches causing the distal connector to translate distally relative to the proximal connector, the inclined surface of the narrow slot pushes the inclined portions of the plurality of wings to cause the first arm and the second arm to pivot radially outward and widen the open end of the distal connector to release the mating connector.

[0074] Item 13 A connector assembly comprising: a body portion having an inner surface and a Luer portion, the inner surface defining a cavity terminating at an open end of the body portion and the Luer portion extending in the cavity and through the open end; a proximal connector at least partially disposed in the cavity of the body portion and defining an inlet port and having an inner surface defining the cavity of the proximal connector, wherein a fluid path extends from the inlet port through the Luer portion to an outlet port of the Luer portion; a distal connector slidably coupled to the body portion and configured to couple to a mating connector; and a compressible valve member mounted in the proximal cavity. The invention relates to a side connector of the present invention, wherein the spring member is configured to extend from a distal end of the compressible valve member to a luer portion of the side connector and includes an internal chamber and a slit extending from a distal end of the compressible valve member into the internal chamber; and a strut connected to the fluid path and extending longitudinally in the fluid path from the compressible valve member toward an outlet port of the luer portion, wherein when the distal connector is connected to the mating connector, the strut is displaced away from the outlet port of the luer portion to compress the compressible valve member, open the slit, and allow fluid to flow through the fluid path and into the mating connector via the outlet port, and wherein when a force applied to the proximal connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the spring member expands and exerts a force on the strut to displace the strut toward the outlet port of the luer portion, thereby sealing the outlet port.

[0075] Item 14: A connector assembly according to Item 13, wherein the distal connector includes a first arm and a second arm, which are pivotally connected to each other and / or the body and define (i) an outer surface of the distal connector, and (ii) an inner surface of the distal connector, which defines a cavity terminating at an open end of the distal connector.

[0076] Item 15: A connector assembly according to Item 14, wherein: the inner surface of the main body portion includes a plurality of recesses recessed therein, and each of the first arm and the second arm includes at least one pawl extending radially outward from the outer surface of the distal connector; and when the distal connector is connected to the mating connector, the pawls of the first arm and the second arm engage with the plurality of recesses to prevent the mating connector from separating from the distal connector when the force applied to the proximal connector is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

[0077] Item 16 is a connector assembly according to Item 15, wherein, when the force applied to the proximal connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the pawls of the first arm and the second arm disengage from the plurality of notches to allow the distal connector to translate distally relative to the proximal connector and to cause the first arm and the second arm to pivot radially outward to separate the mating connector from the distal connector.

[0078] Item 17: A connector assembly according to Item 15, wherein the outer surface of each of the first and second arms of the distal connector includes a narrow groove at least partially recessed therein, and the narrow groove includes a linear surface extending proximally from the distal end of the narrow groove, and an inclined surface extending from the linear surface to the proximal end of the narrow groove.

[0079] Item 18 is a connector assembly according to Item 17, wherein the main body portion includes a plurality of wings, the plurality of wings slidably connecting the distal connector to the proximal connector, each of the plurality of wings includes a proximal end and a distal end, an inner surface, the inner surface including a first linear portion extending from the distal end to the proximal end, an inclined portion extending proximally and radially outwardly from the first linear portion, and a second linear portion extending proximally from the inclined portion.

[0080] Item 19: A connector assembly according to Item 18, wherein the inclined portion of each of the plurality of wings is parallel to the inclined surface of the corresponding slot of the first and second arms of the distal connector, and the first linear portion is parallel to the linear surface of the slot.

[0081] Item 20 is a connector assembly according to Item 19, wherein, when a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to the proximal connector and the pawls of the first arm and the second arm disengage from the plurality of notches, the first linear portion slides along the linear surface of the narrow slot to allow the distal connector to translate distally relative to the proximal connector.

[0082] Item 21: A connector assembly according to Item 20, wherein, when a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to the proximal connector and the pawls of the first arm and the second arm disengage from the plurality of notches, causing the distal connector to translate distally relative to the proximal connector, the inclined surface of the narrow slot pushes the inclined portions of the plurality of wings to cause the first arm and the second arm to pivot radially outward and widen the open end of the distal connector to release the mating connector.

[0083] Item 22 The connector assembly of any one of items 13-21, wherein the strut includes a plurality of arms extending from the strut and along the exterior of the luer portion toward the outlet port, and wherein, when the mating connector is coupled to the distal connector, the mating connector applies a force to push the plurality of arms proximally, compressing the compressible valve member and displacing the closed end of the strut away from the outlet port of the luer portion.

[0084] The present disclosure is provided to enable those skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. The present disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Multiple modifications to these aspects are very clear to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects.

[0085] Unless otherwise specified, reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more." Unless otherwise specified, the term "some" refers to one or more. Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter genders (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the disclosure.

[0086] 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.

[0087] Phrases such as "aspects" do not mean that such aspects are essential to the subject technology, or that such aspects apply to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure associated with an aspect may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as "an aspect" may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. Phrases such as "embodiments" do not mean that such embodiments are essential to the subject technology, or that such embodiments apply to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure associated with an embodiment may apply to all embodiments or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as "an embodiment" may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. Phrases such as "constructions" do not mean that such constructions are essential to the subject technology, or that such constructions apply to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure associated with a construction may apply to all configurations or one or more constructions. A construction may provide one or more examples. Phrases such constructions may refer to one or more constructions, and vice versa.

[0088] In one aspect, unless otherwise indicated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, sizes, dimensions, and other specifications in this specification, including those set forth in the claims that follow, are approximate and not exact. In one aspect, they are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the functions to which they are related and with the customary practices in the art to which they belong.

[0089] 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.

[0090] Terms such as "top", "bottom", "front", "rear", etc. used in this disclosure should be understood to refer to an arbitrary reference frame other than the common gravitational reference frame. Thus, the top surface, bottom surface, front surface, and rear surface may extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in the gravitational reference frame.

[0091] Without departing from the scope of the subject technology, various items may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a different order, or divided in a different manner). All structural and functional equivalents of the elements of the various aspects described throughout the present disclosure are known to or will be known to those of ordinary skill in the art in the future, and are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. In addition, regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly stated in the claims, the content disclosed herein is not intended to be committed to the public. According to the provisions of the sixth paragraph of 35 U.S.C. §112, the elements of the claims will not be interpreted unless the phrase "means for..." is used to clearly state the element, or in the case of a method claim, the phrase "step for..." is used to state the element. In addition, for the scope of the terms "including", "having", etc. used, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "including", as explained when "including" is used as a transitional word in the claims.

[0092] The title, background technology, utility model content, figure description and abstract of the present disclosure are incorporated into the present disclosure hereby, and are provided as illustrative examples of the present disclosure, rather than restrictive descriptions. The submission of this application is based on the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the specific implementation, it can be seen that the description provides illustrative examples, and in order to simplify the present disclosure, various features are combined together in various embodiments. This disclosure method should not be interpreted as reflecting the intention that the subject matter claimed for protection requires more features than those explicitly stated in each claim. On the contrary, as reflected in the following claims, the utility model subject matter lies in less than all the features of a single disclosed construction or operation. The claims below are therefore incorporated into the detailed description, and each claim is independently a subject matter claimed for protection.

[0093] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims and including all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, no claim is intended to encompass subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirements of 35 U.S.C. §101, 102, or 103, nor should they be interpreted in such a manner.

Claims

1. A connector assembly, characterized in that: It includes: a body portion having an inner surface defining a cavity terminating in an open end of the body portion and a luer portion extending within the cavity and through the open end; a proximal connector disposed at least partially within the cavity of the body portion and defining an inlet port and having an inner surface defining the cavity of the proximal connector; a distal connector slidably coupled to the body portion and comprising: first and second arms pivotally coupled to the body portion and defining (i) an outer surface of the distal connector, and (ii) an inner surface of the distal connector defining a cavity terminating in an open end of the distal connector; and a compressible valve member mounted in the cavity of the proximal connector and comprising an interior chamber and a slit extending from a distal end portion of the compressible valve member into the interior chamber, wherein, when the distal connector is coupled to a mating connector, the compressible valve member is compressed and the slit is opened, so that a fluid path extending from an inlet port through the internal chamber to an outlet port of the Luer portion is opened, thereby fluidly connecting the proximal connector to the mating connector.

2. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner surface of the body portion includes a plurality of notches recessed therein, and each of the first and second arms includes at least one detent extending radially outward from an outer surface of the distal connector; and When the distal connector is coupled to a mating connector, the detents of the first and second arms engage the plurality of notches to prevent separation of the mating connector from the distal connector when a force applied to the proximal connector is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

3. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: When the force applied to the proximal connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the pawls of the first arm and the second arm disengage from the plurality of notches to allow the distal connector to translate distally relative to the proximal connector and to cause the first arm and the second arm to pivot radially outward to separate the mating connector from the distal connector.

4. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also included is a strut disposed in the Luer portion, the strut extending longitudinally in the fluid path from a distal end portion of the compressible valve member toward an outlet port of the Luer portion, wherein when the distal connector is coupled to a mating connector, a closed end of the strut is displaced away from the outlet port of the Luer portion to allow fluid to flow through the fluid path and into the mating connector via the outlet port.

5. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The strut includes a plurality of arms extending from the strut and along an exterior of the luer portion toward an outlet port, wherein when a mating connector is coupled to the distal connector, the mating connector applies a force to urge the plurality of arms proximally, compressing the compressible valve member and displacing a closed end of the strut away from the outlet port of the luer portion.

6. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: When the distal connector is separated from the mating connector, the closed end of the strut seals the outlet port of the luer portion to prevent fluid from flowing out of the fluid path through the outlet port of the luer portion.

7. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that: When a force applied to the proximal connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the compressible valve member expands and exerts a force on the strut to displace the closed end of the strut toward the outlet port of the luer portion, thereby sealing the outlet port.

8. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The outer surface of each of the first and second arms of the distal connector includes a slot at least partially recessed therein, the slot including a linear surface extending proximally from a distal end of the slot and an inclined surface extending from the linear surface to a proximal end of the slot.

9. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: The main body portion includes a plurality of wings that slidably couple the distal connector to the proximal connector, each of the plurality of wings including a proximal end and a distal end, an inner surface including a first linear portion extending from the distal end to the proximal end, an inclined portion extending proximally and radially outwardly from the first linear portion, and a second linear portion extending proximally from the inclined portion.

10. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that: The inclined portion of each of the plurality of wings is parallel to the inclined surface of the slot of the first and second arms of the distal connector, and the first linear portion is parallel to the linear surface of the slot.

11. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that: When a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to the proximal connector and the detents of the first and second arms disengage from the plurality of notches, the first linear portion slides along the linear surface of the slot to allow the distal connector to translate distally relative to the proximal connector.

12. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that: When a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to the proximal connector and the pawls of the first and second arms disengage from the plurality of notches, causing the distal connector to translate distally relative to the proximal connector, the inclined surface of the slot pushes the inclined portions of the plurality of wings to pivot the first and second arms radially outward and widen the open end of the distal connector to release the mating connector.

13. A connector assembly, characterized in that: It includes: a body portion having an inner surface defining a cavity terminating in an open end of the body portion and a luer portion extending within the cavity and through the open end; a proximal connector disposed at least partially within the cavity of the body portion and defining an inlet port and having an interior surface defining the cavity of the proximal connector, wherein the fluid path extends from the inlet port through the Luer portion to the outlet port of the Luer portion; a distal connector slidably coupled to the body portion and configured to couple to a mating connector; and a compressible valve member mounted in the cavity of the proximal connector and comprising an interior chamber and a slit extending from a distal end of the compressible valve member into the interior chamber; and a strut coupled to the fluid path and extending longitudinally in the fluid path from the compressible valve member toward the outlet port of the luer portion, wherein when the distal connector is coupled to the mating connector, the strut is displaced away from the outlet port of the luer portion to compress the compressible valve member, open the slit, and allow fluid to flow through the fluid path and into the mating connector via the outlet port, and Wherein, when the force applied to the proximal connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the spring member expands and exerts a force on the strut to displace the strut toward the outlet port of the Luer portion, thereby sealing the outlet port.

14. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that: The distal connector includes a first arm and a second arm, which are pivotally connected to the main body and define (i) an outer surface of the distal connector, and (ii) an inner surface of the distal connector, which defines a cavity terminating at an open end of the distal connector.

15. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that: The inner surface of the body portion includes a plurality of notches recessed therein, and each of the first and second arms includes at least one detent extending radially outward from an outer surface of the distal connector; and When the distal connector is coupled to a mating connector, the detents of the first and second arms engage the plurality of notches to prevent separation of the mating connector from the distal connector when a force applied to the proximal connector is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

16. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that: When the force applied to the proximal connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the pawls of the first arm and the second arm disengage from the plurality of notches to allow the distal connector to translate distally relative to the proximal connector and to cause the first arm and the second arm to pivot radially outward to separate the mating connector from the distal connector.

17. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that: The outer surface of each of the first and second arms of the distal connector includes a slot at least partially recessed therein, the slot including a linear surface extending proximally from a distal end of the slot and an inclined surface extending from the linear surface to a proximal end of the slot.

18. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that: The main body portion includes a plurality of wings that slidably couple the distal connector to the proximal connector, each of the plurality of wings including a proximal end and a distal end, an inner surface including a first linear portion extending from the distal end to the proximal end, an inclined portion extending proximally and radially outwardly from the first linear portion, and a second linear portion extending proximally from the inclined portion.

19. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 18, characterized in that: The inclined portion of each of the plurality of wings is parallel to the inclined surface of the slot of the first and second arms of the distal connector, and the first linear portion is parallel to the linear surface of the slot.

20. The connector coupling assembly according to claim 13, wherein: The strut includes a plurality of arms extending from the strut and along an exterior of the luer portion toward the outlet port, and wherein, when a mating connector is coupled to the distal connector, the mating connector applies a force to urge the plurality of arms proximally, compressing the compressible valve member and displacing the closed end of the strut away from the outlet port of the luer portion.

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