Fluid hub assembly

Abstract

The present application relates to a fluid hub assembly that allows for an easy connection, a secure connection to a fluid connector, and a safety release mechanism that enables the fluid hub assembly to be safely disengaged from the fluid connector. The fluid hub assembly may include a post and a hub slidably coupled to the post. When disconnected from the fluid connector, the hub may be locked or secured in a latched position, which helps to prevent reconnection or reuse of the hub, thereby facilitating safe and hygienic medical practices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to medical fluid connectors, and more specifically, to a fluid hub assembly including a medical connector configured to connect and disconnect based on a certain threshold force. Background Technology

[0002] A peripherally inserted intravenous (“PIVC”) catheter is a medical instrument inserted into a patient’s peripheral vein to deliver medical fluids to the patient. In an exemplary application, medical fluid is delivered to the patient, and then a healthcare professional removes the PIVC catheter from the patient. However, these catheters are frequently displaced unintentionally. For example, an unexpected or accidental pulling force on the catheter can pull the IV fitting, thereby pulling the catheter out of the patient. In other cases, the catheter is accidentally removed from the patient and by the healthcare professional. Unintentional or accidental displacement can lead to patient blood loss, IV fluid loss, and delays in IV fluid delivery.

[0003] Intravenous (“IV”) connectors are specialized components used in medical devices and equipment to securely and reliably connect and disconnect intravenous tubing. These connectors are typically designed with a locking mechanism that allows intravenous tubing to be interconnected, enabling the administration of medications, nutrients, or other fluids to patients based on their medical condition and treatment plan. Utility Model Content

[0004] As can be recognized from at least some embodiments of this disclosure, unintended displacement or disconnection of medical connectors (such as medical fluid lines) can cause harm to patients or medical professionals, for example by preventing patients from accessing medication, increasing the likelihood of infection in patients, and exposing medical professionals to medication.

[0005] This disclosure provides a fluid connector assembly with medical connectors, each medical connector including one or more fluid paths, the fluid connector assembly being configured to engage and disengage with tubing or other connectors based on a predetermined threshold force. The connector can be activated or released when a specific force is applied during the connection or disconnection process. This force threshold can be calibrated to provide a secure connection during use, while also facilitating manual disconnection by a healthcare professional based on the application of sufficient force, or in other situations requiring emergency disconnection, thereby minimizing patient trauma in the event of falls, IV fitting extension, or other necessary disconnection events.

[0006] This invention also provides a fluid hub assembly that prevents reconnection to the fitting connector after the hub assembly has been disconnected from the fitting connector. For example, in some embodiments, the hub assembly may have: a first pre-assembled configuration where the hub assembly can be coupled to the connector; a connection or assembly configuration where the assembly is coupled to the connector; and a second disconnect configuration where the hub assembly is separated from the connector. According to some aspects of this disclosure, the first configuration may differ from the second configuration.

[0007] For example, during engagement with the connector, one or more components of the hub assembly can be moved to a locked position, thereby preventing the connector from reconnecting to the hub assembly.

[0008] According to some embodiments, the fluid hub assembly may include a column and a hub configured to be mounted on the column and connected to a fitting connector. The column may be a single, continuous part or a component configured to be coupled to the hub. The column may include one or more motion-limiting structures that may engage with one or more components of the hub to limit one or more degrees of motion of the hub relative to the column. For example, the motion-limiting structures may include protrusions, projections, and / or recesses that may limit longitudinal and / or rotational movement of the hub relative to the column.

[0009] In some embodiments, the hub is movable between a ready or engaged position and a disengaged position. In the ready or engaged position, the hub is configured to engage with the fluid connector, and in the disengaged position, the hub can release the fluid connector. When releasing the fluid connector, the hub can engage one or more locking features of the post, which prevents the hub from moving back toward the ready or engaged position. Therefore, in the locked or final fixed position, the fluid hub assembly can prevent reconnection between the hub and the fluid connector. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, illustrates various features of illustrative embodiments of the present invention. The illustrated embodiments are intended to explain, and not limit, the present invention. The drawings include the following figures:

[0011] Figure 1 An IV kit linked to a patient according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0012] Figure 2A An exploded perspective view of a fluid hub assembly according to some embodiments is shown.

[0013] Figure 2B A perspective view of the fluid hub assembly of FIG2 in a partially assembled configuration according to some embodiments is shown.

[0014] Figure 3A A perspective view of the fluid hub assembly of FIG2 in an assembled configuration according to some embodiments is shown.

[0015] Figure 3B A perspective view of the fluid hub assembly of FIG2 in an assembled extended configuration according to some embodiments is shown.

[0016] Figures 4A-4D Views are shown of the engagement and disengagement of a fluid hub assembly with a fitting connector according to some embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The following detailed description elucidates numerous specific details to provide a full understanding of the subject matter. It should be understood that the subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and techniques are not shown in detail to avoid obscuring the subject matter.

[0018] Furthermore, although this specification sets forth specific details of various embodiments, it should be understood that this specification is illustrative only and should not be construed as restrictive in any way. Moreover, it is conceivable that although specific embodiments of this disclosure may be disclosed or illustrated in the context of IV kits, these embodiments can be used in other fluid transport systems. Furthermore, various applications and modifications of such embodiments that may occur to those skilled in the art are also included within the general concepts described herein.

[0019] According to some embodiments, this disclosure includes various features and advantages of a fluid hub assembly with a medical connector, the fluid hub assembly being configured to connect and disconnect based on a certain threshold force.

[0020] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1 An IV kit 1, according to some embodiments, is shown attached to a patient 10. The IV kit 1 includes a medication bag 12, an infusion chamber 14, and a tubing 22. The tubing 22 extends between the fluid hub assembly 100 of the IV kit 1 and the infusion chamber 14. To prevent accidental displacement or disconnection of the tubing 16 or catheter 18 from the patient, tape 26 is placed on the tubing 16 and catheter 18, such that the tape 26 engages the tubing 16, catheter 18, and patient 10.

[0021] Figure 2A and Figure 2B A perspective view of a fluid hub assembly 100 according to some embodiments is shown. The fluid hub assembly 100 is designed for medical applications, such as IV kit 1 (e.g., Figure 1 (as shown) and other IV medical fluid delivery applications using catheters, including, as a non-limiting example, PIVC catheters.

[0022] The fluid hub assembly 100 may include a post and a hub coupled to the post. The post may include one or more engagement features extending radially therefrom to allow engagement between the post and the hub, the hub being slidably positioned on the post. The hub can be used to facilitate interconnection with fittings of an IV kit and, as further disclosed herein, to prevent accidental disconnection of fittings and facilitate quick reconnection and / or replacement of IV connection components.

[0023] For example, such as Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, hub 108 may include a central bore 120 through which post 102 may extend. Post 102 may include one or more guide mechanisms 130, such as radially extending protrusions or projections, configured to engage with corresponding alignment mechanisms 132 of hub 108. When post 102 is positioned within bore 120 of hub 108, guide mechanisms 130 may slidably engage with alignment mechanisms 132 to limit rotational movement of hub 108 relative to post 102, such as... Figure 2B As shown.

[0024] like Figure 2A As shown, the guide mechanism 130 may include a plurality of radially extending protrusions extending from the outer surface of the post 102. For example, the guide mechanism 130 may include one, two, three, four, five, or six radially extending protrusions. These protrusions may be positioned in a common plane extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the post 102. The protrusions are also positioned circumferentially around the outer surface of the post 102 in a symmetrical arrangement. For example, the protrusions may each be positioned approximately 90° apart from each other, such that four protrusions are circumferentially spaced apart from each other around the outer surface of the post 102. Furthermore, as... Figure 2A As shown, the protrusions can be positioned in two groups, which are not substantially equidistant in the circumferential direction around the outer surface of the pillar 102, but are symmetrical about a longitudinal plane extending through the longitudinal axis of the hub 108. This arrangement can advantageously facilitate rotational alignment of the pillar 102 with respect to the hub 108, thereby aligning other features of the pillar 102 and the hub 108 with respect to each other.

[0025] Similarly, Figure 2A As shown, the alignment mechanism 132 of the hub 108 may include one or more slots extending longitudinally along the core member 136 of the hub 108. In some embodiments, the alignment mechanism 132 of the hub 108 may include one, two, three, four, five, or six slots. The slots may be configured to receive corresponding protrusions of the guide mechanism 130 of the post 102. According to some embodiments, the guide mechanism 130 may include four protrusions, and the alignment mechanism 132 may include more slots, thereby providing a robust anti-rotation mechanism that limits relative rotational movement between the post 102 and the hub 108.

[0026] According to some embodiments, the shape and size of these features can be made more robust to reduce the likelihood of breakage or other damage to the guide mechanism 130 and / or alignment mechanism 132 during assembly or use. For example, if the protrusion of the guide mechanism 130 is made too small, it may be prone to breakage during assembly. However, the rigidity and durability of the protrusion can be greatly increased by adjusting the height of the protrusion (extending longitudinally along the longitudinal axis of the column 102) to provide a cross-section with a height-to-width ratio of at least 2:1, at least 3:1, at least 4:1, or greater. Furthermore, the rigidity and durability of the protrusion can also be greatly increased by adjusting the ratio of the depth / length of the protrusion (the distance the protrusion extends from the outer surface of the column 102) to the height of the protrusion to provide a height-to-depth ratio of at least 1:1, at least 2:1, at least 3:1, at least 4:1, or greater.

[0027] Furthermore, some embodiments can be configured such that the guide mechanism 130 and the alignment mechanism 132 can be switched or adjusted between the post 102 and the hub 108. As generally shown in the drawings and discussed in some of the embodiments above, the guide mechanism 130 has been shown as one or more protruding members, and the alignment mechanism 132 has been shown as one or more recesses configured to engage with the guide mechanism 130. This male-female relationship between the guide mechanism 130 and the alignment mechanism 132 can be switched such that the post 102 and the hub 108 each have one or more recesses or protrusions that can engage with a corresponding recess or protrusion of the other of the post 102 or hub 108.

[0028] For example, the pillar 102 may include at least one recess or slot along its outer surface, and the hub 108 may have at least one protrusion that can engage with the recess or slot on the outer surface of the pillar 102. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the pillar 102 and the hub 108 may each include at least one recess or slot and at least one protrusion, and alignment of these components may be facilitated by circumferential positioning of their recesses and protrusions.

[0029] In some embodiments, the core component 136 of the hub 108 may define a central bore 120 of the hub 108 and be configured to have an inner dimension or diameter that allows the bore 120 to fit tightly against the outer surface of the post 102. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the post 102 may have a tapering diameter that decreases from the threaded engagement segment 140 toward its distal segment 142. Similarly, the bore 120 of the hub 108 may include a diameter that decreases in proportion to the decreasing diameter of the outer surface of the post 102.

[0030] like Figure 2A and Figure 2BAs shown, some embodiments can be configured such that the post 102 can be formed of two or more separate components that can be joined, welded or otherwise attached to each other, and then assembled with the hub 108. For example, the post 102 may include two components: a first post component 104 and a second post component 106 coupled to the first post component 104.

[0031] The first post component 104 and the second post component 106 can be referred to as a first connector and a second connector, respectively. However, "first" and "second" are interchangeable. Furthermore, each of the first component 104 and the second component 106 can be referred to as a medical connector. When components 104 and 106 are as follows... Figure 3A When connected as shown, the fluid route for medical fluids is established via the fluid hub assembly 100.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first post member 104 and the second post member 106 may be attached to each other using a variety of methods, such as applying an adhesive, welding (e.g., ultrasonic welding), bonding, mechanical joining, or other methods that firmly shape the first post member 104 and the second post member 106 to each other and allow the formation of a fluid-impermeable joint therebetween.

[0033] While some embodiments may use multiple components to form the pillar 102, the pillar 102 may also be formed as a single, continuous component having the various mechanisms disclosed herein that are functional and capable of engaging with the hub 108 and other components as needed. For example, the pillar 102 may be molded into a single part and engaged with the hub 108 in a manner that allows for the full functionality and use of the assembly. However, for disassembly or detachment from the pillar 102 or hub 108, the hub 108 may be configured to break off from the pillar 102.

[0034] Furthermore, the plug 138 can be mounted on the distal segment 142 or end of the post 102, such as on the first post member 104, which avoids additional welding and the need to place a cap on the post. This feature is... Figure 2A As shown, plug 138 is coupled to first post member 104. As discussed above regarding the joint between first post member 104 and second post member 106, plug 138 can be coupled to first post member 104 in a manner that provides a strong attachment and fluid impermeability therebetween.

[0035] In some embodiments, the second column member 106 may be connected to a medical fluid (not shown). Additionally, in some embodiments, the first column member 104 may be connected to a catheter line (not shown) to enable the delivery of medical fluid to the catheter. In this regard, the second column member 106 may include a fluid inlet 144, which serves as a fluid receiving location for the fluid hub assembly 100. Furthermore, the first column member 104 may include a fluid outlet 146, which serves as a fluid transfer location for the fluid hub assembly 100.

[0036] To facilitate connection to medical fluids, the second post assembly 106 may include a Luer element. In some embodiments, the Luer element may be a female Luer element designed to mate with a male connector connected to a medical fluid. Similarly, to facilitate connection to a catheter, the first post assembly 104 may include a Luer element or other components. In some embodiments, the Luer element 112 is a male Luer element designed to mate with a female connector connected to a catheter. Each Luer element may conform to standards established by the International Organization for Standardization (“ISO”) to improve patient safety, minimize medical fluid leakage, and reduce incorrect connections to other connection devices.

[0037] Refer again Figure 2A and Figure 2B Hub 108 can be attached to post 102, and first post component 104 and second post component 106 can be joined together during disassembly. This assembly process can produce fluid hub assembly 100, such as... Figure 3A As shown.

[0038] During assembly, the hub 108 can slide along the post 102 or move longitudinally along the post until it contacts a stop member, which can restrict the longitudinal movement of the hub 108 along the post 102. For example, the stop member may include one or more shoulder members 150, 152 extending radially from the outer surface of the post 102. Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, shoulder members 150, 152 can form part of the second column member 106 and are longitudinally spaced from the guide mechanism 130. Therefore, when assembled, hub 108 is positioned along column 102 and can move longitudinally until it contacts shoulder members 150, 152, which will limit further longitudinal movement of hub 108 in the direction toward fluid inlet 144 of column 102.

[0039] According to some embodiments, after the hub 108 is moved onto the lower section of the first pillar member 104 (opposite to the fluid outlet 146), the pillar 102 can be fully assembled. In other words, the first pillar member 104 can slide into the center hole 120 of the hub 108, and thereafter, the first pillar member 104 can be joined to the second pillar member 106, as described above. The hub 108 will thus be restricted to movement toward the fluid inlet 144, and can only move toward the fluid outlet 146. Furthermore, the robust support provided by the shoulder members 150, 152 allows the hub 108 to be supported by the pillar 102 at the shoulder contact or engagement position 162, thereby resisting downward forces applied during the connection of the fitting to the hub 108 (i.e., in the direction of the fluid inlet 144). For example, Figure 3A Hub 108 is shown in a shoulder contact or engagement position 162. When hub 108 is connected to a pipe fitting, the fluid seal between the pipe fitting and hub 108 and post 102 can be robust, and the assembly can be used for fluid delivery.

[0040] Furthermore, according to some embodiments disclosed herein, the fluid hub assembly 100 can advantageously provide accidental disconnection safety features. For example, the fluid hub assembly 100 can provide a medical connection with one or more fluid pathways and is configured to engage and disengage with fittings or other connectors based on a predetermined threshold force. The connector can be activated or released when a specific force is applied during the connection or disconnection process. This force threshold can be calibrated to provide a secure connection during use, while also facilitating manual disconnection by a healthcare professional based on the application of sufficient force, or in other situations requiring emergency disconnection, thereby minimizing patient trauma in the event of a fall, IV fitting extension, or other necessary disconnection events.

[0041] According to some embodiments, implementing the features of the fluid hub assemblies disclosed herein can achieve various advantages and benefits. For example, by requiring specific forces to connect and disconnect, these connectors help prevent accidental disconnection, which could lead to medication errors or endanger patient safety; however, when sufficient force is applied, the connection can be broken, thereby minimizing any patient trauma or discomfort. Continuous application of force ensures a reliable connection, reducing the risk of leaks or air entering the IV line, which could otherwise affect medication delivery or patient care. Therefore, some embodiments disclosed herein can be configured with force thresholding technology, which can play a crucial role in enhancing the safety, reliability, and availability of intravenous drug delivery systems in medical settings, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes and quality of care.

[0042] For example, refer to Figure 3BHub 108 can move from the engaged position 162 to the disengaged position 164, which may occur due to a disconnection event (e.g., an unexpected force or pull applied to the fitting, which generates a separation force on the fluid hub assembly 100). In response to such an event, hub 108 may allow the fitting to disengage from it in order to mitigate any damage or trauma to the patient or other medical equipment.

[0043] like Figure 3B As shown, when hub 108 moves toward disengagement position 164, hub 108 moves upward toward fluid outlet 146, away from shoulder members 150, 152. When a separation force is applied to hub 108, the outer petals 170 of hub 108 can deflect radially to allow the fitting to disengage from hub 108. Hub 108 may include a plurality of petals 170 separated by longitudinally extending slots. The illustrated embodiment provides five petals 170.

[0044] According to some embodiments, when a disconnection event occurs, hub 108 can be pulled to a position where hub 108 extends longitudinally or protrudes beyond the top edge of plug 138, such as... Figure 3B As shown. For example, the top edge of the core component 136 can be pulled to extend longitudinally beyond the top edge of the plug 138. In this position, the hub 108 will disengage and reach the disengagement position 164.

[0045] When hub 108 is pulled or moved toward disengaged position 164, locking mechanism can be engaged, which restricts hub 108 from returning toward engaged position 162 or returning toward shoulder members 150, 152. In some embodiments, locking mechanism may include a combination of at least one slot and at least one protrusion fitted into the slot. Component 100 may be configured such that hub 108 includes a slot or protrusion, and post 102 or plug 138 includes another of the slot or protrusion. For example, in Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the illustrated embodiment, the plug 138 includes a radial protrusion 180, and the core component 136 of the hub 108 includes a slot 182 configured to receive the protrusion 180 as the hub 108 moves toward the disengagement position 164. Once the protrusion 180 is received in the slot 182, the core component 136 can provide a radially inward force sufficient to maintain engagement between the slot 182 and the protrusion 180, thereby limiting longitudinal movement of the hub 108 relative to the post 102 and the plug 138.

[0046] According to some embodiments, the protrusion 180 may be configured with a tapered ramp, wedge, or deflectable projection having a blunt top end surface or profile closest to the outlet end 146 rather than the inlet end 144. In some embodiments, the deflectable projection may allow the core member 136 to push the deflectable projection toward or into the central bore 120 until the deflectable projection can spring back and engage with the slot 182. Regardless of the embodiment, the core member 136 may slide upward on the ramp surface of the deflectable projection or protrusion 180 until the core member 136 and the slot 182 snap downward onto the protrusion 180 or deflectable projection to secure the protrusion 180 or deflectable projection within the slot 182. The blunt top end surface of the deflectable protrusion or projection 180 may abut the inner edge of the slot 182, thereby restricting the core member 136 from moving back toward the shoulder members 150, 152. Thus, the hub 108 can achieve a locked or final fixed position in which it cannot move downward toward the shoulder members 150, 152.

[0047] According to some embodiments, the relative positions of the protrusion 180 (or deflectable support protrusion) and the slot 182 can be modified to adjust the "clamp length" between the post 102 and the hub 108. The length of the relative movement between the hub 108 and the post 102 from the engaged position 162 to the disengaged position 164 can allow the assembly 100 to respond differently to a disconnection event. For example, a shorter distance can provide a more immediate disconnection response, while a longer distance can allow the assembly 100 to withstand a slightly larger disconnection event, including a slightly larger disconnection force.

[0048] Furthermore, one advantage of locking or securing hub 108 in the disengaged position 164 after a disconnection event is that it ensures hub 108 cannot be reconnected to the fitting, thereby preventing the reuse of potentially contaminated equipment. The final secured position of hub 108 in the disengaged position 164 can thus signal to clinicians that component 100 needs to be reconfigured, replaced, and / or cleaned before further fluid delivery.

[0049] refer to Figures 4A-4D The connection and disconnection process is illustrated, including the locking or final fixed position of hub 108. (As shown) Figure 4A As shown, the fluid hub assembly 100 can be assembled and positioned in the disengaged position. Figure 4B As shown, the pipe connector 200 can be moved to engage with the fluid hub assembly 100. When engaged, the pipe connector 200 and the fluid hub assembly 100 can move as a single unit, providing a sealed fluid path for fluid delivery. However, when a disconnection event occurs, such as... Figure 4DAs shown, the fitting connector 200 can be separated from the fluid hub assembly 100, leaving the hub 108 in its final fixed position. Subsequently, the hub 108 can be removed and replaced with a new hub, or the entire assembly 100 can be removed from the Luer connector and replaced with a new assembly.

[0050] For convenience, various examples of different aspects of the subject matter are described below. These are provided as examples only and do not limit the subject matter. It should be noted that various examples of different aspects of the subject matter can be combined arbitrarily and placed in corresponding independent articles.

[0051] A locking hub assembly includes: a two-piece column having a first column member and a second column member, the first column member being connectable to the second column member at a column joint to form a continuous tubular member having a longitudinal axis, the first column member including a guide mechanism arranged along its outer surface, the second column member including a stop mechanism arranged along its outer surface; and a hub including an engagement member and a central cavity that can be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the tubular member and configured to allow the first column member to be positioned therethrough when the first column member and the second column member are in a disengaged state, the hub further including an alignment mechanism for engaging with the guide mechanism of the first column member to restrict rotational movement of the hub relative to the first column member when the hub is engaged with the first column member, and restricting longitudinal movement of the hub relative to the second column member by the stop mechanism of the second column member when the first column member and the second column member are engaged together in an engaged state.

[0052] The guide mechanism of the first column component includes at least one arm extending from the outer surface of the first column component.

[0053] The hub alignment mechanism includes a groove configured to receive at least one arm of the first column member.

[0054] The guide mechanism includes four arms extending from the outer surface of the column member.

[0055] The four arms are symmetrically positioned around the outer surface of the first column component.

[0056] The hub alignment mechanism includes four grooves, each groove being configured to receive a corresponding one of the four arms of the first post component.

[0057] The first column component and the second column component include a tapered tubular outer contour.

[0058] The stopping mechanism of the second column component includes a pair of stopping members extending from its outer surface.

[0059] The pair of stop members are arranged adjacent to the column joint.

[0060] The column joint includes a seam formed by the opposing surfaces of a first column component and a second column component, at which the first column component and the second column component are joined together.

[0061] The column joint includes material sections of a first column component and a second column component that are fused together.

[0062] The first pillar component includes a pillar locking mechanism, and the hub includes a hub locking mechanism configured to engage with the pillar locking mechanism to restrict longitudinal movement of the hub relative to the first pillar component.

[0063] The column locking mechanism includes a deflectable protrusion configured to pivot in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.

[0064] The hub locking mechanism includes an accessible hole along the inner surface of the central cavity of the hub, which is aligned with a deflectable protrusion of the pillar locking mechanism to allow the deflectable protrusion to move to an extended position, wherein the deflectable protrusion engages with the hub in the extended position to restrict longitudinal movement relative to the first component.

[0065] A locking hub assembly includes: a tubular column member having an outer surface and including a longitudinal axis; a guide mechanism arranged along the outer surface of the tubular column member; and a stop mechanism arranged along the outer surface; and a hub including an engagement member and a central cavity that can be aligned with the longitudinal axis and configured to allow the tubular column member to be positioned therethrough, the hub further including an alignment mechanism for engaging with the guide mechanism of the tubular column member to limit rotational movement of the hub relative to the tubular column member, wherein the longitudinal movement of the hub relative to the tubular column member is limited by the engagement of the stop mechanism against the hub.

[0066] The guide mechanism of the tubular column component includes at least one arm extending from the outer surface.

[0067] The hub alignment mechanism includes a groove configured to receive at least one arm of the tubular column member.

[0068] The guide mechanism includes four arms extending from the outer surface of the column member.

[0069] The four arms are symmetrically positioned around the outer surface of the tubular column component.

[0070] The hub alignment mechanism includes four grooves, each configured to receive a corresponding one of the four arms of the tubular column component.

[0071] The tubular column component includes a tapered tubular outer contour.

[0072] The stopping mechanism of the tubular column component includes a pair of stopping members extending from its outer surface.

[0073] The pair of stop members are arranged along the middle section of the tubular column component.

[0074] The tubular column component includes a column locking mechanism, and the hub includes a hub locking mechanism configured to engage with the column locking mechanism to restrict longitudinal movement of the hub relative to the tubular column component.

[0075] The column locking mechanism includes a deflectable protrusion configured to pivot in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.

[0076] The hub locking mechanism includes an accessible hole along the inner surface of the central cavity of the hub, which is aligned with a deflectable protrusion of the column locking mechanism to allow the deflectable protrusion to move to an extended position, wherein the deflectable protrusion engages with the hub in the extended position to restrict longitudinal movement relative to the tubular column member.

[0077] A method of assembling a locking hub assembly, the method comprising: inserting a first post member into a central cavity of the hub; engaging a guide mechanism of the first post member with an alignment mechanism of the hub for limiting rotation of the hub relative to the first post member; and coupling a second post member to the first member to form a post joint, the second post member having a stop mechanism configured to limit longitudinal movement of the hub along the longitudinal axes of the first and second post members.

[0078] The engagement guide mechanism includes an arm extending from the outer surface of the first pillar member and positioned within a groove in the hub.

[0079] The engagement guide mechanism includes two pairs of arms extending from the outer surface of the first pillar member and positioned within corresponding grooves in the hub.

[0080] The connection includes fusing the first column component to the second column component.

[0081] The welding process includes ultrasonic welding of the opposing surfaces of the first and second column components.

[0082] The device further includes a hub that slides along the longitudinal axis of the first pillar member to engage the pillar locking mechanism of the first pillar member with the hub locking mechanism of the hub, thereby restricting the longitudinal movement of the hub relative to the first pillar member.

[0083] The pillar locking mechanism includes a deflectable protrusion, and the hub locking mechanism includes a bore, wherein engagement of the pillar locking mechanism and the hub locking mechanism includes allowing the deflectable protrusion to extend into the bore of the hub.

[0084] In some embodiments, any of the clauses herein may depend on any of the independent clauses or any of the dependent clauses. In one aspect, any of the clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses) may be combined with any other one or more clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses). In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the text (e.g., steps, operations, methods, or components) recited in a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the text recited in one or more clauses, sentences, phrases, or paragraphs. In one aspect, some of the text in each of the clauses, sentences, phrases, or paragraphs may be removed. In one aspect, additional text or elements may be added to a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, the subject matter may be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements, functions, or operations described herein. In one aspect, the subject matter may be implemented using additional components, elements, functions, or operations.

[0085] This disclosure is provided to enable those skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. This disclosure provides various examples of the subject matter, and the subject matter is not limited to these examples. Numerous modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects.

[0086] Unless otherwise stated, the use of the singular form to refer to an element 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. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter pronouns (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. The use of headings and subheadings (if any) is for convenience only and does not limit this disclosure.

[0087] The term "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 superior to other aspects or designs. In one respect, the various alternative constructions and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0088] For example, phrases like "aspect" do not imply that such an aspect is essential to the art, or that such an aspect applies to all constructions of the art. Disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all constructions or one or more constructions. An aspect may provide one or more examples. For example, the phrase "an aspect" may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. For example, phrases like "embodiment" do not imply that such an embodiment is essential to the art, or that such an embodiment applies to all constructions of the art. Disclosure relating to an embodiment may apply to all embodiments or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. For example, the phrase "an embodiment" may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. For example, phrases like "construction" do not imply that such a construction is essential to the art, or that such a construction applies to all constructions of the art. Disclosure relating to a construction may apply to all constructions or one or more constructions. A construction may provide one or more examples. The phrase "a construction" may refer to one or more constructions, and vice versa.

[0089] In one respect, unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, sizes, dimensions, and other specifications set forth in this specification, including in the following claims, are approximate, not precise. In another respect, they are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the functions they pertain to and with the custom of the art to which they belong.

[0090] In one respect, the term "linkage" can refer to a direct connection. In another respect, the term "linkage" can refer to an indirect connection.

[0091] For example, the terms “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear,” etc., used in this disclosure should be understood to refer to any frame of reference rather than a general gravitational frame of reference. Therefore, the top surface, bottom surface, front surface, and rear surface can extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravitational frame of reference.

[0092] Various items may be arranged differently (e.g., in different orders or divided in different ways) without departing from the scope of the subject matter. All structural and functional equivalents of the elements throughout the various aspects described in this disclosure are known to or will be known hereafter to those skilled in the art, expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to be covered by the claims. Furthermore, regardless of whether such disclosure is expressly recited in the claims, the disclosure herein is not intended for the public. According to paragraph 6 of 35 U.S.SC §112, elements of a claim will not be interpreted unless the element is clearly stated using the phrase “means”, or, in the case of a method claim, using the phrase “for the step of…”. Moreover, the scope of terms such as “comprising,” “having,” etc., is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising,” as interpreted when “comprising” is used as a transitional term in a claim.

[0093] The title, background art, utility model description, description of drawings, and abstract of this disclosure are incorporated herein and are provided as illustrative examples rather than limiting descriptions. This application is filed on the understanding that they are not intended to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the detailed description, it will be apparent that the description provides illustrative examples, and various features are combined in various embodiments to simplify the disclosure. This disclosure approach should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than expressly stated in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the utility model subject matter lies in all features of fewer than those in a single disclosed construction or operation. The following claims are therefore incorporated into the detailed description, each claim being an independent, separately claimed subject matter.

[0094] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but rather to conform to the full scope consistent with the language claims and to include all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, none of the claims are intended to include subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirements of 35 U.S.SC § 101, 102, or 103, nor should they be interpreted in this manner.

Claims

1. A fluid hub assembly, characterized in that, include: A two-piece column having a first column component and a second column component, the first column component being connectable to the second column component at a column joint to form a continuous tubular member having a longitudinal axis, the first column component including a guide mechanism arranged along its outer surface, and the second column component including a stop mechanism arranged along its outer surface. and A hub including a connecting member and a central cavity, the central cavity being alignable with the longitudinal axis of the tubular member and configured to allow the first column member to be positioned through the central cavity when the first and second column members are in a disengaged state, the hub further including an alignment mechanism for engaging with a guide mechanism of the first column member to restrict rotational movement of the hub relative to the first column member when the hub is engaged with the first column member, and to restrict longitudinal movement of the hub relative to the second column member by a stop mechanism of the second column member when the first and second column members are engaged together in a connected state.

2. The fluid hub assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide mechanism of the first column component includes at least one arm extending from the outer surface of the first column component.

3. The fluid hub assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide mechanism includes four arms extending from the outer surface of the column member.

4. The fluid hub assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first column component and the second column component include a tapered tubular outer contour.

5. The fluid hub assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stop mechanism of the second column member includes a pair of stop members extending from the outer surface of the second column member.

6. The fluid hub assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The column joint includes a seam formed by the opposing surfaces of the first column component and the second column component, at which the first column component and the second column component are joined together.

7. The fluid hub assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first column member includes a column locking mechanism, and wherein the hub includes a hub locking mechanism configured to engage with the column locking mechanism to restrict longitudinal movement of the hub relative to the first column member.

8. A fluid hub assembly, characterized in that, include: A tubular column component having an outer surface and including a longitudinal axis, a guide mechanism arranged along its outer surface, and a stop mechanism arranged along the outer surface; and A hub including a connecting member and a central cavity, the central cavity being alignable with a longitudinal axis and configured to allow the tubular column member to be positioned through the central cavity, the hub further including an alignment mechanism for engaging with a guide mechanism of the tubular column member to limit rotational movement of the hub relative to the tubular column member, wherein longitudinal movement of the hub relative to the tubular column member is limited by the stop mechanism abutting against the engagement of the hub.

9. The fluid hub assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The guiding mechanism of the tubular column component includes at least one arm extending from the outer surface.

10. The fluid hub assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The alignment mechanism of the hub includes a groove configured to receive at least one arm of the tubular column component.

11. The fluid hub assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The guide mechanism includes four arms extending from the outer surface of the column member.

12. The fluid hub assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The tubular column component includes a tapered tubular outer contour.

13. The fluid hub assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The stopping mechanism of the tubular column component includes a pair of stopping members extending from the outer surface of the tubular column component.

14. The fluid hub assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The tubular column component includes a column locking mechanism, and wherein the hub includes a hub locking mechanism configured to engage with the column locking mechanism to restrict longitudinal movement of the hub relative to the tubular column component.

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