Valve arrangement for tamper-resistant luer lock connectors and adapters

Abstract

A connector for connection to a fluid transfer device comprises an outer body having a longitudinal axis, and a luer lock connection port positioned within the outer body and configured to couple with an external port of the fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable in at least one of a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis at least prior to initiation of coupling with the external port, the outer body being structured to prevent an operator from directly accessing the exterior of the luer lock connection port with their fingertips through the outer body after the luer lock connection port is coupled with the external port, and the luer lock connection port being positioned within the outer body.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The subject matter of the present disclosure relates to a tamper-resistant luer lock connector for use with an adapter in a spill-proof fluid transfer system, and a valve device for maintaining a desired air pressure within the adapter. [Background technology]

[0002] In fluid transfer systems, especially when the transfer of hazardous fluids is involved, exposure of the fluid to the environment is highly undesirable and may even lead to fatal accidents. Therefore, the fluid transfer devices, adapters, connectors, valves, and other equipment used in such systems must be completely spill-proof and contamination-free. In certain embodiments, connections between several devices must be made such that the connections cannot be accidentally or tampered with, yet at the same time, can be severed by an operator using proper care and appropriate technique.

[0003] Furthermore, in certain applications, air pressure continues to rise and / or fall within the system during fluid transfer, which, if allowed to increase or decrease uncontrolled, can lead to malfunction of any device or the entire system.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need and desire for a fluid transfer device that addresses at least some of the problems discussed above. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a connector for connecting to a fluid transfer device, comprising: an outer body having a longitudinal axis; a luer lock connection port positioned within the outer body and configured to couple with an external port of the fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable in at least one of a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis at least prior to initiation of coupling with the external port; A connector is provided in which the outer body is structured to prevent an operator from directly accessing the exterior of the luer lock connection port with a fingertip through the outer body after the luer lock connection port is coupled with an external port, and the luer lock connection port is positioned within the outer body.

[0006] The fluid transfer device may be a commonly known luer lock connection apparatus used in medical systems, such as drug mixing systems where safe transfer of hazardous drugs from one container to another is required. In some embodiments, the fluid transfer device may be any connection device that facilitates the transfer of fluids between containers.

[0007] The connectors described above can be integrated with an adapter configured to facilitate connection between the container and a fluid transfer device, either directly or via another corresponding adapter. In some embodiments, the container can be a syringe, and the adapter can facilitate connection between the syringe and a normal female Luer lock connection device, either directly or via a standard syringe adapter. In some embodiments, the adapter facilitates conversion of a standard female Luer lock port into a docking port for secure connection with the female connector of the syringe adapter.

[0008] The outer body can be a generally cylindrical hollow body having a proximal end positioned towards the fluid transfer device and a distal end positioned towards the container during use. A luer lock connection port can be positioned within the outer body at the proximal end to receive an external port of the fluid transfer device. In certain applications, the external port is a standard female luer lock port. The luer lock connection port can be positioned within the outer body such that it has a common longitudinal axis with the outer body and such that the luer lock connection port can rotate about that axis.

[0009] The luer lock connection port may include threads for receiving corresponding threads formed on the external port to be coupled thereto. Coupling is initiated when the external port contacts and threads with the luer lock connection port. Coupling is in progress when the external port is rotated to be threaded with the luer lock connection port. Prior to the initiation of coupling, the luer lock connection port is rotatable within the outer body, and therefore, when coupling is performed, rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the threading direction (which may be clockwise in typical applications) must be prevented at least while coupling is in progress. Coupling is completed when the external port is fully threaded with the luer lock connection port. The luer lock connection port may rotate about the longitudinal axis after coupling is completed.

[0010] The outer body generally covers the luer lock connection port when positioned within the luer lock connection port and coupled to an external port such that the luer lock connection port is not easily accessible, or at least not accessible with a fingertip. In some embodiments, the sidewall of the outer body may have one or more openings, each opening being smaller than the size of a child's fingertip, and thus, particularly when used in a medical drug delivery system, a child cannot access the luer lock connection port with a fingertip. The inaccessibility of the luer lock connection port by a child ensures that a child cannot prevent the luer lock connection port from rotating, thereby preventing unintentional separation of the luer lock connection port from the external port. The average diameter of a fingertip of a child about 3 to 10 years old is about 10 to 12 mm. Thus, in some embodiments, at least one dimension of each of the one or more openings may be less than 10 mm. Thus, the connector is configured as a tamper-resistant connector.

[0011] The luer lock connection port may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis in both a clockwise and counterclockwise direction, at least prior to initiation of connection with the external port.

[0012] The luer lock connection port may be rotatable both clockwise and counterclockwise about its longitudinal axis when connected to an external port.

[0013] In some examples, the luer lock connection port can be rotatable about the longitudinal axis in at least a counterclockwise direction when coupled to an external port.

[0014] For purposes of understanding the entirety of this application, clockwise and counterclockwise directions should be understood as viewed from the direction of the external port towards the Luer lock connection port.

[0015] The connector may further include a connection assist mechanism configured to selectively assume a connectable state that restricts rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction and an unconnectable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction.

[0016] The coupling assist mechanism may include any structure understood by one of ordinary skill in the art as being capable of selectively preventing rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the threaded direction (which may be clockwise in typical applications) within the outer body. In certain embodiments, when the threaded direction is counterclockwise, the coupling assist mechanism may be configured to limit rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the counterclockwise direction in the coupleable state. In some embodiments, the coupling assist mechanism may include a button, key, lever, etc., external to the connector or formed within the outer body, which may be operated to prevent rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. In some embodiments, the coupling assist mechanism may include at least a pair of protrusions and catchers, one formed at the luer lock connection port and the other formed at or operable through the outer body, where the protrusions and catchers may engage with each other to prevent rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. The coupling assist mechanism may be configured to normally remain in a non-coupleable state and may be actuated by an operator to achieve a coupleable state when coupling is performed.

[0017] The connection assist mechanism can be configured to assume the connectable state at least while connection between the luer lock connection port and the external port is in progress.

[0018] The connection assist mechanism can be configured to allow the luer lock connection port to rotate in a counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis in the connectable state, and further configured to allow the luer lock connection port to rotate in a counterclockwise direction and / or a clockwise direction about the longitudinal axis in the unconnectable state.

[0019] The luer lock connection port can be configured to be displaced axially along the longitudinal axis between a first position associated with an unconnectable state and a second position associated with a connectable state. In some examples, the luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the connection assist feature, and their positioning relative to one another, can be configured such that the connection assist feature can be displaced to the connectable state only when the luer lock connection port and the outer body are in a particular position relative to one another. The particular position can be defined by where the luer lock connection port is within the outer body along the longitudinal axis.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the luer lock connection port can be configured to be freely displaced from a first position to a second position when a pressing force is applied by the external port, i.e., a pressing force applied by an operator to the fluid transfer device during coupling. The first position can be a normal position of the luer lock connection port in the outer body, in which the luer lock connection port can be freely rotated in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis. When in the first position, the luer lock connection port is spaced apart from the proximal end of the outer body by a first range. In the second position, the luer lock connection port is spaced apart from the proximal end of the outer body by a second range that is greater than the first range. When the luer lock connection port is in the second position, the coupling assistance mechanism can be automatically in a coupleable state or can be activated to be in a coupleable state, and in response, the clockwise rotation of the luer lock connection port is restricted. However, in the coupleable state, the counterclockwise rotation of the luer lock connection port may or may not be restricted.

[0021] The connection assist mechanism may include at least one locking member attached to an outer surface of the luer lock connection port and at least one restraining member attached to an inner surface of the outer body, and in the second position, the locking member may engage with the restraining member, thereby restricting at least clockwise rotation of the luer lock connection port. In the first position, the locking member may disengage from the restraining member. In some embodiments, the luer lock connection port may have at least one side wall extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis and a rear wall extending generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The side and rear walls of the luer lock connection port may have respective outer surfaces facing the outer body and opposing inner surfaces. The outer body may have at least one side wall corresponding to the side wall of the luer lock connection port and a rear wall corresponding to the rear wall of the luer lock connection port. The side and rear walls of the outer body may have respective inner surfaces facing the luer lock connection port and opposing inner surfaces. According to one embodiment, the outer surface of the rear wall of the luer lock connection port can have at least one locking member, and the inner surface of the rear wall of the outer body can have a corresponding restraining member, both constituting a connection assist mechanism. When the luer lock connection port is in a first position, the locking member is away from the restraining member, and the luer lock connection port can rotate at least in a clockwise direction. When the luer lock connection port is further pushed in the outer body by the external port, for example at the start of connection (when pushed by an operator), the locking member engages and restrains the restraining member, thereby transitioning the connection assist mechanism to a connection-enabled state. The engagement of the locking member with the restraining member restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in a clockwise direction.

[0022] According to another embodiment, the locking member can be formed on an outer surface of the sidewall of the luer lock connection port, and the restraining member can be formed on the outer body in the form of a button, key, lever, etc., or can be an external member that is operated through an opening in the sidewall of the outer body to engage the locking member and limit rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction.

[0023] The connector may further comprise a separation assist mechanism configured to selectively assume an unseparable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a counterclockwise direction about a longitudinal axis thereof and a separable state that restricts rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a counterclockwise direction thereof to allow separation of the external port from the luer lock connection port.

[0024] The separation assist mechanism may include any structure as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that can selectively prevent rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the unscrewing direction, which in typical applications may be counterclockwise. In certain embodiments, when the unscrewing direction is clockwise, the separation assist mechanism may be configured to limit rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the clockwise direction in the separable state. In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism may include a button, key, lever, etc., on the exterior of the connector or formed in the outer body, which can be operated to prevent rotation of the luer lock connection port in the outer body. In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism may include at least a pair of protrusions and catchers, one formed in the luer lock connection port and the other formed in or operable through the outer body, where the protrusions and catchers can engage with each other to prevent rotation of the luer lock connection port in the outer body. The separation assist mechanism may be configured in a non-separable state and can be activated by an operator (e.g., by a pressing force) to achieve a separable state when separation is performed.

[0025] The separation assist mechanism may be configured to assume a separable state at least while separation of the luer lock connection port from the external port is in progress.

[0026] The outer body can include a sidewall having at least one opening formed therein, the sidewall being configured to be used with a separation assist mechanism to provide access to an exterior surface of the luer lock connection port, at least in a separable state. In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism can include a button, actuator, key, lever, or the like, external to the connector, that can be used to access a sidewall of the luer lock connection port through an opening formed in the sidewall of the outer body to grip and limit rotation of the luer lock connection port, thereby facilitating unthreading of the external port from the luer lock connection port.

[0027] The separation assist mechanism may comprise an actuator at least partially positioned within the opening, the actuator having an inner actuator surface facing the luer lock connection port and an opposing outer actuator surface, the separation assist mechanism being configured to assume a separable state when a pressing force is applied to the actuator and to assume a non-separable state when the force is removed. In some embodiments, the actuator may be a button at least partially positioned within the opening in the sidewall of the outer body. When attempting to separate the external port from the luer lock connection port, an operator may press the button, and the inner surface of the button engages the outer surface of the luer lock connection port, thereby restricting rotation of the luer lock connection port. When the separation assist mechanism comprises an actuator, button, lever, or the like fixed to the outer body, the corresponding opening may be larger than other openings on the sidewall, but the actuator, button, lever, or the like may be positioned within the opening so as not to leave enough space around the opening to allow direct fingertip access to the luer lock connection port. Where the separation assist mechanism comprises an actuator, button, lever or the like as an external non-fixed element, an opening large enough to allow direct fingertip access to the luer lock connection port may be eliminated.

[0028] In the separable state, the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the actuator outer surface is less than the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the rim of the opening. In the separable state, at least a majority of the actuator outer surface is positioned below an imaginary plane defined by the rim of the opening. In some examples, the actuator can be positioned within the opening such that the actuator outer surface, i.e., the surface of the actuator facing away from the luer lock connection port, has at least some portion recessed into the opening such that it is further inward toward the luer lock connection port than the rim of the opening. Thus, the actuator can be configured to be a hidden button that an operator would not normally assume to be a button for facilitating separation of the external port from the luer lock connection port.

[0029] The actuator can have a first portion extending from the outer body and a second portion extending from the first portion, the first portion forming a part of the outer body. The first portion and the second portion can form a lever. In some embodiments, the actuator can be in the form of a lever. The actuator can have a first portion that is an extension of the outer body and a second portion that is a continuation of the first portion.

[0030] The separation assist mechanism may include a first engagement portion constituting a part of the outer surface of the luer lock connection port and a second engagement portion constituting a part of the inner surface of the actuator, and in the separable state, the first engagement portion engages with the second engagement portion to limit rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction. In the non-separable state, the first engagement portion may be detached from the second engagement portion. The first engagement portion may include at least one protrusion formed on the outer surface of the luer lock connection port, and the second engagement portion may include at least one tooth protruding from the inner surface of the actuator, and in the separable state, the at least one tooth may engage with the at least one protrusion, thereby limiting rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction. In the non-separable state, the at least one tooth may be detached from the at least one protrusion.

[0031] In some embodiments, the protrusions and teeth can switch positions, i.e., the teeth can be formed on the inner surface of the actuator and the protrusions can be formed on the outer surface of the luer lock connection port.

[0032] The actuator can be configured to be pressed only when the at least one protrusion is radially displaced relative to the at least one tooth. The at least one protrusion can have a protrusion side extending from an outer surface of the luer lock connection port toward the actuator, and the at least one tooth can have a tooth side extending from an inner surface of the actuator toward the luer lock connection port, the tooth side engaging the protrusion side in the separable state.

[0033] The luer lock connection port can be configured to be axially displaced along the longitudinal axis to a third position. The third position can be any position between the first position and the second position, and in certain embodiments can be the first position. In some embodiments, the first position can be a normal position of the luer lock connection port in the outer body, the luer lock connection port being at a first range within the outer body from the proximal end of the outer body. In the second position, the luer lock connection port can be at a second range within the outer body from the proximal end of the outer body that is greater than the first range.

[0034] The luer lock connection port can be configured to freely displace from the second position to the third position upon application of a pulling force during separation of the external port from the luer lock connection port. In some examples, when separation occurs, the fluid transfer device can be pulled away from the connector, thereby pulling the luer lock connection port to the third position. The third position can be any position between the first position and the second position, and in certain examples, can be the first position.

[0035] The separation assist mechanism can be configured to assume the separable state when the luer lock connection port is displaced to the third position. In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism can be configured to assume the separable state when the luer lock connection port is displaced to the second position. In some embodiments, the luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the separation assist mechanism, and their positioning relative to one another, can be configured such that the separation assist mechanism is automatically displaced to the separable state or can be displaced to the separable state by an operator only when the luer lock connection port is in the third position. The third position can be any position between the first position and the second position, and in certain embodiments, can be the first position.

[0036] Thus, to separate the external port from the luer lock connection port, the luer lock connection port may need to be moved to a third position, which may be the first normal position as described above, where the teeth are positioned relative to the protrusions such that the teeth and protrusions are not radially aligned, i.e. not above / below each other, and then the separation assist mechanism is displaced to a separable state, thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port in a counterclockwise direction. In such a state, the external port can be rotated counterclockwise and separated from the luer lock connection port.

[0037] In some examples, the connection assist mechanism and the separation assist mechanism can be the same mechanism configured to facilitate connection as well as separation. For example, the mechanism can be configured to limit rotation of the luer lock connection port in one or both of a clockwise and counterclockwise direction when actuated.

[0038] The luer lock connection port may be a male luer lock connection port comprising an elongated central member and a collar surrounding the elongated central member, and may be configured to be coupled to an external port by threadedly receiving the external port between the collar and the elongated central member, such that when coupled, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body, and the outer body covers at least a majority of the collar from the outside. In some examples, the luer lock connection port may be a male port having an elongated central member constituting a male member that is inserted into a corresponding female connector. The central member may be at least radially surrounded by a collar. The collar may include a thread on an inner surface facing the elongated central member. The thread may be configured to receive a corresponding thread formed on an outer surface of the external port.

[0039] The collar can extend parallel to the elongated central member and the length of the collar can be in the range of 5.4 mm to 8 mm. The outer body can cover at least a majority of the collar. The skirt member and the elongated central member can be integrally formed.

[0040] The outer body can radially cover at least a majority of the luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least 90% of the luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least a majority of the sidewall of the luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least 90% of the sidewall of the luer lock connection port.

[0041] According to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided an adapter configured for use with a medical fluid transfer device, the adapter comprising a connector as described above according to the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0042] The adapter may include a septum positioned at a distal end and configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe therethrough.

[0043] The connector may form a proximal portion of the adapter.

[0044] According to a third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a connector for connecting to a fluid transfer device, comprising: A luer lock connection port configured to be coupled to an external port of the fluid transfer device; A connector is provided that includes an outer body covering at least a portion of a luer lock connection port, and a separation assist mechanism configured to selectively assume a non-separable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a counterclockwise direction about a longitudinal axis of the luer lock connection port, and a separable state that restricts rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a counterclockwise direction to allow separation of the external port from the luer lock connection port.

[0045] The fluid transfer device may be a commonly known luer lock connection apparatus used in medical systems, such as drug mixing systems where safe transfer of hazardous drugs from one container to another is required. In some embodiments, the fluid transfer device may be any connection device that facilitates the transfer of fluids between containers.

[0046] The connectors described above can be integrated with an adapter configured to facilitate connection between the container and a fluid transfer device, either directly or via a corresponding adapter. In some embodiments, the container can be a syringe, and the adapter can facilitate connection between the syringe and a normal female Luer lock connection device, either directly or via a standard syringe adapter. In some embodiments, the adapter facilitates conversion of a standard female Luer lock port into a docking port for secure connection with the female connector of the syringe adapter.

[0047] The outer body can be a generally cylindrical hollow body having a proximal end positioned towards the fluid transfer device and a distal end positioned towards the container during use. A luer lock connection port can be positioned within the outer body at the proximal end to receive an external port of the fluid transfer device. In certain applications, the external port is a standard female luer lock port. The luer lock connection port can be positioned within the outer body such that it has a common longitudinal axis with the outer body and such that the luer lock connection port can rotate about that axis. The luer lock connection port can include threads for receiving corresponding threads formed on an external port coupled thereto.

[0048] The outer body can generally cover the luer lock connection port when positioned within the luer lock connection port and coupled to an external port such that the luer lock connection port is not easily accessible, or at least not accessible with a fingertip. In some embodiments, the sidewall of the outer body can have one or more openings, each opening being smaller than the size of a child's fingertip, and thus, particularly when used in a medical drug delivery system, a child cannot access the luer lock connection port with a fingertip. The inaccessibility of the luer lock connection port by a child ensures that a child cannot prevent rotation of the luer lock connection port, thereby preventing unintentional separation of the luer lock connection port from the external port. The average diameter of a fingertip of a child between about 3 and 10 years old is about 10 to 12 mm. Thus, in some embodiments, at least one dimension of each of the one or more openings can be less than 10 mm. Thus, the connector can be configured as a tamper-resistant connector.

[0049] The luer lock connection port can rotate within the outer body after being coupled to the external port, and therefore, in order to separate the luer lock connection port from the external port, it is necessary to restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection in the unscrewing direction (which may be counterclockwise in typical applications). In certain embodiments, when the unscrewing direction is clockwise, the separation assist mechanism can be configured to restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the clockwise direction in the separable state. The coupling assist mechanism can include any structure understood by those skilled in the art as being capable of selectively preventing the rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the unscrewing direction within the outer body. In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism can include a button, key, lever, etc., external to the connector or formed within the outer body, which can be operated to prevent the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism can include at least one pair of a protrusion and a catcher, one formed in the luer lock connection port and the other formed in or operable through the outer body, and the protrusion and catcher can engage with one another to prevent rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. The separation assist mechanism can be configured to normally remain in a non-separable state and can be activated by an operator to achieve a separable state when separation is to occur.

[0050] The separation assist mechanism can be configured to assume a separable state at least while separation of the luer lock connection port from the external port is in progress, which should be understood to be in progress for a period of time after separation has been initiated and before the external port is completely separated from the luer lock connection port.

[0051] The outer body includes a sidewall having at least one opening formed therein, the sidewall being configured for use with a separation assist mechanism to provide access to an exterior surface of the luer lock connection port, at least in a separable state. In some examples, the separation assist mechanism can include a button, actuator, key, lever, or the like, external to the connector, that can be used to access a sidewall of the luer lock connection port through an opening formed in the sidewall of the outer body to grip and limit rotation of the luer lock connection port, thereby facilitating unthreading of the external port from the luer lock connection port.

[0052] The separation assist mechanism may comprise an actuator at least partially positioned within the opening, the actuator having an inner actuator surface facing the luer lock connection port and an opposing outer actuator surface, the separation assist mechanism being configured to assume a separable state when a pressing force is applied to the actuator and to assume a non-separable state when the force is removed. In some embodiments, the actuator may be a button at least partially positioned within the opening in the sidewall of the outer body. When attempting to separate the external port from the luer lock connection port, an operator may press the button, and the inner surface of the button engages the outer surface of the luer lock connection port, thereby restricting rotation of the luer lock connection port. When the separation assist mechanism comprises an actuator, button, lever, or the like fixed to the outer body, the corresponding opening may be larger than other openings on the sidewall, but the actuator, button, lever, or the like may be positioned within the opening so as not to leave any space around the opening that allows direct fingertip access to the luer lock connection port. Where the separation assist mechanism comprises an actuator, button, lever or the like as an external non-fixed element, an opening large enough to allow direct fingertip access to the luer lock connection port may be eliminated.

[0053] In the separable state, the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the actuator outer surface can be less than the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the rim of the opening. In the separable state, at least a majority of the actuator outer surface can be positioned below an imaginary plane defined by the rim of the opening. In some examples, the actuator can be positioned within the opening such that the actuator outer surface, i.e., the surface of the actuator facing away from the luer lock connection port, has at least some portion recessed into the opening such that it is further inward toward the luer lock connection port than the rim of the opening. Thus, the actuator can be configured to be a hidden button that an operator would not normally assume to be a button for facilitating separation of the external port from the luer lock connection port.

[0054] The actuator can have a first portion extending from the outer body and a second portion extending from the first portion, the first portion can form a part of the outer body. The first portion and the second portion can form a lever. In some embodiments, the actuator can be in the form of a lever. The actuator can have a first portion that is an extension of the outer body and a second portion that is a continuation of the first portion.

[0055] The separation assist mechanism may include a first engagement portion constituting a part of the outer surface of the luer lock connection port and a second engagement portion constituting a part of the inner surface of the actuator, and in the separable state, the first engagement portion engages with the second engagement portion to limit rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction. In the non-separable state, the first engagement portion may be detached from the second engagement portion. The first engagement portion may include at least one protrusion formed on the outer surface of the luer lock connection port, and the second engagement portion may include at least one tooth protruding from the inner surface of the actuator, and in the separable state, the at least one tooth may engage with the at least one protrusion, thereby limiting rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction. In the non-separable state, the at least one tooth may be detached from the at least one protrusion.

[0056] In some embodiments, the protrusions and teeth can switch positions, i.e., the teeth can be formed on the inner surface of the actuator and the protrusions can be formed on the outer surface of the luer lock connection port.

[0057] The actuator can be configured to be pressed only when the at least one protrusion is radially displaced relative to the at least one tooth. The at least one protrusion can have a protrusion side extending from an outer surface of the luer lock connection port toward the actuator, and the at least one tooth can have a tooth side extending from an inner surface of the actuator toward the luer lock connection port, the tooth side engaging the protrusion side in the separable state.

[0058] The luer lock connection port can be configured to be displaced axially along the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position. In some examples, the luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the separation assist mechanism, and their positioning relative to one another, can be configured such that the separation assist mechanism can be displaced to the separable state only when the luer lock connection port and the outer body are in a particular position relative to one another. The particular position can be defined by how far the luer lock connection port is within the outer body along the longitudinal axis.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the luer lock connection port can be configured to be displaced from a first position to a second position when a pressing force is applied to the fluid transfer device by an operator during separation. The first position can be a normal position of the luer lock connection port in the outer body, in which the luer lock connection port can freely rotate in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis. When in the first position, the luer lock connection port is in a first range within the outer body from a proximal end of the outer body. In the second position, the luer lock connection port can be in a second range within the outer body from a proximal end of the outer body that is greater than the first range.

[0060] The luer lock connection port can be configured to be displaced axially along the longitudinal axis to a third position. The luer lock connection port can be configured to be displaced from the second position to the third position when a pulling force is applied to the fluid transfer device by an operator during separation. The third position can be any position between the first position and the second position, and in certain examples can be the first position. In some examples, when separation occurs, the fluid transfer device can be pulled away from the connector, thereby pulling the luer lock connection port to the third position.

[0061] The separation assist mechanism, in some embodiments, can be configured to assume the separable state when the luer lock connection port is displaced to the second position.

[0062] The separation assist mechanism can be configured to assume the separable state when the luer lock connection port is displaced to a third position, which can be any position between the first and second positions and, in certain embodiments, can be the first position.

[0063] In some embodiments, the luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the separation assist mechanism, and their positioning relative to one another, can be configured such that the separation assist mechanism is automatically displaced, or can be displaced by an operator, to the separable state only when the luer lock connection port is in the third position.

[0064] Thus, to separate the external port from the luer lock connection port, the luer lock connection port may need to be moved to a third position, which may be the first normal position as described above, where the teeth are positioned relative to the protrusions such that the teeth and protrusions are not radially aligned, i.e. not above / below each other, and then the separation assist mechanism is displaced to a separable state, thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port in a counterclockwise direction. In such a state, the external port can be rotated counterclockwise and separated from the luer lock connection port.

[0065] The connector may further include a coupling assist mechanism configured to selectively assume a coupleable state that restricts rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction and an uncoupleable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction. The coupling assist mechanism may include any structure understood by one skilled in the art as being capable of selectively preventing rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a threaded direction (which may be clockwise in typical applications) within the outer body. In certain examples, when the threaded direction is counterclockwise, the coupling assist mechanism may be configured to restrict rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a counterclockwise direction in the coupleable state. In some examples, the coupling assist mechanism may include a button, key, lever, or the like, on the exterior of the connector or formed within the outer body, that may be operated to prevent rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. In some embodiments, the coupling assist mechanism can include at least one pair of a protrusion and a catcher, one formed in the luer lock connection port and the other formed in or operable through the outer body, and the protrusion and catcher can engage with one another to prevent rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. The coupling assist mechanism can be configured to assume a non-coupling state and can be actuated by an operator to achieve a coupling state when coupling is performed.

[0066] Coupling is initiated when the external port contacts and threads with the luer lock connection port. Coupling is in progress when the external port is rotated to thread with the luer lock connection port. At least prior to the initiation of coupling, the luer lock connection port is rotatable within the outer body, and therefore, when coupling is made, rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the threading direction (which may be clockwise in typical applications) must be prevented at least until coupling is in progress. Coupling is completed when the external port is fully threaded with the luer lock connection port. The luer lock connection port can rotate about the longitudinal axis after coupling is complete.

[0067] The connection assist mechanism can be configured to assume the connectable state at least while connection between the luer lock connection port and the external port is in progress.

[0068] The connection assist mechanism can be configured to allow the luer lock connection port to rotate in a counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis in the connectable state. The connection assist mechanism can be configured to allow the luer lock connection port to rotate in a counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis in the unconnectable state.

[0069] In some examples, the luer lock connection port can be rotatable about the longitudinal axis in at least a counterclockwise direction when coupled to an external port.

[0070] In some embodiments, an unconnectable state can be associated with a first location and a connectable state can be associated with a second location.

[0071] In some embodiments, the luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the coupling assist mechanism, and their positioning relative to each other, can be configured such that the coupling assist mechanism can be displaced to the coupling-enabled state only when the luer lock connection port and the outer body are in a particular position relative to each other. The first position can be a normal position of the luer lock connection port in the outer body, in which the luer lock connection port can freely rotate in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis. When in the first position, the luer lock connection port is in a first range in the outer body from a proximal end of the outer body. In the second position, the luer lock connection port can be in a second range from a proximal end of the outer body that is greater than the first range. When the luer lock connection port is in the second position, the coupling assist mechanism can be automatically in the coupling-enabled state or can be actuated to the coupling-enabled state, in response to which the clockwise rotation of the luer lock connection port is restricted. However, in the coupling-enabled state, the counterclockwise rotation of the luer lock connection port may or may not be restricted.

[0072] The connection assist mechanism can include at least one locking member attached to an outer surface of the luer lock connection port and at least one restraining member attached to an inner surface of the outer body, where in the second position, the locking member can engage with the restraining member, thereby restricting at least clockwise rotation of the luer lock connection port, and in the normal position, the locking member can disengage from the restraining member.

[0073] In some embodiments, the luer lock connection port can have at least one sidewall extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis and a rear wall extending generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The sidewall and rear wall of the luer lock connection port can have respective outer surfaces facing the outer body and an opposite inner surface. The outer body can have at least one sidewall corresponding to the sidewall of the luer lock connection port and a rear wall corresponding to the rear wall of the luer lock connection port. The sidewall and rear wall of the outer body can have respective inner surfaces facing the luer lock connection port and an opposite inner surface. According to one embodiment, the outer surface of the rear wall of the luer lock connection port can have at least one locking member and the inner surface of the rear wall of the outer body can have a corresponding restraining member, both constituting a coupling assist mechanism. When the luer lock connection port is in a first position, the locking member is away from the restraining member and the luer lock connection port can rotate at least in a clockwise direction. When the luer lock connection port is further pushed within the outer body by the external port, for example at the start of connection, the locking member engages and is restrained by the restraining member, thereby transitioning the connection assist mechanism to a connectable state. The engagement of the locking member with the restraining member limits rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction.

[0074] According to another embodiment, the locking member can be formed on an outer surface of the sidewall of the luer lock connection port, and the restraining member can be formed on the outer body in the form of a button, key, lever, etc., or can be an external member that is operated through an opening in the sidewall of the outer body to engage the locking member and limit rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction.

[0075] The luer lock connection port may be a male luer lock connection port comprising an elongated central member and a collar surrounding the elongated central member, and the male luer lock connection port may be configured to be coupled to the external port by threadedly receiving the external port between the collar and the elongated central member, such that when coupled, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body, and the outer body covers at least a majority of the collar from the outside. In some examples, the luer lock connection port may be a male port having an elongated central member constituting a male member that is inserted into a corresponding female connector. The central member may be at least radially surrounded by a collar. The collar may include a thread on an inner surface facing the elongated central member. The thread may be configured to receive a corresponding thread formed on an outer surface of the external port.

[0076] The collar can extend parallel to the elongated central member and the length of the collar can be in the range of 5.4 mm to 8 mm. The outer body can cover at least a majority of the collar. The skirt member and the elongated central member can be integrally formed.

[0077] The outer body can radially cover at least a majority of the luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least 90% of the luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least a majority of the sidewall of the luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least 90% of the sidewall of the luer lock connection port.

[0078] According to a fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided an adapter configured for use with a medical fluid transfer device, the adapter comprising a connector as described above according to the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0079] The adapter may include a septum positioned at a distal end and configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe therethrough.

[0080] The connector may form a proximal portion of the adapter.

[0081] According to a fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a connector for connecting to a fluid transfer device, comprising: an outer body having a longitudinal axis; A connector is provided comprising: a luer lock connection port positioned within an outer body and configured to be coupled to an external port of the fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable in at least one of a clockwise and a counterclockwise direction about a longitudinal axis at least prior to initiation of coupling with the external port, the outer body radially covering a majority of the luer lock connection port.

[0082] According to a sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided an adapter configured for connection to a syringe having an air chamber and a liquid chamber, the adapter comprising: a liquid channel configured to communicate with the liquid chamber; an air channel configured to communicate with the air chamber; An adapter is provided that includes a first valve in fluid communication with the air channel and having a first valve open state that allows air in the air channel to escape to the environment and a first valve normally closed state.

[0083] In some embodiments, the adapters described above can be configured for use in drug delivery systems where safe transfer of drugs (eg, hazardous drugs) is required.

[0084] The adapter described above can be configured to solve the problem of overpressure in a syringe with an air chamber sealed from fluid communication with the surroundings other than through an air needle extending from the air chamber to the outside of the syringe. This problem can arise due to misuse and / or improper use of the syringe. Indeed, in some embodiments, the operation of the syringe may even depend on the intake and / or exhaustion of air into and / or from the air chamber. For example, the syringe can be configured to be used to inject liquid into an external container or the human body, as well as to extract liquid from the external container. Overpressure can occur during the extraction of liquid from an external container into the syringe when the air chamber of the syringe is not in fluid communication with the volume into which the air in the air chamber is exhausted, and then the air needs to be exhausted for continued operation of the syringe.

[0085] In some embodiments, the adapter may be a luer lock adapter configured to facilitate a connection between a syringe and an external container to transfer liquid between the syringe and the external container, which may be similar to those described above and may be a commonly known luer lock adapter. In some embodiments, the adapter may be a spike adapter configured to facilitate a connection between a syringe and an IV bag to transfer liquid therebetween. The spike adapter may be connected between at least two other devices at a time to establish a fluid connection between the at least two other devices when the spike adapter is an intermediate device. It is noted that spike adapters and their basic functionality are generally known in the art and are described briefly herein for clarity and completeness.

[0086] More specifically, the spike adapter can be used to transfer liquid between a syringe and an IV bag in two directions, i.e., from the IV bag to the syringe and vice versa. For example, some medical procedures require using a syringe to extract a volume of saline from an IV bag and then replacing the extracted volume of saline with a drug from a syringe (typically another syringe). In order to allow a single spike adapter to be used for both operations between a syringe(s) and an IV bag, the spike adapter needs to be configured to facilitate air flow in both directions between the air chamber of the syringe and the surroundings, i.e., the evacuation of air from the air chamber and the intake of air into the air chamber, especially when the syringe used is a syringe having an air chamber that is sealed from fluid communication with the surroundings other than through an air needle extending from the air chamber to the exterior of the syringe. The above-mentioned adapter can be configured to facilitate the direct exchange of air pressure in the air chamber of the syringe with the surroundings during the transfer of liquid.

[0087] The first valve can be configured to automatically displace to the first valve open state in response to air pressure in the air channel exceeding a first predetermined threshold. The first valve is configured to automatically displace to the first valve closed state in response to air pressure in the air channel falling below a first predetermined threshold.

[0088] The first valve operates in particular in conjunction with the syringe used to withdraw the saline from the IV bag through the adapter. In some medical procedures, it is required that it is part of the protocol that only new / unused syringes are used to withdraw the saline from the IV bag, since syringes that have already been used to handle hazardous drugs may have some harmful hazardous fumes in the air chamber that should be prevented from being released into the environment. Thus, since the operation of the first valve is associated with the operation of the syringe used to withdraw the saline from the IV bag, by controlling the operation of the first valve, the operation of the syringe can be controlled as described later in this specification.

[0089] The first valve can include a first valve seat member that, in a first valve open state, at least partially defines a first valve passage in fluid communication with the air channel, and a first valve sealing member that engages the first valve seat member thereby sealing the first valve passage in a first valve normally closed state.

[0090] In the first valve open condition, the first valve sealing member can be at least partially disengaged from the first valve seat member, thereby unsealing the first valve passage.

[0091] In some embodiments, in the first valve open condition, the first valve sealing member can fully disengage from the first valve seat member, thereby unsealing the first valve passage.

[0092] The first valve passage can define at least a portion of a first flow path extending between the air channel and the surroundings, the first flow path being selectively sealable by the first valve in a first valve normally closed state.

[0093] The first valve can seal the first flow path in a first valve normally closed state and can unseal the first flow path in a first valve open state to allow air in the air channel to escape to the surroundings.

[0094] The adapter may further comprise a second valve in fluid communication with the air channel and having a second valve open state that allows air to enter the air channel from the environment and a second valve normally closed state.

[0095] The second valve can be configured to automatically displace to the second valve open state in response to air pressure in the air channel falling below a second predetermined threshold that is less than the first predetermined threshold. The second valve can be configured to automatically displace to the second valve closed state in response to air pressure in the air channel exceeding the second predetermined threshold.

[0096] The second valve specifically works in conjunction with a syringe that is used to deliver medication through the adapter to the IV bag.

[0097] The second valve can include a second valve seat member having a second valve passage in fluid communication with the air channel in the second valve open state, and a second valve sealing member engaging the second valve seat member thereby sealing the second valve passage in the second valve normally closed state.

[0098] In the second valve open condition, the second valve sealing member can be at least partially disengaged from the second valve seat member, thereby unsealing the second valve passage.

[0099] In some embodiments, in the second valve open state, the second valve sealing member can fully disengage from the second valve seat member, thereby unsealing the second valve passage.

[0100] The second valve passage defines at least a portion of a second flow path extending between the air channel and the ambient, the second flow path being selectively sealable by the second valve in a second valve normally closed state.

[0101] The second valve can seal the second flow path in a second valve normally closed state and unseal the second flow path in a second valve open state to allow air to enter the air channel from the surroundings.

[0102] The first and second valves can be positioned within a single common valve housing. In some embodiments, the valve housing can be integrally formed within the adapter. In other embodiments, the valve housing can be separately formed and attached to the adapter. The valve housing can form part of the adapter, but the valve housing can comprise one or more portions of the adapter or can be additionally configured for different purposes. In other words, the first and second valves can be positioned within the adapter to cooperate with one another to operate as a common valve, and the portion of the adapter that includes such a common valve constitutes the valve housing. In other embodiments, the valve housing can be separate from the adapter and attached to the adapter.

[0103] The first valve and the second valve can be integrated as a single valve device. The valve device can include first and second sealing members configured as a single integrated sealing member configured to displace the valve device between a first valve open state that allows air in the air channel to escape to the environment, a second valve open state that allows air from the environment to enter the air channel, and a normally closed state.

[0104] The valve device is normally in a normally closed state, the valve device is automatically displaced to a first open state in response to air pressure in the valve device rising above a first predetermined threshold, and the valve device is automatically displaced to a second open state in response to air pressure in the valve device falling below a second predetermined threshold. The first predetermined threshold may be greater than the second predetermined threshold. The valve device is automatically displaced to the normally closed state in response to air pressure in the valve device being within the first and second predetermined thresholds.

[0105] The sealing member may be unitary.

[0106] The valve arrangement may further comprise a first valve seat member and a second valve seat member, the single integrated sealing member having a first portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the first valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve passage, and a second portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the second valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve passage.

[0107] Cooperation of the first portion of the sealing member and the first valve seat member operates as a first valve, and cooperation of the second portion of the sealing member and the second valve seat member operates as a second valve.

[0108] In a normally closed condition, a first portion of the sealing member engages the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage, and a second portion of the sealing member engages the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage; in the first valve-open condition a first portion of the sealing member at least partially disengages from the first valve seat member, thereby unsealing the first valve passage, and in the first valve-open condition a second portion of the sealing member engages the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage; In the second valve open condition, the second portion of the sealing member at least partially disengages from the second valve seat member, thereby unsealing the second valve passage, and in the second valve open condition, the first portion of the sealing member engages the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage.

[0109] In a first valve open state, the valve device can allow air to escape from inside the valve device to outside the valve device via a first valve passage, and in a second valve open state, air can flow from outside the valve device into the valve device via a second valve passage.

[0110] In some examples, the valve device can be configured to facilitate the exchange of air between the valve device and the surroundings. The valve device can be used with fluid transfer systems that require pressure to be maintained within a certain range. In such systems, air pressure must be allowed to flow inwardly from the surroundings when it is below a first predetermined threshold and allowed to flow outwardly to the surroundings when it is above a second predetermined threshold. The valve device can be used with such fluid transfer systems to have the valve device in fluid communication with the system to exchange air pressure between the system and the surroundings.

[0111] According to a first embodiment of the sixth aspect of the present invention, in the first valve open state the second portion of the sealing member is more tightly engaged against the second valve seat member than in the normally closed state, and in the second valve open state the first portion of the sealing member is more tightly engaged against the first valve seat member than in the normally closed state.

[0112] The first portion of the sealing member and the second portion of the sealing member may be positioned at opposing ends of the sealing member.

[0113] The adapter may further comprise a first outlet in fluid communication with the first valve and the ambient, the first outlet being configured to receive a lever button therein operable to detach the adapter from the external female connector. In some embodiments, the first valve may utilize an opening in the adapter additionally configured for another purpose to facilitate exchange of air between the ambient and the air channel.

[0114] The first flow path may extend through the first outlet.

[0115] The adapter may further comprise a second outlet in fluid communication with the second valve and the surroundings, and the second outlet may be an opening formed in a side wall of the outer body of the Luer lock connection port that constitutes the proximal end of the adapter.

[0116] The second flow path may extend through the second outlet.

[0117] In some embodiments, the sealing member may be unitary, hi other embodiments, the first and second sealing member portions may be formed separately and connected to one another.

[0118] In some embodiments, the sealing member can include a central portion having a first end and a second end constituting a first portion of the sealing member, and a resilient skirt portion extends from around the second end, and the skirt portion can be defined between a first rim proximal to the second end and a second rim distal to the second end. The skirt portion can have an outer surface facing the second valve seat member and an opposing inner surface. In a normally closed state, the second rim can engage the second valve seat member around the second valve passage while maintaining a gap between the first rim and the second valve seat member, and the first end of the central portion can engage the first valve seat member. In this state, a volume defined between the central portion, the inner surface of the skirt portion, the inner wall of the valve device, the first valve seat member, and the second valve seat member defines a volume within the valve device. In response to an increase in air pressure within the valve arrangement exceeding a first predetermined threshold, pressure applied to the inner surface of the skirt member can cause the second end of the central member to compress into a gap between the second end and the second seat member, thereby disengaging the first end from the first seat member, thereby unsealing the first valve passage. The increased air pressure can thus be vented from within the valve arrangement to atmosphere via the first valve passage.

[0119] In response to a decrease in air pressure within the valve arrangement below a second predetermined threshold, the second rim can disengage from the second valve seat member, thereby unsealing the second valve passage.

[0120] According to a second particular example of the sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the second seat member can comprise a seat having a seat opening, the first seat member can comprise a central member extending through the seat opening, and the sealing member is positioned at least partially within the seat opening and radially between the seat and the central member. In some examples, the central member can extend axially through the seat opening.

[0121] A first portion of the sealing member can be configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the central member to selectively displace the valve apparatus to a first valve-open state to allow air to pass through a first valve passage defined between the central member and the sealing member, and a second portion of the sealing member can be configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the valve seat to selectively displace the valve apparatus to a second valve-open state to allow air to pass through a second valve passage defined between the valve seat and the sealing member. In some examples, the sealing member can comprise a longitudinal member extending axially through the valve seat opening, the first portion of the sealing member can extend radially from the longitudinal member towards the central member, and the second portion of the sealing member can extend radially from the longitudinal member towards the valve seat.

[0122] The valve seat can have an inner seat surface facing the air channel and an opposing outer seat surface, with the second portion of the sealing member engaging the inner seat surface, and the sealing member further comprising a third portion of the sealing member having a securing member configured to engage the outer surface of the valve seat, thereby holding the sealing member in position. In some embodiments, the securing member can extend radially from the longitudinal member toward the valve seat and engages the outer surface of the valve seat. The second portion of the sealing member and the securing member engaging the valve seat hold the sealing member in position relative to the valve seat. When the second portion of the sealing member disengages from the valve seat, the securing member engaging the outer surface of the valve seat prevents axial displacement of the sealing member.

[0123] The adapter may further comprise an actuator configured to selectively switch the adapter between a fully operational state in which the adapter is fully operable for the transfer of liquid through the liquid channel and an at least partially inoperable state in which the adapter is at least partially inoperable for the transfer of liquid through the liquid channel. Also, as described above, the adapter may be a dual function adapter, i.e., the adapter may be configured to facilitate the transfer of liquid in two directions. The adapter may be configured to be used to draw liquid from the external container into the syringe as well as to inject liquid from within the syringe into the external container. The fully operational state of the adapter is referred to herein as a state in which the adapter can be used with a syringe to draw liquid from the external container as well as to inject liquid into the external container, the two syringes being generally different. The at least partially inoperable state of the adapter is referred to herein as a state in which the adapter cannot be used with a syringe to draw liquid from the external container or to deliver liquid into the external container at least one of. In one particular embodiment described herein, an at least partially inoperative state of the adapter is referred to herein as a state in which the adapter can be used with a syringe to deliver liquid into the external container, but cannot be used to withdraw liquid from the external container into the syringe.

[0124] According to a particular embodiment in which the adapter is a spike adapter, the adapter can be used with a syringe to draw saline from an IV bag as well as to deliver a drug into the IV bag. As described above, the protocol can require the physician to use a new / unused syringe to draw saline from the IV bag. The adapter can be selectively configured into an at least partially operational state to remind the practitioner that a new syringe needs to be used to draw saline from the IV bag. For example, the adapter can be configured into an at least partially inoperative state in which the flow of liquid that normally passes through the adapter in the direction from the IV bag to the syringe is blocked. Thus, when the practitioner wants to use the adapter for the purpose of drawing saline from an IV bag into a syringe, the adapter needs to be manually switched into a fully operational state by the practitioner using an actuator, thereby preventing the practitioner from accidentally and inadvertently using a syringe that has already been used for that purpose, and reminding the practitioner that a new syringe should be used when the adapter is switched into the fully operational state.

[0125] In some examples, in the at least partially inoperative state, the actuator can be configured to indirectly at least partially block movement of liquid through the liquid channel. The adapter can be configured to indirectly prevent unidirectional movement of liquid through the liquid channel by controlling the passage of air between the surroundings and the air channel. The flow of liquid relies on the evacuation of air from and the inhalation of air into the air chamber of the syringe via the air channel. Thus, by controlling the passage of air through the air channel, the transfer of liquid can be indirectly controlled.

[0126] Movement of fluid through the liquid channel may be at least partially dependent on the passage of air through the first valve, and the actuator may be configured to selectively prevent the passage of air, thereby displacing the adapter to an at least partially inoperable state, thereby indirectly at least partially blocking movement of liquid through the liquid channel.

[0127] In the fully operative state, the adapter is operable to transport liquid through the liquid channel in a first direction and an opposite second direction, and in the at least partially inoperative state, the adapter is inoperative to transport liquid through the liquid channel in at least one of the first direction and the second direction.

[0128] Movement of liquid in a first direction through the liquid channel is dependent on the evacuation of air from within the adapter through the first valve, and in the at least partially disabled state, the actuator prevents the evacuation of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperative for movement of liquid in the first direction through the liquid channel. In some examples, the first direction can be from the IV bag to the syringe and the second direction can be from the syringe to the IV bag.

[0129] Movement of liquid in the second direction through the liquid channel depends on the entrapment of air into the adapter through the first valve, and in the at least partially inoperative state, the actuator can prevent the entrapment of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperative for movement of liquid in the second direction through the liquid channel.

[0130] In some examples, in the at least partially inoperative state, the actuator can be configured to directly, at least partially, block movement of liquid through the liquid channel.

[0131] The actuator may have a first actuator state associated with a fully operational state of the adapter and a second actuator state associated with at least a partially inoperable state of the adapter, For example, when the actuator is in the first actuator state, the adapter may be in a fully operational state and when the actuator is in the second actuator state, the adapter may be in an at least partially inoperable state.

[0132] The actuator may be displaceable between a first actuator state and a second actuator state upon application of an external force, which may be a pushing force, a pulling force, a rotating force, or a combination of pushing / pulling and rotating forces.

[0133] In some embodiments, the actuator can be configured to remain in each of the first and second actuator states when the external force is removed, for example, the actuator can be a switch configured to be selectively switched to the first or second actuator state and retain that state until switched again.

[0134] In some examples, the actuator can be normally configured in one of the first and second actuator states, displaced to the other of the first and second actuator states upon application of an external force, and automatically returned to the one of the first and second actuator states upon removal of the external force. For example, the actuator can be a biased button configured to normally remain in one of the first and second actuator states. When an external force is applied, the button can be configured to displace to the other of the first and second actuator states, and then, when the external force is removed, to return to the normal one of the first and second actuator states due to the biasing force.

[0135] The actuator can be configured to normally be in the second actuator state and to displace to the first actuator state upon application of an external force and to automatically return to the second actuator state upon removal of the external force. In certain embodiments, the actuator configured as a biased button can be configured to normally be in the second actuator state, i.e., to maintain the adapter in an at least partially inoperative state, thereby preventing the exhaust of air from within the air channel to the surroundings. Upon application of an external force, the button displaces to the first actuator state, thereby displaces the adapter to a fully operative state, allowing air to be exhausted from the air channel to the surroundings. Upon removal of the external force, the button returns to the second actuator state, thereby displaces the adapter to the at least partially inoperative state.

[0136] In the second actuator state, the actuator can be configured to engage a third portion of the sealing member to prevent the passage of air between the central member and the sealing member, thereby disabling the exhaust of air from the valve arrangement regardless of the state of the valve arrangement. In certain examples, the actuator configured as a switch can be configured to engage a stationary member that constitutes the third portion of the sealing member, thereby blocking the passage of air between the central member and the sealing member, thereby disabling the exhaust of air from the adapter regardless of whether the valve arrangement is in the first valve-open state.

[0137] According to a seventh aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a valve apparatus comprising: A valve arrangement is provided that includes a sealing member configured to displace the valve arrangement between a first valve open state that allows air to escape from within the valve arrangement to the surroundings, a second valve open state that allows air to enter the valve arrangement from the surroundings, and a normally closed state.

[0138] The valve device may normally be in a normally closed state, and the sealing member automatically displaces the valve device to a first open state in response to air pressure in the valve device rising above a first predetermined threshold and to a second open state in response to air pressure in the valve device falling below a second predetermined threshold. The sealing member automatically displaces the valve device to the normally closed state in response to air pressure in the valve device being within the first and second predetermined thresholds, the first predetermined threshold being greater than the second predetermined threshold.

[0139] The valve arrangement may further comprise a first valve seat member at least partially defining the first valve passage and a second valve seat member at least partially defining the second valve passage, the sealing member having a first portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the first valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve passage, and a second portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the second valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve passage.

[0140] in a normally closed condition, a first portion of the sealing member engages a first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage, and a second portion of the sealing member engages a second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage; in the first valve-open condition a first portion of the sealing member at least partially disengages from the first valve seat member, thereby unsealing the first valve passage, and in the first valve-open condition a second portion of the sealing member engages the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage; In the second valve open condition, the second portion of the sealing member at least partially disengages from the second valve seat member, thereby unsealing the second valve passage, and in the second valve open condition, the first portion of the sealing member engages the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage.

[0141] In a first valve open state, the valve device can allow air to escape from inside the valve device to outside the valve device via a first valve passage, and in a second valve open state, air can flow from outside the valve device into the valve device via a second valve passage.

[0142] In some examples, the valve device can be configured to facilitate the exchange of air between the valve device and the surroundings. The valve device can be used with fluid transfer systems that require pressure to be maintained within a certain range. In such systems, air pressure must be allowed to flow inwardly from the surroundings when it is below a first predetermined threshold and allowed to flow outwardly to the surroundings when it is above a second predetermined threshold. The valve device can be used with such fluid transfer systems to have the valve device in fluid communication with the system to exchange air pressure between the system and the surroundings.

[0143] According to a first embodiment of the seventh aspect of the present invention, in the first valve open state the second portion of the sealing member is more tightly engaged against the second valve seat member than in the normally closed state, and in the second valve open state the first portion of the sealing member is more tightly engaged against the first valve seat member than in the normally closed state.

[0144] The first portion of the sealing member and the second portion of the sealing member may be positioned at opposing ends of the sealing member.

[0145] In some embodiments, the sealing member may be unitary, hi other embodiments, the first and second sealing member portions may be formed separately and connected to one another.

[0146] In some embodiments, the sealing member can include a central portion having a first end and a second end constituting a first portion of the sealing member, and a resilient skirt portion extends from around the second end, and the skirt portion can be defined between a first rim proximal to the second end and a second rim distal to the second end. The skirt portion can have an outer surface facing the second valve seat member and an opposing inner surface. In a normally closed state, the second rim can engage the second valve seat member around the second valve passage while maintaining a gap between the first rim and the second valve seat member, and the first end of the central portion can engage the first valve seat member. In this state, a volume defined between the central portion, the inner surface of the skirt portion, the inner wall of the valve device, the first valve seat member, and the second valve seat member defines a volume within the valve device. In response to an increase in air pressure within the valve arrangement exceeding a first predetermined threshold, pressure applied to the inner surface of the skirt member can cause the second end of the central member to compress into a gap between the second end and the second seat member, thereby disengaging the first end from the first seat member, thereby unsealing the first valve passage. The increased air pressure can thus be vented from within the valve arrangement to atmosphere via the first valve passage.

[0147] In response to a decrease in air pressure within the valve arrangement below a second predetermined threshold, the second rim can disengage from the second valve seat member, thereby unsealing the second valve passage.

[0148] According to a second particular example of the seventh aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the second seat member can comprise a seat having a seat opening, the first seat member can comprise a central member extending through the seat opening, and the sealing member is positioned at least partially within the seat opening and radially between the seat and the central member. In some examples, the central member can extend axially through the seat opening.

[0149] A first portion of the sealing member can be configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the central member to selectively displace the valve apparatus to a first valve-open state to allow air to pass through a first valve passage defined between the central member and the sealing member, and a second portion of the sealing member can be configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the valve seat to selectively displace the valve apparatus to a second valve-open state to allow air to pass through a second valve passage defined between the valve seat and the sealing member. In some examples, the sealing member can comprise a longitudinal member extending axially through the valve seat opening, the first portion of the sealing member can extend radially from the longitudinal member towards the central member, and the second portion of the sealing member can extend radially from the longitudinal member towards the valve seat.

[0150] The valve seat can have an inner seat surface facing the air channel and an opposing outer seat surface, with the second portion of the sealing member engaging the inner seat surface, and the sealing member further comprising a third portion of the sealing member having a securing member configured to engage the outer surface of the valve seat, thereby holding the sealing member in position. In some embodiments, the securing member can extend radially from the longitudinal member toward the valve seat and engages the outer surface of the valve seat. The second portion of the sealing member and the securing member engaging the valve seat hold the sealing member in position relative to the valve seat. When the second portion of the sealing member disengages from the valve seat, the securing member engaging the outer surface of the valve seat prevents axial displacement of the sealing member.

[0151] In some embodiments, the first predetermined threshold and / or the second predetermined threshold are derived based on the geometry, design, or materials of the valves and their surroundings, hi some embodiments, the first predetermined threshold can have a single value of 0.3 bar and the second predetermined threshold can have a single value of 0.03 bar.

[0152] The valve device may further comprise an actuator configured to control the flow of air through the valve device. The actuator may be configured to switch the valve device from a normally closed state to at least one of a first valve open state and a second valve open state upon application of an external force. The actuator may be configured to selectively prevent the flow of air through the valve device regardless of the state of the valve device. An adapter according to the seventh aspect may include some or all of the features of the adapter according to the sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter described above.

[0153] It is to be understood herein that the valve arrangement as described above with respect to the seventh aspect can be used with any fluid transfer device that requires maintaining air pressure within a certain range. Also, the valve arrangement described above with respect to the seventh aspect can be a dual function valve and can be used with the adapter described above with respect to the sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, and the first valve and the second valve (of the sixth aspect) can be combined to be realized as a dual function valve arrangement of the seventh aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, where cooperation between a first portion of the sealing member and a first valve seat member acts as a first valve, and cooperation between a second portion of the sealing member and a second valve seat member acts as a second valve.

[0154] It is understood herein that a dual function valve application has advantages over a two valve application in that a single sealing member needs to be manufactured and assembled instead of two separate sealing members. Additionally, a single valve arrangement occupies less space in the adapter housing than two separate valves.

[0155] According to an eighth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, an adapter comprising: a liquid channel configured to facilitate movement of liquid; An adapter is provided that includes an actuator configured to selectively switch the adapter between a fully operative state, in which the adapter is fully operative for the transfer of liquid, and an at least partially inoperative state, in which the adapter is at least partially inoperative for the transfer of liquid.

[0156] In some examples, in the at least partially inoperative state, the adapter can be configured to indirectly block the transfer of liquid through the liquid channel by blocking another passage through the adapter, for example, an air channel of the adapter that communicates with an air chamber of a syringe that is not in fluid communication with the environment except through an air needle that can be in fluid communication with the environment through an air channel of the adapter. The adapter can be a dual function spike adapter similar to that described above and can be configured to facilitate the transfer of liquid in two directions. The adapter can be configured to be used to draw liquid from an external container into the syringe as well as to inject liquid from within the syringe into the external container. A fully operational state of the adapter is referred to herein as a state in which the adapter can be used with a syringe to draw liquid from the external container as well as to inject liquid into the external container. An at least partially inoperative state of the adapter is referred to herein as a state in which the adapter cannot be used with a syringe to draw liquid from the external container or to inject / deliver liquid into the external container.

[0157] In an embodiment in which in the at least partially inoperative state the actuator is configured to indirectly at least partially block movement of liquid through the liquid channel, the adapter may further comprise an air channel configured to facilitate the passage of air, and movement of fluid through the liquid channel is at least partially dependent on the passage of air through the air channel, and the actuator is configured to selectively prevent the passage of air, thereby displacing the adapter to the at least partially inoperative state and at least partially blocking movement of liquid through the liquid channel. The adapter may be configured to indirectly prevent unidirectional movement of liquid through the liquid channel by controlling the passage of air between the surroundings and the air channel of the adapter. The flow of liquid is dependent on the evacuation of air from and the inhalation of air into the air chamber of the syringe via the air channel. Thus, by controlling the passage of air through the air channel, the transfer of liquid may be indirectly controlled.

[0158] In the fully operative state, the adapter is operable to transport liquid through the liquid channel in a first direction and a second direction, and in the at least partially inoperative state, the adapter is inoperative to transport liquid through the liquid channel in at least one of the first direction and the second direction.

[0159] Movement of liquid in a first direction through the liquid channel depends on the evacuation of air from within the adapter through the air channel, and in the at least partially inoperative state, the actuator can prevent the evacuation of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperative for movement of liquid in the first direction through the liquid channel.

[0160] Movement of liquid in the second direction through the liquid channel depends on entrapment of air into the adapter, and in the at least partially inoperative state, the actuator can prevent entrapment of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperative for movement of liquid in the second direction through the liquid channel.

[0161] In some examples, the first direction can be from the IV bag to the syringe, and the second direction can be from the syringe to the IV bag.

[0162] As described above, in order to use a single spike adapter for both operations, i.e., drawing saline from an IV bag into a syringe and delivering a drug from the syringe to an IV bag, a new unused syringe may be required as part of the protocol to be used to draw saline from the IV bag through the adapter. The adapter may be configured in at least a partially operational state to remind the practitioner that a new syringe needs to be used to draw saline from the IV bag. For example, as described above, the adapter may be configured in at least a partially inoperative state in which the flow of liquid normally passing through the adapter in the direction from the IV bag to the syringe is blocked. Thus, if the practitioner wishes to use the adapter to draw saline from an IV bag into a syringe, the adapter must be manually switched by the practitioner to a fully operational state using an actuator, thereby preventing the practitioner from accidentally and inadvertently using a syringe that has already been used for this purpose and may remind the practitioner that a new syringe should be used when the adapter is switched to a fully operational state.

[0163] In some examples, in the at least partially inoperative state, the actuator can be configured to directly at least partially block movement of liquid through the liquid channel. The actuator can be positioned at least partially directly within the liquid channel and can selectively block flow of liquid therethrough. The adapter can be a luer lock adapter and the actuator can be configured to block flow of liquid in both a first and second direction. The actuator can include a flow path that can be configured to be selectively aligned with the liquid channel. When the flow path is aligned with the liquid channel, the adapter is in a fully operative state and when the flow path is not aligned with the liquid channel, the adapter is in an at least partially inoperative state.

[0164] The actuator may have a first actuator state associated with a fully operational state of the adapter and a second actuator state associated with at least a partially inoperable state of the adapter, For example, when the actuator is in the first actuator state, the adapter may be in a fully operational state and when the actuator is in the second actuator state, the adapter may be in an at least partially inoperable state.

[0165] The actuator may be displaceable between a first actuator state and a second actuator state upon application of an external force, which may be a pushing force, a pulling force, a rotating force, or a combination of pushing / pulling and rotating forces.

[0166] In some embodiments, the actuator can be configured to remain in each of the first and second actuator states when the external force is removed, for example, the actuator can be a switch configured to be selectively switched to the first or second actuator state and retain that state until switched again.

[0167] In some examples, the actuator can be normally configured in one of the first and second actuator states, displaced to the other of the first and second actuator states upon application of an external force, and automatically returned to the one of the first and second actuator states upon removal of the external force. For example, the actuator can be a biased button configured to normally remain in one of the first and second actuator states. When an external force is applied, the button can be configured to displace to the other of the first and second actuator states, and then, when the external force is removed, to return to the normal one of the first and second actuator states due to the biasing force.

[0168] The actuator can be configured to normally be in the second actuator state and to displace to the first actuator state upon application of an external force and to automatically return to the second actuator state upon removal of the external force. In certain embodiments, the actuator configured as a biased button can be configured to normally be in the second actuator state, i.e., to maintain the adapter in an at least partially inoperative state, thereby preventing the exhaust of air from within the air channel to the surroundings. Upon application of an external force, the button displaces to the first actuator state, thereby displaces the adapter to a fully operative state, allowing air to be exhausted from the air channel to the surroundings. Upon removal of the external force, the button returns to the second actuator state, thereby displaces the adapter to the at least partially inoperative state.

[0169] Embodiment Although more specific explanations will be provided in the detailed description, the following are non-limiting examples of different embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure. It should be understood that embodiments 1 to 36 correspond to the first aspect of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Embodiments 37 to 39 correspond to the second aspect of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Embodiments 40 to 74 correspond to the third aspect of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Embodiments 75 to 77 correspond to the fourth aspect of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Embodiment 78 corresponds to the fifth aspect of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Embodiments 79 to 121 correspond to the sixth aspect of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Embodiments 122 to 137 correspond to the seventh aspect of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Embodiments 138 to 149 correspond to the eighth aspect of the subject matter of the present disclosure. 1. A connector for connecting to a fluid transfer device, comprising: an outer body having a longitudinal axis; a luer lock connection port positioned within the outer body and configured to couple with an external port of the fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable in at least one of a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis at least prior to initiation of coupling with the external port; A connector, wherein the outer body is structured to prevent an operator from directly accessing the exterior of the luer lock connection port with their fingertips through the outer body after the luer lock connection port is coupled with an external port, and the luer lock connection port is positioned within the outer body. 2. A connector as described in embodiment 1, wherein the luer lock connection port is rotatable about the longitudinal axis in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions, at least prior to the initiation of connection with the external port. 3. A connector as described in embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the luer lock connection port is rotatable both clockwise and counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis when connected to an external port. 4. A connector as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 3, further comprising a connection assistance mechanism configured to selectively assume a connectable state that restricts rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction, and a non-connectable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction. 5. A connector as described in embodiment 4, wherein the connection assistance mechanism is configured to assume a connectable state at least while connection between the luer lock connection port and the external port is in progress. 6. A connector as described in embodiment 4 or 5, wherein the connection assist mechanism is configured to enable the luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis in the connectable state. 7. A connector described in any one of embodiments 4 to 6, wherein the connection assist mechanism is configured to enable the luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis in a non-connectable state. 8. A connector described in any one of embodiments 4 to 7, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to be axially displaced along the longitudinal axis between a first position associated with a non-connectable state and a second position associated with a connectable state. 9. The connector of embodiment 8, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to be freely displaced from a first position to a second position when a pressing force is applied by the external port during coupling. 10. A connector as described in embodiment 8 or 9, wherein the connection assist mechanism comprises at least one locking member attached to an outer surface of the luer lock connection port and at least one restraining member attached to an inner surface of the outer body, and in the second position, the locking member engages with the restraining member, thereby limiting rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction. 11. The connector of embodiment 10, wherein in the first position, the locking member is disengaged from the restraining member. 12. A connector described in any one of embodiments 4 to 11, further comprising a separation assistance mechanism configured to selectively assume a non-separable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis of the luer lock connection port, and a separable state that limits rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a counterclockwise direction to enable release of the external port from the luer lock connection port. 13. A connector as described in embodiment 12, wherein the outer body has a side wall having at least one opening formed therein, the side wall being configured to be used with the separation assistance mechanism to provide access to an outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, at least in the separable state. 14. The connector of embodiment 13, wherein the separation assist mechanism comprises an actuator positioned at least partially within the opening, the actuator having an inner actuator surface facing the luer lock connection port and an opposing outer actuator surface, and the separation assist mechanism is configured to assume a separable state when a pressing force is applied to the actuator and to assume a non-separable state when the force is removed. 15. A connector as described in embodiment 14, wherein in a separable state, the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the actuator is less than the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the rim of the opening. 16. A connector as described in embodiment 14 or 15, wherein in a separable state, at least a majority of the actuator outer surface is positioned below an imaginary plane defined by the rim of the opening. 17. A connector described in any one of embodiments 14 to 16, wherein the actuator has a first portion extending from the outer body and a second portion extending from the first portion, the first portion forming part of the outer body. 18. The connector of embodiment 17, wherein the first and second portions form a lever. 19. A connector described in any one of embodiments 14 to 18, wherein the separation assistance mechanism comprises a first engagement portion that constitutes part of the outer surface of the luer lock connection port and a second engagement portion that constitutes part of the inner surface of the actuator, and in a separable state, the first engagement portion engages with the second engagement portion, thereby limiting rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction. 20. The connector of embodiment 19, wherein in the non-separable state, the first engagement portion disengages from the second engagement portion. 21. A connector as described in embodiment 19 or 20, wherein the first engagement portion has at least one protrusion formed on the outer surface of the luer lock connection port, and the second engagement portion has at least one tooth protruding from the inner surface of the actuator, and in a separable state, the at least one tooth engages with the at least one protrusion, thereby limiting rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a counterclockwise direction. 22. A connector as described in embodiment 21, wherein the actuator is configured to be pressed only when at least one protrusion is radially displaced relative to at least one tooth. 23. A connector as described in embodiment 21 or 22, wherein at least one protrusion has a protrusion side extending from an outer surface of the luer lock connection port toward the actuator, and at least one tooth has a tooth side extending from an inner surface of the actuator toward the luer lock connection port, and in a separable state, the tooth side engages with the protrusion side. 24. A connector according to any one of embodiments 21 to 23, wherein in a non-separable state, at least one tooth detaches from at least one protrusion. 25. A connector described in embodiment 8, or any one of embodiments 9 to 24 when dependent on embodiment 8, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to be axially displaced to a third position along the longitudinal axis. 26. The connector of embodiment 25, wherein the third position is the first position or any position between the first position and the second position. 27. A connector as described in embodiment 25 or 26, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to be freely displaced from the second position to the third position when a tensile force is applied during separation of the external port from the luer lock connection port. 28. A connector described in any one of embodiments 25 to 27, wherein the separation assistance mechanism is configured to assume a separable state when the luer lock connection port is displaced to the third position. 29. A connector as described in any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the luer lock connection port is a male luer lock connection port comprising an elongated central member and a collar surrounding the elongated central member, the male luer lock connection port being configured to be coupled to an external port by threadably receiving the external port between the collar and the elongated central member such that upon coupling, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body. 30. A connector according to embodiment 29, wherein the collar extends parallel to the elongated central member and the length of the collar is in the range of 5.4 mm to 8 mm. 31. The connector of embodiment 30, wherein the outer body covers at least a majority of the collar. 32. A connector as described in any one of embodiments 29 to 31, wherein the collar and the elongated central member are integrally formed. 33. The connector of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of the luer lock connection port. 34. The connector of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of the luer lock connection port. 35. The connector of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of a side wall of the luer lock connection port. 36. The connector of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of the sidewall of the luer lock connection port. 37. An adapter configured for use with a medical fluid transfer device, the adapter comprising a connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments. 38. The adapter according to embodiment 37, wherein the adapter comprises a septum positioned at the distal end and configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe through the septum. 39. An adapter as described in embodiment 37 or 38, wherein the connector constitutes the proximal part of the adapter. 40. A connector for connecting to a fluid transfer device, the connector comprising a luer lock connection port configured to be coupled to an external port of the fluid transfer device; A connector comprising: an outer body covering at least a portion of a luer lock connection port; and a separation assist mechanism configured to selectively assume an inseparable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a counterclockwise direction about a longitudinal axis of the luer lock connection port, and a separable state that restricts rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a counterclockwise direction to allow separation of an external port from the luer lock connection port. 41. A connector as described in embodiment 40, wherein the outer body has a side wall having at least one opening formed therein, the side wall being configured to be used with the separation assistance mechanism to provide access to an outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, at least in the separable state. 42. The connector of embodiment 41, wherein the separation assist mechanism comprises an actuator positioned at least partially within the opening, the actuator having an inner actuator surface facing the luer lock connection port and an opposite outer actuator surface, and the separation assist mechanism is configured to assume a separable state when a pressing force is applied to the actuator and to assume a non-separable state when the force is removed. 43. A connector as described in embodiment 42, wherein in a separable state, the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the actuator is less than the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the rim of the opening. 44. A connector as described in embodiment 42 or 43, wherein in a separable state, at least a majority of the actuator outer surface is positioned below an imaginary plane defined by the rim of the opening. 45. A connector described in any one of embodiments 42 to 44, wherein the actuator has a first portion extending from the outer body and a second portion extending from the first portion, the first portion forming part of the outer body. 46. ​​The connector of embodiment 42, wherein the first and second parts form a lever. 47. A connector described in any one of embodiments 42 to 46, wherein the separation assistance mechanism comprises a first engagement portion that constitutes part of the outer surface of the luer lock connection port and a second engagement portion that constitutes part of the inner surface of the actuator, and in a separable state, the first engagement portion engages with the second engagement portion, thereby limiting rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction. 48. The connector of embodiment 47, wherein in a non-separable state, the first engagement portion disengages from the second engagement portion. 49. A connector as described in embodiment 47 or 48, wherein the first engagement portion has at least one protrusion formed on the outer surface of the luer lock connection port, and the second engagement portion has at least one tooth protruding from the inner surface of the actuator, and in a separable state, the at least one tooth engages with the at least one protrusion, thereby limiting rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a counterclockwise direction. 50. A connector as described in embodiment 49, wherein the actuator is configured to be pressed only when at least one protrusion is radially displaced relative to at least one tooth. 51. A connector as described in embodiment 49 or 50, wherein at least one protrusion has a protrusion side extending from the outer surface of the luer lock connection port toward the actuator, and at least one tooth has a tooth side extending from the inner surface of the actuator toward the luer lock connection port, and in a separable state, the tooth side engages with the protrusion side. 52. A connector according to any one of embodiments 49 to 51, wherein in a non-separable state, at least one tooth detaches from at least one protrusion. 53. A connector described in any one of embodiments 40 to 52, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to be axially displaced along the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position. 54. The connector of embodiment 53, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to be displaced from a first position to a second position when a compressive force is applied. 55. A connector as described in embodiment 53 or 54, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to be axially displaced to a third position along the longitudinal axis. 56. The connector of embodiment 55, wherein the third position is the first position or any position between the first position and the second position. 57. The connector of embodiment 56, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to be displaced from the second position to the third position upon application of a tensile force. 58. A connector described in any one of embodiments 53 to 57, wherein the separation assistance mechanism is configured to assume a separable state when the luer lock connection port is displaced to the second position. 59. A connector described in any one of embodiments 53 to 57, wherein the separation assistance mechanism is configured to assume a separable state when the luer lock connection port is displaced to the third position. 60. A connector described in any one of embodiments 40 to 59, further comprising a connection assistance mechanism configured to selectively assume a connection-enabled state that restricts rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction, and a non-connectable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction. 61. A connector as described in embodiment 60, wherein the connection assistance mechanism is configured to assume a connectable state at least while connection between the luer lock connection port and the external port is in progress. 62. A connector as described in embodiment 60 or 61, wherein the connection assist mechanism is configured to enable the luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis in the connectable state. 63. A connector described in any one of embodiments 60 to 62, wherein the connection assist mechanism is configured to enable the luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis in a non-connectable state. 64. A connector according to any one of embodiments 60 to 63 when dependent on embodiment 59, wherein the non-connectable state is associated with a first position and the connectable state is associated with a second position. 65. The connector of embodiment 64, wherein the connection assist mechanism comprises at least one locking member attached to an outer surface of the luer lock connection port and at least one restraining member attached to an inner surface of the outer body, and in the second position, the locking member engages with the restraining member, thereby limiting rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least a clockwise direction. 66. The connector of embodiment 65, wherein in the first position, the locking member is disengaged from the restraining member. 67. A connector as described in any one of embodiments 40 to 66, wherein the luer lock connection port is a male luer lock connection port having an elongated central member and a collar surrounding the elongated central member, the male luer lock connection port being configured to be connected to an external port by threadably receiving the external port between the collar and the elongated central member such that, upon connection, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body. 68. A connector according to embodiment 67, wherein the collar extends parallel to the elongated central member and the length of the collar is in the range of 5.4 mm to 8 mm. 69. The connector of embodiment 68, wherein the outer body covers at least a majority of the collar. 70. A connector as described in any one of embodiments 67-69, wherein the collar and the elongated central member are integrally formed. 71. A connector according to any one of embodiments 40 to 70, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of the luer lock connection port. 72. A connector according to any one of embodiments 40 to 71, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of the luer lock connection port. 73. A connector according to any one of embodiments 40 to 72, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of the side wall of the luer lock connection port. 74. A connector according to any one of embodiments 40 to 73, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of the side wall of the luer lock connection port. 75. An adapter configured for use with a medical fluid transfer device, the adapter comprising a connector according to any one of embodiments 40-74. 76. The adapter according to embodiment 75, wherein the adapter comprises a septum positioned at the distal end and configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe through the septum. 77. An adapter as described in embodiment 75 or 76, wherein the connector constitutes the proximal part of the adapter. 78. A connector for connection to a fluid transfer device, comprising: an outer body having a longitudinal axis; a luer lock connection port positioned within an outer body and configured to be coupled to an external port of the fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable in at least one of a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction about a longitudinal axis at least prior to initiation of coupling with the external port, the outer body radially covering a majority of the luer lock connection port. 79. An adapter configured for connection to a syringe having an air chamber and a liquid chamber, comprising: a liquid channel configured to communicate with the liquid chamber; an air channel configured to communicate with the air chamber; The adapter includes a first valve in fluid communication with the air channel, the first valve having a first valve open state that allows air in the air channel to escape to the surroundings and a first valve normally closed state. 80. The adapter of embodiment 79, wherein the first valve is configured to automatically displace to the first valve open state in response to air pressure in the air channel exceeding a first predetermined threshold. 81. An adapter as described in embodiment 79 or 80, wherein the first valve comprises a first valve seat member that, in a first valve open state, at least partially defines a first valve passage in fluid communication with the air channel, and a first valve sealing member that, in a first valve normally closed state, engages the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage. 82. The adapter of embodiment 81, wherein in the first valve open state, the first valve sealing member at least partially disengages from the first valve seat member, thereby unsealing the first valve passage. 83. An adapter as described in embodiment 81 or 82, wherein the first valve passage defines at least a portion of a first flow path extending between the air channel and the surroundings, the first flow path being selectively sealable by the first valve in a first valve normally closed state. 84. An adapter as described in embodiment 83, wherein the first valve seals the first flow path in a first valve normally closed state and unseals the first flow path in a first valve open state, allowing air in the air channel to escape to the surroundings. 85. In fluid communication with the air channel; An adapter described in any one of embodiments 79 to 84, further comprising a second valve having a second valve open state allowing air to enter the air channel from the surroundings and a second valve normally closed state. 86. The adapter of embodiment 85, wherein the second valve is configured to automatically displace to the second valve open state in response to the air pressure in the air channel falling below a second predetermined threshold that is less than the first predetermined threshold. 87. An adapter as described in embodiment 85 or 86, wherein the second valve comprises a second valve seat member having a second valve passage in fluid communication with the air channel in the second valve open state, and a second valve sealing member engaging the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage, in the second valve normally closed state. 88. The adapter of embodiment 87, wherein in the second valve open state, the second valve sealing member at least partially disengages from the second valve seat member, thereby unsealing the second valve passage. 89. An adapter as described in embodiment 87 or 88, wherein the second valve passage defines at least a portion of a second flow path extending between the air channel and the surroundings, the second flow path being selectively sealable by the second valve in a second valve normally closed state. 90. An adapter as described in embodiment 89, wherein the second valve seals the second flow path in a second valve normally closed state and unseals the second flow path in a second valve open state to allow air to enter the air channel from the surroundings. 91. The adapter of any one of embodiments 85 to 90, wherein the first valve and the second valve are positioned within a single common valve housing. 92. The adapter of any one of embodiments 85 to 91, wherein the first valve and the second valve are integrated into a single valve device. 93. An adapter as described in embodiment 92, wherein the valve device comprises first and second sealing members configured as a single integrated sealing member configured to displace the valve device between a first valve open state allowing air in the air channel to escape to the surroundings, a second valve open state allowing air from the surroundings to enter the air channel, and a normally closed state. 94. An adapter as described in embodiment 93, wherein the valve device is normally in a normally closed state, the valve device automatically displaces to a first open state in response to air pressure in the valve device rising above a first predetermined threshold, and the valve device automatically displaces to a second open state in response to air pressure in the valve device falling below a second predetermined threshold. 95. The adapter of embodiment 94, wherein the first predetermined threshold is greater than the second predetermined threshold. 96. An adapter according to any one of embodiments 93 to 95, wherein the sealing member is integral. 97. An adapter as described in any one of embodiments 93 to 96, wherein the valve device further comprises a first valve seat member and a second valve seat member, and the single integrated sealing member has a first portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the first valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve passage, and a second portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the second valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve passage. 98. In a normally closed condition, a first portion of the sealing member engages a first valve seat member, thereby sealing a first valve passage, and a second portion of the sealing member engages a second valve seat member, thereby sealing a second valve passage; in the first valve-open condition a first portion of the sealing member at least partially disengages from the first valve seat member, thereby unsealing the first valve passage, and in the first valve-open condition a second portion of the sealing member engages the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage; 98. An adapter as described in embodiment 97, wherein in the second valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member at least partially disengages from the second valve seat member, thereby unsealing the second valve passage, and in the second valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member engages with the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage. 99. The adapter of embodiment 98, wherein in a first valve open state, the valve device allows air to escape from within the valve device to outside the valve device via the first valve passage, and in a second valve open state, the valve device allows air to enter the valve device from outside the valve device via the second valve passage. 100. In the first valve open condition, the second portion of the sealing member engages the second valve seat member more tightly than in the normally closed condition; 100. The adapter of embodiment 98 or 99, wherein in the second valve-open state, the first portion of the sealing member engages the first valve seat member more tightly than in the normally closed state. 101. An adapter according to any one of embodiments 93 to 100, wherein the first portion of the sealing member and the second portion of the sealing member are positioned at opposing ends of the sealing member. 102. An adapter as described in any one of embodiments 79 to 101, wherein the adapter further comprises a first outlet in fluid communication with the first valve and the surroundings, the first outlet being configured to receive a lever button therein operable to detach the adapter from the external female connector. 103. An adapter according to embodiment 102 when dependent on embodiment 83, wherein the first flow path extends through the first outlet. 104. An adapter described in any one of embodiments 85 to 103, wherein the adapter further comprises a second outlet in fluid communication with the second valve and the surroundings, the second outlet being an opening formed in the side wall of the outer body of the Luer lock connection port constituting the proximal end of the adapter. 105. An adapter according to embodiment 104 when dependent on embodiment 89, wherein the second flow path extends through the second outlet. 106. An adapter described in any one of embodiments 92 to 101, wherein the second valve seat member comprises a valve seat having a valve seat opening, the first valve seat member comprises a central member extending through the valve seat opening, and the sealing member is positioned at least partially within the valve seat opening and radially between the valve seat and the central member. 107. An adapter as described in embodiment 106, wherein a first portion of the sealing member is configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the central member, thereby selectively displacing the valve device to a first valve open state to allow air to pass through a first valve passage defined between the central member and the sealing member, and a second portion of the sealing member is configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the valve seat, thereby selectively displacing the valve device to a second valve open state to allow air to pass through a second valve passage defined between the valve seat and the sealing member. 108. An adapter as described in embodiment 106 or 107, wherein the valve seat has an inner valve seat surface facing the air channel and an opposing outer valve seat surface, the second portion of the sealing member engages with the inner valve seat surface, and the sealing member further comprises a third portion of the sealing member having a fixing member configured to engage with the outer surface of the valve seat, thereby holding the sealing member in position. 109. An adapter as described in any one of embodiments 79 to 108, further comprising an actuator configured to selectively switch the adapter between a fully operative state in which the adapter is fully operable for the transfer of liquid through the liquid channel and an at least partially inoperative state in which the adapter is at least partially inoperative for the transfer of liquid through the liquid channel. 110. The adapter of embodiment 109, wherein in the at least partially inoperative state, the actuator is configured to indirectly at least partially block the transport of liquid through the liquid channel. 111. An adapter as described in embodiment 109 or 110, wherein movement of fluid through the liquid channel is at least partially dependent on the passage of air through the first valve, and the actuator is configured to selectively prevent the passage of air, thereby displacing the adapter to an at least partially inoperable state, thereby indirectly at least partially blocking movement of liquid through the liquid channel. 112. An adapter described in any one of embodiments 109 to 111, wherein in a fully operational state, the adapter is operable to transport liquid in a first direction and an opposite second direction through the liquid channel, and in an at least partially inoperable state, the adapter is not operable to transport liquid in at least one of the first and second directions through the liquid channel. 113. An adapter as described in embodiment 112, wherein movement of liquid in a first direction through the liquid channel depends on the expulsion of air from within the adapter through a first valve, and in an at least partially inoperative state, the actuator prevents the expulsion of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperative for movement of liquid in the first direction through the liquid channel. 114. An adapter as described in embodiment 112 or 113, wherein movement of liquid in a second direction through the liquid channel depends on entrapment of air into the adapter through the first valve, and in an at least partially inoperative state, the actuator prevents entrapment of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperative for movement of liquid in the second direction through the liquid channel. 115. An adapter according to embodiment 114, wherein in the at least partially inoperative state, the actuator is configured to directly, at least partially, block the transport of liquid through the liquid channel. 116. An adapter described in any one of embodiments 109 to 115, wherein the actuator has a first actuator state associated with a fully operational state of the adapter and a second actuator state associated with at least a partially inoperable state of the adapter. 117. An adapter as described in embodiment 116, wherein the actuator is displaceable between a first actuator state and a second actuator state upon application of an external force. 118. An adapter as described in embodiment 117, wherein the actuator is configured to remain in each of the first and second actuator states when the external force is removed. 119. An adapter as described in embodiment 117, wherein the actuator is normally configured in one of first and second actuator states, displaced to the other of the first and second actuator states when an external force is applied, and configured to automatically return to one of the first and second actuator states when the external force is removed. 120. An adapter as described in embodiment 119, wherein the actuator is normally configured in a second actuator state and configured to displace to a first actuator state when an external force is applied, and to automatically return to the second actuator state when the external force is removed. 121. An adapter described in any one of embodiments 116 to 120 when dependent on embodiment 101, wherein in a second actuator state, the actuator is configured to engage a third portion of the sealing member and prevent the passage of air between the central member and the sealing member, thereby disabling the escape of air from the valve device regardless of the state of the valve device. 122. A valve device comprising: A valve arrangement comprising a sealing member configured to displace the valve arrangement between a first valve open state that allows air to escape from within the valve arrangement to the surroundings, a second valve open state that allows air to enter the valve arrangement from the surroundings, and a normally closed state. 123. A valve device as described in embodiment 122, wherein the valve device is normally in a normally closed state and the sealing member automatically displaces the valve device to a first open state in response to air pressure in the valve device rising above a first predetermined threshold, and to a second open state in response to air pressure in the valve device falling below a second predetermined threshold. 124. The valve device of embodiment 123, wherein the first predetermined threshold is greater than the second predetermined threshold. 125. The valve device of any one of embodiments 122-124, further comprising a first valve seat member at least partially defining a first valve passage and a second valve seat member at least partially defining a second valve passage, and the sealing member having a first portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the first valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve passage, and a second portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the second valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve passage. 126. In a normally closed condition, a first portion of the sealing member engages a first valve seat member, thereby sealing a first valve passage, and a second portion of the sealing member engages a second valve seat member, thereby sealing a second valve passage; in the first valve-open condition a first portion of the sealing member at least partially disengages from the first valve seat member, thereby unsealing the first valve passage, and in the first valve-open condition a second portion of the sealing member engages the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage; 126. The valve arrangement of embodiment 125, wherein in the second valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member at least partially disengages from the second valve seat member, thereby unsealing the second valve passage, and wherein in the second valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member engages with the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage. 127. A valve device as described in embodiment 126, wherein in a first valve open state, the valve device allows air to escape from within the valve device to outside the valve device via the first valve passage, and in a second valve open state, the valve device allows air to enter the valve device from outside the valve device via the second valve passage. 128. In the first valve open condition, the second portion of the sealing member engages the second valve seat member more tightly than in the normally closed condition; 128. The adapter of embodiment 126 or 127, wherein in the second valve-open state, the first portion of the sealing member engages the first valve seat member more tightly than in the normally closed state. 129. The valve device of any one of embodiments 125-128, wherein the first portion of the sealing member and the second portion of the sealing member are positioned at opposing ends of the sealing member. 130. A valve device as described in any one of embodiments 122 to 129, wherein the sealing member includes a central portion having a first end and a second end constituting a first portion of the sealing member, and an elastic skirt portion extends from around the second end, the skirt portion being defined between a first rim proximal to the second end and a second rim distal from the second end. 131. A valve device as described in any one of embodiments 122 to 127, wherein the second valve seat member comprises a valve seat having a valve seat opening, the first valve seat member comprises a central member extending through the valve seat opening, and the sealing member is positioned at least partially within the valve seat opening and radially between the valve seat and the central member. 132. A valve device as described in embodiment 131, wherein a first portion of the sealing member is configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the central member, thereby selectively displacing the valve device to a first valve open state to allow air to pass through a first valve passage defined between the central member and the sealing member, and a second portion of the sealing member is configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage from the valve seat, thereby selectively displacing the valve device to a second valve open state to allow air to pass through a second valve passage defined between the valve seat and the sealing member. 133. A valve device as described in embodiment 131 or 132, wherein the valve seat has an inner seat surface facing the air channel and an opposing outer seat surface, the second portion of the sealing member engages the inner seat surface, and the sealing member further comprises a third portion of the sealing member having a flange configured to engage the outer surface of the valve seat, thereby holding the sealing member in position. 134. The valve device according to any one of embodiments 122-133, wherein the sealing member is integral. 135. A valve device according to any one of embodiments 122 to 134, further comprising an actuator configured to control the flow of air through the valve device. 136. A valve device as described in embodiment 135, wherein the actuator is configured to displace the valve device from a normally closed state to at least one of a first valve open state and a second valve open state upon application of an external force. 137. The valve device of embodiment 135 or 136, wherein the actuator is configured to selectively prevent the flow of air through the valve device regardless of the state of the valve device. 138. An adapter, a liquid channel configured to facilitate movement of liquid; an actuator configured to selectively switch the adapter between a fully operative state, in which the adapter is fully operative for the transfer of liquid, and an at least partially inoperative state, in which the adapter is at least partially inoperative for the transfer of liquid. 139. An adapter as described in embodiment 138, wherein in the at least partially inoperative state, the actuator is configured to indirectly at least partially block the transport of liquid through the liquid channel. 140. An adapter as described in embodiment 138 or 139, wherein the adapter further comprises an air channel configured to facilitate the passage of air, and movement of fluid through the liquid channel is at least partially dependent on the passage of air through the air channel, and the actuator is configured to selectively prevent the passage of air, thereby displacing the adapter to an at least partially inoperative state and at least partially blocking movement of liquid through the liquid channel. 141. An adapter described in any one of embodiments 138 to 140, wherein in a fully operative state, the adapter is operable to transport liquid in a first direction and a second direction through the liquid channel, and in an at least partially inoperative state, the adapter is inoperative to transport liquid in at least one of the first and second directions through the liquid channel. 142. The adapter of claim 141, wherein movement of liquid in a first direction through the liquid channel depends on evacuation of air from within the adapter through the air channel, and in the at least partially inoperative state, the actuator prevents evacuation of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperative for movement of liquid in the first direction through the liquid channel. 143. An adapter as described in embodiment 141 or 142, wherein movement of liquid in a second direction through the liquid channel depends on entrapment of air into the adapter, and in an at least partially inoperative state, the actuator prevents entrapment of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperative for movement of liquid in the second direction through the liquid channel. 144. An adapter according to embodiment 138, wherein in the at least partially inoperative state, the actuator is configured to directly, at least partially, block the transport of liquid through the liquid channel. 145. An adapter described in any one of embodiments 138 to 144, wherein the actuator has a first actuator state associated with a fully operational state of the adapter and a second actuator state associated with at least a partially inoperable state of the adapter. 146. An adapter as described in embodiment 145, wherein the actuator is displaceable between a first actuator state and a second actuator state upon application of an external force. 147. An adapter as described in embodiment 146, wherein the actuator is configured to remain in each of the first and second actuator states when the external force is removed. 148. An adapter as described in embodiment 146, wherein the actuator is normally configured in one of first and second actuator states, displaced to the other of the first and second actuator states when an external force is applied, and configured to automatically return to one of the first and second actuator states when the external force is removed. 149. An adapter as described in embodiment 148, wherein the actuator is normally configured in a second actuator state and configured to displace to the first actuator state when an external force is applied, and to automatically return to the second actuator state when the external force is removed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0170] For a better understanding of the subject matter disclosed herein, and to illustrate how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1A] 1 is a front perspective view of an adapter according to a first example of the subject matter of the present disclosure, along with a fluid transfer device separated from each other. FIG. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a front perspective view of the adapter and fluid transfer device of FIG. 1A connected to each other. [Figure 1C] 1C is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 1B, showing the adapter in an unseparable state. [Figure 2A] 1B is a side view of the adapter of FIG. 1A showing the syringe and syringe adapter connected to each other but detached from the adapter. FIG. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 2A. [Figure 2C] 2B is a side view of the adapter, showing the syringe and syringe adapter of FIG. 2A connected to each other and to the adapter. FIG. [Figure 2D] FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. 2C. [Figure 2E] FIG. 2C is an enlarged view of section A2 of FIG. 2D. [Figure 3A]FIG. 1B is a side view of the adapter of FIG. 1A with the luer lock connection port brought out to the outside of the adapter for illustration purposes. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a rear perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3B is a front perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3D] FIG. 3D is an enlarged view of section A3 of FIG. 3C. [Figure 3E] FIG. 1B is a front perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3F] 3E, showing the adapter in an unconnectable state; FIG. [Figure 3G] FIG. 3B is an enlarged view of section A4 of FIG. 3F. [Figure 3H] FIG. 3E is a cross-sectional view taken along line DD in FIG. 3E, showing the adapter in a connectable state. [Figure 3I] FIG. 3C is an enlarged view of section A5 of FIG. 3H. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1D is the same view as FIG. 1C, but showing the adapter in a separable state. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is an enlarged view of section A6 of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4C] FIG. 1D is an enlarged view of section A1 of FIG. 1C. [Figure 4D] 1C is a rear perspective view of the adapter and external device of FIG. 1B, showing the adapter in a separable state. [Figure 4E] FIG. 4E is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE of FIG. 4D. [Figure 4F] FIG. 4B is an enlarged view of section A7 in FIG. 4E. [Figure 5A] FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of an adapter according to a second example of the subject matter of the present disclosure in an unseparable state. [Figure 5B] 5B is a cross-sectional view taken along line FF in FIG. 5A, showing the adapter with the luer lock connection port in a normal position. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is an enlarged view of section A8 in FIG. 5B. [Figure 5D] FIG. 5D is the same view as FIG. 5C, showing the adapter with the luer lock connection port in the first position. [Figure 6A] FIG. 1B is a side perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 1A. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view taken along line GG in FIG. 6A. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6C is an enlarged view of section A9 in FIG. 6B. [Figure 6D] FIG. 6B is a front perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 6A. [Figure 6E] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view taken along line HH in FIG. 6D. [Figure 7A] FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of an adapter according to a third example of the subject matter of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view taken along line II in FIG. 7A. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C is an enlarged view of section A10 in FIG. 7B. [Figure 7D] FIG. 7B is a front perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 7A. [Figure 7E] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view taken along line JJ in FIG. 7D. [Figure 8A] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of an adapter according to a fourth example of the subject matter of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view taken along line KK in FIG. 8A. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8B is a side perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 8A. [Figure 8D] FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional view taken along line LL in FIG. 8C. [Figure 8E] FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional view taken along line MM in FIG. 8C. [Figure 9A] FIG. 8B is a side view of the adapter of FIG. 8A. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view taken along line NN in FIG. 9A. [Figure 9C] FIG. 9C is an enlarged view of section A11 in FIG. 9B. [Figure 10A] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of an adapter according to a fifth example of the subject matter of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view taken along line OO in FIG. 10A. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10C is an enlarged view of section A12 in FIG. 10B. [Figure 10D]10D is another cross-sectional view of the portion shown in FIG. 10C, the cross-section taken along a line perpendicular to line OO. [Figure 11A] 11 is a cross-sectional view of an adapter according to a sixth example of the subject matter of the present disclosure, showing the valve device and the actuator in a first actuator state. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a front view of the actuator of FIG. 11A. [Figure 11C] FIG. 11B is the same view as FIG. 11A, but showing the actuator in a second actuator state. [Figure 11D] FIG. 11D is a front view of the actuator of FIG. [Figure 12A] 13 is a cross-sectional view of an adapter according to a seventh example of the subject matter of the present disclosure, showing the valve device and the actuator in a second actuator state. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is the same view as FIG. 12A, showing the actuator in a first actuator state. [Figure 13A] 13 is a side perspective view of an adapter according to a seventh example of the presently disclosed subject matter, showing an actuator configured to directly block a liquid channel, the actuator being in a first actuator state. FIG. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view taken along line PP in FIG. 13A. [Figure 13C] FIG. 13B is the same view as FIG. 13A, but showing the actuator in a second actuator state. [Figure 13D] FIG. 13D is a cross-sectional view taken along line QQ in FIG. 13C. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0171] Attention is first directed to Figures 1A-1C of the drawings, which show an adapter 1 according to one example of the subject matter of the present disclosure, configured to connect with a fluid transfer device 300. The fluid transfer device 300 is a luer lock connection device known in the art, comprising an external port 310, which is a female luer lock connection port. The external port 310 comprises threads 320 configured to be screwed into corresponding threads of another luer lock connection port. The adapter 1 comprises a connector 10 having a luer lock connection port 100 and an outer body 200. The adapter further comprises a housing 20 extending along a longitudinal axis X. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer body 200 and the housing 20 are integrally formed, with the outer body 200 eventually constituting a part of the housing 20. However, in some other embodiments (not shown), the outer body 200 and the housing 20 may be manufactured separately and then connected to each other. In some embodiments, the housing 20 may be manufactured in more than two parts and then assembled together.

[0172] 1B and 1C, the adapter 1 and the fluid transfer device 300 are connected by connecting the connector 10 and the external port 310. The connector 10 is a male luer lock connector configured to receive a corresponding external port 310, i.e., a female luer lock connector of the fluid transfer device 300. The luer lock connection port 100 of the connector 10 is positioned within the outer body 200 and has a longitudinal axis X, which is also the longitudinal axis of the adapter 1. As shown in FIG. 1A, the luer lock connection port 100 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis X in either or both of a clockwise direction represented by an arrow R1 in FIG. 1A and a counterclockwise direction represented by an arrow R2 in FIG. 1A prior to the initiation of coupling with the fluid transfer device 300. The luer lock connection port 100 is disposed within the outer body 200, which is configured such that an operator cannot directly access the luer lock connection port 100 with his / her fingertips through the outer body 200 after the luer lock connection port 100 is connected to the external port 310, as shown in Figures 1A to 1C. The luer lock connection port 100 is rotatable in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction when connected to the fluid transfer device 300.

[0173] Since the luer lock connection port 100 is configured to rotate within the outer body 200, in order to couple and separate the connector from the fluid transfer device 300, the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 needs to be limited to allow coupling and separation. The connector 10 includes a coupling assist mechanism configured to assume a coupleable state that restricts rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 in a clockwise direction to allow coupling of the connector 10 to the fluid transfer device 300 and an uncoupleable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port in a clockwise direction, as described in more detail below with reference to Figures 3A-3I. The connector 10 further includes a separation assist mechanism configured to assume a separable state that restricts rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 in a counterclockwise direction to allow separation of the connector 10 from the fluid transfer device 300 and an unseparable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port in a counterclockwise direction, as described in more detail below with reference to Figures 4A-4F.

[0174] It should be understood that, for purposes of this description, clockwise and counterclockwise directions are referred to as viewed from the direction of the fluid transfer device 300 into the connector 10 along the longitudinal axis X.

[0175] Attention is now directed to Figures 2A-2E of the drawings, which show adapter 1 together with syringe adapter 400 and syringe 500. Figure 2A shows syringe adapter 400 and syringe 500 connected to each other and without adapter 1 connected to syringe adapter 400. Syringe 500 is a syringe known in the art used for drug mixing and adapted to withdraw a desired volume of drug from one container and then transfer the drug to a second container. Syringe 500 comprises a cylinder 510, a piston rod 520 having a cap 525, and a throat 530. Piston rod 520 extends from cap 525 to a piston 540, which sealingly engages an inner wall of cylinder 510 and is displaceable relative to the cylinder. The piston 540 divides the interior volume of the cylinder 510 into two chambers, an air chamber 550 and a liquid chamber 560, with variable volumes defined by the position of the piston 540 within the cylinder 510. The piston rod 520 has an interior volume 570 that is in fluid communication with the air chamber 550 through a hole 580 formed in the piston rod 510, thereby making the interior volume 570 part of the air chamber 550. The syringe 500 further comprises an air needle 590 that extends from the air chamber 550 through the throat 530 to the exterior of the syringe.

[0176] The syringe adapter 400 comprises a syringe adapter body 410 having a constriction 420 configured to be connected to a throat 530 of a syringe. In the illustrated embodiment, the throat 530 is a male luer lock connector and the constriction 420 is a female luer lock connector that are heat welded together. The syringe adapter body 410 further comprises a flange 430 configured to lock with a corresponding element of the adapter 1 when the syringe adapter 400 is connected to the adapter 1. The syringe adapter 400 further comprises an internal locking structure 440 comprising a leaf 450 configured to lock with a corresponding element of the adapter 1 when the syringe adapter 400 is connected to the adapter 1. The internal locking structure 440 defines an air duct 460 and a liquid duct 470, both of which extend into the septum 480. Air duct 460 is configured to receive the tip of air needle 590 when syringe adapter 400 is connected to syringe 500 and not connected to adapter 1, as shown in FIG 2B. Syringe adapter 400 further comprises a liquid needle 490 that is in fluid communication with liquid chamber 560 via constriction 420 and throat 530 when syringe adapter 400 is connected to syringe 500, and that extends from constriction 420 to liquid duct 470 when syringe adapter 400 is not connected to adapter 1, as shown in FIG 2B. In some embodiments (not shown), liquid needle 490 may be part of syringe 500 extending therefrom.

[0177] The adapter 1 comprises a housing 20 having a notch 21 on an exterior surface thereof configured to receive and lock onto the leaf 450 when the syringe adapter 400 is connected to the adapter 1. The housing 20 further comprises a lever 22 having a lever notch 23 configured to receive and lock onto the flange 430 when the syringe adapter 400 is connected to the adapter 1. The housing 20 further comprises a first outlet 24, and the lever 22 comprises a lever button 25 positioned within the first outlet 24. The housing 20 further comprises a liquid channel 26 in fluid communication with the connector 10 and configured to receive a liquid needle 490 therein when the syringe adapter 400 is connected to the adapter 1. The housing 20 further comprises an air channel 27 configured to receive an air needle 590 therein when the syringe adapter 400 with the syringe 500 connected thereto is connected to the adapter 1. The housing 20 further comprises a second outlet 28. The adapter 1 further comprises a septum 30 configured to engage with the septum 480 and to be pierced by the air needle 590 and the liquid needle 490 when a syringe adapter 400 having a syringe 500 connected thereto is connected to the adapter 1. The adapter 1 further comprises a first valve 40 in fluid communication with the air channel 27 and having a first valve open state allowing air in the air channel to escape to the environment and a first valve normally closed state, which will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 6A-6E. The adapter 1 further comprises a second valve 50 in fluid communication with the air channel 27 and having a second valve open state allowing air to enter the air channel 27 from the environment and a second valve normally closed state, which will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 6A-6E.

[0178] When adapter 1 is connected to syringe adapter 400 with syringe 500 connected thereto, septum 30 engages septum 480, pushing septum 480 and internal locking structure 440 towards syringe 500, so that air needle 590 and liquid needle 490 first puncture septum 480 and then septum 30, with their tips entering air channel 27 and liquid channel 26, respectively, as shown in Figures 2C-2E. Furthermore, leaf 450 engages and locks in notch 21, and flange 430 engages and locks in lever notch 23. When adapter 1 is removed from syringe adapter 400, lever button 25 is pushed further into first outlet 24, thereby releasing flange 430 from lever notch 23.

[0179] Thus, adapter 1 can facilitate connection between the female connector of syringe adapter 400 and the female external port 310 of fluid transfer device 300, thereby facilitating the conversion of a standard female Luer lock port of fluid transfer device 300 into a docking port for secure connection with the female connector of syringe adapter 400.

[0180] As will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 6A-6E, when overpressure is created in the syringe 500, the overpressure is vented to atmosphere via the first valve 40. As will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 6A-6E, when negative pressure is created in the syringe 500, the second valve 50 operates to allow air to enter the air channel 27 from the atmosphere. The syringe adapter can be separated from the adapter 1 by depressing the lever button 25 into the first outlet 24, thereby disengaging the lever notch 23 from the flange 430.

[0181] Reference is now made to Figures 3A-3I and 4A-4F to describe the connector 10 in detail. Figures 3A-3D show various views of an adapter 1 with a connector 10 having a luer lock connection port 100 extending from an outer body 200 along a longitudinal axis X of the adapter 1 for illustrative purposes. The luer lock connection port 100 is a male luer lock connection port comprising an elongated central member 110 extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis X. The elongated central member 110 has a front portion 110A, a middle portion 110B, and a rear portion 110C. The luer lock connection port 100 further comprises a collar 120 surrounding the middle portion 110B of the elongated central member 110. The collar 120 has a side wall 121 that constitutes the side wall of the luer lock connection port 100 and extends generally parallel to the elongated central member 110, and a rear wall 122 that constitutes the rear wall of the luer lock connection port 100 and extends generally perpendicularly from the elongated central member 110. The length of the collar 120 in the direction along the longitudinal axis X, i.e., the length of the side wall 121 of the collar 120 designated as L1 (shown in FIG. 3A), ranges from 5.4 mm to 8 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated central member 110 and the collar 120 are integrally formed. However, in other embodiments (not shown), the elongated central member 110 and the collar 120 can be manufactured separately and then assembled together. The side wall 121 has an inner surface 121A facing the elongated central member 110 and an opposite outer surface 121B. The inner surface 121A includes threads 123 configured to be threadedly engaged with corresponding threads 320 of the fluid transfer device 300 when the fluid transfer device 300 is coupled to the luer lock connection port 100. As best shown in FIG. 1C, the threads 123 threadably engage with the threads 320, thereby coupling the fluid transfer device 300 to the luer lock connection port 100, and the external port 310 of the fluid transfer device 300 is received between the elongate central member 110 and the collar 120 such that the collar 120 is positioned between the external port 310 and the outer body 200. The outer surface 121B includes a plurality of protrusions 124 that protrude outwardly from the outer surface 121B.Each of the protrusions 124 has a first protrusion side 124A and a second protrusion side 124B defining a thickness of the protrusion 124 between the sides in a direction parallel to the circumference of the sidewall 121. The protrusions 124 include connecting members 121C that connect the protrusions 124 to one another along the outer surface 124B. In other embodiments, the outer surface 121B can include a single protrusion 124.

[0182] The rear wall 122 has an inner surface 122A (best seen in FIGS. 3F and 3G) that faces in the direction in which the fluid transfer device 300 is coupled to the connector 10, and an opposing outer surface 122B. The outer surface 122B has a plurality of locking members 125 protruding therefrom. In other embodiments, the outer surface 122B can have only one locking member 125. Each of the locking members 125 has a locking surface 125A that extends generally perpendicular to the outer surface 122B and the elongated central member 110 and has an edge 125B distal to the outer surface 122B. In other embodiments, the locking surface 125A can extend at an angle other than perpendicular to either or both of the outer surface 122B and the elongated central member 110. The locking surface 125A faces in the clockwise rotational direction of the luer lock connection port 100. The locking member 125 further comprises a slope 125C extending from the edge 125B to the outer surface 125B in a counterclockwise rotational direction of the luer lock connection port 100. The slope 125C has a sloped slope in the illustrated embodiment, but in other embodiments, the slope 125C can be a flat slope.

[0183] The outer body 200 comprises a side wall 210 that corresponds to and extends generally parallel to the side wall 121 of the luer lock connection port 100, and a rear wall 220 (best seen in FIG. 3G) that corresponds to and extends generally parallel to the rear wall 122 of the luer lock connection port 100. The rear wall 220 has an inner surface 220A (seen in FIG. 3G) that faces the luer lock connection port 100, and an opposite outer surface 220B. As shown in FIG. 4B, the rear wall 220 further comprises a through hole 221 in fluid communication with the liquid channel 26. The outer body 200 comprises a central member 230 that extends from the inner surface 220A in a direction generally parallel to the side wall 210. The central member 230 receives the rear portion 110C of the elongated central member 110 of the luer lock connection port 100 therein such that the elongated central member 110 is in fluid communication with the liquid channel 26 via the through hole 221. The central member 230 has a rim 231 (seen in FIGS. 3C and 3D) that generally faces the rear wall 122 of the luer lock connection port 100. As shown in FIG. 3D, the rim 231 has a rim surface 231A that extends parallel to the outer surface 122B of the rear wall 122 of the luer lock connection port 100 and has a plurality of restraining members 232 protruding therefrom. In other embodiments, the rim 231 can have only one restraining member 232. Each of the restraining members 232 has a restraining surface 232A that extends generally parallel to the locking surface 231A and has an edge 232B distal to the rim surface 125A. The restraining surface 232A faces in a counterclockwise rotational direction of the luer lock connection port 100. The restraining member 232 further comprises a ramped portion 231A that extends from the edge 232B to the rim surface 232C in a clockwise rotational direction of the luer lock connection port 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the restraining member 232 is connected to the inner surface 210A of the side wall 210 of the outer body 200 via a bridge 232D. In other embodiments, the adapter 1 may not include the bridge 232D.

[0184] The inclined portion 232C has a gradient slope in the illustrated example, but in other embodiments, the inclined portion 232C can have a flat slope. The locking member 125 and the restraining member 232 constitute a connection assist mechanism according to the illustrated example of the subject matter of the present disclosure. The connection assist mechanism is configured to selectively take a connection-enabled state that restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 at least in the clockwise direction R1 and a non-connectable state that allows the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction R1. As shown in FIG. 1A, when the connection assist mechanism is in the non-connectable state, the connection assist mechanism is configured to take the connection-enabled state when the operator applies a pressing force to the luer lock connection port 100.

[0185] The sidewall 210 of the outer body 200 has an inner surface 210A facing the central member 230 and an opposing outer surface 210B. The sidewall 210 further comprises an opening 211 extending between the inner surface 210A and the outer surface 210B. The opening 211 has a rim 212 (shown in FIG. 4B ) facing the luer lock connection port 100 and having an inner surface 212A coinciding with the inner surface 210A and an opposing outer surface 212B coinciding with the outer surface 210B. The connector 10 further comprises an actuator 240 positioned at least partially within the opening 211. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 240 is shown as being formed with the housing 20. However, in other embodiments, the actuator 240 can be formed with or connected to the outer body 200, for example, at the sidewall 210, the rear wall 220, or the rim of the opening 211. The actuator 240 has an inner surface 240A facing and extending parallel to the luer lock connection port 100, and an opposite outer surface 240B. The actuator 240 is formed in two parts, a first part 241 extending from the housing 20, and a second part 242 extending from the first part 241. The first part 241 and the second part 242 form a lever configured to pivot in and out of the opening 211 along either the connection between the first part 241 and the housing 20 or between the first part 241 and the second part 242. The inner surface 240A extends from the luer lock connection port 100 (not necessarily perpendicular in the illustrated embodiment) and comprises teeth 243 having a first tooth side 243A parallel to the first and second protrusion sides 124A and 124B of the protrusion 124, and an opposite second side (not shown). The actuator 240 and the protrusion 124 constitute a separation assist mechanism according to the illustrated example of the subject matter of the present disclosure. The separation assist mechanism is configured to selectively assume a non-separable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 in at least a counterclockwise direction R2 about the longitudinal axis X, and a separable state that restricts rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 in at least a counterclockwise direction R2 to allow separation of the external port from the luer lock connection port.The separation assist mechanism is configured in a non-separable state, as shown in Figure 4C, and upon actuation by an operator, assumes a separable state when separation is to occur, as shown in Figure 4B. Thus, the separation assist mechanism needs to be maintained in the separable state only while separation is in progress.

[0186] In the illustrated embodiment, the adapter 1 further comprises an O-ring 250 positioned between the rear portion 110C of the elongated central member 110 of the luer lock connection port 100 and the central member 230 to facilitate efficient mating of the rear portion 110C of the elongated central member 110 into the central member 230. In other embodiments, the adapter 1 may not comprise an O-ring 250.

[0187] 3A-3I to explain the connection of the connector 10 to the fluid transfer device 300. As best shown in FIGS. 3F and 3G, the luer lock connection port 100 is located in the outer body 200, so the locking member 125 is not engaged with the restraining member 232, and the connection assist mechanism is in a non-connectable state. In this state, the luer lock connection port 100 is in a first (normal) position along the longitudinal axis X in the outer body 200 and can freely rotate in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions about the longitudinal axis. In the first normal position of the luer lock connection port 100, the proximal end 100A is in a first range E1 in the outer body 200 from the proximal end 200A of the outer body 200, as best shown in FIG. 3F. Since the luer lock connection port 100 can rotate freely in this position, an external element cannot be screwed onto the threads 123 of the luer lock connection port 100 unless the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 is restricted at least in the screwing direction (clockwise in the illustrated example). When the fluid transfer device 300 is coupled to the connector 10, the coupling assist mechanism needs to be displaced to the coupling-enabled state. The luer lock connection port 100 is pushed further inward of the outer body 200 along the longitudinal axis X by the force applied by the fluid transfer device 300, for example, when an operator pushes the fluid transfer device 300 along the longitudinal axis X during coupling to couple with the connector 10, as best shown in Figures 3H and 3I. 3H and 3I, the luer lock connection port 100 is in a second pushed-in position along the longitudinal axis X within the outer body 200, and the locking member 125 engages the restraining member 232 such that rotation of the luer lock connection port is restricted in a clockwise direction, and thus the connection assist mechanism is in a connectable state, thereby enabling connection of, for example, the connector 10 to a fluid transfer device 300. In the second pushed-in position of the luer lock connection port 100, the proximal end 100A is at a second range E2 greater than the first range E1 within the outer body 200 from the proximal end 200A of the outer body 200, as best shown in FIG.In this state, the luer lock connection port 100 cannot rotate in the clockwise direction, so that the threads of the external port, for example, the threads of the fluid transfer device 300, can be screwed into the threads 123 of the luer lock connection port, thereby coupling the luer lock connection port to the connector 10. As shown in FIG. 3I, in the connectable state, the locking surface 125A engages with the restraining surface 232A, thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 in the clockwise direction. The inclined surface 125C engages with the inclined portion 232C, and the inclination of the inclined surface 125C and the inclined portion 232C allows the luer lock connection port 100 to rotate in the counterclockwise direction. In other embodiments, the coupling assist mechanism can have any other structure that can achieve the same purpose of restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 relative to the outer body 200 at least in the threaded direction.

[0188] Here, to explain the separation of the connector 10 from the fluid transfer device 300, reference is made again to FIG. 1C and FIG. 4A-FIG. 4F. As shown in FIG. 1C and FIG. 4C, the fluid transfer device 300 is connected to the connector 10, the actuator 240 is not pressed, and therefore the separation assistance mechanism is in a non-separable state. In the non-separable state of the separation assistance mechanism, the luer lock connection port 100 can rotate freely at least in the screwing direction (counterclockwise in the illustrated example). When the fluid transfer device 300 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction while connected to the connector 10, the luer lock connection port 100 rotates together, thereby preventing separation of the fluid transfer device 300 from the connector 10. To perform separation, the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 needs to be restricted to the counterclockwise direction. However, as shown in Figures 1A-1C and 4A-4F, the opening 211 around the actuator 240 does not have enough space to insert the average (or smaller than average) sized fingertip of an operator (or even a child), and therefore the outer body 200 prevents the operator from directly accessing the luer lock connection port 100 with the fingertip, so the operator must indirectly access the luer lock connection port 100, which is facilitated by the actuator 240 in conjunction with the opening 211. Thus, when the fluid transfer device 300 is separated from the connector 10, the actuator 240 is pushed into the opening 211. As best shown in Figures 4A and 4D-4F, when the actuator 240 is pressed with a pressing force (by the operator), the teeth 243 engage the protrusions 124, thereby shifting the separation assist mechanism to a separable state. As shown in Fig. 4F, the first tooth side 243A of the tooth 243 engages with the second tooth side 124B of the protrusion 124, thereby restricting the counterclockwise rotation of the luer lock connection port 100. As is apparent from Fig. 4F, in order for the first tooth side 243A of the tooth 243 to engage with the second side 124B of the protrusion 124, the actuator 240 must and can only be pressed when no portion of the tooth 243 is directly above the protrusion 124.In other words, to effect separation, the luer lock connection port 100 must be rotated such that the teeth 243 and the protrusion 124 are not radially aligned, and then the actuator 240 can be pressed. Indeed, if the teeth 243 are directly above the protrusion 124, the protrusion will prevent the actuator from being effectively pressed, thereby not allowing the separation assist mechanism to effectively restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100. In embodiments where there are two or more protrusions (one embodiment shown in FIG. 3B), the teeth must be aligned between two such protrusions, and then the actuator must be pressed to displace the separation assist mechanism to a separable state. In this state of the separation assist mechanism, when the fluid transfer device 300 is rotated counterclockwise, the luer lock connection port 100 does not rotate with it, thereby allowing separation of the fluid transfer device 300 from the connector 10 by the operator rotating the fluid transfer device 300 in a counterclockwise direction. The actuator 240 returns to its original unstressed state when the stress by the operator is removed. In other embodiments, the separation assist mechanism can have any other structure that can achieve the same purpose of limiting rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 relative to the outer body 200 at least in the unscrewing direction.

[0189] 4A and 4B, in the separable state, the actuator 240 is submerged within the opening 211 such that a minimum distance D1 between the outer surface 240B of the actuator 240 and the longitudinal axis X is less than a minimum distance D2 between the outer surface 212B of the rim 212 of the opening 211 and the longitudinal axis X. In other words, in the separable state, the outer surface 240B of the actuator 240 extends above the opening 211 and lies below an imaginary plane defined by and / or including the outer surface 212B of the rim 212.

[0190] As shown in FIG. 4C, in the non-separable state, i.e., when the actuator 240 is not depressed, the outer surface 240B of the actuator 240, or at least a majority thereof, is parallel to the outer body 200 and lies below an imaginary plane that includes the portion of the outer surface 210B that is furthest from the longitudinal axis, e.g., the portion 210BB as shown in FIG. 4C. In other words, the maximum distance D3 between the outer surface 210B and the longitudinal axis X is greater than the maximum distance D4 between the outer surface 240B and the longitudinal axis X. Such a configuration of the actuator with the outer body 200 provides the actuator as a hidden button, unless the operator assumes that the actuator 240 is an element equipped to facilitate separation of the fluid transfer device 300 from the connector 10.

[0191] Although the drawings show two openings 211 and two corresponding actuators 240, it is understood herein that for ease of understanding, only one opening 211 and one actuator 240 is described herein, and the others operate in the same manner as described herein. In fact, both actuators 240 can be used together from both sides of the connector 10 to improve the efficiency of the separation assist mechanism by more effectively limiting the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100.

[0192] Further, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, 2A-2E, 3A-3I, and 4A-4F, the outer body 200 radially covers most of the luer lock connection port 100, or at least the side wall 121. An operator cannot access the luer lock connection port 100 directly with a fingertip or without using a separation assist mechanism to limit rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 in any direction to facilitate coupling or uncoupling of the connector 10 to or from the fluid transfer device 300. In other embodiments, the outer body 200 can have multiple openings or through holes on the side wall 121 to radially cover at least 90 percent, or at least 80 percent, or at least 70 percent, or at least 60 percent, or at least 50 percent of the luer lock connection port 100 or at least the side wall 210. However, each such opening has at least one dimension smaller than the average diameter of a child's fingertip. For example, the average diameter of a fingertip of a child approximately 3-10 years old is approximately 10-12 mm. Thus, in some embodiments, all openings have at least one dimension smaller than 10 mm. Such a configuration of the outer body 200 with the luer lock connection port 100 makes the connector 10 a tamper-resistant connection, i.e., direct fingertip access to the luer lock connection port 100 through the outer body 200 is prevented, at least after the connector 10 is coupled to the fluid transfer device 300.

[0193] Attention is now directed to Figures 5A-5D of the drawings, which show an adapter 1' according to another example of the subject matter of the present disclosure. The adapter 1' has at least some elements corresponding to those of the adapter 1 described above and are indicated by corresponding reference numerals for ease of understanding. In addition, the adapter 1' includes a ridge 240C formed on an outer surface 240B' of the actuator 240'. The ridge 240C gives the actuator 240' the appearance and feel of an actual button, as opposed to a hidden button like the button of the actuator 240 described above. In some embodiments (not shown), instead of a ridge, any other shape, structure, etc., may be present for the actuator to have a desired appearance and feel. Additionally, as shown in Figure 5C, the teeth 243' are formed and positioned on the inner surface 240A' of the actuator 240' such that when the luer lock connection port 100' is in a second position along the longitudinal axis X' (e.g., which may be achieved during coupling and then left in that position), the teeth 243' are vertically aligned over the connecting member 124C'. In this position of the luer lock connection port 100', the connection member 124C' prevents the actuator 240' from being pressed, thereby preventing the separation assist mechanism from achieving the separable state. In order to displace the separation assist mechanism to achieve the separable state, i.e., to press the actuator 240', the luer lock connection port 100' needs to be retracted along the longitudinal axis X' to a third position (which is the first position in the illustrated example), as shown in FIG. 5D. In some embodiments, the third position can be any position between the first position and the second position. In some embodiments, the third position can be such that the first position can be located between the third position and the second position. In this position of the luer lock connection port 100', the connection member 124C' is displaced from under the teeth 243', and thus the actuator 240' can be pressed so that the separation assist mechanism achieves the separable state. The luer lock connection port 100', when coupled to the adapter 1', can be pulled to a third position along the longitudinal axis X' by a pulling force applied by an operator pulling on the fluid transfer device 300.

[0194] Attention is now directed to Figures 6A-6E of the drawings which show the adapter 1, briefly described in connection with Figures 1A-1C, 2A-2E, 3A-3I and 4A-4F, configured to connect to a syringe 500 via a syringe adapter 400 as described in connection with Figures 2A-2E. The adapter 1 is configured to solve problems of over-pressure and under-pressure within the syringe 500 that may arise within the syringe 500. The adapter 1 comprises a first valve 40 positioned within the housing 20 and in fluid communication with the first outlet 24. The first valve 40 comprises a first valve seat member 41, which in the illustrated example is a valve seat defining a first valve passage 42 formed therein. The first valve seat member 41 has a first surface 41A facing the first outlet 24 and an opposite second surface 41B, and the first valve passage 42 extends between the first surface 41A and the second surface 41B. The adapter 1 includes a first fluid path extending between the air channel 27 and the first outlet 24. The first flow path passes through the first valve passage 42 and is selectively sealable by the first valve 40 in the first valve passage 42. The first valve 40 further includes a first valve sealing member 43 having a central portion 44 and a skirt portion 45 extending radially outward therefrom. The first valve sealing member 43 has a first surface 43A facing the first outlet 24 and an opposite second surface 43B facing the first valve seat member 41. A portion of the second surface 43B corresponding to the central portion 44 includes a flange 46. The first valve 40 further comprises a rigid central member 47 positioned within the first valve passage 42 and having a first end 47A and a second end 47B. A portion of the second surface 43B of the first valve sealing member 43 corresponding to the central portion 44 is attached to the first end 47A of the rigid central member 47 via a flange 46. The rigid central member 47 comprises a bridge 47C (shown in FIG. 6E ) connecting the rigid central member 47 to the first valve seat member 41.

[0195] The adapter 1 further comprises a second valve 50 positioned within the housing 20 and in fluid communication with the second outlet 28. The second outlet 28 is defined by an opening 211 formed in a sidewall 210 of the outer body 200. The second valve 50 comprises a second valve seat member 51, which in the illustrated example is a valve seat defining a second valve passage 52. The second valve seat member 51 has a first surface 51A facing the first valve seat member 41 and an opposite second surface 51B, with the second valve passage 52 extending between the first surface 51A and the second surface 51B. In the illustrated embodiment, the second surface 51B of the second valve seat member 51 forms a portion of the inner surface 26A of the liquid channel 26. The adapter 1 comprises a second flow passage extending between the air channel 27 and the second outlet 28. The first flow path passes through a second valve passage 52 and is selectively sealable in the second valve passage 52 by a second valve 50. The second valve 50 further comprises a second valve sealing member 53 having a central portion 54 and a skirt portion 55 extending radially outwardly therefrom. The second valve sealing member 53 has a first surface 53A facing the first valve seat member 41 and a second surface 53B facing the second valve seat member 51. A second end 47B of the rigid central member 47 rests on the central portion 54 of the second valve sealing member 53.

[0196] It is understood herein that the first and second valves have the structures shown in Figures 6A-6E and are described above as being described herein for illustrative purposes only, and that the valves may have other structures that serve the same purpose, examples of which (particularly the first valve) are shown in Figures 5A-5D. In other words, it is understood herein that the valves shown in Figures 5A-5D (particularly the first valve) may be used in the examples shown in Figures 6A-6E.

[0197] As shown in Figures 6B and 6C, the first valve 40 is normally in a first normally-closed state, with the rim 45A of the skirt 45 resting on the first surface 41A of the first valve seat member 41, thereby sealing the first valve passage 42, i.e. not allowing air flow between the air channel 27 and the first outlet 24. As described above with reference to Figures 2A-2E, when an overpressure is generated in the air channel 27, the air pressure in the air channel 27 exerts a force on the second surface 43B of the first valve sealing member 43 through the first valve passage 42. When the air pressure in the air channel 27 exceeds a first predetermined threshold (e.g. having a value of 0.5 bar), the force exerted thereby on the second surface 43B automatically lifts the rim 45A of the skirt 45 from the first surface 41A of the first valve seat member 41, thereby displacing the first valve 40 to a first normally-open state and unsealing the first valve passage 42. In this first valve-open state of the first valve 40, air flows from the air channel 27 through the first valve passage 42 and escapes to the surroundings via the first outlet 24, thereby relieving the overpressure from the air channel 27. When the air pressure released from the air channel 27 falls below a first predetermined threshold, the rim 45A returns to its original position again, thereby automatically displacing the first valve 40 to the first valve-closed state. It is understood herein that the first predetermined threshold is greater than the ambient pressure for air to flow from the air channel 27 to the surroundings. Furthermore, the skirt portion 45 of the first valve sealing member 43 is an elastic member, the elasticity of which, together with the geometric shape and the portion surrounding it, is selected based on the first predetermined threshold, which further depends on the magnitude of the pressure that is intended to be the maximum pressure that can be built up in the air channel 27 before being released to the atmosphere.

[0198] 6C and 6E, the second valve 50 is normally in a second valve normally-closed state with the rim 55A of the skirt 55 resting on the first surface 51A of the second valve seat member 51, thereby sealing the second valve passage 52, i.e., not allowing air flow between the air channel 27 and the second outlet 28. Air pressure in the air channel 27 exerts a force on the first surface 53A of the second valve sealing member 53 against a force exerted by ambient pressure on the second surface 53B of the second valve sealing member 53 through the second outlet 28, the air filter 56, and the second valve passage 52, thereby keeping the rim 55A engaged with the first surface 51A of the second valve seat member 51. When a negative pressure is generated in the air channel 27 and the air pressure in the air channel 27 falls below a second predetermined threshold (e.g., having a value of 0.2 bar), the force exerted by the ambient pressure on the second surface 53B of the second valve sealing member 53 actuates the second valve 50, thereby automatically lifting the rim 55A of the skirt portion 55 from the first surface 51A of the second valve seat member 51, thereby displacing the second valve 50 to a second valve open state and unsealing the second valve passage 52. In the second valve open state of the second valve 50, air flows from the ambient through the second outlet 28, the filter 56, and the second valve passage 52 into the air channel 27, thereby balancing the negative pressure generated in the air channel 27. When the air pressure in the air channel 27 rises above the second predetermined threshold, the rim 55A returns to its original position, thereby automatically displacing the second valve 50 to a second valve normally closed state. It is to be understood herein that the second predetermined threshold is lower than the ambient pressure for air to flow from the ambient into the air channel 27. Furthermore, the skirt portion 55 of the second valve sealing member 53 is an elastic member, the elasticity of which, together with the geometric shape and the parts surrounding it, is selected based on the second predetermined threshold, which in turn depends on the amount of pressure that is intended to be the minimum pressure that can be tolerated in the air channel 27 before balancing from the ambient.

[0199] It should be understood herein that when the pressure in air channel 27 is between a first predetermined threshold pressure and a second threshold pressure, both first valve 40 and second valve 50 are in their respective closed states. In particular, when the pressure in air channel 27 is equal to the ambient pressure, both first valve 40 and second valve 50 are in their respective closed states.

[0200] It should be further understood herein that in the first valve open state, the second valve 50 remains in the second valve normally closed state, and in the second valve open state, the first valve 40 remains in the first valve normally closed state.

[0201] Attention is now directed to Figures 7A-7E of the drawings, which show an adapter 1'' according to another example of the disclosed subject matter, configured to connect to a syringe 500 via a syringe adapter 400. The adapter 1'' has at least some elements corresponding to those of the adapter 1 described above and are indicated by corresponding reference numerals for ease of understanding. Instead of the first valve 40 and the second valve 50 of the adapter 1, the adapter 1'' comprises a valve device 60 in fluid communication with the surroundings via the first outlet 24'' and the second outlet 28''. The valve device 60 is a dual function valve configured to perform the functions of both the first valve 40 and the second valve 50. For example, the adapter 1'' is configured to solve problems of overpressure and negative pressure within the syringe 500 that may arise within the syringe 500 in that the valve device 60 is configured to facilitate the escape of air from within the valve device 60 to the surroundings in the event of overpressure and to facilitate the inflow of air from the surroundings into the valve device 60 in the event of negative pressure.

[0202] The valve device 60 comprises a first valve seat member 61, which in the illustrated embodiment is a valve seat defining a first valve passage 62. The first valve seat member 61 has a first surface 61A facing the outlet 24'' and an opposite second surface 61B, with the first valve passage 62 extending between the first surface 61A and the second surface 61B. The valve device further comprises a second valve seat member 71, which in the illustrated embodiment is a valve seat defining a second valve passage 72. The second valve seat member 71 has a first surface 71A facing the first valve seat member 61 and an opposite second surface 71B, with the second valve passage 72 extending between the first surface 71A and the second surface 71B. The valve device 60 further comprises a sealing member 63 including a central member 64 extending between the first valve seat member 61 and the second valve seat member 71. The central member 64 has a first end 65 positioned towards the first valve seat member 61 and having a surface 65A facing the second surface 61B of the first valve seat member 61, constituting a first part of the sealing member. The central member 64 has an opposite second end 66 positioned towards the second valve seat member 71 and having a surface 66A facing the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71. The sealing member 63 comprises a resilient skirt portion 67 extending from the periphery of the second end 66 towards the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71. The skirt portion 67 extends between a first rim 68 connected to the second end 66 of the central member 64 and a second rim 69 constituting a second part of the sealing member. The skirt portion 67 has a first surface 67A facing the first valve seat member 61 and a second surface 67B facing the second valve seat member 71. The first surface 71A of the second seat member 71 includes a protrusion 73 that corresponds to a groove 66B formed in the face 66A of the second end 66 of the central member 64. The sealing member 63 is positioned within the valve arrangement 60 such that the groove 66B securely receives the protrusion 73 therein to prevent movement of the sealing member 63 in a plane parallel to the first and second seat members 61 and 71. The valve arrangement 60 further includes a sidewall 70 extending from the first seat member 61 to the second seat member 71. The valve arrangement 60 can be in fluid communication with a fluid transfer system in which pressure needs to be maintained within a certain range via the sidewall 70, such as, in the illustrated embodiment, an air channel 27''.However, in other embodiments, the valve device 60 can be used to serve similar purposes in conjunction with fluid delivery systems unrelated to medical systems.

[0203] As shown in Figures 7C and 7D, the valve device 60 is normally in a normally closed state. The first portion 65A of the sealing member engages with the second surface 61B of the first valve seat member 61 to seal the first valve passage 62. The second portion 69 of the sealing member engages with the first surface 71A of the second valve seat to seal the second valve passage 72. In this state, there is a gap G between the surface 66A and the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71. In addition, in this normally closed state, a volume V formed between the second surface 61B of the first valve seat member 61, the sealing member 63, the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71, and the side wall 70 is the volume inside the valve device 60.

[0204] When an overpressure is created in the volume V, the air pressure in the valve arrangement exerts a force on the first surface 67A of the skirt portion 67 of the skirt 63 of the sealing member 63. When the air pressure in the valve arrangement 60 exceeds a first predetermined threshold, the force exerted on the first surface 67A causes the first rim 68 of the skirt portion 67 to deflect towards the second valve seat member 71, which in turn causes the face 66A of the second end 66 of the central member 64 to deflect into the gap G towards the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71. This causes the first portion 65A of the sealing member to disengage from the second surface 61B of the first valve seat member 61, thereby unsealing the first valve passage 62 and automatically displacing the valve arrangement 60 to the first valve open state. In the first valve open state, air flows from the volume V through the first valve passage 62 and escapes to the surroundings via the first outlet 24'', thereby relieving the overpressure from the valve arrangement 60. When the air pressure released from the valve arrangement 60 falls below a first predetermined threshold, the first rim 68 of the skirt portion 67 flexes back to its normal position, thereby automatically displacing the valve arrangement 60 to a normally closed condition. It should be understood that, as used herein, the first predetermined threshold is selected based on the amount of pressure that is intended to be greater than the ambient pressure for air to flow from the valve arrangement 60 to the ambient and the maximum pressure that can build within the valve arrangement 60 before being released to the ambient.

[0205] When the valve arrangement 60 is in a normally closed state, air pressure within the valve arrangement 60 exerts a force on the first surface 67A of the skirt portion 67 against a force exerted by ambient pressure on the second surface 67B of the skirt portion 67 via the second outlet 28'', the air filter 56'', and the second valve passage 72, thereby maintaining the second portion 69 of the sealing member in engagement with the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71.

[0206] When negative pressure is created in the volume V, the force exerted by the air pressure in the valve arrangement 60 on the first surface 67A of the skirt portion 67 is reduced. When the air pressure in the valve arrangement 60 falls below a second predetermined threshold, the second portion 69 of the sealing member automatically lifts from the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71, thereby displacing the valve arrangement 60 to the second valve open state and unsealing the second valve passage 72. In the second valve open state, air enters the volume V from the ambient through the second outlet 28'' thereby balancing the negative pressure created in the valve arrangement 60. When the air pressure in the valve arrangement 60 rises above the second predetermined threshold, the second portion 59 of the sealing member returns to its original position, thereby automatically displacing the valve arrangement 60 to the normally closed state. It is to be understood that in this specification, the second predetermined threshold is selected based on the amount of pressure that is intended to be less than the ambient pressure for air to flow from the ambient into the valve arrangement 60 and the minimum pressure that can be tolerated in the valve arrangement 60 before balancing from the ambient.

[0207] It should be understood herein that the valve arrangement 60 is in a fully closed state when the pressure within the valve arrangement 60 is between a first predetermined threshold pressure and a second threshold pressure. In particular, the valve arrangement 60 is in a fully closed state when the pressure within the valve arrangement 60 is equal to the ambient pressure.

[0208] It should further be understood that the resiliency of the skirt portion 67 is selected based on a first predetermined threshold and a second predetermined threshold. It should further be understood herein that in the first valve-open state of the valve arrangement 60, the second sealing member portion 69 seals the second valve passage 72, and in the second valve-open state, the first sealing member portion 65A seals the first valve passage 62.

[0209] The valve arrangement 60 as described above can be used with any fluid transfer device in which air pressure needs to be maintained within a certain range. Also, the valve arrangement 60 described above can be used with the adapter 1 described above with reference to Figures 6A-6D, where the first valve 40 and the second valve 50 can be realized as the valve arrangement 60, and the sealing members 43 and 53 are configured as a single common sealing member, such as sealing member 63.

[0210] It is understood herein that the application of dual function valve 60 has advantages over the application of two valves 40 and 50 in that a single sealing member needs to be manufactured and assembled instead of two separate sealing members. Furthermore, the single valve arrangement occupies less space within the adapter housing than two separate valves.

[0211] 8A-8E of the drawings which show adapter 600, which in this non-limiting example is a spike adapter configured to be connected between at least two other devices, establishing a fluid connection between the at least two other devices, when adapter 600 is an intermediate device. It is noted that spike adapters and their basic functionality are generally known in the art and will be described briefly herein for clarity and completeness.

[0212] As shown, the adapter 600 includes a body 601 having three body portions 610, 620, and 630, each terminating in at least one fluid inlet and / or outlet. The body portion 610 includes a spike port 611 configured to receive a medical spike therein and establish fluid communication between the medical spike and the adapter 600. Thus, the body portion 610 is referred to as a spike receiving portion. The medical spike essentially forms an inlet and / or outlet to a medical device, such as an infusion set, configured to be connected to a patient's body for the transfer of medication to the patient's body.

[0213] The body portion 620 is configured as a second medical spike 621 terminating in at least one fluid inlet / outlet 622. The body portion 620 is therefore referred to as a spike terminal portion. The medical spike 621 is configured to be connected to a spike port of a medical device and establish fluid communication with the spike port via at least one fluid inlet / outlet 622 such that fluid communication is established between the medical device and the adapter 600. For example, the medical device may be an IV bag having a spike port that receives the spike 621, and via the adapter 600, fluid communication is established between the IV bag connected to the spike 621 and the patient connected to the spike received in the spike port 611.

[0214] The body portion 630 is configured as a fluid transfer device 631 utilizing contamination-free fluid transfer. The contamination-free fluid transfer device 631, referred to as the drug inlet portion of the adapter 600, terminates in a fluid inlet 632 that is configured to connect to an external fluid transfer device, such as a syringe, from which it receives fluid and transports it via a dedicated internal duct / channel through the adapter 600 to another external device, such as an IV bag connected to the spike 621. This fluid transfer controlled by the fluid transfer device 631 can be used to transfer a drug into an IV bag, possibly containing another drug or saline, and to transfer liquid from the IV bag to the syringe.

[0215] The syringe may be similar to the syringe 500 described above and may include at least some of the features of the syringe 500, particularly the air needle, the liquid needle, the air chamber, and the liquid chamber. As described above, the syringe may be used to deliver liquid from the syringe as well as to extract liquid into the syringe. When the syringe is connected to the adapter 600 via a syringe adapter, for example, similar to the syringe adapter 400 described above, fluid communication is established between the air chamber of the syringe and the air channel 633 of the fluid transfer device 631 via the air needle, and fluid communication is established between the liquid chamber of the syringe and the liquid channel 634 of the fluid transfer device 631 via the liquid needle. The adapter 600 includes a septum 630A configured to facilitate introduction of the needle into the fluid transfer device 631.

[0216] Some medical procedures call for using a syringe to extract a volume of saline from an IV bag and then replacing the extracted volume of saline with a medication from a syringe (typically another syringe). In order for a single spike adapter to be used for both operations between a syringe(s) and an IV bag, the spike adapter needs to be configured to facilitate air flow in both directions between the air chamber of the syringe and the surroundings, i.e., the evacuation of air from the air chamber and the inhalation of air into the air chamber, especially when the syringe used is similar to syringe 500, i.e., has an air chamber that is sealed from fluid communication with the surroundings other than through an air needle that extends from the air chamber to the exterior of the syringe.

[0217] The flow of liquids (drug and saline) between the syringe and the IV bag through the adapter 600 is indicated by double sided arrow AR1, and the flow of air between the air channel 633 and a valve device (described in further detail below) associated with the adapter 600 is indicated by arrow AR2. When a syringe is used to deliver liquid through the adapter 600, the air pressure in the air chamber of the syringe decreases, and when the syringe is operated in the opposite direction, i.e., to extract liquid through the adapter 600, the air pressure in the air chamber of the syringe increases. The pressure, if not controlled, can render the syringe at least partially inoperable. For example, if the reduced air pressure in the air chamber is not compensated for, the syringe and adapter 600 cannot be used to deliver liquid from the syringe through the adapter 600, and if the increased pressure in the air chamber is not released, the syringe and adapter 600 cannot be used to extract liquid through the adapter 600 into the syringe, thereby limiting the use / operability of the adapter. Accordingly, adapter 600 includes valves 640 and 650 for regulating the pressure in the air channel of adapter 600, and thus the pressure in the air chamber of the syringe, as described below.

[0218] To illustrate the control of air pressure within the adapter 600, and thus the syringe, attention is now directed to Figures 9A-9C of the drawings which show the adapter 600, and more specifically, the valves 640 and 650. The first valve 640 and the second valve 650, in the illustrated embodiment, are positioned within the body 601 and form part of a common valve housing 602 which constitutes a fourth body portion of the body 601 of the adapter 600. In some examples, the valves can be positioned within separate valve housings which can be operatively connected to the body 601. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve housing 602, and thus the valves, are in fluid communication with the air channel 633 through the passage 635 (seen in Figure 8B) and the air filter 606.

[0219] The first valve 640 comprises a first valve seat member 641, which in the illustrated example is a valve seat defining a first valve passage 642 formed therein. The first valve seat member 641 has a first surface 641A and an opposing second surface 641B, with the first valve passage 642 extending between the first surface 641A and the second surface 641B. The adapter 600 comprises a first flow path, indicated by arrow AR3, extending through the first valve passage 642 between the air channel 633 and the surroundings, selectively sealable by the first valve 640 at the first valve passage 642. The first valve 640 further comprises a first valve sealing member 643 having a central portion 644 and a skirt portion 645 extending radially outward therefrom. The first valve sealing member 643 has a first surface 643A and an opposite second surface 643B facing the first valve seat member 641. The first valve 640 further comprises a central member 647 extending through the first valve passage 642 from a central portion 644 and having a first end 647A towards the central portion 644 and an opposite second end 647B. The central member 647 has a flange 646 extending from the second end 647B configured to engage the second surface 641B of the first valve seat member 641, thereby holding the first valve sealing member 643 securely in place.

[0220] The first valve 640 operates in particular in conjunction with the syringe used to withdraw the saline from the IV bag through the adapter 600. In some medical procedures, it is protocol that only new / unused syringes are used to withdraw the saline from the IV bag, since syringes that have already been used to handle hazardous drugs may have some harmful hazardous fumes in the air chamber that should be prevented from being released into the environment. Thus, since the operation of the first valve 640 is associated with the operation of the syringe used to withdraw the saline from the IV bag, by controlling the operation of the first valve 650, the operation of the syringe can be controlled as described later in this specification.

[0221] The adapter 600 further comprises a second valve 650 positioned within the housing 602. The second valve 650 comprises a second valve seat member 651, which in the illustrated example is a valve seat defining a second valve passage 652. The second valve seat member 651 has a first surface 651A and an opposing second surface 651B, with the second valve passage 652 extending between the first surface 651A and the second surface 651B. The adapter 600 comprises a second flow path, indicated by arrow AR4, extending through the second valve passage 652 between the air channel 633 and the surroundings, selectively sealable by the second valve 650 at the second valve passage 652. The second valve 650 further comprises a second valve sealing member 653 having a central portion 654 and a skirt portion 655 extending radially outward therefrom. The second valve sealing member 653 has a first surface 653A and an opposite second surface 653B facing the second valve seat member 651. The central portion 654 is connected to the second valve seat member 651 by a rigid central member 656, thereby holding the second valve sealing member 653 in place.

[0222] 9C, first valve 640 is normally in a first valve normally closed state, with rim 645A of skirt 645 resting on first surface 641A of first valve seat member 641, thereby sealing first valve passage 642, i.e., not allowing air flow between air channel 633 and the surroundings. When overpressure is created in air channel 633, such as when a syringe is used to extract liquid through adapter 600 and into the syringe, the air pressure in air channel 633 exerts a force on second surface 643B of first valve sealing member 643 through first valve passage 642. When the air pressure in the air channel 633 exceeds a first predetermined threshold (for example having a value of 0.3 bar), the force exerted thereby on the second surface 643B automatically lifts the rim 645A of the skirt 645 from the first surface 641A of the first valve seat member 641, thereby displacing the first valve 640 to a first valve open state and unsealing the first valve passage 642. In the first valve open state of the first valve 640, air flows from the air channel 633 through the first valve passage 642 and escapes to the surroundings as indicated by the arrow AR3, thereby relieving the overpressure from the air channel 633. When the air pressure released from the air channel 633 falls below the first predetermined threshold, the rim 645A returns to its original position again, thereby automatically displacing the first valve 640 to a first valve normally closed state. It is to be understood herein that the first predetermined threshold is generally greater than the ambient pressure for air to flow from the air channel 627 to the ambient. Furthermore, the skirt portion 645 of the first valve sealing member 643 is an elastic member, the elasticity of which, together with the geometric shape and the portion surrounding it, is selected based on the first predetermined threshold, which in turn depends on the amount of pressure that is intended to be the maximum pressure that can build within the air channel 633 before being released to the atmosphere.

[0223] 9C, the second valve 650 is normally in the second valve normally-closed state with the rim 655A of the skirt 655 resting on the first surface 651A of the second valve seat member 651, thereby sealing the second valve passage 652, i.e., not allowing air flow between the air channel 633 and the ambient. Air pressure in the air channel 633 exerts a force on the first surface 653A of the second valve sealing member 653 against a force applied by ambient pressure through the second valve passage 652 on the second surface 653B of the second valve sealing member 653, thereby keeping the rim 655A engaged with the first surface 651A of the second valve seat member 651. When a negative pressure is generated in the air channel 633, for example when a syringe is used to deliver a drug from the syringe through the adapter 600, and the air pressure in the air channel 633 falls below a second predetermined threshold (e.g., having a value of 0.03 bar), the force exerted by the ambient pressure on the second surface 653B of the second valve sealing member 653 actuates the second valve 650, thereby automatically lifting the rim 655A of the skirt portion 655 from the first surface 651A of the second valve seat member 651, thereby displacing the second valve 650 to a second valve-open state and unsealing the second valve passage 652. In the second valve-open state of the second valve 650, air flows from the atmosphere through the second valve passage 652 into the air channel 633, thereby balancing the negative pressure generated in the air channel 633. When the air pressure in the air channel 633 rises above a second predetermined threshold, the rim 655A returns to its original position, thereby automatically displacing the second valve 650 to the second normally-closed state.

[0224] The second valve specifically works in conjunction with a syringe that is used to deliver medication through the adapter to the IV bag.

[0225] It is to be understood herein that the second predetermined threshold is generally lower than the ambient pressure for air to flow from the ambient into the air channel 633. Furthermore, the skirt portion 655 of the second valve sealing member 653 is an elastic member, the elasticity of which, together with the geometric shape and the components surrounding it, is selected based on the second predetermined threshold, which in turn depends on the amount of pressure that is intended to be the minimum pressure that can be tolerated in the air channel 633 before balancing from the ambient.

[0226] It should be understood herein that when the pressure in air channel 633 is between a first predetermined threshold pressure and a second threshold pressure, both first valve 640 and second valve 650 are in their respective closed states. In particular, when the pressure in air channel 633 is equal to the ambient pressure, both first valve 640 and second valve 650 are in their respective closed states.

[0227] It should be further understood herein that in the first valve open state, the second valve 650 remains in the second valve normally closed state, and in the second valve open state, the first valve 640 remains in the first valve normally closed state.

[0228] Attention is now directed to Figures 10A-10D of the drawings, which show an adapter 600' according to another example of the disclosed subject matter, configured to connect to a syringe 500. The adapter 600' has at least some elements corresponding to those of the adapter 600 described above, and are indicated by corresponding reference numerals for ease of understanding. Instead of the first valve 640 and the second valve 650 of the adapter 600, the adapter 600' comprises a valve device 660 in fluid communication with the surroundings. The valve device 660 is a dual function valve configured to perform the functions of both the first valve 640 and the second valve 650. For example, the adapter 600' is configured to solve the problem of overpressure and underpressure within the syringe 500, and the valve device 660 is configured to facilitate the outflow of air from within the adapter 600' to the surroundings in the event of overpressure, and to facilitate the inflow of air from the surroundings into the adapter 600' in the event of underpressure.

[0229] The valve arrangement 660 includes a first valve seat member 661, which in the illustrated embodiment is a central member 661, and a second valve seat member 671, which in the illustrated embodiment is a valve seat 671 having a valve seat opening 672. The central member 661 extends through the seat opening 672. In the illustrated embodiment, the central member 661 extends from a bottom 604' of the valve housing 602'. In some embodiments, the central member 661 can extend from a bottom 631A' of the fluid transfer device 631' through the air filter 606'. The valve arrangement 660 further includes a sealing member 663 including a longitudinal member 664 having a first end 664A and an opposing second end 664B. The sealing member 663 further comprises a sealing member first portion 665 extending radially from the first end 664A of the longitudinal member 664 towards the central member 661 and configured to selectively engage and disengage from the central member 661. The sealing member first portion 665 and the central member 661 define a first valve passage 662 therebetween. The sealing member 663 further comprises a sealing member second portion 666 extending radially from the first end 664A of the longitudinal member 664 towards the valve seat 671 and configured to selectively engage and disengage from the valve seat 671. The sealing member second portion 666 and the valve seat 671 define a second valve passage 672 therebetween.

[0230] The valve seat 671 has an inner seat surface 671A facing the air channel 633 and an opposing outer seat surface 671B. The second portion 666 of the sealing member engages and selectively disengages from the inner seat surface 671A. The sealing member 663 further comprises a third portion 667 of the sealing member, which in the illustrated embodiment is configured as a fixing member 667 extending radially from the second end 664B of the longitudinal member 664 toward the valve seat 671 and configured to engage the outer surface 671B of the valve seat 671 without blocking the second valve passage 672, thereby holding the sealing member 663 in position. The second portion 666 of the sealing member and the fixing member 667 hold the sealing member 663 in position relative to the valve seat 671. For example, when the second portion 666 of the sealing member disengages from the valve seat 671, the securing member 667 engaging the valve seat outer surface 671B prevents axial displacement of the sealing member 663.

[0231] In the valve arrangement 660, the cooperation of the central member 661 and the first portion 665 of the sealing member functions as a first valve, and the cooperation of the valve seat 671 and the second portion 666 of the sealing member functions as a second valve.

[0232] 10C and 10D, the valve arrangement 660 is normally in a normally closed state. A first portion 665 of the sealing member engages the central member 661, thereby sealing the first valve passage 662. A second portion 666 of the sealing member engages a first surface 671A of the valve seat 671, thereby sealing the second valve passage 672. In this normally closed state, a volume V defined between the sealing member 663, a portion 671′ of the valve seat 671 not covered by the second portion of the sealing member, a bottom 631′A of the fluid transfer device 631′, and the sidewall 670 defines a volume within the valve arrangement 660.

[0233] When an overpressure is generated in the air channel 633', and thus in the volume V, the air pressure in the valve arrangement exerts a force on the first portion 665 of the sealing member. When the air pressure in the valve arrangement exceeds a first predetermined threshold, the force exerted on the first portion 665 of the sealing member causes the first portion 665 of the sealing member to bend away from the central member 661, thereby disengaging the first portion 665 of the sealing member from the central member 661, thereby unsealing the first valve passage 662 and automatically displacing the valve arrangement 660 to the first valve-open state. In the first valve-open state, air flows from the air channel 633 / volume V through the first valve passage 662 and escapes to the surroundings as indicated by the arrow AR5 in FIG. 10D. This releases the overpressure from the valve arrangement 660. When the air pressure released from the valve arrangement 660 falls below a first predetermined threshold, the first portion 665 of the sealing member flexes back to its normal position, thereby automatically displacing the valve arrangement 660 to a normally closed state. It should be understood that, as used herein, the first predetermined threshold is generally selected based on the amount of pressure that is intended to be greater than the ambient pressure for air to flow from the valve arrangement 660 to the ambient and the maximum pressure that can build within the valve arrangement 660 before being released to the ambient.

[0234] In a normally closed state of the valve device 660, the air pressure within the volume V of the valve device 660 or air channel 633 exerts a force on the second portion 666 of the sealing member against the force exerted on the second portion 666 of the sealing member through the second valve passage 672 by ambient pressure, thereby keeping the second portion 666 of the sealing member engaged with the first surface 671A of the valve seat 671.

[0235] When negative pressure is created in the air channel 633′, and thus in the volume V, the force exerted by the air pressure in the valve arrangement 660 on the second portion 666 of the sealing member is reduced. When the air pressure in the valve arrangement 660 falls below a second predetermined threshold, the second portion 666 of the sealing member automatically lifts off the first surface 671A of the second valve seat member 671, thereby displacing the valve arrangement 660 to a second valve-open state and unsealing the second valve passage 672. In the second valve-open state, air flows from the surroundings through the second valve passage 672 into the volume V, as indicated by the arrow AR6 in FIG. 10C, thereby balancing the negative pressure created in the valve arrangement 660. When the air pressure in the valve arrangement 660 rises above the second predetermined threshold, the second portion 666 of the sealing member returns to its original position, thereby automatically displacing the valve arrangement 660 to a normally closed state. It should be understood that in this specification, the second predetermined threshold is selected based on the amount of pressure that is intended to be less than the ambient pressure for air to flow from the ambient into the valve device 660 and the minimum pressure that can be tolerated within the valve device 660 before balancing from the ambient.

[0236] It should be understood herein that the valve arrangement 660 is in a fully closed state when the pressure within the valve arrangement 660 is between a first predetermined threshold pressure and a second threshold pressure. In particular, the valve arrangement 660 is in a fully closed state when the pressure within the valve arrangement 660 is equal to the ambient pressure.

[0237] It should further be understood that the resiliency of the first and second portions of the sealing member are selected based on a first predetermined threshold and a second predetermined threshold. It should further be understood herein that in the first valve-open state of the valve arrangement 660, the second portion 666 of the sealing member seals the second valve passage 772, and in the second valve-open state, the first portion 665 of the sealing member seals the first valve passage 662.

[0238] Valve arrangement 660 as described above can be used with any fluid transfer device where air pressure needs to be maintained within a certain range. Valve arrangement 660 as described above can also be used with adapter 600 as described above with reference to Figures 8A-9C, where first valve 640 and second valve 650 can be realized as valve arrangement 660, and sealing members 643 and 653 are configured as a single common sealing member, such as sealing member 663.

[0239] It is understood herein that the application of dual function valve 660 has advantages over the application of two valves 640 and 650 in that a single sealing member needs to be manufactured and assembled instead of two separate sealing members. Furthermore, the single valve arrangement occupies less space within the housing of the adapter than two separate valves.

[0240] For purposes of illustrating the selective use of adapter 700 in a fully operational state and an at least partially inoperable state, attention is now directed to Figures 1 IA-1 ID of the drawings, which show cross-sectional views of a portion of adapter 700 in accordance with another example of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Adapter 700 is similar in structure and operation to adapter 600' described above, and incorporates at least some of the features of adapter 700' as indicated by corresponding reference numerals of adapter 600.

[0241] Adapter 700 has a valve arrangement 760 similar in structure and operation to valve arrangement 660 described above, with one difference being that a central member 761 extends from a bottom 731A of fluid transfer device 731. In addition to the features of adapter 600, adapter 700 includes an actuator 780, Figures 11B and 11D are front views of actuator 780. Actuator 780 is configured to switch adapter 700 between a fully operational state and an at least partially inoperative state.

[0242] As also described above, the adapter, which in the illustrated embodiment is a spike adapter, is configured to facilitate the transfer of liquid in two directions between the IV bag and the syringe via the liquid channel 734. The spike adapter can be used to inject liquid from within the syringe into the IV bag and to withdraw liquid from the IV bag into the syringe through the liquid channel 734. During liquid transfer, the air pressure within the air chamber of the syringe, and therefore within the air channel 733 of the adapter 700, changes based on whether the plunger of the syringe is pulled or pushed. The spike adapter is configured to facilitate the release and intake of air from and into the air channel, and therefore into the air chamber, via the valve device 760. In this application, the term fully operative state refers to a state in which the spike adapter is configured to facilitate the transfer of liquid in both directions, i.e., from the IV bag to the syringe through the liquid channel 734 and vice versa, and the term at least partially inoperative state refers to a state in which the spike adapter is configured to block the transfer of liquid in at least one of two directions, which in the illustrated example is from the syringe to the IV bag, and prevent the transfer of liquid in the opposite direction, i.e., from the IV bag to the syringe through the liquid channel 734.

[0243] As explained above, the protocol can require the medical practitioner to use a new / unused syringe to draw saline from the IV bag through the adapter 700. The adapter is selectively configured in at least a partially operational state to remind the practitioner that a new syringe needs to be used to draw saline from the IV bag. For example, the adapter 700 is typically configured in at least a partially inoperative state in which the flow of liquid through the adapter in the direction from the IV bag to the syringe is blocked. Thus, when the practitioner wishes to use the adapter for the purpose of drawing saline from the IV bag into a syringe, the adapter must be manually switched to a fully operational state by the practitioner using the actuator, thereby preventing the practitioner from accidentally and inadvertently using a syringe that has already been used for that purpose, and reminding the practitioner that a new syringe should be used once the adapter is switched to the fully operational state.

[0244] In the illustrated embodiment, in the at least partially inoperative state, the actuator 780 is configured to partially block the movement of liquid through the liquid channel 733, i.e., in one direction, indirectly by controlling the passage of air between the surroundings and the air channel 734. As described above, the flow of liquid depends on the evacuation of air from and the inhalation of air into the air chamber of the syringe via the air channel 733. For example, if pressure is not released from the air chamber of the syringe, the syringe cannot be operated to extract liquid through the adapter 700 and into the syringe, and the air pressure in the air chamber of the syringe prevents the movement of the plunger of the syringe towards the air chamber, thereby rendering the syringe inoperative to extract liquid into the syringe when the air pressure is not released. Thus, by controlling the passage of air through the air channel, the transfer of liquid can be indirectly controlled.

[0245] In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 780 is configured as a switch 780 configured to transition between a first actuator state shown in FIG. 11A and a second actuator state shown in FIG. 11B. The switch 780, in the illustrated embodiment, has a knob 781 configured to be held by a user to rotate the switch to transition between the first actuator state and the second actuator state. In some embodiments (not shown), the actuator can be transitioned between the two actuator states by any motion other than rotation, e.g., by pushing / pulling. The switch 780 has an actuator inner surface 782 configured to engage the sealing member third portion 767 of the sealing member 763 in the second actuator state, as shown in FIG. 11B.

[0246] In Figure 11A, when the actuator is in its first state, the valve arrangement 760 facilitates the exhaust and intake of air through the valve arrangement 760 between the air channel 733 and the surroundings, as described above with reference to Figures 10A-10D. The first state of the actuator is thus associated with a fully operational state of the adapter 700.

[0247] In Fig. 11B, when the actuator is in the actuator second state, the valve arrangement 760 is configured to facilitate the intake of air through the second valve passage 772, but as shown in Fig. 11B, the actuator inner surface 782 engages the sealing member third portion 767 to seal the evacuation of air through the first valve passage 762. In this actuator second state, the evacuation of air from the air channel 733, and thus from the air chamber of the syringe, is prevented, and thus the syringe, and thus the adapter, is inoperative for the transfer of liquid in the direction from the IV bag into the syringe, i.e., from the spike distal portion towards the fluid transfer device, as described above. Thus, the actuator second state is associated with at least a partial inoperative state of the adapter 700.

[0248] The actuator 780 engages the third portion 767 of the sealing member in the second actuator state, and the third portion of the sealing member tightly engages between the switch 780 and the second surface 771B of the valve seat 771. The valve arrangement 760 can still be displaced to the first valve-open state, but does not expel air from the air channel because the tight engagement between the third portion of the sealing member and the actuator 780 prevents air from escaping. Thus, the actuator 780 is configured to prevent the expulsion of air in the second actuator state regardless of the state of the valve arrangement 760.

[0249] 11A and, in the illustrated embodiment, is configured to transition to a second actuator state upon application of a force by a user to rotate switch 780. Switch 780 is configured to remain in the second actuator state when the force is removed. Switch 780 can then be transitioned to the first actuator state by rotating it in the opposite direction.

[0250] For purposes of illustrating the selective use of adapter 800 in a fully operational state and an at least partially inoperative state, attention is now directed to Figures 12A and 12B of the drawings, which show a cross-sectional view of a portion of adapter 800 according to another example of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Adapter 800 is similar in structure and operation to adapters 600' and / or 700 described above, and incorporates at least some of the features of adapters 800' and / or 700 as designated by corresponding reference numbers for adapter 600. The main difference between adapter 800 and adapter 600' lies in the structure of the valve arrangement, and the main difference between adapter 800 and adapter 700 lies in the structure of the valve arrangement and actuator. Apart from these, adapter 800 operates similarly to adapters 600' and 700, particularly in connection with the transfer of liquids and air.

[0251] The adapter 800 includes a valve arrangement 860 having a valve seat member 861 defining a valve passage 862 configured to permit the flow (and exhaust) of air between the surroundings and an air channel 833 of the adapter 800. The valve arrangement 860 further includes a sealing member 863 extending through the valve passage 862 and including a central portion 864 having a first end 864A and an opposite second end 864B. The sealing member 863 extends radially outward from the first end 864A of the central member 864 and has a skirt portion 865 configured to selectively engage the valve seat member 761, thereby sealing the valve passage 862.

[0252] The valve device 860 is configured in a normally closed state in which the skirt portion 865 engages the valve seat member 861 to seal the valve passage 862. When a negative pressure is generated in the air channel 833 and the pressure in the air channel falls below a predetermined threshold, the force exerted on the skirt portion 865 by the air pressure in the air channel becomes less than the force exerted on the skirt portion 865 through the valve passage 862 by the ambient pressure, thereby lifting the skirt portion 865 off the valve seat member 861, thereby unsealing the valve passage 862 and displacing the valve device to an open state. Thus, air from the ambient can flow through the valve passage 862 into the air channel 833 and then into the air chamber of the syringe, as indicated by the arrow AR7. However, when an overpressure is generated in the air channel 833, the air pressure does not disengage the skirt portion 865 from the valve seat member 861, and therefore the air pressure is not released through the valve passage 862.

[0253] The adapter 800 further comprises an actuator 880 configured to transition between a first actuator state as shown in FIG. 12B and a second actuator state as shown in FIG. 12A. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 880 is a button configured to be pressed to transition from a normal second actuator state (FIG. 12A) to the first actuator state (FIG. 12B). As shown in FIG. 12A, when the actuator is in the second actuator state, it allows the intake of air into the adapter while preventing the exhaust of air, thereby rendering the syringe and adapter 700 inoperable for the transfer of liquid in the direction from the IV bag to the syringe, as described above with reference to the adapter 800. Thus, the second actuator state of the actuator is associated with an at least partially inoperable state of the actuator.

[0254] 12B, when actuator 880 is in the first actuator state, actuator 880 engages second end 864B of central member 864 of sealing member 863, lifting central member 864 and, in turn, skirt portion 865 from seating member 861, thereby unsealing valve passage 862. In this state of the actuator, air can flow into and / or out of adapter 800 via valve passage 862, as indicated by arrow AR8, thereby enabling the adapter to transfer liquid in both directions through the liquid channel, as described above with reference to adapter 700. The first actuator state is therefore associated with a fully operational state of adapter 800.

[0255] In valve arrangement 860, when air is exhausted through valve passage 862, the valve arrangement acts as a first valve, and when air enters the adapter from the environment, the valve arrangement acts as a second valve.

[0256] In the illustrated example, the actuator comprises a breakable tab 883 configured to prevent the actuator from transitioning from the normal second actuator state to the first actuator state. When it is necessary to transition the actuator to the first actuator state, the user can apply a pressure to the button 880, thereby breaking the breakable tab 883 and forcing the button 880 to the first actuator state. As shown in FIG. 12B, the actuator further comprises a hinge 884 configured to facilitate pivoting of the button 880 to transition between the first and second actuator states. In the illustrated embodiment, the button is configured to automatically return to the second actuator state when the pressure is removed. Thus, when a fully operational state of the adapter is intended, the user must press the button 880 until the desired fully operational state is intended, and then release the button when an at least partially inoperative state of the adapter is intended.

[0257] In the embodiments shown herein, the actuator is described as forming part of the adapters 700 and 800, however, it should be understood herein that in some embodiments (not shown) the actuator may form part of the valve arrangement and may be disposed within or form part of the valve housing.

[0258] Attention is now directed to Figures 13A-13D of the drawings showing an adapter 900 according to another example of the subject matter of the present disclosure, for purposes of illustrating an actuator configured to directly block the flow of liquid through the adapter by directly blocking a liquid channel in the adapter.

[0259] The adapter 900, in the illustrated embodiment, is a luer lock adapter configured to facilitate transfer of liquid between a syringe and an external container through a liquid channel 926. A syringe (not shown) can be connected to the adapter 900 by inserting a liquid needle of the syringe through a septum 930 of the adapter 900. An external container (not shown) can be connected to the luer lock connector 910 of the adapter 900. The luer lock connector 910 is similar in structure and operation to the luer lock connector 10 described above. The adapter 900 includes a valve device 920 configured to facilitate air flow between the surroundings and the interior of the adapter 900.

[0260] The adapter 90 further includes an actuator 980 positioned partially within the liquid channel 926 to selectively block the passage of liquid therethrough. The actuator 980 has a knob 981 configured to be held by a user to displace the actuator 980 between a first actuator state, as shown in Figures 13A and 13B, and a second actuator state, as shown in Figures 13C and 13D.

[0261] As shown in Figures 13B and 13D, the actuator includes a flow path 82 which, in a first actuator state shown in Figure 13B, is aligned with the liquid channel 926 to allow liquid flow therethrough in both directions, i.e., from the bulkhead 930 to the connector 910 and vice versa, and thus, in this actuator state, the adapter 900 is in a fully operative state. In Figure 13D, the actuator is in a second actuator state, and the flow path 982 is not aligned with the liquid channel 926, thereby blocking liquid flow therethrough in both directions, and thus, in this actuator state, the adapter 900 is in an at least partially inoperative state. In the illustrated embodiment, in the at least partially inoperative state, the adapter is fully inoperative to facilitate liquid flow therethrough.

[0262] The actuator 980 is configured to be displaceable between a first actuator state and a second actuator state upon application of a force by a user, which in the illustrated example is a rotational force. In some examples, the actuator may be displaceable between its states by push / pull or a combination of push / pull and rotation. In some examples, the actuator may be configured to normally be in one of the first and second states, displace to the other state upon application of a force, and automatically return to the normal state when the force is removed. In some examples, the actuator may be configured to independently hold both states when no force is applied.

[0263] In the illustrated embodiment, the adapter 900 differs from those described above, for example, it does not include an air channel unlike the luer lock adapter 1 described above, and the adapter 900 can be used with a syringe having only a liquid needle unlike the syringe 500 described above. However, in some examples, the actuator 980 can be used with any of the aforementioned adapters (luer lock adapters as well as spike adapters) while being positioned within the corresponding liquid channels of those adapters without affecting the additional functionality of those adapters.

[0264] In some embodiments (not shown), a check valve or one-way valve can be positioned in the flow path of the actuator such that in the second actuator state, liquid flow through the liquid channel of the adapter is blocked in one direction and permitted in the opposite direction.

Claims

1. A connector for connecting to a fluid transfer device, comprising: an outer body having a longitudinal axis; a luer lock connection port positioned within the outer body and configured to be coupled with an external port of the fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis at least prior to initiation of coupling with the external port, the outer body being structured to prevent an operator from directly accessing an exterior of the luer lock connection port with a fingertip through the outer body after the luer lock connection port is coupled with the external port, the luer lock connection port being positioned within the outer body; a separation assist mechanism configured to selectively assume an inseparable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis and a separable state that restricts rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the counterclockwise direction to allow separation of the external port from the luer lock connection port; A connector comprising:

2. The connector of claim 1 , wherein the luer lock connection port is rotatable about the longitudinal axis in both the clockwise and counterclockwise directions when coupled to the external port.

3. a connection assist mechanism configured to selectively assume a connectable state that restricts rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the clockwise direction and a non-connectable state that allows rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the clockwise direction, the connection assist mechanism being configured to assume the connectable state at least while connection between the luer lock connection port and the external port is in progress; The connection assist mechanism is configured to allow the luer lock connection port to rotate in the counterclockwise direction around the longitudinal axis in the connectable state, The connector of claim 1 , wherein the connection assist mechanism is configured to allow the luer lock connection port to rotate in the counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis in the unconnectable state.

4. 4. The connector of claim 3, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to be axially displaced along the longitudinal axis between a first position associated with the unconnectable state and a second position associated with the connectable state.

5. 5. The connector of claim 4, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to be freely displaceable from the first position to the second position when a pushing or pulling force is applied by the external port during the coupling.

6. 5. The connector according to claim 4, wherein the connection assist mechanism comprises at least one locking member attached to an outer surface of the luer lock connection port and at least one restraining member attached to an inner surface of the outer body, wherein in the second position, the locking member engages with the restraining member, thereby restricting rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the clockwise direction, and in the first position, the locking member disengages from the restraining member.

7. the outer body includes a sidewall having at least one opening formed therein, the sidewall being configured for use with the separation assistance mechanism to provide access to an exterior surface of the luer lock connection port, at least in the separable state; 2. The connector of claim 1, wherein the separation assist mechanism comprises an actuator positioned at least partially within the opening, the actuator having an inner actuator surface facing the luer lock connection port and an opposite outer actuator surface, the separation assist mechanism being configured to assume the separable state when a pressing force is applied to the actuator and to assume the non-separable state when the pressing force is removed.

8. The connector of claim 7 , wherein in the separable state, a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the actuator outer surface is less than a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and an outer surface of a rim of the opening.

9. The connector of claim 7 , wherein in the separable state, at least a majority of the actuator outer surface is positioned below an imaginary plane defined by a rim of the opening.

10. 8. The connector of claim 7, wherein the actuator has a first portion extending from the outer body and a second portion extending from the first portion, the first portion forming a part of the outer body, and the first portion and the second portion forming a lever.

11. 8. The connector according to claim 7, wherein the separation assistance mechanism comprises a first engagement portion constituting a part of an outer surface of the luer lock connection port and a second engagement portion constituting a part of an inner surface of the actuator, and in the separable state, the first engagement portion engages with the second engagement portion to restrict rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the counterclockwise direction, and in the non-separable state, the first engagement portion disengages from the second engagement portion.

12. 12. The connector of claim 11, wherein the first engagement portion comprises at least one protrusion formed on the outer surface of the luer lock connection port, and the second engagement portion comprises at least one tooth protruding from an inner surface of the actuator, and in the separable state, the at least one tooth engages with the at least one protrusion, thereby limiting rotation of the luer lock connection port in at least the counterclockwise direction.

13. The connector of claim 12 , wherein the actuator is configured to be depressed only when the at least one protrusion is radially displaced relative to the at least one tooth.

14. 13. The connector of claim 12, wherein the at least one protrusion has a protrusion side extending from the outer surface of the luer lock connection port toward the actuator, and the at least one tooth has a tooth side extending from the inner surface of the actuator toward the luer lock connection port, and in the separable state, the tooth side engages with the protrusion side, and in the non-separable state, the at least one tooth disengages from the at least one protrusion.

15. the luer lock connection port is configured to be axially displaced along the longitudinal axis to a third position, the third position being the first position or any position between the first position and the second position, or the second position being any position between the first position and the third position, or the first position being any position between the second position and the third position; the luer lock connection port is configured to be freely displaceable from the first or second position to the third position when a pushing or pulling force is applied during separation of the external port from the luer lock connection port; The connector according to claim 4 , wherein the separation assist mechanism is configured to assume the separable state when the luer lock connection port is displaced to the second or third position.

16. 2. The connector of claim 1, wherein the luer lock connection port is a male luer lock connection port comprising an elongated central member and a collar surrounding the elongated central member, the male luer lock connection port being configured to be coupled to the external port by threadably receiving the external port between the collar and the elongated central member such that, upon coupling, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body.

17. 17. The connector of claim 16, wherein the collar extends parallel to the elongated central member, and the length of the collar ranges from 5.4 mm to 8 mm.

18. The connector of claim 16 , wherein the outer body covers at least a majority of the collar.

19. The connector of claim 1 , wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port.

20. 13. An adapter configured for use with a medical fluid transfer device, the adapter comprising the connector of claim 1, the connector constituting a proximal portion of the adapter, the adapter comprising a septum positioned at a distal end of the adapter and configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe through the septum.

Images