Coated Bonding Devices

Abstract

A coupling device (100) for transferring a fluid is provided. The coupling device comprises a first housing (110), a tube (140), and a first sealing element (220). The coupling device further comprises a second housing (300) comprising a channel (310) and a second sealing element (320). In a first and second stage of connecting the coupling device, the first and second sealing elements, at least one of which comprises an antimicrobial coating, are configured to abut against each other to seal and separate the tube and the channel, after which the tube protrudes through the first and second sealing elements to allow transfer through the coupling device. In a first and second stage of disconnecting the coupling device, a first space (400) and a second space (410) are defined, respectively, for enclosing the fluid, whereby the fluid is arranged to contact the antimicrobial coating.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of medical devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to coupling devices for transferring fluids. [Background technology]

[0002] During the treatment of a patient, it may be necessary to transfer one or more fluids (such as blood, blood products, one or more medicines, etc.) to and / or from the patient. Since the fluids are often delivered through an element (e.g., needle, cannula, catheter, trocar, etc.) that is inserted into the patient during this type of treatment, it is desirable for the element to remain relatively fixed after insertion into the patient. If the patient or any medical staff accidentally pulls on the tubing connected to the element, unintentional movement and / or motion may occur in the element after insertion into the patient. Furthermore, accidents in which the patient and / or medical staff trip on the tubing connected to the element may also lead to element movement. It should be appreciated that this type of element movement may not only be painful for the patient, but may also lead to undesirable treatment outcomes if the transfer of fluid is not performed correctly due to element movement. Furthermore, it should be noted that forceful pulling of an element inserted into a patient may also damage the patient's blood vessels. Furthermore, damaged blood vessels may cause serious infections in patients with compromised immune systems.

[0003] In addition, it is desirable to mitigate any leakage of fluids if the tubing used to deliver fluids to the patient is accidentally disconnected. For example, any leakage from a broken tube can be particularly dangerous if the infused liquid is toxic.

[0004] WO2018 / 087153A1 discloses a coupling device for medical purposes, which provides sealing and leak-proof properties both during the transfer of fluid through the coupling device and during interruption of the flow of fluid through the coupling device as a result of separation or disconnection of the coupling device. Furthermore, the coupling device reduces the effect of tubes subjected to forces, such as pulling forces, especially when the tubes are connected to elements for transferring fluid to / from a patient.

[0005] The adhesion of bacterial colonies and / or the formation of biofilms on medical devices generally represents a potential source of risk as the patient may become infected via the medical device during treatment, and therefore mitigating this risk is also desirable for coupling devices for transferring fluids to and / or from a patient.

[0006] It is therefore desirable to have an alternative to the coupling devices of the prior art, and more particularly, to have a coupling device that has excellent sealing and leak-proofing properties and is capable of mitigating the effects of tubing subjected to forces, such as pulling forces, when the tubing is used to transfer fluids to and from a patient, while the coupling device further provides antibacterial properties. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a device for medical purposes that can easily mitigate one or more of the above problems and in particular the effects of tubes subjected to forces, such as pulling forces, when the tubes are connected to elements for transferring fluids to / from a patient, which device further has good sealing and anti-leak properties as well as antibacterial properties for improved safety of the patient and / or medical staff.

[0008] This and other objects are achieved by providing a coupling device having the features of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0009] Thus, according to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a coupling device for transferring a fluid. The coupling device comprises a first housing extending along a main axis A. The first housing comprises a first opening at a rear end thereof and a second opening at a front end thereof. The coupling device further comprises a tube extending from the first opening into the first housing along the main axis A. The first housing comprises a first sealing element. The coupling device further comprises a second housing comprising a channel through the second housing and a second sealing element arranged to seal the channel. At least one of the first and second sealing elements comprises an antimicrobial coating. In a first stage of connection of the coupling device, the second housing is insertable into the first housing via its second opening, the first and second sealing elements being configured to abut against each other to seal and separate the tube and the channel. By the term "sealed separation" it is meant here that the first and second sealing elements sealingly separate the tube and the channel such that no fluid passes between them. In a second stage of connection of the coupling device, the tube protrudes through the first and second sealing elements for connection with the channel allowing transfer of fluid through the coupling device. In a first stage of decoupling of the coupling device, the tube is retracted through the first and second sealing elements, an end of the tube is surrounded by the second sealing element, and the tube and the second sealing element are configured to define a first space at the end of the tube, the first space being at least partially filled with fluid. In a second stage of decoupling the coupling device, the tube is retracted through the first sealing element with an end of the tube adjacent to the second sealing element, the tube, the first and second sealing elements are configured to define a second space at the end of the tube, and fluid in the first space is released into the second space as the first space is compressed, and the fluid in the first space contacts at least one of at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating on the first sealing element and at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating on the second sealing element.The antimicrobial coating is configured to provide an antimicrobial effect when in contact with a fluid.

[0010] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a coupling device for transferring a fluid. The coupling device comprises a first housing extending along a major axis A. The first housing comprises a first opening at a rear end thereof and a second opening at a front end thereof. The coupling device further comprises a tube extending from the first opening into the first housing along the major axis A. The first housing comprises a first sealing element. The coupling device further comprises a second housing comprising a channel extending through the second housing and a second sealing element arranged to seal the channel. At least one of the first and second sealing elements comprises an antimicrobial coating and a cavity on a front side of each of the first and second sealing elements. In a first stage of connecting the coupling device, the second housing is insertable into the first housing through the second opening thereof, the first sealing element and the second sealing element are configured to abut against each other to seal and separate the tube and the channel, and a cavity in at least one of the first and second sealing elements defines a first space when the first and second sealing elements contact each other. In a second stage of connecting the coupling device, the tube protrudes through the first and second sealing elements for connection with the channel that allows for transfer of fluid through the coupling device. In a first stage of disconnecting the coupling device, the tube is retracted through the first and second sealing elements, an end of the tube is surrounded by the second sealing element, and the tube and the second sealing element are configured to define a second space at the end of the tube, and the second space is at least partially filled with fluid. In a second stage of decoupling the coupling device, the tube is retracted through the first sealing element with an end of the tube proximate the second sealing element, fluid in the second space is released into the first space as the second space is compressed, and fluid in the first space contacts at least one of at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating on the first sealing element and at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating on the second sealing element, the antimicrobial coating being configured to provide an antimicrobial effect when in contact with the fluid.

[0011] Thus, the invention is based on the idea of ​​providing a coupling device for transferring fluids, which may allow a transfer of fluids through the coupling device sealed against the external environment when the coupling device is connected and a leak-free interruption of the transfer of fluids when the coupling device is disconnected. More specifically, according to a first aspect of the invention, when the coupling device is connected, i.e. in a first stage of the connection of the coupling device, the first sealing element and the second sealing element first form a seal when they abut against each other. According to a second aspect of the invention, a front cavity of the first and second sealing elements defines a first space when the first and second sealing elements come into contact. Then, in a second stage of the connection of the coupling device, the transfer of fluids is made possible by a tube of the coupling device protruding through (through) the first and second sealing elements. When the coupling device is disconnected, i.e. in a first stage of the disconnection of the coupling device, which may be caused by a pulling force applied to the coupling device, the tube is retracted through the first and second sealing elements and the end of the tube is surrounded by the second sealing element. In this first stage, according to a first aspect of the invention, the tube and the second sealing element are configured to define a first space at the end of the tube, which first space is at least partially filled with a fluid. The volume of the first space therefore corresponds to the properties of the tube and the second sealing element. Alternatively, in this first stage, according to a second aspect of the invention, the tube and the second sealing element are configured to define a second space at the end of the tube, which second space is at least partially filled with a fluid.

[0012] In a second stage of the decoupling of the coupling device, the tube is retracted through the first sealing element and the end of the tube is adjacent to the second sealing element. In this second stage according to the first aspect of the invention, the tube, the first and the second sealing elements are configured to define a second space at the end of the tube. The volume of the second space therefore corresponds to the characteristics of the tube and the characteristics of the first sealing element. As the tube is retracted through the first sealing element, the first space is compressed (compressed) and fluid from the first space is released into the second space as the first space and the second space are in fluid communication upon the compression of the first space. Thus, the fluid in the first space is released into the second space and comes into contact with at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the first sealing element and / or at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the second sealing element.

[0013] In a second stage according to the second aspect of the invention, the fluid in the second space is released into the first space as the first and second spaces are in fluid communication upon compression of the second space, and the fluid in the first space comes into contact with at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the first sealing element and / or at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the second sealing element.

[0014] The effect of the antimicrobial coating when in contact with a fluid is a germicidal effect due to the killing of bacteria and / or fungi.

[0015] As a result, after the disconnection of the coupling device, i.e. after the disconnection including the first and second stages of disconnection of the coupling device, the coupling device is then sealed again by the first and second sealing elements. In other words, the respective first and second sealing elements can conveniently stop the flow on either side of the respective sealing element upon disconnection / separation of the coupling device. Furthermore, the contact of the fluid with the antimicrobial coating of the first and second sealing elements reduces the growth and / or attachment of bacterial, fungal colonies and / or the formation of biofilms on the first and / or second sealing elements. Thus, the coupling device of the present invention can achieve excellent sealing properties and avoid leakage both during the transfer of fluid through the coupling device and during interruption of the flow of fluid through the coupling device as a result of separation or disconnection of the coupling device, the coupling device further providing antimicrobial properties due to its antimicrobial coating.

[0016] Based on the above, it should be noted that the first and second aspects of the invention are linked to form a single general inventive concept, in other words, the first and second aspects of the invention are alternative solutions to a particular problem.

[0017] It should be appreciated that the ability of the coupling device to mitigate any leakage of fluid is advantageous for safety reasons. For example, if the coupling device is provided for the transfer of toxic liquids, any leakage from the coupling device may be particularly dangerous. Thus, the coupling device of the present invention may greatly improve the safety of medical staff and / or patients.

[0018] Furthermore, the coupling device of the present invention is advantageous in that it may conserve fluid due to its advantageous sealing properties. For example, if the coupling device is used for the transfer of blood, the coupling device may reduce any blood loss and / or contamination of the environment caused by leakage if the coupling device is separated. Furthermore, due to its excellent sealing properties, the coupling device may reduce any contamination of the fluid (e.g. blood) transferred through the (connected) coupling device.

[0019] The present invention is further advantageous in that the coupling device provides for convenient separation (disconnection) of the coupling device. For example, when the coupling device is connected to a tube for medical purposes, pulling on the tube, for example by the patient and / or medical staff, can separate the second housing from the first housing of the coupling device, so that any further pulling on the tube can be relieved at the other end. It is understood that (medical) tubes commonly used in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, etc. may be desirable to be equipped with the coupling device of the present invention, since the coupling device can constitute a "weak link" of the tube. Thus, if a tube is connected between a patient and a source (for example an infusion pump or a bag) and further comprises a coupling device according to the present invention, the coupling device can constitute a "weak link" of the tube, and the tube can be "disconnected" as a result of pulling on the tube.

[0020] The coupling device is particularly advantageous when it is provided on a medical tube and connected to an element inserted in the patient for the transfer of fluids to and / or from the patient. This is understood because the movement of the element can not only be painful for the patient, but also lead to undesirable therapeutic outcomes for the patient if the transfer of fluids is not performed correctly due to the movement of the element. It is understood that the coupling device of the present invention provided on a medical tube for medical purposes can prevent equipment connected to the tube, such as (infusion) elements, pumps and / or bags, from damage caused by pulling on the medical tube.

[0021] It should be appreciated that the coupling device of the present invention provided on a medical tube can prevent equipment connected to the medical tube, such as (infusion) elements, pumps and / or bags, from being damaged by pulling on the medical tube.

[0022] The coupling devices of the present invention are further advantageous in that the consequences associated with medical staff and / or patients tripping and / or falling over medical tubing that includes one or more coupling devices may be mitigated.

[0023] The coupling device of the present invention is further advantageous in that it is easily, conveniently and efficiently (re)connected if it becomes separated or disconnected. For example, if a medical tube equipped with a coupling device according to the present invention becomes detached, it may be desirable to be able to resume (infusion) therapy as quickly as possible. The coupling device of the present invention meets this need, since (re)connection of the coupling device can be performed quickly and intuitively due to the innovative configuration of the coupling device.

[0024] With regard to the first aspect of the invention, the coupling device of the invention is further advantageous in that the creation of a first space in the second sealing element in a first stage of the disconnection of the coupling device and the creation of a second space in a second stage of the disconnection of the coupling device provide a convenient operation for allowing the antimicrobial coating of the first and / or second sealing element to come into contact with the fluid. Similarly, with regard to the second aspect of the invention, the coupling device of the invention is advantageous in that the creation of a second space in the second sealing element in a first stage of the disconnection of the coupling device and the provision of a first space defined by the cavities of the first and second sealing elements provide a convenient operation for allowing the antimicrobial coating of the first and / or second sealing element to come into contact with the fluid. It is to be understood that this operation can be repeated, i.e. the coupling device according to the first and / or second aspect of the invention can be connected and disconnected several times and the coating can come into contact with the fluid.

[0025] The coupling device of the present invention is further advantageous in that its components (e.g., first and / or second housings, first and second sealing elements, etc.) are designed to have relatively smooth exterior surfaces so that they can be easily and efficiently cleaned and / or sterilized. For example, after cleaning and / or sterilization of a disassembled coupling device, the respective components of the coupling device can then be reassembled into a coupling device.

[0026] The coupling devices of the present invention are further advantageous in that they are relatively inexpensive to manufacture and easy to assemble, and as a result, they can be designed to be primarily disposable, i.e., they can be used, for example, with one patient and one treatment (e.g., injection).

[0027] The coupling devices of the present invention are further advantageous in that their design minimizes dead space in the flow path through the coupling device, thereby reducing the incidence of infectious agents. Additionally, the design of the coupling devices of the present invention reduces fluid leakage.

[0028] The coupling device of the present invention is further advantageous in that the flow of fluid through the coupling device is linear along the major axis of the coupling device, which in turn allows the design of the coupling device to avoid undesirable turbulence of the fluid during operation of the coupling device.

[0029] According to the invention, the antimicrobial coating may be configured to provide an antimicrobial effect when in contact with a fluid, this embodiment being advantageous in that the antimicrobial effect, meaning the killing of bacteria, is conveniently initiated by the antimicrobial agent coming into contact with the fluid.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the antimicrobial coating may comprise a synthetic antimicrobial peptide. This embodiment is advantageous in that the antimicrobial effect is particularly effective by providing a (synthetic) antimicrobial peptide. It is noted that antimicrobial peptides have a broad spectrum of activity and are effective against drug-resistant pathogens. More specifically, the characteristics of the binding device may allow a fluid in contact with the antimicrobial coating to trigger the release of the peptide from the surface of the first and / or second sealing element, bringing the bacteria and the peptide together. This allows the peptide to break the bacterial membrane and kill the bacteria instantly.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first and second sealing elements may comprise a guide hole extending along the main axis A, which guide hole is arranged to guide the tube through at least one of the first and second sealing elements. It is to be understood that the first and / or second sealing elements, even if they comprise a guide hole, may retain excellent sealing properties due to the (very) small diameter of the guide hole, so that the fluid cannot pass through the guide hole. This embodiment is advantageous in that the guide hole may prevent and / or reduce wear of the first and / or second sealing elements during the projection and / or retraction of the tube into and / or out of the first and / or second sealing elements, respectively. In other words, the guide hole may minimize and / or prevent tearing of the sealing element material, so that undesired wear of the sealing elements and / or contamination of the fluid as it flows through the coupling device may be avoided.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first and second sealing elements may comprise an elastic membrane, and the at least one elastic membrane may have a convex shape and is configured to be flat when the first sealing element abuts against the second sealing element. It is to be understood that the elastic membrane is configured to be located (clamped) between the first and second sealing elements when the second and third housings are connected. It is to be understood that if each of the first and second sealing elements comprises a convex elastic membrane, when the membranes are pressed against each other, the membranes displace air to form an airtight seal and further minimize dead spaces. This embodiment is advantageous in that the sealing element may achieve an effective seal between the second and third housings by means of the elastic membrane, such that any leakage between the second and third housings may be avoided when the second and third housings are connected. This embodiment may therefore further improve the sealing properties of the coupling device. According to an example, the elastic membrane may comprise silicone. Silicone is particularly suitable for sealing purposes, which further improves the sealing of the coupling device. Furthermore, the use of a silicone membrane is advantageous in that the tube can penetrate the membrane without (or at least with minimal) tearing of the material, so that undesired wear of the membrane and / or contamination of the fluid as it flows through the coupling device can be avoided.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the invention, the coupling device may further comprise at least one third housing movably arranged in the first housing along the main axis A between a first position at a front end of the first housing and a second position at a rear end of the first housing, this third housing surrounding the first sealing element. By the term "movably arranged" it is meant here that the third housing may be arranged or attached in the first housing such that it is movable or moveable within the first housing.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the invention, the second housing may be insertable between the first housing and the first sealing element.

[0035] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the coupling device may further comprise a locking device. In the second position, the third housing is releasably connected to the first housing via the locking device. In other words, the third housing may be releasably connected to the first housing when the third housing is in its retracted second position in the first housing. It should be understood that this position of the third housing suggests a possible transfer of fluid through the coupling device, and that this embodiment is advantageous in that fluid may be transferred through the device in the fixed state of the coupling device, i.e. without the need to apply any pressure to one or more components of the coupling device.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the third housing is configured to be released from the connection with the first housing at the second position, whereby, when a force F applied along the main axis A towards the first position on the second housing connected to the third housing at the second position exceeds a predefined threshold, the third housing is configured to be moved from the second position to the first position, whereby the second housing is configured to be released from the connection with the third housing. Thus, when a (pulling) force applied to the second housing (or between the second housing and the third housing) exceeds a predefined threshold, the second housing is configured to be separated (decoupled) from the third housing by the disclosed configuration. This embodiment is advantageous in that, when the coupling device is subjected to a pulling force applied to the second housing exceeding a predefined threshold, only the second and third housings of the coupling device are configured to be separated, such that the transfer of fluid through the coupling device is interrupted. In other words, only the second and third housings are configured to be separated from each other when subjected to a relatively strong pulling force. Thus, the second and third housings of the coupling device are configured to remain connected when the coupling device is subjected to a relatively weak force that does not exceed a predetermined threshold, such that the coupling device retains its fluid transfer function.

[0037] It will be appreciated that when a tube for medical purposes is provided equipped with a coupling device of the invention, the coupling device is further advantageous in that the coupling device can be separated before any relatively large force applied to a portion of the tube on one side of the coupling device is transmitted to the other portion of the tube on the other side of the coupling device, For example, when an element is connected to the tube, the coupling device can mitigate any pulling, jerking, tugging, etc. of the element.

[0038] The coupling devices of the present invention are further advantageous in that the consequences associated with medical staff and / or patients tripping and / or falling over tubes that include one or more coupling devices may be mitigated.

[0039] This embodiment is advantageous in that the threshold force F can be conveniently set or determined depending on the purpose of the coupling device. For example, if the coupling device is used when a needle is inserted into a patient, the threshold force F can be determined to be relatively low. In contrast, if the coupling device is used when a urinary catheter is used, the threshold force F can be determined to be relatively high.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the invention, the coupling device may comprise a locking mechanism for releasable connection of the second housing with the third housing, this embodiment being advantageous in that the second housing may be conveniently connected (or decoupled) with the third housing by means of a locking element.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in the second position of the third housing, the second housing and the third housing can be connected by a locking mechanism. Thus, in the retracted second position of the third housing, the locking mechanism connects the third housing and the second housing to each other when the tube protrudes through the first and second sealing elements into the passage to allow the transfer of fluid through the coupling device. This embodiment is advantageous in that the locking mechanism can provide a reliable connection of the third housing and the second housing to each other such that the third and second housings provide a sealed (leak-proof) transfer of fluid through the coupling device.

[0042] According to one example of the invention, the second housing can include a first locking element of the locking mechanism and the third housing can include a second locking element of the locking mechanism, the first and second locking elements configured to releasably lock when the first and second locking elements rotate relative to one another. For example, a locking mechanism for connecting the third and second housings according to this or any previously disclosed embodiment can include a male-female connection. It is understood that a male-female locking mechanism can include at least one groove and at least one protrusion configured to protrude into the at least one groove.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the present invention, during the movement of the third housing and the second housing from the first position to the second position, the second locking element is configured to rotate relative to the first locking element for mating engagement with the first locking element such that the second housing and the third housing are connected in the second position, and during the movement of the third housing and the second housing from the second position to the first position, the second locking element is configured to rotate relative to the first locking element for disengaging the mating engagement such that the second housing and the third housing are decoupled in the extracted first position. In other words, when the third and second housings are pushed into the first housing of the coupling device from the first position to the second position, the third housing and the second housing connect by the first locking element and the second locking element rotating relative to each other. Similarly, when the third and second housings are pulled out of the first housing of the coupling device from the second position to the first position, the third housing and the second housing decouple by the first locking element and the second locking element rotating relative to one another.

[0044] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the first and second sealing elements can comprise an elastic membrane, the at least one elastic membrane comprising a guide hole and configured to be placed in a fitting of the first and / or second sealing element respectively, the size of the at least one elastic membrane being larger than the fitting such that the guide hole is configured to be compressed when placing the at least one elastic membrane in the fitting. This embodiment is advantageous in that the tube can be guided by the compressed guide hole when the tube protrudes through the sealing element. This embodiment is further advantageous in that the compressed guide hole can avoid or at least minimize tearing of the membrane material when the tube penetrates the sealing element.

[0045] According to one example of the invention, the coupling device may further comprise an alarm configured to generate an alarm if the coupling device becomes disconnected. For example, the alarm may be configured to generate an alarm if the third housing and the second housing become disconnected. This example is advantageous in that the alarm may quickly and effectively alert the patient, medical staff, and / or others that the coupling device has become disconnected or separated and that fluid transport through the coupling device (and, if the coupling device is provided on the medical tubing, also through the medical tubing) has been interrupted.

[0046] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the alarm may comprise a visual alarm and / or an audible alarm, which is particularly advantageous considering that patients often may have impaired vision and / or hearing, and is further advantageous in that the alarm may alert medical staff who are not in the same room as the patient.

[0047] According to one example of the invention, the coupling device may be configured to generate tactile feedback to the operator when the second housing is in the second position. By the term "tactile feedback" is meant here a physical sensation, warning, or the like that may be felt by the operator when handling the coupling device. For example, the coupling device may be configured to generate tactile feedback to the operator when the coupling device is connected, e.g., when the third housing is in its second position and connected to the first housing. This embodiment is advantageous in that the operator may be assured that the coupling device is correctly coupled or connected, e.g., when the third housing is in the retracted second position, whereby the coupling device is configured to allow the transfer of fluid through the coupling device.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a medical tube for transferring fluids to or from a patient is provided, which comprises at least one coupling device according to any one of the previous embodiments. In other words, the medical tube may comprise a first tube section and a second tube section, and the coupling device may be arranged between the first tube section and the second tube section. By the term "medical tube" is meant here substantially any tube for medical purposes, for example an infusion tube or a urinary catheter. This embodiment is advantageous in that the medical tube can be conveniently disconnected or separated by the coupling device. For example, pulling on the medical tube by the patient and / or medical staff may separate the third housing from the second housing of the coupling device, whereby any further pulling on the tube at the other end may be relieved. Thus, the medical tube may be provided with a "weak connection" by the coupling device, which is particularly advantageous for medical tubes used in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, etc. Additionally, medical tubing comprising the coupling device may provide increased safety for patients and / or medical staff as the antimicrobial coating of the coupling device provides antimicrobial properties.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a medical kit is provided comprising at least one medical tube according to the previous embodiment. The at least one medical tube comprises at least one coupling device provided at at least one end thereof and at least one element connected to the medical tube by the at least one coupling device. It is understood that the coupling device may be of substantially any type, for example a standardized coupling that may be capable of coupling to many different kinds of elements. For example, the (medical) element may be an element arranged for insertion into a patient and configured to transfer a fluid to or from the patient, such as a needle, a cannula, a catheter, a trocar, etc. Alternatively or additionally, the element may be at least one container arranged for supplying a fluid to / from the patient through the medical tube. This embodiment is advantageous in that the medical kit may improve safety during medical procedures, for example during injection procedures. More specifically, the medical kit may advantageously reduce the effects of medical tubing being subjected to forces, for example, due to pulling on the medical tubing by the patient and / or medical staff, and especially when the medical tubing is connected to elements for transferring fluids to and / or from the patient.

[0050] Further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon review of the following detailed disclosure, drawings, and appended claims. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that different features of the present invention may be combined to produce embodiments other than those described below.

[0051] This and other aspects of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the invention are shown. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0052] [Figure 1a] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1b]1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2a] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2b] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2c] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2d] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3a] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention; [Figure 3b] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention; [Figure 4a] 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention; [Figure 4b] 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention; [Figure 4c] 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention; [Figure 5a] 4A-4D are schematic diagrams illustrating locking and unlocking operations of a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 5b] 4A-4D are schematic diagrams illustrating locking and unlocking operations of a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the decoupling of a coupling device. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a medical kit according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0053] Figures 1a-1b are schematic diagrams of a coupling device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. It should be understood that Figures 1a-1b are presented for initial explanation of the coupling device 100, and that a more detailed description of the properties and operation of the coupling device 100 is presented in subsequent figures and associated text.

[0054] The coupling device 100 is provided for transferring fluid through the coupling device 100 when the coupling device 100 is in its connected state. In Fig. la, the coupling of the coupling device 100 is initiated, which is explained in more detail in the following text and related figures. In Fig. lb, the decoupling of the coupling device 100 is initiated. Finally, the coupling device 100 is decoupled (separated), thereby interrupting the transfer of fluid through the coupling device 100.

[0055] Figures 2a-2d are schematic cross-sectional views of a coupling device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. It should be understood that the four Figures 2a-2d disclose exemplary and instantaneous positions of connections of the coupling device 100 so as to enhance understanding of the operation of the coupling device 100. Disconnections of the coupling device 100 are presented in Figures 3a and 3b and 4a-4c.

[0056] FIG. 2a is a schematic diagram of a coupling device 100 for transferring a fluid, the coupling device 100 being shown in a cutaway state. The coupling device 100 comprises a first housing 110 of cylindrical shape with an elliptical cross section, the first housing 110 extending along a main axis A. The first housing 110 comprises a first opening 120 in a central portion of the rear end (e.g. bottom) of the first housing 110 and a second opening 130 in the front end of the first housing 110. The coupling device 100 further comprises a tube 140 extending from the first opening 120 of the first housing 110 along the main axis A into the interior of the first housing 110. The end of the tube 140 facing the interior of the first housing 110 may be sharp or pointed, the end of the tube 140 illustrated in FIG. 2a is beveled. However, the ends of the tube 140 may alternatively be straight, ie, without any sharp or pointed ends.

[0057] According to an example, the coupling device 100 may further comprise a third housing 200 surrounded by the first housing 110 and arranged in the first housing 110 to be movable along the main axis A. It should be understood that the third housing 200 may be arranged in the first housing 110 in a mating manner, for example by a groove or the like. In FIG. 2a, the third housing 200 is arranged in a first (drawn) position in the first housing 110. For example, the first drawn position may be a position towards (or at) the front end of the first housing 110. The coupling device 100 comprises a first sealing element 220, which according to the example of FIG. 2a is surrounded by and / or arranged in the first housing and / or the third housing 200. The first sealing element 220 is illustrated as a cushion or pad-like element arranged at the end of the tube 140 of the first housing 110.

[0058] The coupling device 100 further comprises a second housing 300, which is separated from the first housing 110 (and according to examples also from the third housing 200) of the coupling device 100 in the decoupled state of the coupling device 100. The second housing 300 comprises a channel 310 disposed therethrough. The second housing 300 further comprises a second sealing element 320 disposed to seal the second channel 310.

[0059] It should be understood that in the disconnected state of the coupling device 100 shown in Figure 2a, no fluid can pass through the coupling device 100. More specifically, the first sealing element 220 seals the tube 140 from allowing fluid to pass through the third housing 200 or the first housing 110. Similarly, the second sealing element 320 seals the second channel 310 from allowing fluid to pass through the second housing 300.

[0060] The first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320 may comprise or consist of a respective elastic membrane 600 for sealing purposes. The membrane 600 may comprise or consist of substantially any material suitable for sealing purposes, for example silicone. Furthermore, the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320 may have a convex shape. According to an alternative embodiment, the elastic membrane 600 may comprise a guide hole, i.e. a through hole for guiding the tube 140, and the elastic membrane 600 may be configured to be placed in a fastener of the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320 (not shown). Thereby, the size of the elastic membrane 600 may be larger than the fastener, such that the guide hole is configured to be compressed when the elastic membrane 600 is placed in the fastener.

[0061] The second housing 300 is insertable into the first housing 110 through the second opening 130 of the first housing 110. Thus, the first housing 110 can receive the second housing 300 through its second opening 130, and the second housing 300 can be accommodated in the first housing 110. The first housing 110 and the second housing 300 can have an elliptical cross section, whereas the third housing 200 can have a circular cross section. It should be understood that providing an elliptical cross section facilitates coupling between the housings. For example, the second housing 300 can be connected with the third housing 200 by a relative arrangement of 0° or 180° between the second housing 300 and the third housing 200.

[0062] In the exemplary embodiment of the coupling device 100 of FIG. 2a, the coupling device 100 comprises a locking mechanism 500 for releasably connecting the second housing 300 to the third housing 200. The second housing 300 comprises a first locking element 510 of the locking mechanism 500, the first locking element 510 having the form of one or more hooks protruding from the second housing 300. The third housing 200 comprises a second locking element (not shown) of the locking mechanism 500 for locking engagement with the first locking element 510 of the locking mechanism 500.

[0063] The coupling device 100 further comprises a locking arrangement 405 for releasably locking and / or connecting the third housing 200 to the first housing 110. The locking arrangement 405 comprises at least one groove 410 in the first housing 110 (shown in FIG. 3a) into which a locking element of the third housing 200 is configured to matingly engage. The locking arrangement 405 of the coupling device 100 may be configured to generate tactile feedback to the operator when the second housing 300 is in the second position. For example, the locking arrangement 405 may be configured to generate a snap and / or click sensation upon locking such that the operator may be informed or made aware that the third housing 200 is connected to the first housing 110 in the second position.

[0064] Fig. 2b is a schematic illustration of the coupling device 100 for transferring a fluid, where, compared to Fig. 2a, the second housing 300 is inserted into the first housing 110 via its second opening 130 and along the main axis A. Furthermore, in this state or position of the coupling device 100, the first sealing element 220 of the first housing 110 and / or the third housing 200 and the second sealing element 320 of the second housing 300 come into abutment. Here, both the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320 comprise a convex-shaped elastic membrane 600 such that the central portions of the respective elements are initially configured to come into contact when the second housing 300 is inserted into the first housing 110. In this embodiment, the convex-shaped membranes of the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320 are configured to be flat when the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320 come into abutment. In this manner, the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320 can seal and separate the tube 140 of the first housing 110 and the channel 310 of the second housing 300 .

[0065] 2c is a schematic illustration of the coupling device 100 for transferring fluid, where the third housing 200 and the second housing 300 are moving within the first housing 110. In this depicted current state of the coupling device 100, the convex-shaped membranes of the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320 are flattened as a result of the force between the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 330, and the original shape of the convex membranes is shown diagrammatically. During the movement of the third housing 200 (and the second housing 300) from the extended first position to the retracted second position of the second housing, the tube 140 of the first housing 110 gradually protrudes through the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320 for connection with the channel 310 to enable the transfer of fluid through the coupling device 100. Moreover, during this movement, the second housing 300 and the third housing 200 are configured to engage and releasably lock via a locking mechanism as the first and second locking elements rotate relative to one another.

[0066] 2d is a schematic diagram of the coupling device 100 for transferring fluid, where the third housing 200 is placed in a second position in the first housing 110 and the second housing 300 is connected to the third housing 200. In this position, the second housing 300 and the third housing 200 are connected by a locking mechanism (not shown). The tube 140 protrudes into or passes through the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320. Furthermore, the tube 140 fits into and exits the channel 310 of the second housing 300. In this configuration of the coupling device 100, the transfer of fluid through the coupling device 100 is enabled.

[0067] Figures 3a and 3b are schematic cross-sectional views of a portion of a coupling device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention. It should be noted that the features and / or reference numbers of the coupling device 100 related to the coupling device 100 described in Figures 2a-2d have been removed for simplicity and reference is made to Figures 2a-2d for a better understanding of the operation of the coupling device 100. It should be understood that the two Figures 3a and 3b disclose exemplary and instantaneous stages of decoupling of the coupling device 100 for a better understanding of the operation of the coupling device 100.

[0068] Fig. 3a is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the coupling device 100 in a first stage of decoupling of the coupling device 100 according to a first embodiment of the invention. In this first stage of decoupling of the coupling device 100, which may be caused by a pulling force applied to the coupling device 100, the tube 140 is retracted through the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320. Thus, in Fig. 2d, the tube 140, which in the second stage of connection of the coupling device 100 was in fluid contact with the channel 310 for the transport of fluid through the coupling device 100, is retracted such that the end 380 of the tube 140 is surrounded by the second sealing element 320. The coupling device 100 comprises a guide hole 420 in the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320, which is arranged to guide the tube through the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320. In this first stage, the tube 140 and the second sealing element 320 are configured to define a first space 400 at an end 380 of the tube 140. In FIG. 3a, the first space 400 is illustrated as a cone-shaped volume defined by (the end 380 of) the tube 140 and the second sealing element 320. It should be understood that the volume and / or shape of the first space 400 may depend on one or more properties of the second sealing element 320 and / or the tube 140, such as the material of the second sealing element 320, the material and / or shape of the tube 140, etc. For example, the volume and / or shape of the first space 400 may depend on the friction between the second sealing element 320 and the tube 140. In FIG. 3a, the first space 400 is at least partially filled with a fluid for which the coupling device 100 is arranged to transport when the coupling device 100 is in a connected state. In other words, a portion of the fluid that the coupling device 100 transports in the connected state, for which the coupling device 100 is configured, is present in the first space 400 at the first stage of decoupling of the coupling device 100 and at least partially fills the first space 400.

[0069] Fig. 3b is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the coupling device 100 in a second stage of decoupling of the coupling device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In this second stage of decoupling of the coupling device 100, compared to the first stage shown in Fig. 3a, the tube 140 is retracted through the first sealing element 220. Compared to Fig. 3a, the tube 140 in Fig. 3b is retracted through the second sealing element 320 such that an end 380 of the tube 140 is close to (a face of) the second sealing element 320. The tube 140, the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320 are configured to define a second space 410 at the end 380 of the tube 140. It should be understood that the volume and / or shape of the second space 410 may depend on one or more properties of the first sealing element 220 and / or the tube 140, such as the material of the first sealing element 220, the material and / or shape of the tube 140, etc. For example, the volume and / or shape of the second space 410 may depend on the friction between the first sealing element 220 and the tube 140. The first space 400 defined by the tube 140 and the second sealing element 320 in FIG. 3a is compressed in FIG. 3b as the tube 140 retracts. Thus, in FIG. 3b, the second sealing element 320 retains its original unbiased state, and the fluid that was present in the first space 400 in FIG. 3a has entered (discharged into) the second space 410.

[0070] The first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320 may each comprise an antimicrobial coating 330a, 330b. The antimicrobial coating 330a, 330b may be arranged or configured to provide or achieve an antimicrobial effect when in contact with a fluid. For example, the antimicrobial coating 330a, 330b may comprise a synthetic antimicrobial peptide. Due to the features of the coupling device 100, a fluid contacting the antimicrobial coating 330a, 330b may cause the peptide to be released from the surface of the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320, bringing the bacteria and the peptide together. This allows the peptide to break the membrane of the bacteria and kill the bacteria instantly.

[0071] It should be understood that antimicrobial peptides have a broad spectrum of activity and are effective against drug-resistant pathogens. One such fragment of host defense peptide, lactoferrin (present in breast milk), is called lactoferricin. Through extensive structure-activity relationship studies, its antimicrobial pharmacophore properties have been exploited in the small molecule AMC-109, which may constitute an antimicrobial peptide according to one embodiment of the present invention. AMC-109 can retain and amplify the antimicrobial properties characteristic of natural peptides while acquiring the properties required for an industrially applicable product, such as extended stability against metabolic degradation and ease of manufacture. AMC-109 is effective against a broad range of bacteria and fungi, such as Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA, Streptococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Cornebacterium, Pseudomonas, Escherichia coli, Enterobacteriaceae, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, and Candida.

[0072] In a second stage of disconnection of the coupling device 100 according to FIG. 3b, the fluid released from the first space 400 into the second space 410 comes into contact with at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating 330a of the first sealing element 220 and / or at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating 330b of the second sealing element 320.

[0073] Figures 4a-4c are schematic cross-sectional views of a portion of a coupling device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention. It should be noted that features and / or reference numbers of the coupling device 100 related to the coupling device 100 described in Figures 2a-2d have been removed for simplicity and reference is made to Figures 2a-2d for a better understanding of the operation of the coupling device 100. It should be understood that Figures 4a-4c disclose exemplary and instantaneous stages of connection and disconnection of the coupling device 100 according to the second aspect of the present invention for a better understanding of the operation of the coupling device 100.

[0074] Fig. 4a shows a schematic of the sealing elements 220, 320 of a part of a coupling device 100 according to a second embodiment of the invention. The coupling device 100 is in its disconnected state, which corresponds to the state of the coupling device 100 shown in Fig. 2a. The coupling device 100 comprises guide holes 420 in the first sealing element 220 and in the second sealing element 320, which are arranged to guide a tube (not shown in Fig. 4a for the sake of enlargement / improvement of understanding) through the first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320. The first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320 comprise an antimicrobial coating 330. The antimicrobial coating 330 is arranged on a front side 395a of the first sealing element 220 and / or on a front side 395b of the second sealing element 320. The first sealing element 220 further comprises a cavity 390a at its front side 395a, and the second sealing element 320 further comprises a cavity 390b at its front side 395b. According to this example, the cavities 395a, 395b are (mirror) symmetrical, but other shapes of the cavities 395a, 395b are also possible. In a first stage (not shown) of the connection of the coupling device 100 according to this second aspect of the invention, the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320 are thereby configured to abut each other, with the cavity 395a of the first sealing element 220 and / or the cavity 395b of the second sealing element 320 defining a first space when the first and second sealing elements are in contact.

[0075] 4b is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the coupling device 100 in a first stage of decoupling of the coupling device 100 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. In this first stage of decoupling of the coupling device 100, which may be caused by a pulling force applied to the coupling device 100, the tube 140 is retracted through the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320. Thus, the tube 140, which in FIG. 2d was in fluid contact with the channel 310 for the transfer of fluid through the coupling device 100 in the second stage of connection of the coupling device 100, is retracted such that an end 380 of the tube 140 is surrounded by the second sealing element 320. In this first stage, the tube 140 and the second sealing element 320 are configured to define a second space 400 at the end 380 of the tube 140. In Fig. 4b, the second space 400 is illustrated as a cone-shaped volume defined by (the end 380 of) the tube 140 and the second sealing element 320. It should be understood that the volume and / or shape of the second space 400 may depend on one or more properties of the second sealing element 320 and / or the tube 140, such as the material of the second sealing element 320, the material and / or the shape of the tube 140, etc. In Fig. 4b, the first space 400 is at least partially filled with a fluid. In other words, a portion of the fluid, through which the coupling device 100 is positioned for transfer, is present in the second space 400 and at least partially fills the second space 400.

[0076] Fig. 4c is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the coupling device 100 in a second stage of decoupling of the coupling device 100 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In this second stage of decoupling of the coupling device 100, the tube 140 is retracted through the first sealing element 220. In comparison with Fig. 4b, the tube 140 in Fig. 4c is retracted through the second sealing element 320 such that the end 380 of the tube 140 is close to (the face of) the second sealing element 320. The second space 400 defined by the tube 140 and the second sealing element 320 in Fig. 4b is compressed in Fig. 4c when the tube 140 is retracted. Thus, in FIG. 4c, the second sealing element 320 retains its original, unbiased state, and the fluid that was present in the second space 400 in FIG. 4b has entered (been released into) the first space 410 defined by the cavities 390a, 390b on the front sides 395a, 395b of the first sealing element 220 and the second sealing element 320, respectively.

[0077] The first sealing element 220 and / or the second sealing element 320 may each comprise an antimicrobial coating 330a, 330b. The antimicrobial coating 330a, 330b is arranged or configured to provide or achieve an antimicrobial effect when in contact with a fluid. For example, the antimicrobial coating 330a, 330b may comprise a synthetic antimicrobial peptide. In a second stage of disruption of the coupling device 100 according to the second embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 4c, the fluid released from the second space 400 into the first space 410 comes into contact with at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating 330a of the first sealing element 220 and / or at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating 330b of the second sealing element 320.

[0078] FIG. 5a shows a simplified view of a portion of the previously described coupling device 100, where the third housing 200 and the second housing 300 are extracted from the coupling device 100 in order to understand the locking operation of the third housing 200 and the second housing 300. The locking mechanism of FIG. 5a comprises a first locking element 510 of the second housing 300, which comprises two protruding portions each comprising a groove. The locking mechanism of FIG. 5a further comprises a second locking element 520 of the third housing 200, which comprises two protrusions. When the second housing 300 moves towards the third housing 200, as indicated by the arrow 535, the second locking element 520 is configured to rotate, as a result of which the second locking element 520 is guided by a groove (not shown) of the first housing, as indicated by the arrow 545. The second locking element 520 thereby rotates relative to the first locking element 510 into mating engagement with the first locking element 510 such that the second housing 300 and the third housing 200 are connected in the second position of the second housing 300. It should be appreciated that the third housing 200 in the second position is releasably connected to the first housing 110 via at least one groove 410 (see FIG. 2a) and the second locking element 520.

[0079] Similarly, Fig. 5b shows a simplified view of a portion of the coupling device 100 previously described and further shows an unlocking operation of the third housing 200 and the second housing 300 of the coupling device 100. During the movement of the third housing 200 and the second housing 300 from the retracted second position to the extended first position as indicated by the arrow 555, the second locking element 520 is configured to rotate relative to the first locking element 510 as indicated by the arrow 565. As a result, the second locking element 520 releases its mating engagement with the second housing 300. Thereby, the second locking element 520 is rotated relative to the first locking element 510 such that the second housing 300 and the third housing 200 are decoupled at the first position of the third housing 200.

[0080] 6 illustrates diagrammatically the decoupling of the coupling device 100 when a force F applied to the second housing 300 along the major axis A exceeds a predetermined threshold value FT. In this case, the third housing (not shown) is configured to be released from connection with the first housing 110 when in its retracted second position. The third housing and the second housing 300 are then configured to be moved from the second position to the first position, and the second housing 300 is configured to be released from its connection with the third housing. Eventually, the coupling device 100 is decoupled, thereby interrupting the transfer of fluid through the coupling device 100.

[0081] It should be appreciated that coupling device 100 may further comprise an alarm (not shown). The alarm may be configured to sound an alarm if coupling device 100 becomes disconnected. The alarm may comprise, for example, a visual alarm and / or an audible alarm. Additionally, the alarm may be coupled (wirelessly or wired) to any other equipment used by medical staff to monitor the patient.

[0082] FIG. 7 shows a medical kit 800 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The medical kit 800 comprises a medical (e.g. infusion) tube 700, which comprises a coupling device 100, which is shown in a schematic manner. One or more elements may be connected to the medical tube via a coupling device provided at the end of the medical tube 700, which may be of a standardized type for coupling to different kinds of elements. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, an element 810 is connected to the end of the medical tube 700, which is arranged for insertion into a patient and configured to transfer fluid to and / or from the patient. Furthermore, at the other end of the medical tube 700, the medical tube 700 is coupled to a container 820 (e.g. infusion bag) arranged to supply (infusion) fluid to the patient through the medical tube 700 and the element 810. It should be understood that the medical tube 700 may comprise multiple coupling devices 100, but FIG. 7 only illustrates the use of one coupling device 100 for simplicity. The coupling device 100 may further comprise at least one coupling device, for example located at one or both ends of the coupling device 100, for coupling to different types of elements. Furthermore, the coupling device may be of virtually any type, for example a standardized coupling capable of coupling to many different types of elements. For example, the coupling device may comprise a Luer lock type and / or a Luer slip type coupling.

[0083] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention is by no means limited to the preferred embodiments described above. On the contrary, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. For example, it should be understood that the figures are merely schematic illustrations of a coupling device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Thus, any elements / components of the coupling device may have dimensions, shapes and / or sizes different from those depicted and / or described.

Claims

1. A coupling device (100) for transferring a fluid, comprising a first housing (110) and a second housing (300) extending along a main axis A, The first housing comprises: a first opening (120) at its rear end; a second opening (130) at its front end; a tube (140) extending from the first opening into the first housing along the major axis A; and A first sealing element (220), The second housing comprises: a channel (310) through the second housing; and a second sealing element (320) arranged to seal the channel, wherein at least one of the first and second sealing elements comprises: an antimicrobial coating (330); and a cavity (390a, 390b) on the front side (395a, 395b) of each of the first and second sealing elements; In a first stage of connection of the coupling device, the second housing is insertable into the first housing through the second opening, the first sealing element and the second sealing element are configured to abut against one another to seal and separate the tube and the channel, and a cavity of at least one of the first and second sealing elements defines a first space (400) when the first and second sealing elements contact each other; In a second stage of the connection of the coupling device, the tube protruding through the first and second sealing elements for connection with the channel enabling transfer of fluid through the coupling device; In a first stage of decoupling the coupling device, the tube is retracted through the first and second sealing elements such that an end (380) of the tube is surrounded by the second sealing element; the tube and the second sealing element are configured to define a second space (410) at the end of the tube, the second space being at least partially filled with the fluid; In a second stage of decoupling the coupling device, the tube is retracted through the first sealing element with the end of the tube adjacent the second sealing element; The fluid in the second space is released into the first space when the second space is compressed, The fluid in the first space is at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the first sealing element; and contacting at least one of at least a portion of the antimicrobial coating of the second sealing element; The coupling device (100), wherein the antimicrobial coating is configured to provide an antimicrobial effect upon contact with the fluid.

2. The coupling device of claim 1 , wherein the antimicrobial coating comprises a synthetic antimicrobial peptide.

3. 3. The coupling device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second sealing elements comprises a guide hole (420) extending along the major axis A, the guide hole being arranged to guide the tube through at least one of the first and second sealing elements.

4. 3. The coupling device of claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the first and second sealing elements comprises an elastic membrane (600), the elastic membrane having a convex shape configured to flatten when the first sealing element abuts the second sealing element.

5. 3. The coupling device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least one third housing (200) movably arranged within the first housing along the main axis A between a first position at the front end of the first housing and a second position at the rear end of the first housing, the third housing surrounding the first sealing element.

6. 6. The coupling device of claim 5, wherein in the first stage of connection of the coupling device, the second housing is configured to be releasably connectable to the third housing and movably disposed within the first housing along the main axis A.

7. The coupling device of claim 6 , wherein the second housing is insertable between the first housing and the first sealing element.

8. The coupling device of claim 5 , further comprising a locking arrangement (405) whereby the third housing is releasably connected to the first housing via the locking arrangement in the second position.

9. When a force F applied to the second housing connected to the third housing at the second position along the main axis toward the first position exceeds a predetermined threshold, the third housing is configured to be released from the connection with the first housing at the second position, the third housing is configured to be moved from the second position to the first position; The coupling device of claim 5 , wherein the second housing is configured to be released from connection with the third housing.

10. The coupling device of claim 5, further comprising a locking mechanism (500) for releasable connection between the second housing and the third housing.

11. 11. The coupling device of claim 10, wherein the second housing comprises a first locking element (510) of the locking mechanism and the third housing comprises a second locking element (520) of the locking mechanism, the first locking element and the second locking element configured to releasably lock when the first locking element and the second locking element are rotated relative to one another.

12. 12. The coupling device of claim 11, wherein during movement of the third housing and the second housing from the first position to the second position, the second locking element is configured to rotate relative to the first locking element for mating engagement with the first locking element such that the second housing and the third housing are connected at the second position, and during movement of the third housing and the second housing from the second position to the first position, the second locking element is configured to rotate relative to the first locking element to release the mating engagement such that the second housing and the third housing are decoupled at the first position.

13. A medical tubing (700) for transferring fluids to or from a patient, said medical tubing comprising at least one coupling device according to claim 1 or 2.

14. At least one of the medical tubings of claim 13 further comprising at least one coupling device disposed on at least one end; and at least one element (810) connected to the medical tubing via the at least one coupling device.

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