Connector, catheter, catheter system, and medical device

Abstract

To provide a connector that can be connected easily.SOLUTION: A connector 40 includes a first component including a convex part protruding in an axial direction, a second component including a recess receiving the convex part from the first side in the axial direction, an annular first seal member 47 located on convex part and sealing between the first component and the second component, and an annular second seal member located on the convex part and sealing between the first component and the second component. The second seal member is located on the first side in the axial direction relative to the first seal member. The first component includes a first fluid passage LP1 opening at a position on the second side in the axial direction with respect to the first seal member, and a third fluid passage LP3 opening at a position between the first seal member and the second seal member in the axial direction. The second component includes a second fluid passage LP2 opening at a position on the second side in the axial direction with respect to the first seal member, and a fourth fluid passage LP4 opening at a position between the first seal member and the second seal member in the axial direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector, a catheter, a catheter system, and a medical device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a connector for connecting flow paths. The connector disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a male connector and a female connector. By inserting the male connector into the female connector in the axial direction, the male connector and the female connector are connected to form a flow path.

[0003] In Patent Document 1, before inserting a male connector into a female connector, the male connector is positioned in the circumferential direction about an axis parallel to the axial direction. However, performing circumferential positioning before inserting a connector is cumbersome and requires preparation time. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-146749 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide a connector that can be easily connected. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One embodiment of the present invention is as follows. <1> ~ <21> Regarding. <1> a first part including a convex part protruding in an axial direction; a second part including a concave part that receives the convex part from a first side in the axial direction; a first annular seal member located on the convex part and sealing between the first part and the second part; and a second annular seal member located on the convex part and sealing between the first part and the second part, wherein the second seal member is located on the first side in the axial direction of the first seal member, the first part including a first liquid path that opens at a position that is on the second side in the axial direction of the first seal member and a third liquid path that opens at a position between the first seal member and the second seal member in the axial direction, and the second part including a second liquid path that opens at a position that is on the second side in the axial direction of the first seal member and a fourth liquid path that opens at a position between the first seal member and the second seal member in the axial direction. <2> the first part is located between the first seal member and the second seal member and includes a first groove portion extending in a circumferential direction centered on an axis parallel to the axial direction, and the third liquid path opens into the first groove portion; and / or the second part is located between the first seal member and the second seal member and includes a second groove portion extending in a circumferential direction centered on an axis parallel to the axial direction, and the fourth liquid path opens into the second groove portion. <1> The connector described. <3> The first groove portion and / or the second groove portion extend in an annular shape. <2> The connector described. <4> the third liquid path and the fourth liquid path open into a gap between the convex portion and the concave portion located between the first seal member and the second seal member in the axial direction. <1> ~ <3> 1. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <5> The convex portion is cylindrical. <1> ~ <4> 1. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <6> The convex portion includes a first accommodating recess and a second accommodating recess, the first sealing member is an O-ring disposed in the first accommodating recess, and the second sealing member is an O-ring disposed in the second accommodating recess. <1> ~ <5> 1. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <7> The tip surface of the protrusion contacts the bottom surface of the recess. <1> ~ <6> 1. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <8> The protrusion inserted into the recess is rotatable relative to the recess about an axis parallel to the axial direction, the first liquid path opens on the axis toward a second side in the axial direction, and the second liquid path opens on the axis toward a first side in the axial direction. <1> ~ <7> 1. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <9> the valve further includes an annular third seal member that is located on the convex portion and seals between the first component and the second component, the third seal member being located on a first side in the axial direction relative to the second seal member, the first component further including a fifth liquid passage that opens at a position between the second seal member and the third seal member in the axial direction, and the second component further including a sixth liquid passage that opens at a position between the second seal member and the third seal member in the axial direction. <1> ~ <8> 1. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <10> The first component includes a plurality of first liquid paths and / or a plurality of third liquid paths. <1> ~ <9> 1. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <11> The second component includes a plurality of second fluid paths and / or a plurality of fourth fluid paths. <1> ~ <10> 1. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <12> One of the first part and the second part includes a protruding piece that protrudes in a direction non-parallel to the axial direction, and the other of the first part and the second part includes a guide recess through which the protruding piece can pass, and the guide recess includes a first portion that extends in the axial direction and a second portion that is connected to the first portion and extends in a direction non-parallel to the axial direction. <1> ~ <11> 1. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <13> the other of the first part and the second part includes a plurality of guide recesses, and the plurality of guide recesses have a rotationally symmetric configuration about an axis parallel to the axial direction. <12> The connector described. <14> the first component includes a first main body portion connected to the convex portion from the first side in the axial direction, and a cover tubular portion protruding from the first main body portion to the second side in the axial direction, the cover tubular portion being positioned around the convex portion, and the cover tubular portion being provided with one of the protruding piece and the guide recess; <1> ~ <13> 1. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <15> The first part and the second part are detachable from each other. <1> ~ <14> 1. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <16> a catheter body and a handle connected to the catheter body; <1> ~ <15> and a connector according to any one of the above, wherein one of the first part and the second part is connected to the handle. <17> The catheter body includes a balloon, an outer cylinder connected to a proximal end of the balloon, and an inner cylinder that passes through the outer cylinder, extends into the balloon, and is connected to a distal end of the balloon. <16> The catheter described. <18> <16> or <17> A catheter system comprising the catheter described above and a fluid source connected to the connector. <19> <1> ~ <15> A medical device comprising the connector according to any one of the above. <20> a first part including a convex portion protruding in an axial direction; a second part having a concave portion that receives the convex portion from a first side in the axial direction; a first annular seal member positioned on the convex portion and sealing between the first part and the second part; and a second annular seal member positioned on the convex portion and sealing between the first part and the second part, wherein the second seal member is positioned on the first side in the axial direction of the first seal member, the first part including a third liquid path that opens at a position between the first seal member and the second seal member in the axial direction, and the second part including a fourth liquid path that opens at a position between the first seal member and the second seal member in the axial direction. <21> A connector comprising: a first part including a convex portion protruding in an axial direction; a second part having a concave portion that receives the convex portion from a first side in the axial direction; and an annular sealing member that is positioned on the convex portion and seals between the first part and the second part, wherein the first part includes a liquid path that opens at a position that is on a second side in the axial direction of the sealing member, and the second part includes a liquid path that opens at a position that is on the second side in the axial direction of the sealing member, and the first part and / or the second part include a plurality of the flow paths. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, the first and second parts of the connector can be easily connected to each other. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a connector, for explaining an embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the connector shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the connector shown in FIG. 1; [Figure 4] 2 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the connector shown in FIG. 1; [Figure 5] 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in FIG. 2. [Figure 6] 2 is a perspective view of a second part of the connector shown in FIG. 1; [Figure 7] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the connector showing the first component and the second component connected at a different relative circumferential position from that shown in FIG. 2; [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 2, showing a modified example of a connector. [Figure 9] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 2, showing another modified example of the connector. [Figure 10] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 2, showing still another modified example of the connector. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 2, showing still another modified example of the connector. [Figure 12] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 2, showing still another modified example of the connector. [Figure 13] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 2, showing still another modified example of the connector. [Figure 14] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 2, showing still another modified example of the connector. [Figure 15] 1 is a diagram showing a catheter system as a medical device including a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is an enlarged partial view of the catheter system shown in FIG. 15. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings accompanying this specification, the scale and aspect ratios have been appropriately changed and exaggerated from those of the actual objects for ease of understanding. Configurations shown in some drawings may be omitted in other drawings. The scale and aspect ratios may differ between the drawings.

[0010] In this specification, terms that specify shapes, geometric conditions, and their degrees, such as "parallel," "orthogonal," and "identical," as well as values ​​of lengths and angles, are not limited to their strict meanings, but are interpreted to include a range within which similar functions can be expected.

[0011] To clarify the relationship between directions between the drawings, the axial direction D1, the circumferential direction D2, and the radial direction D3 are indicated by arrows with the same symbols in several drawings. The tip side of the arrow indicating the axial direction D1 is the first side in the axial direction D1. The side opposite to the tip of the arrow indicating the axial direction D1 is the second side in the axial direction D1.

[0012] The connector 40 according to the present embodiment includes a first component 50 and a second component 70. The first component 50 and the second component 70 each include a fluid path. By connecting the first component 50 and the second component 70, the fluid path of the first component 50 and the fluid path of the second component 70 can be connected so that a liquid can flow. The connector 40 according to the present embodiment is designed to easily connect the first component 50 and the second component 70, thereby enabling the fluid path of the first component 50 and the fluid path of the second component 70 to be connected so that a fluid can flow. In other words, the connector 40 according to the present embodiment allows the first component 50 and the second component 70 to be easily connected, thereby more reliably establishing a fluid path in a short period of time.

[0013] The connector 40 according to this embodiment is suitable for the medical device 10, for example. The medical device 10 may include one or more liquid flow paths. By applying the connector 40 to the medical device 10, it is possible to quickly and reliably connect an instrument to a liquid source. The connector 40 applied to the medical device 10 may secure multiple independent liquid flow paths.

[0014] An example of a medical device 10 to which the connector 40 can be applied is a catheter system 15. As shown in Fig. 15, the catheter system 15 may include a catheter 20, a first liquid source 16, and a second liquid source 17. The first liquid source 16 and the second liquid source 17 may each be a syringe or a pump. Examples of pumps include a roller pump, a diaphragm pump, a bellows pump, a vane pump, a centrifugal pump, and a pump formed by a combination of a piston and a cylinder.

[0015] 15 , the catheter 20 may include a catheter body 23, a handle 22, and a connector 40. The handle 22 is connected to the proximal end of the catheter body 23. Either a first part 50 or a second part 70 of the connector 40 is attached to the handle 22. Either the first part 50 or the second part 70 may be attached directly to the handle 22. Either the first part 50 or the second part 70 may be attached indirectly to the handle 22 via a tube or the like. Either the first part 50 or the second part 70 communicates with the catheter body 23 to allow fluid flow therethrough.

[0016] Figure 16 shows the distal end portion of the catheter 20 of Figure 1. As shown in Figure 16, the catheter body 23 includes a balloon 28, an outer sleeve 24 connected to a proximal end 28b of the balloon 28, and an inner sleeve 26 connected to a distal end 28a of the balloon 28. The inner sleeve 26 passes through the outer sleeve 24 and extends into the balloon 28. The catheter body 23 may further include a heating member 30 for heating the liquid in the balloon 28.

[0017] An outer lumen 32 is formed between the outer cylinder 24 and the inner cylinder 26. The outer lumen 32 is in communication with the interior space of the balloon 28. The outer lumen 32 functions as a liquid flow path. Liquid can be supplied into the balloon 28 through the outer lumen 32. By supplying liquid into the balloon 28, the balloon 28 can be inflated. As shown in FIG. 16 , the cylindrical inner cylinder 26 forms an inner lumen 34. The inner lumen 34 functions as a liquid flow path for liquid to be supplied into the body. The liquid flow path of the connector 40 may be in fluid communication with the outer lumen 32 and / or the inner lumen 34.

[0018] The connector 40, described below, includes a first liquid flow path and a second liquid flow path. The first liquid flow path may be in fluid communication with the outer lumen 32 and / or the inner lumen 34. The second liquid flow path may be in fluid communication with the outer lumen 32 and / or the inner lumen 34.

[0019] The longitudinal direction of the catheter body 23 is specified as the direction in which the central axis of the inner tube 26 extends. Furthermore, in this specification, the "distal" side used for each configuration of the catheter 20 and the catheter body 23 means the side away from the operator (operator) of the handle 22 and the catheter 20 along the longitudinal direction of the catheter body 23, or in other words, the tip side. Furthermore, the "proximal" side used for each configuration of the catheter 20 and the catheter body 23 means the side close to the operator (operator) of the handle 22 and the catheter 20 along the longitudinal direction of the catheter body 23, or in other words, the base end side.

[0020] In this specification, the term "liquid" does not only refer to liquids in the strict sense, but also includes colloidal solutions and suspensions in which solid particles are dispersed. An example of a liquid is a diluted contrast medium. The diluted contrast medium may contain a contrast medium and physiological saline.

[0021] Hereinafter, a connector 40 shown in Figs. 1 to 7 will be described as a specific example of this embodiment. The connector 40 shown in Figs. 1 to 7 forms a plurality of independent liquid flow paths. The independent liquid flow paths are not connected to each other so that liquid can flow. Being in fluid communication means that two target regions or liquid paths are connected so that liquid can move between them. Being in fluid communication so that liquid can flow between them is also called "fluid communication."

[0022] 1 and 2 are a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing the connector 40. Figures 3 and 4 are an exploded perspective view and an exploded cross-sectional view showing the connector 40. As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the connector 40 includes a first part 50, a second part 70, a first seal member 46, and a second seal member 47.

[0023] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the first component 50 includes a protrusion 54 protruding in the axial direction D1. The second component 70 is located on a second side of the first component 50 in the axial direction D1. As shown in FIG. 3 , the second component 70 includes a recess 74 that receives the protrusion 54 from a first side in the axial direction D1. The recess 74 is located on the second side of the protrusion 54 in the axial direction D1. The protrusion 54 is received in the recess 74 from the first side in the axial direction D1. As shown in FIG. 4 , the first seal member 46 is annular and located on the protrusion 54. The first seal member 46 provides a seal between the first component 50 and the second component 70. The second seal member 47 is annular and located on the protrusion 54. The second seal member 47 provides a seal between the first component 50 and the second component 70. The second seal member 47 is located on a first side of the first seal member 46 in the axial direction D1.

[0024] 4, the first component 50 includes a first fluid passage LP1 and a third fluid passage LP3. The first fluid passage LP1 opens at a position on the first side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. The third fluid passage LP3 opens at a position between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1.

[0025] 4, the second component 70 includes a second fluid passage LP2 and a fourth fluid passage LP4. The second fluid passage LP2 opens at a position on the first side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. The fourth fluid passage LP4 opens at a position between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1.

[0026] When the first component 50 and the second component 70 are connected, the first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 are in liquid communication. That is, liquid can flow between the first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2. When the first component 50 and the second component 70 are connected, the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 are in liquid communication. That is, liquid can flow between the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4. In this way, when the first component 50 and the second component 70 are connected, a liquid flow path formed by the first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 and a liquid flow path formed by the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 are formed independently.

[0027] Each component will be described in more detail below.

[0028] The first component 50 will now be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the first component 50 includes a first liquid path LP1 and a third liquid path LP3. The first liquid path LP1 includes a first liquid path first-side opening LP1a and a first liquid path second-side opening LP1b. The first liquid path LP1 extends between the first liquid path first-side opening LP1a and the first liquid path second-side opening LP1b. The third liquid path LP3 includes a third liquid path first-side opening LP3a and a third liquid path second-side opening LP3b. The third liquid path LP3 extends between the third liquid path first-side opening LP3a and the third liquid path second-side opening LP3b.

[0029] 3 and 4, the first component 50 includes a first main body portion 52, a protrusion portion 54, and a tubular cover portion 58. The first main body portion 52, the protrusion portion 54, and the tubular cover portion 58 may be injection-molded products. The first main body portion 52, the protrusion portion 54, and the tubular cover portion 58 may be integrally molded. The first main body portion 52, the protrusion portion 54, and the tubular cover portion 58 may be seamlessly formed from the same resin material.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 4 , the convex portion 54 is supported by the first main body portion 52. The convex portion 54 extends on an axis AX. When the first component 50 and the second component 70 are connected, the axis AX is parallel to the axial direction D1. The axis AX may pass through the center of the outer shape of the convex portion 54. The convex portion 54 may be cylindrical. The convex portion 54 may be elliptical cylindrical. The convex portion 54 may be prismatic, such as a triangular prism or a square prism. When the convex portion 54 is approximately cylindrical, the central axis of the cylinder may be the axis AX of the convex portion 54.

[0031] The protrusion 54 protrudes from the first main body portion 52 toward a second side in an axial direction D1 parallel to the axis AX. The protrusion 54 includes a tip surface 54a and a side surface 54b. The tip surface 54a faces the second side in the axial direction D1. The side surface 54b faces outward in a radial direction D3 perpendicular to the axis AX.

[0032] The outer side in the radial direction D3 is the side away from the axis AX in the radial direction. The inner side in the radial direction is the side closer to the axis AX in the radial direction D3. Although one radial direction D3 is shown in Figure 1 etc., the radial direction D3 can be set to any direction perpendicular to the axis AX.

[0033] The first liquid path first-side opening LP1a and the third liquid path first-side opening LP3a open to an end face facing the first side in the axial direction D1 of the first main body portion 52. The first liquid path second-side opening LP1b opens to the tip end face 54a. The third liquid path second-side opening LP3b opens to the side face 54b.

[0034] The first component 50 may include a first groove portion 55a. As shown in FIG. 2, the first groove portion 55a is located between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1. The first groove portion 55a may extend in a circumferential direction D2 centered on an axis line AX parallel to the axial direction D1. As shown in FIG. 5, the first groove portion 55a may extend over the entire circumference along the circumferential direction D2. As shown in FIG. 5, the first groove portion 55a may be annular. The third liquid path LP3 opens into the first groove portion 55a. The third liquid path LP3 is fluidly connected to the first groove portion 55a.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 2, the first groove portion 55a forms a first intermediate space S1. The first intermediate space S1 is a gap located between the convex portion 54 of the first component 50 and the concave portion 74 of the second component 70. The first intermediate space S1 is located between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1. As shown in FIG. 5, the first intermediate space S1 may extend in a circumferential direction D2 centered on an axis line AX parallel to the axial direction D1. As shown in FIG. 5, the first intermediate space S1 may extend over the entire circumference along the circumferential direction D2. The first intermediate space S1 may be annular. The third liquid path LP3 opens into the first intermediate space S1. The third liquid path LP3 is fluidly connected to the first intermediate space S1.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 2, the protrusion 54 inserted into the recess 74 may be rotatable relative to the recess 74 about an axis AX parallel to the axial direction D1. The protrusion 54 may be cylindrical. The recess 74 of the second component 70 may form a cylindrical space. The first liquid passage LP1 may open on the axis AX to a second side in the axial direction D1. The first liquid passage LP1 may open to a region of the tip surface 54a that intersects with the axis AX. The axis AX may pass through the first liquid passage second-side opening LP1b.

[0037] 3 and 4, the protrusion 54 may include a first accommodating recess 56a and a second accommodating recess 56b. The first accommodating recess 56a and the second accommodating recess 56b are formed on a side surface 54b of the protrusion 54. The first accommodating recess 56a and the second accommodating recess 56b may each extend along the circumferential direction D2. The first accommodating recess 56a and the second accommodating recess 56b may each extend over the entire circumference along the circumferential direction D2. In other words, the first accommodating recess 56a and the second accommodating recess 56b may be annular.

[0038] 3 and 4, the cover tubular portion 58 protrudes from the first main body portion 52 toward the second side in the axial direction D1. The cover tubular portion 58 is located around the protrusion 54. The cover tubular portion 58 is located outside the protrusion 54 in the radial direction D3. The cover tubular portion 58 surrounds the periphery of the protrusion 54. In the illustrated example, the cover tubular portion 58 is cylindrical.

[0039] The cover tubular portion 58 includes an inner surface 58a facing the protrusion 54. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cover tubular portion 58 may include a guide recess 59 on the inner surface 58a. The guide recess 59 may include a first portion 59a and a second portion 59b. The first portion 59a extends in the axial direction D1. The first portion 59a opens at an end surface of the cover tubular portion 58 in the axial direction D1. The second portion 59b connects to the first portion 59a on a first side in the axial direction D1. The second portion 59b extends in a direction non-parallel to the axial direction D1. The guide recess 59 including the first portion 59a and the second portion 59b is bent. The second portion 59b may extend in the circumferential direction D2. The second portion 59b may be slightly inclined with respect to the circumferential direction. The second portion 59b may be inclined with respect to the circumferential direction D2 so as to be positioned closer to the first side in the axial direction D1 as it moves away from the first portion 59a in the circumferential direction D2.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 3, the tubular cover portion 58 may include a plurality of guide recesses 59. The plurality of guide recesses 59 may have a rotationally symmetric configuration about an axis AX parallel to the axial direction D1. As shown in FIG. 3, the tubular cover portion 58 may include two guide recesses 59 having the same configuration at intervals of 180° in the circumferential direction D2 centered on the axis AX. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the plurality of guide recesses 59 have a two-fold symmetry configuration. The tubular cover portion 58 may also have a three-fold symmetry configuration, that is, three guide recesses 59 having the same configuration at intervals of 120° in the circumferential direction D2. The tubular cover portion 58 may also have a four-fold symmetry configuration, that is, four guide recesses 59 having the same configuration at intervals of 90° in the circumferential direction D2.

[0041] The second component 70 will now be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the second component 70 includes a second liquid path LP2 and a fourth liquid path LP4. The second liquid path LP2 includes a second liquid path first-side opening LP2a and a second liquid path second-side opening LP2b. The second liquid path LP2 extends between the second liquid path first-side opening LP2a and the second liquid path second-side opening LP2b. The fourth liquid path LP4 includes a fourth liquid path first-side opening LP4a and a fourth liquid path second-side opening LP4b. The fourth liquid path LP4 extends between the fourth liquid path first-side opening LP4a and the fourth liquid path second-side opening LP4b.

[0042] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 , the second part 70 includes a second main body portion 72. The second main body portion 72 includes a side wall portion 72a. The side wall portion 72a extends along a circumferential direction D2 centered on an axis AX parallel to the axial direction D1. The side wall portion 72a extends over the entire length along the circumferential direction D2. The side wall portion 72a is cylindrical. As described above, the second part 70 includes a recess 74 that receives the protrusion 54 from a first side in the axial direction D1. The recess 74 is formed by the second main body portion 72. The cylindrical side wall portion 72a and the recess 74 open to the first side in the axial direction D1. The second part 70 may be an injection-molded product. The second part 70 may be molded as a single unit. The second part 70 may be formed seamlessly from the same resin material.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 2, the recess 74 accommodates the protrusion 54. The recess 74 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the protrusion 54. The recess 74 may have a shape that is the inverse of the concave and convex shapes of the protrusion 54. The recess 74 may have a shape complementary to the protrusion 54. The recess 74 may have a cylindrical accommodation space. The recess 74 may have an elliptical cylindrical accommodation space. The recess 74 may have a prismatic accommodation space such as a triangular prism or a square prism.

[0044] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 , the recess 74 includes a bottom surface 74a and a side surface 74b. The bottom surface 74a faces a first side in the axial direction D1. When the first part 50 and the second part 70 are connected, the bottom surface 74a faces the tip surface 54a. In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the bottom surface 74a may contact the tip surface 54a. The side surface 74b faces inward in a radial direction D3 that is perpendicular to the axis AX that is parallel to the axial direction D1. When the first part 50 and the second part 70 are connected, the side surface 74b faces the side surface 54b from the outside in the radial direction D3.

[0045] The second liquid path second-side opening LP2b and the fourth liquid path second-side opening LP4b open to an end surface of the second main body portion 72 facing the second side in the axial direction D1. As shown in FIG. 6, the second liquid path first-side opening LP2a opens to the bottom surface 74a. As shown in FIG. 3, the second liquid path second-side opening LP2b is located on the first side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. As shown in FIG. 6, the fourth liquid path first-side opening LP4a opens to the side surface 74b. As shown in FIG. 3, the fourth liquid path first-side opening LP4a is located between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1.

[0046] In the example shown in Fig. 2, a first intermediate space S1 is formed by the first groove portion 55a. The first intermediate space S1 is located between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1. As shown in Fig. 2, the fourth liquid path LP4 opens into the first intermediate space S1. The fourth liquid path LP4 is fluidly connected to the first intermediate space S1.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 2, the protrusion 54 inserted into the recess 74 may be rotatable relative to the recess 74 about an axis AX parallel to the axial direction D1. The protrusion 54 may be cylindrical. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the recess 74 may form a cylindrical space. The second liquid path LP2 may open on the axis AX to a first side in the axial direction D1. The second liquid path LP2 may open to a region of the bottom surface 74a that intersects with the axis AX. The axis AX may pass through the second liquid path first-side opening LP2a.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 2, when the first component 50 and the second component 70 are connected, the side wall portion 72a is located between the protrusion 54 and the cover tube portion 58. In the illustrated example, the second component 70 includes a protruding piece 73 protruding from the second main body portion 72. The protruding piece 73 protrudes from the second main body portion 72 in a direction non-parallel to the axial direction D1. The protruding piece 73 may protrude outward from the second main body portion 72 in the radial direction D3. The protruding piece 73 is capable of passing through the guide recess 59. The protruding piece 73 has a dimension that allows it to move in the axial direction D1 within the first portion 59a of the guide recess 59. The protruding piece 73 has a dimension that allows it to move in the circumferential direction D2 within the second portion 59b of the guide recess 59.

[0049] The second component 70 may include multiple protruding pieces 73. The multiple protruding pieces 73 may be identical to one another. The number of protruding pieces 73 may be equal to or less than the number of guide recesses 59. The multiple protruding pieces 73 may have a rotationally symmetric configuration about an axis AX parallel to the axial direction D1. The central axis of rotational symmetry may be the rotational center axis AX of the relative rotation of the protruding portion 54 with respect to the recessed portion 74. The central axis of rotational symmetry may be the rotational center axis AX of the relative rotation of the first component 50 with respect to the second component 70. The second component 70 includes two protruding pieces 73 spaced 180° apart in the circumferential direction D2 around the axis AX parallel to the axial direction D1. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the multiple protruding pieces 73 have a two-fold symmetric configuration. The second component 70 may also have a three-fold symmetric configuration, including three identical protruding pieces 73 spaced 120° apart in the circumferential direction D2. The second component 70 may include four identical components 76 spaced at 90° intervals in the circumferential direction D2, forming a four-fold symmetric configuration.

[0050] The first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 seal between the convex portion 54 and the concave portion 74. This "seal" means making it difficult for liquid to pass between the convex portion 54 and the concave portion 74. Preferably, the first seal member 46 or the second seal member 47 prevents liquid from passing between the convex portion 54 and the concave portion 74 during normal use of the connector 40. The first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 may be an elastic member. The first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 may be made of rubber. The first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 may each be annular or circular. The first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 may each be an O-ring.

[0051] The first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 may be held on the protrusion 54. In the illustrated example, the protrusion 54 includes an annular first accommodating recess 56a extending in the circumferential direction D2. The first seal member 46 may be disposed in the first accommodating recess 56a. The first seal member 46 made of an elastic material may be disposed in the first accommodating recess 56a in a stretched state, and the first seal member 46 may be held on the protrusion 54. In the illustrated example, the protrusion 54 includes an annular second accommodating recess 56b extending in the circumferential direction D2. The second seal member 47 may be disposed in the second accommodating recess 56b. The second seal member 47 made of an elastic material may be disposed in the second accommodating recess 56b in a stretched state, and the second seal member 47 may be held on the protrusion 54.

[0052] Next, a method for using the connector 40 having the above-described configuration will be described.

[0053] When connecting the first component 50 and the second component 70, the protruding piece 73 of the second component 70 and the guide recessed portion 59 of the first component 50 are aligned in the circumferential direction D2. The protruding piece 73 is positioned within one of the guide recessed portions 59, and the convex portion 54 of the first component 50 is inserted into the recessed portion 74 of the second component 70. The convex portion 54 is inserted into the recessed portion 74 from a first side in the axial direction D1, and the first component 50 and the second component 70 are moved relatively in the axial direction D1 to approach each other. The first component 50 and the second component 70 may be moved relatively in the axial direction D1 until the tip surface 54a of the convex portion 54 and the bottom surface 74a of the recessed portion 74 come into contact with each other.

[0054] When the protrusion 54 is cylindrical, the first part 50 and the second part 70 can rotate relative to each other around the central axis line AX of the cylindrical shape. The first part 50 and the second part 70 rotate relative to each other in the circumferential direction D2. At this time, the protruding piece 73 moves from the first part 59a to the second part 59b of the guide recess 59. The protruding piece 73 entering the second part 59b restricts the first part 50 and the second part 70 from moving apart relative to each other in the axial direction D1. In other words, the first part 50 and the second part 70 are maintained in a connected state.

[0055] The first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 are held on the protrusion 54. By inserting the protrusion 54 into the recess 74, the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 are compressed between the first component 50 and the second component 70. The compressed first seal member 46 seals between the first component 50 and the second component 70. Of the gap located between the protrusion 54 and the recess 74, a region located on the second side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46 is closed by the first seal member 46. Of the gap located between the protrusion 54 and the recess 74, a region located between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1 is closed by the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47.

[0056] The first liquid passage LP1 of the first component 50 opens at a position on the second side (toward the tip surface 54a) of the first seal member 46 in the axial direction D1. The second liquid passage LP2 of the second component 70 opens at a position on the second side (toward the bottom surface 74a) of the first seal member 46 in the axial direction D1. Therefore, the first liquid passage LP1 and the second liquid passage LP2 communicate with each other. The first liquid passage LP1 and the second liquid passage LP2 are fluidly connected. Liquid can flow between the first liquid passage first-side opening LP1a and the second liquid passage second-side opening LP2b.

[0057] A gap between the convex portion 54 and the concave portion 74 formed on the second side in the axial direction D1 of the first seal member 46 can be used to form a liquid flow path. The first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 that open into this gap can be communicated regardless of the relative rotational positions of the first component 50 and the second component 70 in the circumferential direction D2.

[0058] The third liquid passage LP3 of the first component 50 opens at a position between the first seal member 46 and the second side in the axial direction D1. The fourth liquid passage LP4 of the first component 50 opens at a position between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1. Therefore, the third liquid passage LP3 and the fourth liquid passage LP4 communicate with each other. The third liquid passage LP3 and the fourth liquid passage LP4 are fluidly connected. Liquid can flow between the third liquid passage first-side opening LP3a and the fourth liquid passage second-side opening LP4b.

[0059] The gap between the convex portion 54 and the concave portion 74 formed between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1 can be used to form a liquid flow path. The third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 that open into this gap can be communicated regardless of the relative rotational positions of the first component 50 and the second component 70 in the circumferential direction D2.

[0060] The liquid flow path formed by the first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 is blocked from the liquid flow path formed by the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 by the first seal member 46. Therefore, when the first part 50 and the second part 70 are connected, the connector 40 includes a plurality of independent liquid flow paths.

[0061] The second portion 59b may be inclined with respect to the circumferential direction D2 so as to be positioned closer to the first side in the axial direction D1 as it moves away from the first portion 59a in the circumferential direction D2. According to this example, when the first component 50 and the second component 70 rotate relative to each other in the circumferential direction D2, the protruding piece 73 is guided toward the first side in the axial direction D1 by the second portion 59b of the guide recess 59, thereby enabling the second component 70 to be accurately positioned in the axial direction D1 relative to the first component 50. Therefore, the first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 can be stably communicated with each other. The first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 can be stably communicated with each other. The third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 can be stably communicated with each other.

[0062] 4, the inner dimension of the recess 74 may be smaller on the second side in the axial direction D1. When the first component 50 and the second component 70 rotate relatively in the circumferential direction D2, the protruding piece 73 is guided toward the first side in the axial direction D1 by the second portion 59b of the guide recess 59, and the seal members 46, 47 held on the protrusion 54 are further compressed between the protrusion 54 and the recess 74. This strengthens the sealing force of the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47.

[0063] As described above, the first component 50 and the second component 70 can be connected by moving the first component 50 and the second component 70 relative to each other in the axial direction D1 and further moving the first component 50 and the second component 70 relative to each other in the circumferential direction D2. In the connector 40 in which the first component 50 and the second component 70 are connected, a first liquid flow path including the first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 and a second liquid flow path including the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 are formed independently of each other. The connector 40 including the first liquid flow path and the second liquid flow path allows different liquids to flow at different flow rates.

[0064] In the illustrated example, the first part 50 and the second part 70 are detachable from each other. To release the connection between the first part 50 and the second part 70, the above-described procedure is reversed. That is, the first part 50 and the second part 70 are moved relative to each other in the circumferential direction. As a result, the protruding piece 73 moves from the second part 59b to the first part 59a within the guide recess 59. With the protruding piece 73 positioned in the first part 59a, the first part 50 becomes movable relative to the second part 70 in the axial direction D1. The first part 50 can be separated from the second part 70 by moving the first part 50 and the second part 70 relative to each other in the axial direction D1 and separating them.

[0065] In the specific example of the present embodiment described above, the connector 40 includes a first component 50, a second component 70, a first seal member 46, and a second seal member 47. The first component 50 includes a protrusion 54 protruding in the axial direction D1. The second component 70 includes a recess 74 that receives the protrusion 54 from a first side in the axial direction D1. The first seal member 46 is located on the protrusion 54 and provides a seal between the first component 50 and the second component 70. The second seal member 47 is located on the protrusion 54 and provides a seal between the first component 50 and the second component 70. The second seal member 47 is located on the first side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. The first component 50 includes a first liquid path LP1 and a third liquid path LP3. The first liquid path LP1 opens at a position that is on the second side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. The third liquid passage LP3 opens at a position between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1. The second component 70 includes a second liquid passage LP2 and a fourth liquid passage LP4. The second liquid passage LP2 opens at a position on the second side of the first seal member 46 in the axial direction D1. The fourth liquid passage LP4 opens at a position between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1.

[0066] According to the connector 40 of this embodiment, the first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 can be fluidly connected by utilizing the gap between the first component 50 and the second component 70 closed by the first seal member 46. Therefore, the first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 can be fluidly connected by inserting the convex portion 54 into the concave portion 74 without aligning the first liquid path second-side opening LP1b and the second liquid path first-side opening LP2a. The third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 can be fluidly connected by utilizing the gap between the first component 50 and the second component 70 closed by the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47. Therefore, the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 can be fluidly connected by inserting the convex portion 54 into the concave portion 74 without aligning the third liquid path second-side opening LP3b and the fourth liquid path first-side opening LP4a. The first liquid flow path, which is formed by the first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2, and the second liquid flow path, which is formed by the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4, are blocked by the first seal member 46. Therefore, by inserting the convex portion 54 into the concave portion 74, multiple independent liquid flow paths are formed, and the first and second components can be easily connected. In other words, the connector 40, which forms multiple independent liquid flow paths, can be prepared easily and quickly. For example, by applying the connector 40 to the catheter 20 or the medical device 10, the catheter 20 or the medical device 10 can be prepared more reliably in a short time.

[0067] In one specific example of the present embodiment, the first component 50 may include a first groove 55a located between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 and extending in the circumferential direction D2 centered on the axis line AX parallel to the axial direction D1, and the third liquid passage LP3 may open into the first groove 55a. In addition to or instead of the first groove 55a, the second component 70 may include a second groove 75b (see dotted line in FIG. 2 ) located between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 and extending in the circumferential direction D2 centered on the axis line AX parallel to the axial direction D1, and the fourth liquid passage LP4 may open into the second groove 75b.

[0068] The first groove portion 55a and / or the second groove portion 75b can more stably communicate the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 so that the fluid flows through them without aligning the third liquid path second-side opening LP3b and the fourth liquid path first-side opening LP4a. That is, the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 can be communicated with each other without precisely positioning the first component 50 and the second component 70 in the circumferential direction D2. For example, in the specific example described above, the protruding piece 73 may be made smaller and the first portion 59a of the guide recess 59 may be made thicker, thereby making it easier to position the first component 50 and the second component 70 in the circumferential direction D2 when inserting the convex portion 54 into the recess 74. Even in this case, the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 can be communicated with each other stably.

[0069] Furthermore, the first groove portion 55a and / or the second groove portion 75b can significantly reduce friction loss in the liquid flow path formed by the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4.

[0070] In one specific example of the present embodiment, the first groove portion 55a and / or the second groove portion 75b may be annular. That is, the first groove portion 55a and / or the second groove portion 75b may extend over the entire length along the circumferential direction D2. The annular first groove portion 55a and / or the annular second groove portion 75b allow the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 to communicate more stably without requiring precise positioning of the first component 50 and the second component 70 in the circumferential direction D2. Furthermore, the first groove portion 55a and / or the second groove portion 75b significantly reduce friction loss in the liquid flow path formed by the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4.

[0071] In one specific example of the present embodiment, the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 may open into a first intermediate space S1 between the convex portion 54 and the concave portion 74 that are located between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1. According to this specific example, the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 can be communicated more stably without the need to precisely position the first component 50 and the second component 70 in the circumferential direction D2. In addition, friction loss in the liquid flow path formed by the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 can be significantly reduced.

[0072] In one specific example of the present embodiment, the protrusion 54 may be cylindrical. By making the protrusion 54 cylindrical, the protrusion 54 can be inserted into the recess 74 without having to be positioned relative to the recess 74 in the circumferential direction D2. This makes it possible to easily connect the first component 50 and the second component 70.

[0073] In one specific example of the present embodiment, the protrusion 54 may include a first accommodating recess 56a and a second accommodating recess 56b. The first seal member 46 may be an O-ring disposed in the first accommodating recess 56a. The second seal member 47 may be an O-ring disposed in the second accommodating recess 56b. By providing the first accommodating recess 56a and the second accommodating recess 56b in the protrusion 54, the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 can be stably held on the protrusion 54. By inserting the protrusion 54 holding the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 into the recess 74, the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 can be positioned at appropriate positions between the first component 50 and the second component 70. Multiple fluid passages independent of each other can be stably formed in the connector 40.

[0074] In one specific example of the present embodiment, when first component 50 and second component 70 are connected, tip surface 54a of convex portion 54 may contact bottom surface 74a of concave portion 74. According to this specific example, first component 50 and second component 70 can be easily positioned in axial direction D1 with high accuracy.

[0075] In one specific example of the present embodiment, the protrusion 54 inserted into the recess 74 may be rotatable relative to the recess 74 about an axis AX parallel to the axial direction D1. The first liquid path LP1 may open to a second side in the axial direction D1 on the axis AX. The second liquid path LP2 may open to a first side in the axial direction D1 on the axis AX. According to this specific example, the first liquid path second-side opening LP1b and the second liquid path first-side opening LP2a can be made to face each other along the axis AX regardless of the relative positions of the protrusion 54 and the recess 74 in the circumferential direction D2. In other words, the first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 can be more stably connected so that the fluid flows without aligning the protrusion 54 and the recess 74 in the circumferential direction D2. Furthermore, according to this specific example, friction loss in the liquid flow path formed by the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 can be reduced.

[0076] In one specific example of the present embodiment, one of the first part 50 and the second part 70 includes a protruding piece 73 that protrudes in a direction non-parallel to the axial direction D1 (e.g., radial direction D3). The other of the first part 50 and the second part 70 includes a guide recess 59 through which the protruding piece 73 can pass. The guide recess 59 includes a first portion 59a that extends in the axial direction D1 and a second portion 59b that is connected to the first portion 59a and extends in a direction non-parallel to the axial direction D1 (e.g., circumferential direction D2). According to this specific example, relative movement of the first part 50 and the second part 70 in the axial direction D1 can be restricted with multiple liquid flow paths formed in the connector 40. The connector 40 can stably secure multiple liquid flow paths.

[0077] In the illustrated example, the second component 70 includes the protruding piece 73, and the first component 50 includes the guide recess 59. However, the present embodiment is not limited to this example. The first component 50 may include the protruding piece 73, and the second component 70 may include the guide recess 59.

[0078] In the illustrated example, the guide recess 59 is provided in the cover tube portion 58, and the protruding piece 73 is provided on the outer surface of the side wall portion 72a in the radial direction D3. However, this embodiment is not limited to this example. One of the protruding piece 73 and the guide recess 59 may be provided on the convex portion 54, and the other of the protruding piece 73 and the guide recess 59 may be provided on the inner surface of the side wall portion 72a in the radial direction D3.

[0079] In one specific example of this embodiment, the other of the first component 50 and the second component 70 may include a plurality of guide recesses 59. The plurality of guide recesses 59 may have a rotationally symmetric configuration about an axis line AX parallel to the axial direction D1. The first component 50 and the second component 70 may be aligned in the circumferential direction D2 so that the protruding piece 73 is inserted into one of the plurality of guide recesses 59. This allows the first component 50 and the second component 70 to be aligned easily in the circumferential direction D2 with a high degree of freedom. As an example, the second component 70 shown in FIG. 7 is connected to the first component 50 after being rotated 180° in the circumferential direction D2 relative to the first component 50 from the state shown in FIG. 2. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the third liquid path second-side opening LP3b and the fourth liquid path first-side opening LP4a are positioned 180° apart in the circumferential direction D2 but are fluidly connected via the first groove portion 55a (first intermediate space S1).

[0080] One of the first component 50 and the second component 70 may include a plurality of protruding pieces 73. The plurality of protruding pieces 73 may have a configuration that is rotationally symmetric about an axis line AX that is parallel to the axial direction D1.

[0081] Although the present embodiment has been described with reference to specific examples, the above-described specific examples do not limit the present embodiment. The present embodiment can be implemented with various other specific examples, and various omissions, substitutions, changes, additions, etc. can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0082] An example of the modification will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description and the drawings used in the following description, parts that can be configured similarly to the above-described specific example will be designated by the same reference numerals as those used for the corresponding parts in the above-described specific example, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0083] In the above-described specific examples, the first component 50 includes a single first fluid path LP1. The first component 50 includes a single third fluid path LP3. However, the present embodiment is not limited to these examples.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 8 , the first component 50 may include multiple first liquid paths LP1. Each of the multiple first liquid paths LP1 opens at a position on the second side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. In the example shown in FIG. 8 , two first liquid paths LP1 fluidly communicate with one or more second liquid paths LP2 via gaps between the convex portion 54 and the concave portion 74 located on the second side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. According to this modification, the multiple first liquid paths LP1 and the second liquid paths LP2 can be fluidly communicated with each other. Liquid can flow from the multiple first liquid paths LP1 to merge into the second liquid path LP2, or liquid can flow from the second liquid path LP2 to branch into the multiple first liquid paths LP1.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 9 , the first component 50 may include multiple third liquid paths LP3. Each of the multiple third liquid paths LP3 opens at a position between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1. In the example shown in FIG. 9 , two third liquid paths LP3 fluidly communicate with one or more fourth liquid paths LP4 through gaps between the convex portion 54 and the concave portion 74 located between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1. According to this modification, the multiple third liquid paths LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 can be fluidly communicated with each other. Liquid can flow from the multiple third liquid paths LP3 to merge into the fourth liquid path LP4, or liquid can flow from the fourth liquid path LP4 to branch into the multiple third liquid paths LP3.

[0086] In the above-described specific examples, the second component 70 includes a single second fluid passage LP2. The second component 70 includes a single fourth fluid passage LP4. However, the present embodiment is not limited to these examples.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 10 , the second component 70 may include multiple second liquid paths LP2. Each of the multiple second liquid paths LP2 opens at a position on the second side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. In the example shown in FIG. 10 , two second liquid paths LP2 fluidly communicate with one or more first liquid paths LP1 via gaps between the convex portion 54 and the concave portion 74 located on the second side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. According to this modification, the first liquid path LP1 and the multiple second liquid paths LP2 can be fluidly communicated with each other. Liquid can flow from the multiple second liquid paths LP2 to merge with the first liquid path LP1, or liquid can flow from the first liquid path LP1 to the multiple second liquid paths LP2.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 11 , the second component 70 may include a plurality of fourth liquid passages LP4. Each of the plurality of fourth liquid passages LP4 opens at a position between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1. In the example shown in FIG. 11 , two fourth liquid passages LP4 fluidly communicate with one or more third liquid passages LP3 through gaps between the convex portion 54 and the concave portion 74 located between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1. According to this modification, the third liquid passage LP3 can be fluidly communicated with the plurality of fourth liquid passages LP4. Liquid can flow from the plurality of fourth liquid passages LP4 to merge into the third liquid passage LP3, or liquid can flow from the third liquid passage LP3 to branch into the plurality of fourth liquid passages LP4.

[0089] In the above-described specific example, the first component 50 includes two seal members 46 and 47, forming two independent liquid flow paths. However, this embodiment is not limited to this example. As shown in FIG. 12 , the connector 40 may further include an annular third seal member 48 positioned on the protrusion 54. The third seal member 48 provides a seal between the first component 50 and the second component 70. The third seal member 48 is positioned on the first side in the axial direction D1 relative to the second seal member 47. The first component 50 further includes a fifth liquid path LP5 that opens at a position between the second seal member 47 and the third seal member 48 in the axial direction D1. The second component 70 further includes a sixth liquid path LP6 that opens at a position between the second seal member 47 and the third seal member 48 in the axial direction D1. According to this modification, the fifth liquid path LP5 and the sixth liquid path LP6 can be fluidly connected by inserting the protrusion 54 of the first component 50 into the recess 74 of the second component 70. By inserting the convex portion 54 of the first component 50 into the concave portion 74 of the second component 70 without aligning the fifth liquid path LP5 and the sixth liquid path LP6, the first component 50 and the second component 70 can be connected to form three independent liquid flow paths. This allows for easy and quick preparation of a connector that forms three independent liquid flow paths. For example, when applied to a catheter 20 or a medical device 10, the catheter 20 or the medical device 10 can be prepared more reliably in a short time.

[0090] The connector 40 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 12, and may include four or more sealing members, and may form four or more independent liquid flow paths.

[0091] In the specific example described above, the connector 40 includes the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47, the first component 50 includes the first fluid path LP1 and the third fluid path LP3, and the second component 70 includes the second fluid path LP2 and the fourth fluid path LP4. However, the present embodiment is not limited to this example.

[0092] The first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 may be omitted from the specific example described above. In this modification, the connector 40 includes a first component 50 including a protrusion 54 protruding in the axial direction D1, a second component 70 having a recess 74 that receives the protrusion 54 from a first side in the axial direction D1, an annular first seal member 46 positioned on the protrusion, and an annular second seal member 47 positioned on the protrusion. The first seal member 46 provides a seal between the first component 50 and the second component 70. The second seal member 47 provides a seal between the first component 50 and the second component 70. The second seal member 47 is positioned closer to the first side in the axial direction D1 than the first seal member 46. The first component 50 includes a third liquid path that opens between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1. The second component 70 includes a fourth liquid path LP4 that opens between the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47 in the axial direction D1.

[0093] According to this modification, the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 can be connected to each other so that the fluid flows therethrough by utilizing the gap between the first component 50 and the second component 70, which are closed by the first seal member 46 and the second seal member 47. Therefore, the third liquid path LP3 and the fourth liquid path LP4 can be connected to each other so that the fluid flows therethrough by inserting the convex portion 54 into the concave portion 74, without aligning the third liquid path second-side opening LP3b and the fourth liquid path first-side opening LP4a. This modification also allows for easy and quick preparation of the connector 40 that forms the liquid flow path. For example, by applying the connector 40 to a catheter 20 or a medical device 10, the catheter 20 or the medical device 10 can be prepared more reliably in a short time.

[0094] The second seal member 47, the third liquid passage LP3, and the fourth liquid passage LP4 may be omitted from the above-described specific example. In this modification, the first component 50 may include multiple first liquid passages LP1. The second component 70 may include multiple second liquid passages LP2. In the example shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 , the first component 50 includes a protrusion 54 protruding in the axial direction D1, a second component 70 having a recess 74 that receives the protrusion 54 from a first side in the axial direction D1, and an annular seal member (first seal member) 46 positioned on the protrusion 54. The first component 50 includes a liquid passage (first liquid passage) LP1 that opens at a position that is closer to the second side in the axial direction D1 than the seal member 46. The second component 70 includes a liquid passage (second liquid passage) LP2 that opens at a position that is closer to the second side in the axial direction D1 than the seal member 46.

[0095] According to this modification, the first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 can be connected to each other so that the fluid flows therethrough by utilizing the gap between the first component 50 and the second component 70, which are closed by the first seal member 46. Therefore, the first liquid path LP1 and the second liquid path LP2 can be connected to each other so that the fluid flows therethrough by inserting the convex portion 54 into the concave portion 74, without aligning the first liquid path second-side opening LP1b and the second liquid path first-side opening LP2a. This modification also allows for easy and quick preparation of the connector 40 that forms the liquid flow path. For example, by applying the connector 40 to a catheter 20 or a medical device 10, the catheter 20 or the medical device 10 can be prepared more reliably in a short time.

[0096] In the example shown in FIG. 13, the first component 50 includes a plurality of liquid paths (first liquid paths) LP1. Each of the plurality of first liquid paths LP1 opens at a position on the second side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. In the example shown in FIG. 13, two first liquid paths LP1 fluidly communicate with one or more second liquid paths LP2 via gaps between the convex portion 54 and the concave portion 74 located on the second side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. According to this modification, the plurality of first liquid paths LP1 and the second liquid paths LP2 can be fluidly communicated with each other. Liquid can flow from the plurality of first liquid paths LP1 to merge into the second liquid path LP2, or liquid can flow from the second liquid path LP2 to branch into the plurality of first liquid paths LP1.

[0097] In the example shown in FIG. 14, the second component 70 includes a plurality of liquid paths (second liquid paths) LP2. Each of the plurality of second liquid paths LP2 opens at a position on the second side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. In the example shown in FIG. 14, two second liquid paths LP2 fluidly communicate with one or more first liquid paths LP1 via gaps between the convex portion 54 and the concave portion 74 located on the second side in the axial direction D1 relative to the first seal member 46. According to this modification, the first liquid path LP1 and the plurality of second liquid paths LP2 can be fluidly communicated with each other. Liquid can flow from the plurality of second liquid paths LP2 to merge into the first liquid path LP1, or liquid can flow from the first liquid path LP1 to branch into the plurality of second liquid paths LP2.

[0098] Although several modifications to the above-described embodiment have been described, it is also possible to apply a plurality of modifications in appropriate combination. [Explanation of symbols]

[0099] 10: medical device, 15: catheter system, 16: first liquid source, 17: second liquid source, 20: catheter, 22: handle, 40: connector, 46: first seal member, 47: second seal member, 48: third seal member, 50: first part, 54: convex portion, 54a: tip surface, 55a: first groove portion, 56a: first accommodating recess, 56b: second accommodating recess, 59: guiding recess, 59a: first part, 59b: second part, 70: second part, 73: protruding piece, 74: recess, 74a: bottom surface, 75b: second groove portion, D1: axial direction, D2: circumferential direction, D3: radial direction, AX: axis, LP1: first liquid path, LP2: second liquid path, LP3: third liquid path, LP4: fourth liquid path, LP5: fifth liquid path, LP6: sixth liquid path

Claims

1. a first component including a protrusion protruding in an axial direction; a second component including a recess that receives the protrusion from a first side in the axial direction; a first annular seal member positioned on the protrusion and sealing between the first component and the second component; a second annular seal member positioned on the protrusion and sealing between the first component and the second component, the second seal member is located on a first side in the axial direction relative to the first seal member, the first component includes a first fluid passage that opens at a position on a second side in the axial direction relative to the first seal member, and a third fluid passage that opens at a position between the first seal member and the second seal member in the axial direction, The second part of the connector includes a second liquid passage that opens to a position on the second side in the axial direction relative to the first sealing member, and a fourth liquid passage that opens to a position between the first sealing member and the second sealing member in the axial direction.

2. the first component includes a first groove portion located between the first seal member and the second seal member and extending in a circumferential direction around an axis parallel to the axial direction, and the third fluid passage opens into the first groove portion; and / or 2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the second part includes a second groove portion located between the first seal member and the second seal member and extending circumferentially about an axis parallel to the axial direction, and the fourth liquid path opens into the second groove portion.

3. The connector according to claim 2 , wherein the first groove and / or the second groove extend in an annular shape.

4. the protrusion includes a first accommodating recess and a second accommodating recess, the first seal member is an O-ring disposed in the first accommodating recess, 4. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the second seal member is an O-ring disposed in the second accommodating recess.

5. the protrusion inserted into the recess is rotatable relative to the recess about an axis parallel to the axial direction, the first fluid passage is open on the axis line toward a second side in the axial direction, The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second fluid path opens on the axis toward a first side in the axial direction.

6. a third annular seal member positioned on the protrusion and sealing between the first component and the second component; the third seal member is located on a first side in the axial direction relative to the second seal member, the first component further includes a fifth fluid passage that opens at a position between the second seal member and the third seal member in the axial direction, The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second part further includes a sixth fluid passage that opens at a position between the second seal member and the third seal member in the axial direction.

7. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first component includes a plurality of first fluid paths and / or a plurality of third fluid paths.

8. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second component includes a plurality of second fluid paths and / or a plurality of fourth fluid paths.

9. one of the first component and the second component includes a protruding piece protruding in a direction non-parallel to the axial direction, the other of the first component and the second component includes a guide recess through which the protruding piece can pass, A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the guide recess includes a first portion extending in the axial direction and a second portion connected to the first portion and extending in a direction non-parallel to the axial direction.

10. the other of the first part and the second part includes a plurality of guide recesses; The connector according to claim 9 , wherein the plurality of guide recesses have a configuration that is rotationally symmetrical about an axis parallel to the axial direction.

11. A catheter body; a handle connected to the catheter body; The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 10, The catheter, wherein one of the first and second parts is connected to the handle.

12. The catheter according to claim 11; a fluid source connected to the connector.

13. A medical device comprising the connector according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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