Intravenous Catheter Clamp

Abstract

A fluid clamp is described herein. The fluid clamp comprises a clamp body and a rotor. The clamp body includes a first valve element and a second valve element. Each valve element includes a valve extension and a valve end extending from the valve extension. The first valve element and the second valve element are positioned opposite one another to allow a tube to pass between the first valve element and the second valve element. The rotor is rotatably coupled to the clamp body. Rotation of the rotor moves the valve end of at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element to regulate a flow rate through the tube.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to fluid clamps, and more particularly to fluid clamps for intravenous (IV) sets. [Background technology]

[0002] Medical procedures often involve infusing a patient with a medical fluid (e.g., saline or liquid medication) using an intravenous (IV) catheter that is connected to a fluid source, e.g., an IV bag, through an arrangement of flexible tubing and fittings commonly referred to as an "IV set." Often, the flow rate through the tubing is adjusted to control the rate of infusion to the patient. The device for adjusting the flow rate through the tubing may not be fixed at the desired flow rate.

[0003] Thus, in some applications, the injection rate may be altered inadvertently or by unauthorized personnel. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The disclosed subject matter relates to a fluid clamp for an IV set. In certain embodiments, a fluid clamp is disclosed that includes a clamp body including a first valve element and a second valve element, each valve element including a valve extension and a valve end extending from the valve extension, the first valve element and the second valve element positioned opposite one another to allow a tube to pass between the first valve element and the second valve element, and a rotor rotatably coupled to the clamp body, wherein rotation of the rotor moves the valve end of at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element to adjust a flow rate through the tube.

[0005] In certain embodiments, a method of adjusting a flow rate through a tube is disclosed that includes providing a tube through a fluid clamp; adjusting a rotational position of a rotor of the fluid clamp; moving at least one of a first valve element and a second valve element of the fluid clamp relative to the tube in response to adjusting the rotational position of the rotor; and adjusting the flow rate through the tube in response to moving at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element relative to the tube.

[0006] In certain embodiments, a fluid clamp is disclosed that includes a clamp body including a first valve element and a second valve element, each valve element including a valve extension and a valve end extending from the valve extension, the valve ends of the first and second valve elements positioned opposite one another to allow a tube to pass between the valve ends of the first and second valve elements, and a rotor rotatably coupled to the clamp body, wherein rotation of the rotor moves the valve end of at least one of the first and second valve elements inward to compress the tube and reduce flow through the tube and outward to release the tube and increase flow through the tube.

[0007] It is understood that various configurations of the subject technology will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure, and that various configurations of the subject technology have been shown and described by way of example. As will be appreciated, the subject technology is capable of other various configurations, and its several details are capable of modification in various other respects without departing from the scope of the subject technology. Accordingly, the summary, drawings, and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

[0008] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate disclosed embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 is an exploded view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is a perspective view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 is an exploded view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a side view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a side view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a side view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a side view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 is a perspective view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a side view of a fluid clamp according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a screw for use with the fluid clamp of FIGS. 13 and 14 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] The disclosed fluid clamp includes a clamp body having a valve element and a rotor. The rotor can be rotated to adjust the position of the valve element relative to the tube to control the flow rate through the tube. Because the rotor moves in a different axis or plane than the valve element, the flow rate of the fluid clamp is less prone to drift. By using rotational adjustment of the flow rate, the flow rate of the injection can be controlled without unexpected drift or changes in the injection rate.

[0011] The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description of various configurations of the subject technology, and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the subject technology may be implemented. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject technology may be implemented without those specific details. In some cases, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject technology. For ease of understanding, similar components are labeled with the same element numbers. Reference numbers may have suffixes added to indicate separate instances of common elements, but are generally referred to by the same numbers without the suffixes.

[0012] While the following description relates to controlling and maintaining flow rate during administration of medical fluids using the disclosed fluid clamp, it should be understood that this description is merely one example of use and does not limit the scope of the claims. The various aspects of the disclosed fluid clamp may be used in any application in which it is desirable to control fluid flow rate without allowing unintended or unauthorized changes to the flow rate.

[0013] The disclosed fluid clamp overcomes several challenges identified with certain conventional roller clamps. One challenge with certain conventional roller clamps is that the roller clamp may be inadvertently adjusted by accidental contact by the patient and / or clinician. Additionally, the roller clamp may be intentionally adjusted by unauthorized parties, including the patient. Use of conventional roller clamps is undesirable because accidental or unauthorized adjustment of the roller clamp may compromise the effectiveness of IV therapy or harm the patient by altering the flow rate of the medical fluid being administered.

[0014] It would therefore be advantageous, in accordance with the present disclosure, to provide a fluid clamp as described herein that eliminates or substantially reduces the possibility of accidental or unauthorized adjustment of the fluid clamp. The disclosed fluid clamp that prevents accidental adjustment or drift in flow rate uses a rotating body.

[0015] Next, an example of a fluid clamp that prevents accidental or unauthorized adjustment of medical fluid flow will be described.

[0016] FIG 1 is a perspective view of a fluid clamp 100 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG 2 is an exploded view of a fluid clamp 100 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG 3 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid clamp 100 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG 4 is a perspective view of a fluid clamp 100 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG 5 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid clamp 100 according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] In the depicted example, the fluid clamp 100 is capable of controlling the flow rate of fluid through the tube 10. As shown, the valve element 130 of the clamp portion 120 can be moved by the rotatable portion 110 to control the flow rate of fluid through the tube 10.

[0018] In some applications, the tubing 10 may carry a medical fluid from a fluid source, such as an IV bag, to a patient during administration or infusion of the medical fluid. As shown, the tubing 10 may pass through a fluid clamp 100.

[0019] For example, the upper end 12 of the tube 10 can extend longitudinally through an upper opening of the rotatable portion 110 and through a pair of opposing valve elements 130, and the lower end 14 of the tube 10 can exit the fluid clamp 100 through a lower opening in the clamp body 121 of the clamp portion 120. As shown, the upper opening of the rotatable portion 110 can be formed at an upper end of the tapered portion 116 of the rotatable body 111.

[0020] In operation, a clinician can adjust the fluid clamp 100 to control the flow of fluid through the tube 10 by selectively varying the amount of compression or clamping force applied to the portion of the tube 10 disposed between the valve elements 130 of the clamping portion 120, thereby altering the cross-sectional profile of the tube 10. As shown, an end portion 134 of the valve element 130 can engage the tube 10 to alter the cross-sectional profile of the tube 10.

[0021] As described herein, the end portions 134 can be moved relative to the tube 10 to vary the flow rate through the tube 10. For example, (i) the end portions 134 can be moved away from the tube 10 to allow full flow through the tube 10, (ii) the end portions 134 can be moved together to partially compress / press the tube 10 to allow partial flow through the tube 10, or (iii) the end portions 134 can be moved further together to fully compress / press the tube 10 to stop flow through the tube 10. The flow through the tube 10 can be varied or otherwise adjusted by changing the spacing between and / or relative to the opposing end portions 134. The end portions 134 can be shaped to compress and / or press against the tube 10. For example, the end portions 134 can be shaped wedge-shaped to maximize the clamping force against the tube 10.

[0022] In some embodiments, the end portion 134 of the valve element 130 can be coupled to the clamp body 121 via a valve extension 132. The valve extension 132 can allow the end portion 134 of the valve element 130 to move relative to the clamp body 121. The valve extension 132 can be a resilient or biasing member that biases the end portion 134 away from the tube 10. In some embodiments, the valve element 130 can allow flow through the tube 10 until the end portion 134 is forced inward against the tube 10 to reduce or stop flow through the tube 10. In some embodiments, the length, width, and / or thickness of the valve extension 132 can be any suitable value to provide a desired resilience or biasing force.

[0023] In the depicted example, a clinician can move the rotatable portion 110 relative to the clamping portion 120 to control the flow of fluid through the tube 10. In some embodiments, rotation of the rotatable portion 110 relative to the clamping portion 120 can manipulate or otherwise adjust the position of the end portion 134 of the valve element 130 relative to the tube 10.

[0024] In some embodiments, the rotatable portion 110 can be threadedly coupled to the clamping portion 120. As shown, threads 113 defined on the rotatable body 111 engage with threads 126 defined on the clamping body 121. Thus, as the rotatable portion 110 is rotated, the rotatable portion 110 can translate or move axially relative to the clamping portion 120. In some applications, the pitch of the threads between the rotatable portion 110 and the clamping portion 120 can be any suitable thread pitch.

[0025] In some embodiments, the rotatable portion 110 includes a groove 114 defined in an outer surface 112 of the rotatable body 111 to allow a clinician to securely grip and / or rotate the rotatable portion 110. In some embodiments, the clamp body 121 defines a shroud 122 that covers or conceals at least a portion of the rotatable body 111 to prevent inadvertent rotation of the rotatable portion 110. The shroud 122 can include an opening or passageway 124 to allow access to the rotatable portion 110.

[0026] In some embodiments, the rotatable body 111 defines a wedge or angled surface 118 that can direct the end portion 134 of the valve element 130 toward the tube 10. With reference to Figures 4 and 5, in operation, as the angled surface 118 is moved downwardly relative to the clamping portion 120 (e.g., by rotation of the threaded rotatable portion 110), the angled surface 118 can engage an outer surface of the valve element 130 (e.g., an outer portion of the end portion 134 and / or an outer portion of the valve extension 132) to move the end portion 134 inwardly toward the tube 10. As the angled surface 118 is moved downwardly relative to the clamping body 121, the end portion 134 can increase the compression or pinching force on the tube 10, thereby decreasing the flow of fluid through the tube 10. Optionally, when the inclined surface 118 and / or the rotatable portion 110 are positioned in the lowest position, the end portion 134 may completely compress or pinch the tube 10, thereby preventing any fluid flow through the tube 10.

[0027] 1 and 3, as the angled surface 118 is moved upward, i.e., away from the clamp portion 120, the angled surface 118 disengages from the valve element 130, allowing the resilience of the valve extension 132 and / or the tube 10 to move the end portion 134 away from the tube 10. As the angled surface 118 is moved away from the clamp body 121, the end portion 134 may increase fluid flow through the tube 10 by reducing the compression or clamping force on the tube 10. Optionally, when the angled surface 118 and / or the rotatable portion 110 are positioned in the uppermost position, the end portion 134 may not provide any compression or clamping force on the tube 10.

[0028] Thus, in operation, as the rotatable portion 110 is rotated relative to the clamp portion 120, the amount of compressive force exerted on the tube 10 can be increased or decreased by changing the rotational position of the rotatable portion 110 relative to the clamp portion 120. Similarly, rotation of the rotatable body 111 can result in different occlusion rates based on the position of the rotatable body 111 relative to the clamp body 121. Furthermore, in some applications, adjusting the occlusion rate of the fluid clamp 100 can allow for increased precision in setting a desired occlusion rate as compared to certain conventional fluid clamps, since each rotation angle can result in a smaller change in flow rate as compared to certain conventional fluid clamps. As can be appreciated, the relationship between the rotational position of the rotatable portion 110, the clamp portion 120, and the amount of compressive force exerted on the tube 10 can deviate from the illustrative examples discussed above.

[0029] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fluid clamp 200 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a fluid clamp 200 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid clamp 200 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. As shown, the fluid clamp 200 includes features that are similar to features of the fluid clamp 100. Accordingly, similar features of the fluid clamp 200 are identified with reference numbers that are similar to corresponding features of the fluid clamp 100. In the depicted example, the fluid clamp 200 can include a clamp portion 220 that includes an elongated clamp body 221. The clamp body 221 can include a gripping portion 222 that allows a clinician to grip and / or rotate the clamp body 221 relative to the rotating portion 210. In some embodiments, the clamp body 221 defines one or more recesses 223 to facilitate gripping or rotating the clamp body 221 relative to the rotating portion 220.

[0030] FIG. 9 is a side view of a fluid clamp 300 according to various aspects of the disclosure. FIG. 10 is a side view of a fluid clamp 300 according to various aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the fluid clamp 300 includes features that are similar to the features of the fluid clamp 100. Accordingly, similar features of the fluid clamp 300 are identified with reference numbers that are similar to the corresponding features of the fluid clamp 100. In the depicted example, the fluid clamp 300 can control the fluid flow rate through the tube 10. As shown, a valve element 330 of the clamp portion 320 can be moved by a nut or rotatable portion 310 to control the fluid flow rate through the tube 10. In the depicted example, the rotatable portion 310 threadably engages with threads 326 defined on an outer surface of the valve element 330.

[0031] For example, the upper end 12 of the tube 10 can extend longitudinally through an opening in the rotatable portion 310 and through a pair of opposing valve elements 330, and the lower end 14 of the tube 10 can exit the fluid clamp 300 through a lower opening in the clamp body 321 of the clamp portion 320. As shown, the clamp body 321 is generally defined by first and second valve elements 330 that meet together.

[0032] In operation, a clinician can adjust the fluid clamp 300 to control the flow of fluid through the tube 10 by selectively varying the amount of compression or clamping force applied to the portion of the tube 10 disposed between the valve elements 330 of the clamping portions 320, thereby altering the cross-sectional profile of the tube 10. As shown, an end portion 334 of the valve element 330 can engage the tube 10 to alter the cross-sectional profile of the tube 10.

[0033] As described herein, the end portions 334 can be moved relative to the tube 10 to vary the flow rate through the tube 10. For example, (i) the end portions 334 can be moved away from the tube 10 to allow full flow through the tube 10, (ii) the end portions 334 can be moved together to partially compress / clamp the tube 10 to allow partial flow through the tube 10, or (iii) the end portions 334 can be moved further together to fully compress / clamp the tube 10 to stop flow through the tube 10. The flow through the tube 10 can be varied or otherwise adjusted by changing the spacing between the opposing end portions 334 and / or their spacing relative to the tube 10.

[0034] In some embodiments, the valve element 330 includes a valve extension 332 from which an end portion 334 extends. The valve extension 332 can allow the end portion 334 of the valve element 330 to move relative to the tube 10. The valve extension 332 can be a resilient or biasing member that biases the end portion 134 away from the tube 10. As shown, the valve extension 332 can be angled to extend away from the tube 10. In some embodiments, the valve extensions 332 of opposing valve elements 330 can extend in opposite directions or diverge to form a "V" shape. In some embodiments, the valve element 330 can allow flow through the tube 10 until the end portion 334 is forced inward against the tube 10 to reduce or stop flow through the tube 10. In some embodiments, the length, width, and / or thickness of the valve extension 332 can be any suitable value to provide a desired resilience or biasing force.

[0035] In the depicted example, a clinician can move the rotatable portion 310 relative to the clamping portion 320 to control the flow of fluid through the tube 10. In some embodiments, rotation of the rotatable portion 310 relative to the clamping portion 320 can manipulate or otherwise adjust the position of the end portion 334 of the valve element 330 relative to the tube 10.

[0036] In some embodiments, the rotatable portion 310 can be threadedly coupled to the valve element 330. As shown, threads 313 defined on the rotatable body 311 engage with threads 326 defined on an outer surface of the valve element 330. Thus, as the rotatable portion 310 is rotated, the rotatable portion 310 can translate or move axially relative to the valve element 330. In some applications, the pitch of the threads between the rotatable portion 310 and the valve element 330 can be any suitable thread pitch. In some embodiments, the rotatable portion 310 includes a groove 314 defined on an outer surface 312 of the rotatable body 311 to allow a clinician to securely grip and / or rotate the rotatable portion 310.

[0037] In some embodiments, the rotatable body 311 defines a constant diameter ring that can direct the end portion 334 of the valve element 330 towards the pipe 10. Referring to FIG. 10 , in operation, as the fixed diameter rotatable body 311 is moved upward relative to the branch valve element 330 (e.g., by rotation of the threaded rotatable portion 310), the fixed diameter rotatable body 311 can constrain the branch valve element 330 and move the end portion 334 inwardly towards the pipe 10. As the fixed diameter rotatable body 311 is moved higher relative to the valve element 330, the end portion 334 can increase the compression or pinching force on the pipe 10, thereby decreasing the flow of fluid through the pipe 10. Optionally, when the fixed diameter rotatable body 311 is positioned in the uppermost position, the end portion 334 can completely compress or pinch the pipe 10, thereby preventing any fluid flow through the pipe 10.

[0038] 9 , as the fixed diameter rotatable body 311 is moved downwardly relative to the branch valve element 330, the fixed diameter rotatable body 311 releases its constraint against the branch valve element 330, allowing the elasticity and geometry of the valve extension 332 and / or the elasticity of the tube 10 to move the end portion 334 away from the tube 10. As the fixed diameter rotatable body 311 is moved downwardly relative to the valve element 330, the end portion 334 may increase fluid flow through the tube 10 by reducing the compression or pinching force on the tube 10. Optionally, when the fixed diameter rotatable body 311 is located in a lowermost position, the end portion 334 may not exert any compression or pinching force on the tube 10.

[0039] Thus, in operation, as the rotatable portion 310 is rotated relative to the valve element 330, the amount of compressive force exerted on the tube 10 can be increased or decreased by changing the rotational position of the rotatable portion 310 relative to the clamping portion 320 and / or the valve element 330. Similarly, rotation of the rotatable body 311 can result in different occlusion rates based on the position of the rotatable body 311 relative to the clamping body 321.

[0040] FIGURE 11 is a side view of a fluid clamp 400 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. FIGURE 12 is a side view of a fluid clamp 400 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. As shown, the fluid clamp 400 includes features that are similar to the features of the fluid clamp 300. Accordingly, similar features of the fluid clamp 400 are identified with reference numbers that are similar to the corresponding features of the fluid clamp 300. In the depicted example, the fluid clamp 400 can include an additional set of valve elements 440 to allow for emergency or secondary flow control of the fluid flow through the tube 10.

[0041] In operation, a clinician uses the secondary set of valve elements 440 to stop fluid flow through the tube 10 in certain situations (e.g., emergency situations, equipment failure, etc.). In some applications, the secondary set of valve elements 440 can be used in conjunction with the primary set of valve elements 430 to control flow through the tube 10. As shown, end portions 444 of the valve elements 440 can engage the tube 10 to change the cross-sectional profile of the tube 10.

[0042] As described herein, the end portions 444 can be moved relative to the tube 10 to stop or vary the flow rate through the tube 10. For example, (i) the end portions 444 can be moved away from the tube 10 to allow full flow through the tube 10, or (ii) the end portions 444 can be moved together to fully compress / clamp the tube 10 to stop flow through the tube 10. Optionally, the end portions 444 can be moved together to partially compress / clamp the tube 10 to allow partial flow through the tube 10. The flow through the tube 10 can be varied or otherwise adjusted by changing the spacing between and / or relative to the opposing end portions 444. The end portions 444 can be shaped to compress and / or clamp the tube 10. For example, the end portions 444 can be shaped wedge-shaped to maximize the clamping force against the tube 10.

[0043] In some embodiments, the end portion 444 of the valve element 440 can be coupled to a bottom of the clamp body 421 via a valve extension 442. The valve extension 442 can allow the end portion 444 of the valve element 440 to move relative to the clamp body 421. The valve extension 442 can be a resilient or biasing member that biases the end portion 444 away from the tube 10. In some embodiments, the valve element 440 can allow flow through the tube 10 until the end portion 444 is forced inward against the tube 10, reducing or stopping flow through the tube 10. In some embodiments, the length, width, and / or thickness of the valve extension 442 can be any suitable value to provide a desired resilience or biasing force.

[0044] In some embodiments, a mechanical actuator is used to adjust the position of the end portion 444 relative to the tube 10. Additionally, in some embodiments, an electromechanical actuator is used to adjust the position of the end portion 444 relative to the tube 10. In operation, the mechanical or electromechanical actuator may move the end portion 444 inwardly toward the tube 10. When the mechanical or electromechanical actuator is released, the valve element 440 allows the resilience of the valve extension 442 and / or the tube 10 to move the end portion 444 away from the tube 10. When the mechanical or electromechanical actuator is disengaged, the end portion 444 may reduce the compression or clamping force on the tube 10, thereby increasing the flow of fluid through the tube 10. Optionally, when the mechanical or electromechanical actuator is fully disengaged, the end portion 444 may not exert any compression or clamping force on the tube 10.

[0045] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a fluid clamp 500 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. Fig. 14 is a side view of the fluid clamp 500 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a screw 550 for use with the fluid clamp of Figs. 13 and 14 according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0046] In the depicted example, the fluid clamp 500 can control the fluid flow rate through the tube 10. As shown, a valve element 530 of the fluid clamp 500 can be moved by a screw 550 to control the fluid flow rate through the tube 10.

[0047] For example, the upper end 12 of the tube 10 can pass through an upper opening 502 of the fluid clamp 500 and extend longitudinally through a pair of opposing valve elements 530, and the lower end 14 of the tube 10 can exit the fluid clamp 500 through a lower opening 504 of the fluid clamp 500. Optionally, the tube 10 can pass through a secondary pair of opposing valve elements 540.

[0048] In operation, a clinician can adjust the fluid clamp 500 to control the rate of fluid flow through the tube 10 by selectively varying the amount of compression or clamping force applied to the portion of the tube 10 disposed between the valve elements 530, thereby altering the cross-sectional profile of the tube 10. As shown, end portions 534 of the valve elements 530 can engage the tube 10 to alter the cross-sectional profile of the tube 10.

[0049] As described herein, the end portions 534 can be moved relative to the tube 10 to vary the flow rate through the tube 10. For example, (i) the end portions 534 can be moved away from the tube 10 to allow full flow through the tube 10, (ii) the end portions 534 can be moved together to partially compress / clamp the tube 10 to allow partial flow through the tube 10, or (iii) the end portions 534 can be moved further together to fully compress / clamp the tube 10 to stop flow through the tube 10. The flow through the tube 10 can be varied or otherwise adjusted by changing the spacing between the opposing end portions 534 and / or their spacing relative to the tube 10.

[0050] In some embodiments, at least one of the end portions 534 of the valve element 530 can be coupled to the clamp body 510 via a valve extension 532. The valve extension 532 can allow the end portion 534 of the valve element 130 to move relative to the clamp body 510. The valve extension 532 can be a resilient or biasing member that biases the end portion 534 away from the tube 10. In some embodiments, the valve element 530 can allow flow through the tube 10 until the end portion 543 is forced inwardly against the tube 10 to reduce or stop flow through the tube 10. In some embodiments, the length, width, and / or thickness of the valve extension 532 can be any suitable value to provide a desired resilience or biasing force.

[0051] In the depicted example, a clinician can move a screw 550 relative to the clamp body 510 to control the flow of fluid through the tube 10. In some embodiments, rotation of the screw 550 relative to the clamp body 510 can manipulate or otherwise adjust the position of the end portion 534 of the valve element 530 relative to the tube 10.

[0052] In some embodiments, the screw 550 can be threadedly connected to the clamp body 510. As shown, threads 554 defined on the screw 550 engage threads defined on the clamp body 510. Thus, as the screw 550 is rotated, the screw 550 can translate or move axially relative to the clamp body 510 and the valve element 530. In some applications, the pitch of the threads between the screw 550 and the clamp body 510 can be any suitable thread pitch.

[0053] In some embodiments, the screw 550 includes a groove 552 defined in the head of the screw 550 to allow a clinician to firmly grip and / or turn the screw 550 .

[0054] In some embodiments, the screw 550 defines an end 555 that can direct one or more of the end portions 534 of the valve element 530 toward the tube 10. In operation, as the end 555 is advanced toward the valve element 530 (e.g., by rotating the screw 550), the end 555 can engage an outer surface of the valve element 530 to move the end portion 534 inwardly toward the tube 10. As the end 555 is advanced relative to the valve element 530, the end portion 534 can increase the compression or clamping force on the tube 10, thereby decreasing the flow of fluid therethrough. Optionally, when the screw 550 is disposed in the extended position, the end portion 534 can fully compress or clamp the tube 10, thereby preventing any fluid flow therethrough.

[0055] As end 555 is retracted away from valve element 530, end 555 disengages from valve element 530, allowing the resilience of valve extension 532 and / or tube 10 to move end portion 534 away from tube 10. Moving end 555 away from valve element 530 may cause end portion 534 to increase fluid flow through tube 10 by reducing the compression or clamping force on tube 10. Optionally, when screw 550 is disposed in the retracted position, end portion 534 may not exert any compression or clamping force on tube 10.

[0056] Thus, in operation, as the screw 550 is rotated relative to the clamp body 510, the amount of compressive force exerted on the tube 10 can be increased or decreased by changing the rotational position of the screw 550 relative to the clamp body 510. Similarly, rotation of the screw 550 can result in different occlusion rates based on the position of the screw 550 relative to the clamp body 510. Additionally, in some applications, adjusting the occlusion rate of the fluid clamp 500 can allow for increased precision in setting a desired occlusion rate as compared to certain conventional fluid clamps, since each angle of rotation can result in a smaller change in flow rate as compared to certain conventional fluid clamps.

[0057] In the depicted example, the fluid clamp 500 may include an additional set of valve elements 540 to allow for emergency or secondary flow control of the fluid flow through the tube 10 .

[0058] In operation, a clinician uses the secondary set of valve elements 540 to stop fluid flow through the tube 10 in certain situations (e.g., emergency situations, equipment failure, etc.). In some applications, the secondary set of valve elements 540 can be used in conjunction with the primary set of valve elements 53- to control flow through the tube 10. As shown, end portions 544 of the valve elements 540 can engage the tube 10 to change the cross-sectional profile of the tube 10.

[0059] As described herein, the end portions 544 can be moved relative to the tube 10 to stop or vary the flow rate through the tube 10. For example, (i) the end portions 544 can be moved away from the tube 10 to allow full flow through the tube 10, or (ii) the end portions 544 can be moved together to fully compress / clamp the tube 10 to stop flow through the tube 10. Optionally, the end portions 544 can be moved together to partially compress / clamp the tube 10 to allow partial flow through the tube 10. The flow through the tube 10 can be varied or otherwise adjusted by changing the spacing between the opposing end portions 544 and / or their spacing relative to the tube 10.

[0060] In some embodiments, the end portion 544 of the valve element 540 can be coupled to a lower portion of the clamp body 510 via a valve extension 542. The valve extension 542 can allow the end portion 544 of the valve element 540 to move relative to the tube 10. The valve extension 542 can be a resilient or biasing member that biases the end portion 544 away from the tube 10. In some embodiments, the valve element 540 can allow flow through the tube 10 until the end portion 544 is forced inward against the tube 10 to reduce or stop flow through the tube 10. In some embodiments, the length, width, and / or thickness of the valve extension 542 can be any suitable value to provide a desired resilience or biasing force.

[0061] In some embodiments, a clinician can manually apply force to the valve element 540 to adjust the position of the end portion 544 relative to the tube 10. For example, the clinician can move the valve element 540 to move the end portion 544 inwardly toward the tube 10. A locking protrusion 564 can capture a lip 562 of the valve element 540 to maintain the end portion 544 in the inward or occluded position.

[0062] Upon releasing the valve element 540 from the locking protrusion 564, the valve element 540 allows the elasticity of the valve extension 542 and / or the tube 10 to move the end portion 544 away from the tube 10. When the valve element 540 is released, the end portion 544 may increase fluid flow through the tube 10 by reducing the compression or clamping force on the tube 10. In some applications, when the valve element 540 is released, the end portion 544 may not exert any compression or clamping force on the tube 10.

[0063] Examples of subject matter technology as clauses The subject technology is illustrated, for example, by various aspects described below. Various examples of aspects of the subject technology are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples and not as limitations of the subject technology. It is noted that any of the dependent clauses may be combined in any combination and placed in a respective independent clause, e.g., clause 1 or clause 5. Other clauses may be presented similarly.

[0064] Clause 1. A fluid clamp comprising: a clamp body including a first valve element and a second valve element, each valve element including a valve extension and a valve end extending from the valve extension, the first valve element and the second valve element positioned opposite one another to allow a tube to pass between the first valve element and the second valve element; and a rotor rotatably coupled to the clamp body, wherein rotation of the rotor moves the valve end of at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element to adjust a flow rate through the tube.

[0065] Clause 2. A fluid clamp as described in clause 1, wherein the rotating body is threadedly connected to the clamp body.

[0066] Clause 3. The fluid clamp of clause 1, wherein the rotor defines an inclined surface, the inclined surface configured to contact and advance the valve extensions of the first valve element and the second valve element toward one another.

[0067] Clause 4. The fluid clamp of clause 1, wherein an end of the rotor is configured to contact and advance a valve extension of at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element toward one another.

[0068] Clause 5. The fluid clamp of clause 1, wherein an outer surface of the rotor defines one or more grooves.

[0069] Clause 6. The fluid clamp of clause 1, wherein the clamp body further includes a shroud disposed at least partially around the rotating body.

[0070] Clause 7. The fluid clamp of clause 6, wherein the shroud defines a circumferential opening.

[0071] Clause 8. The fluid clamp of clause 1, wherein the clamp body defines a plurality of recesses disposed about the clamp body.

[0072] Clause 9. A fluid clamp as described in clause 1, wherein the clamp body includes a third valve element and a fourth valve element, the third valve element and the fourth valve element being positioned opposite each other to allow a tube to pass between the third valve element and the fourth valve element.

[0073] Clause 10. The fluid clamp of clause 9, wherein the third valve element and the fourth valve element are positioned opposite the first valve element and the second valve element.

[0074] Clause 11. The fluid clamp of clause 9, wherein the third valve element and the fourth valve element are mechanically actuated to regulate the flow rate through the tube.

[0075] Clause 12. The fluid clamp of clause 9, wherein the third valve element and the fourth valve element are electromechanically actuated to regulate the flow rate through the tube.

[0076] Clause 13. A method for regulating flow through a pipe, comprising: providing a tube passing through a fluid clamp; Adjusting a rotational position of a rotor of a fluid clamp; moving at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element of the fluid clamp relative to the tube in response to adjusting the rotational position of the rotor; adjusting a flow rate through the tube in response to moving at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element relative to the tube; A method comprising:

[0077] Clause 14. The method of clause 13, further comprising moving a valve end of at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element relative to the tube in response to adjusting a rotational position of the rotor.

[0078] Clause 15. The method of clause 13, further comprising advancing at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element toward one another by an inclined surface of the rotor.

[0079] Clause 16. The method of clause 13, further comprising: moving at least one of a third valve element and a fourth valve element of the fluid clamp; and adjusting a flow rate through the tube in response to moving at least one of the third valve element and the fourth valve element relative to the tube.

[0080] Clause 17. The method of clause 16, further comprising mechanically actuating at least one of the third valve element and the fourth valve element to regulate flow through the tube.

[0081] Clause 18. The method of clause 16, further comprising electromechanically actuating at least one of the third valve element and the fourth valve element to regulate flow through the tube.

[0082] Clause 19. A fluid clamp comprising: a clamp body including a first valve element and a second valve element, each valve element including a valve extension and a valve end extending from the valve extension, the valve ends of the first valve element and the second valve element being positioned opposite one another to allow a tube to pass between the valve ends of the first valve element and the second valve element; and a rotor rotatably coupled to the clamp body, wherein rotation of the rotor moves the valve end of at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element inward to compress the tube and reduce flow through the tube, and outward to release the tube and increase flow through the tube.

[0083] Clause 20. The fluid clamp of clause 19, wherein the rotor defines an inclined surface, the inclined surface configured to contact and advance the valve extensions of the first valve element and the second valve element toward one another.

[0084] Further considerations This disclosure is provided to enable those skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. This disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects.

[0085] Reference to a singular element is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless specifically so stated, but rather "one or more." The term "several" refers to one or more, unless specifically stated otherwise. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used merely for convenience and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0086] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example or illustration." Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. In one aspect, various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0087] The use of a phrase such as "aspect" does not imply that such aspect is essential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to all configurations of the subject technology. Disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations, or to one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. A phrase such as "embodiment" does not imply that such embodiment is essential to the subject technology or that such embodiment applies to all configurations of the subject technology. Disclosure relating to an embodiment may apply to all configurations, or to one or more examples. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an embodiment may refer to one or more examples, and vice versa. A phrase such as "configuration" does not imply that such embodiment is essential to the subject technology or that such embodiment applies to all configurations of the subject technology. Disclosure relating to an embodiment may apply to all configurations, or to one or more configurations. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an embodiment may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. A phrase such as a configuration may refer to one or more configurations and vice versa.

[0088] In one aspect, unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, locations, dimensions, sizes, and other specifications set forth in this specification, including the following claims, are approximate and not precise, and are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the functions to which they relate and the practices in the art to which they pertain.

[0089] In one aspect, the term "coupled" or the like may refer to a direct connection. In another aspect, the term "coupled" or the like may refer to an indirect connection.

[0090] Terms such as "top," "bottom," "front," "rear," and the like, as used in this disclosure, should be understood to refer to any frame of reference other than the usual frame of reference of gravity. Thus, the top, bottom, front, and rear surfaces may extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in the frame of reference of gravity.

[0091] Various items may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a different order or divided in a different manner) without departing entirely from the scope of the subject technology. All structural and functional equivalents of the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or that later become known to those skilled in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be made available to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly set forth in the claims. No element of a claim is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 112, paragraph 6, unless the element is recited using the phrase "means for" or, in the case of a method claim, unless the element is recited using the phrase "step for." Furthermore, to the extent the terms "comprise," "have," or similar terms are used, such terms are intended to be inclusive in the same manner that the term "comprising" is interpreted as a transitional term when used in the claims.

[0092] The title, background, summary, brief description of the drawings, and abstract of this disclosure are hereby incorporated into this disclosure and are provided as illustrative examples of the disclosure, not as limiting descriptions. They are submitted with the understanding that they are not used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. It is further understood that in the Detailed Description, the description provides illustrative examples, and that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed structure or operation. The following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as separately claimed subject matter.

[0093] The claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but are to be accorded full scope consistent with the language of the claims and to encompass all legal equivalents. However, none of the claims are intended, and should not be construed, to encompass subject matter that does not comply with the requirements of 35 U.S.C. §§ 101, 102, or 103.

Claims

1. A fluid clamp, the fluid clamp comprising: A clamp body including a first valve element and a second valve element, each valve element comprising: A valve extension; and a valve end extending from the valve extension; and Including, a clamp body, the first valve element and the second valve element being positioned opposite one another to allow a tube to pass between the first valve element and the second valve element; a rotor rotatably coupled to the clamp body, wherein rotation of the rotor moves the valve end of at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element to adjust flow through the tube; and A fluid clamp comprising:

2. The fluid clamp of claim 1 , wherein the rotating body is threadably coupled to the clamp body.

3. 2. The fluid clamp of claim 1, wherein the rotor defines an inclined surface configured to contact and advance the valve extensions of the first and second valve elements toward one another.

4. The fluid clamp of claim 1 , wherein an end of the rotor is configured to contact and advance the valve extension of at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element toward one another.

5. The fluid clamp of claim 1 , wherein an outer surface of the rotor defines one or more grooves.

6. The fluid clamp of claim 1 , wherein the clamp body further includes a shroud disposed at least partially around the rotor.

7. The fluid clamp of claim 6 , wherein the shroud defines a circumferential opening.

8. The fluid clamp of claim 1 , wherein the clamp body defines a plurality of recesses disposed about the periphery of the clamp body.

9. 2. The fluid clamp of claim 1, wherein the clamp body includes a third valve element and a fourth valve element, the third valve element and the fourth valve element positioned opposite one another to allow the tube to pass between the third valve element and the fourth valve element.

10. The fluid clamp of claim 9 , wherein the third valve element and the fourth valve element are disposed on opposite sides of the first valve element and the second valve element.

11. 10. The fluid clamp of claim 9, wherein the third valve element and the fourth valve element are mechanically actuated to regulate the flow rate through the tube.

12. 10. The fluid clamp of claim 9, wherein the third valve element and the fourth valve element are electromechanically actuated to regulate the flow rate through the tube.

13. 1. A method for regulating flow through a tube, comprising: providing said tube through a fluid clamp; Adjusting a rotational position of a rotor of the fluid clamp; moving at least one of a first valve element and a second valve element of the fluid clamp relative to the tube in response to adjusting the rotational position of the rotor; adjusting the flow rate through the conduit in response to moving at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element relative to the conduit; A method comprising:

14. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising moving a valve end of at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element relative to the tube in response to adjusting the rotational position of the rotor.

15. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising advancing at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element toward one another by an inclined surface of the rotor.

16. moving at least one of a third valve element and a fourth valve element of the fluid clamp; 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising adjusting the flow rate through the tube in response to moving at least one of the third valve element and the fourth valve element relative to the tube.

17. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising mechanically actuating at least one of the third valve element and the fourth valve element to adjust the flow rate through the tube.

18. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising electromechanically actuating at least one of the third valve element and the fourth valve element to regulate the flow rate through the tube.

19. A fluid clamp, the fluid clamp comprising: A clamp body including a first valve element and a second valve element, each valve element comprising: A valve extension; and a valve end extending from the valve extension; Including, a clamp body, the valve ends of the first valve element and the second valve element being positioned opposite one another to allow a tube to pass between the valve ends of the first valve element and the second valve element; a rotor rotatably coupled to the clamp body, wherein rotation of the rotor causes the valve ends of at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element to move inwardly to compress the tube and reduce the flow rate through the tube and outwardly to release the tube and increase the flow rate through the tube; and A fluid clamp comprising:

20. 20. The fluid clamp of claim 19, wherein the rotor defines an inclined surface configured to contact and advance the valve extensions of the first and second valve elements toward one another.

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