Adapter for infusion line identification system

Abstract

Disclosed is an adapter device configured for attachment of indicators, such as light sources, to assist a user in identifying an infusion line, identifying different portions of an infusion line that belong to the same infusion line, distinguishing an infusion line from other infusion lines, and / or sensing various parameters of the medical line. The adapter device includes a receiving surface and one or more pairs of laterally opposed gripping elements projecting from the receiving surface. The gripping elements are configured to accommodate medical lines of various sizes.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Utility Application No. 18 / 381,563, entitled "ADAPTOR FOR INFUSION LINE IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM," filed October 18, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 417,281, entitled "ADAPTOR FOR INFUSION LINE IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM," filed October 18, 2022, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure relates to devices configured for attachment to medical lines, such as infusion lines, to enable identification of the medical line and / or sensing of various parameters of the medical line. [Background technology]

[0003] In certain medical environments, such as hospital settings, therapeutic fluids are often administered to patients through infusion lines, also typically referred to as intravenous (IV) lines. Infusion lines generally consist of flexible polymer tubing that is connected at one end to a fluid source and at the other end to a needle or port that provides access to the patient's blood vessels. It is not uncommon for multiple infusion lines, each connected to a different fluid source, to be used simultaneously to deliver several therapeutic fluids to a single patient at once. It is also not uncommon for the needles or ports to be located adjacent to one another, such as multiple adjacent needles that provide access to the brachial vein running through the patient's arm. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] While the simultaneous use of multiple infusion lines can offer numerous advantages, it can also present challenges. For example, when multiple infusion lines are used to administer multiple therapeutic fluids to a single patient, quickly distinguishing one line from another can be tedious and difficult. Thus, it can be difficult to quickly and accurately identify a particular therapeutic fluid source and its corresponding therapeutic fluid destination from other drug sources and their corresponding therapeutic fluid destinations. This problem is exacerbated by the tendency of each line to be coiled in its packaging, thereby entangling with other lines or under bed sheets or clothing.

[0005]

[0005] Rapid identification of a specific therapeutic fluid source is often necessary in emergency situations. For example, when a patient connected to multiple lines needs urgent intravenous administration of a therapeutic fluid that is not currently being administered through one of those lines, the therapeutic fluid must be administered immediately. When a blood vessel into which the therapeutic fluid can be injected cannot be quickly identified, it is common to administer the medication through an infusion line that already has the therapeutic fluid. This technique of using an existing infusion line to administer new therapeutic fluid is common even in non-emergency situations.

[0006]

[0006] The person administering the drug must ensure that the infusion line through which the new therapeutic fluid is being administered is carrying a therapeutic fluid that is compatible with the new therapeutic fluid. If a new therapeutic fluid is injected through an infusion line in which the existing therapeutic fluid is incompatible with the new therapeutic fluid, serious consequences can occur. For example, if heparin is injected into an infusion line already carrying lidocaine, a flaky precipitate will form in the mixture that can be dangerous to the patient. Similarly, mixing insulin with certain chemotherapy drugs in a shared infusion line can be extremely dangerous to the patient.

[0007]

[0007] Further complicating this issue is the fact that multiple different line diameters are used in the medical field. Different line diameters are often used depending on the clinical environment, the device being used, the patient's demographics (e.g., neonatal, pediatric, adult, etc.), and other special needs associated with the application. For example, infusion pumps often use relatively large-diameter tubing, while syringe pumps tend to use smaller tubing. Sometimes, various line sizes are connected to the same patient at the same time. As a result, even when nurses and caregivers attempt to use indicator devices to help them identify and distinguish between different lines, the indicator devices can sometimes be improperly attached, accidentally dislodged, or extremely difficult to attach properly.

[0008]

[0008] As a result of the difficulty in distinguishing between multiple infusion lines and their associated fluid sources and destinations, and the potentially life-threatening consequences that can occur when incompatible therapeutic fluids are injected through the same infusion line, there is a need for a device that allows for easy and accurate identification of individual infusion lines and their associated fluid sources and destinations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] Disclosed herein are adapters that are advantageously configured to allow connection of indicator devices to infusion lines and / or other medical lines of various diameters. The described adapters advantageously allow a user to attach indicator devices to a wide variety of infusion lines, thereby increasing the versatility and functional flexibility of indicator and / or sensor devices that can be connected to infusion lines to identify / differentiate the infusion lines and / or sense various parameters of the infusion lines.

[0010]

[0010] It should be noted that while the specific examples described herein relate to infusion lines, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the same components and principles may be applied to adapters for other types of medical lines for which detection and / or identification may be beneficial. For example, the embodiments described herein may be connected to other types of intravenous (IV) lines, such as central lines (e.g., central venous catheter lines) and peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) lines, nasogastric tubes, arterial lines, peritoneal dialysis lines, umbilical lines (typically used in neonates), long-term indwelling catheters (e.g., Hickman or Brobbiak catheters), wound drainage lines, or any other medical line for which integration of sensor and / or indicator functionality may be beneficial.

[0011] The adapter device disclosed herein has features that allow attachment to infusion lines of various diameters. The adapter device can also be configured to accommodate one or more indicator components (e.g., lights, speakers, etc.), one or more sensors (e.g., sensors for determining air bubbles, flow rate, sediment formation, temperature, salinity, etc.), and / or one or more communication components (e.g., wireless transmitters, wireless receivers, etc.) for communicating with other indicator devices and / or external computing devices. The indicator components can be activated based on sensor activity (e.g., detecting an alarm condition) to indicate various current conditions (e.g., normal, warning, emergency, etc.) or in response to manual activation (e.g., simultaneously activating other connected indicator devices associated with the same infusion line).

[0012] The adapter devices disclosed herein advantageously provide ease of use and reduced risk of medical professional error. The adapter devices also provide effective fixation to the target infusion line, minimizing the risk of subsequent slippage or disengagement, and do not significantly affect fluid flow across different line diameters.

[0013] This Summary is provided to introduce various concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an indication of the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0014] Various objects, features, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and will be more readily understood from the following description of embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and appended claims, all of which form a part of this specification. In the drawings, like reference numerals may be utilized to indicate corresponding or similar parts in the various views, and the various elements shown are not necessarily drawn to scale. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1]

[0015] A conventional infusion line assembly is illustrated. [Figure 2A]

[0016] An exemplary adapter device configured to incorporate an indicator and allow attachment to various sizes of infusion lines is illustrated, the adapter device including pairs of gripping elements, each pair including a fixed gripping element opposed to a biased gripping element. [Figure 2B] An exemplary adapter device configured to incorporate an indicator and allow attachment to various sizes of infusion lines is illustrated, the adapter device including pairs of gripping elements, each pair including a fixed gripping element opposed to a biased gripping element. [Figure 3A]

[0017] 1 illustrates a portion of an exemplary adapter device that includes a gripping element having fins that can be biased toward an infusion line to thereby hold the infusion line. [Figure 3B] 1 illustrates a portion of an exemplary adapter device that includes a gripping element having fins that can be biased toward an infusion line to thereby hold the infusion line. [Figure 4]

[0018] 1 illustrates a portion of an exemplary adapter device comprising a set of curved gripping elements biased toward one another to secure an infusion line. [Figure 5]

[0019] 1 illustrates a portion of an exemplary adapter device, where each set of gripping elements comprises a fixed gripping element and an opposing curved gripping element. [Figure 6A]

[0020] 1 illustrates a portion of an exemplary adapter device with gripping elements arranged with rotational and / or longitudinal offset. [Figure 6B] 1 illustrates a portion of an exemplary adapter device with gripping elements arranged with rotational and / or longitudinal offset. [Figure 7]

[0021] 1 illustrates a portion of an exemplary adapter device with a gripping element having a ramp that assists in forcing a bend in a received infusion line. [Figure 8]

[0022] A portion of an exemplary adapter device is shown, including a set of three or more laterally co-located gripping elements arranged to define two or more infusion line passages of different sizes. [Figure 9A]

[0023] 10 illustrates a portion of an exemplary adapter device in which gripping elements are configured as guide posts to force a bend in the infusion line to assist in securing the infusion line. [Figure 9B] 10 illustrates a portion of an exemplary adapter device in which gripping elements are configured as guide posts to force a bend in the infusion line to assist in securing the infusion line. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] [Introduction]

[0024] The present disclosure relates to devices and methods for infusion line identification. Such devices and methods are configured to reliably distinguish one infusion line from another in a simple and efficient manner. Such embodiments can advantageously serve to prevent the inadvertent injection of incompatible therapeutic fluids through a single infusion line. The infusion line identification devices described herein may reduce the number of incorrectly identified infusion lines without significantly modifying existing clinical procedures and / or equipment.

[0017]

[0025] The embodiments described herein may be implemented using infusion line systems, related devices, methods, and general manufacturing techniques known in the art, the details of which will be known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail.

[0018]

[0026] While the following illustrates an infusion line therapy device for administering a therapeutic fluid, other embodiments may be implemented for other applications, both in the medical field and other technical fields. Various components of the illustrative embodiments may be omitted or replaced with other components known and used in the art. By way of non-limiting example, an exemplary embodiment includes a therapeutic fluid bag, a pump, and a connector. Each of these components could be omitted or replaced with other components. For example, various types of pumps could be used with the disclosed embodiments, or no pumps could be used at all. Similarly, various types of fluid sources and connectors other than traditional therapeutic fluid bags and Y-connectors could be employed.

[0019]

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a conventional infusion line assembly 10 including an infusion line 12 connected to a therapeutic fluid bag 18. The infusion line 12 has a first end 14 and a second end 16. As shown, one end is connected to the therapeutic fluid bag 18, while the other end may be left free for intravenous insertion into a patient. As discussed above, difficulties in properly aligning one end of an infusion line with the other can present problems in healthcare settings. That is, when multiple infusion lines are associated with a patient, it can often be difficult to easily identify which patient-end line is attached to which therapeutic fluid.

[0020]

[0028] U.S. Patent No. 10,722,641, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, describes an infusion line assembly configured to enable infusion line identification via multiple light sources selectively attachable to the infusion line and coupled to communicate with each other via a wireless connection. The light sources are configured such that when a first light source is manually activated to emit a light signal, a second light source is similarly automatically activated and emits a corresponding light signal without the need for manual activation, and vice versa.

[0021]

[0029] Such selectively attachable indicator devices advantageously allow a user (e.g., medical staff, etc.) to easily attach the device to an infusion line in a conventional environment, or to attach multiple sets of such indicator devices to multiple respective infusion lines, without requiring additional attachment tools or custom manufacturing processes. However, infusion lines vary in size, and therefore such indicator devices may not be easily attached to all types of infusion lines, or may attach better to some types of infusion lines than others.

[0022]

[0030] Disclosed herein are adapters that are advantageously configured to allow connection of indicator devices to infusion lines of various diameters. The described adapters advantageously allow a user to mount indicator devices, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,722,641, for easy attachment to a wide variety of infusion lines. This increases the versatility and functional flexibility of the indicator device for identifying and / or differentiating infusion lines. [Adapter device]

[0031] 2A and 2B illustrate an exemplary adapter device 100 configured to incorporate an indicator (e.g., a light source, etc.) and to allow attachment to various sizes of infusion lines. An infusion line 12 is also shown for illustrative purposes.

[0023]

[0032] FIG. 2A is an isometric view of adapter device 100. As shown, adapter device 100 includes three sections 102a, 102b, and 102c arranged in a triple configuration. That is, section 102a can fold onto section 102b along hinge 103a, and section 102c can fold onto section 102b along hinge 103b. Connectors may be located at or near hinges 103a and / or 103b to selectively secure each section in a closed position. Such connectors may include, for example, flexible tabs, a friction fit, a magnetic attachment, or other suitable securing means. When sections 102a, 102b, and 102c are arranged in the closed position, device 100 can function as a housing having an opening 110 through which infusion line 12 can pass.

[0024]

[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, hinges 103a and 103b are located on opposite sides of portion 102b. In other embodiments, hinges 103a and 103b are located on the same side. In yet other embodiments, hinges 103a and / or 103b are omitted. For example, separate portions 102a, 102b, and 102c may be selectively assembled to form the closed configuration of adapter device 100 without being connected via hinges 103a and / or 103b.

[0025]

[0034] In some embodiments, two or more of portions 102a, 102b, and 102c may be integrally formed as one piece without an associated hinge. For example, portions 102a and 102b may be constructed to be rotatable and / or removable relative to one another to allow access to interior chamber 116 (see FIG. 2B) for housing indicators, power sources, and / or other components, while in other embodiments, interior chamber 116 may be enclosed during manufacture.

[0026]

[0035] In some embodiments, one or more of portions 102a, 102b, or 102c may be omitted. For example, portion 102c is preferred for completely surrounding the corresponding portion of infusion line 12, but may be omitted in some embodiments.

[0027]

[0036] As shown in the illustrated embodiment, when portion 102a is folded over portion 102b into a closed position, receiving surface 105 of portion 102a is positioned to receive infusion line 12. Grip elements 104 (including 104a and 104b) and their opposing grip elements 106 (including 106a and 106b) protrude from receiving surface 105 and are configured to grip infusion line 12 to enable attachment of adapter device 100 to infusion line 12.

[0028]

[0037] In the illustrated adapter device 100, the gripping element 104 is configured as a fixed gripping element, while the gripping element 106 is configured as a biased gripping element. The biased gripping element 106 functions to bias a gripping surface 109 of the gripping element (i.e., the surface that contacts the infusion line 12) toward the opposing fixed gripping element 104. This biasing function allows the biased gripping element 106 to bend relative to the fixed gripping element 104 to accommodate infusion lines 12 of various sizes.

[0029]

[0038] In other words, if the longitudinal axis is defined as the axis along which the infusion line 12 is located (i.e., from one opening 110 to another opening 110), the biasing gripping elements 106 are configured to bend along a lateral axis running substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, thereby changing the space between each biasing gripping element 106 and its corresponding fixed gripping element 104.

[0030]

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, two sets of gripping elements are shown, each set having a fixed gripping element 104 and a biasing gripping element 106. In other embodiments, the arrangement of the gripping elements may be different. For example, one embodiment may have one fixed gripping element 104 and one biasing gripping element 106. Another embodiment may have three or more sets of gripping elements, each having a fixed gripping element 104 and a biasing gripping element 106.

[0031]

[0040] Additionally, while the illustrated embodiment shows one fixed gripping element 104 per biasing gripping element 106 or one fixed gripping element 106 per biasing gripping element 104, other embodiments may have different relationships. For example, some embodiments may include one or more pairs of multiple fixed gripping elements 104 per biasing gripping element 106 and / or one or more pairs of multiple biasing gripping elements 106 per fixed gripping element 104.

[0032]

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the biased gripping element 106 has an arch structure with a variable span 107 that changes depending on the degree of bias of the biased gripping element 106. That is, the more the gripping surface 109 of the biased gripping element 106 is biased toward the corresponding fixed gripping element 104, the larger the span 107 becomes, whereas the more the gripping surface 109 bends away from the fixed gripping element 104 (e.g., when pushed by an infusion line inserted therebetween), the smaller the span 107 becomes. Here, the arch structure forming the variable span 107 lies in a vertical plane so that it can expand and contract along its short side. Alternatively, the arch structure may extend along a horizontal plane (see, for example, the arch structure and variable span 307 in FIG. 4).

[0033]

[0042] As shown, the span 107 of each biased gripping element 106 can contract and expand because portion 102c has a corresponding channel 111 that allows for transverse movement of gripping surface 109. That is, gripping surface 109 is not fixed to receiving surface 105, but rather is movable toward and away from its corresponding fixed gripping element 104 by channel 111.

[0034]

[0043] 2B shows a view of the adapter device 100 with portion 102c removed to illustrate the interior chamber 116. In this embodiment, the interior chamber 116 includes a circuit board 112 and a power source 114 (e.g., a battery). The circuit board 112 and power source 114 can optionally function as an indicator (e.g., a light source, etc.) to identify the infusion line to which the adapter device 100 is attached, optionally in conjunction with one or more additional adapter devices configured to provide a similar indication (e.g., a similarly colored light, etc.). In this manner, different portions of the same infusion line to which multiple adapter devices are attached can be easily identified as being part of the same infusion line.

[0035]

[0044] The adapter device 100 may also include one or more centrally located gripping elements 108, such as gripping elements 108a and 108b, located at or near the longitudinal center of the device 100 (e.g., between the more peripheral gripping elements 104 and 106). Such elements may serve to provide additional structure to the device to further protect the infusion line 12 against kinking, bumping, or bending and / or to further positionally guide the infusion line 12 through the device.

[0036]

[0045] The gripping elements 108 may be formed as vertical protrusions extending from the receiving surface 105 to provide structural guides and / or barriers to limit unwanted movement of the received infusion line 12. While a pair of gripping elements 108 is shown here, other embodiments may include multiple centrally located gripping elements or may omit the centrally located gripping element.

[0037]

[0046] The centrally located gripping element 108 may also include one or more lateral projections 117 extending toward the interior space intended to receive the infusion line 12 to help secure or guide the infusion line 12. These lateral projections 117 may be longitudinally offset from one another to support and abut the received infusion line without creating a location on the line that could become pinched. Although not included in the illustrated example, some embodiments may additionally or alternatively include lateral projections on the peripherally located gripping elements 104 and / or 106 that perform similar functions.

[0038]

[0047] The adapter devices disclosed herein may include one or more sets of peripherally located gripping elements (e.g., gripping elements 104 and 106), one or more sets of centrally located gripping elements (e.g., gripping element 108), or both. One or both of these types of gripping elements may have a biasing feature to assist in securing them to the infusion line.

[0039]

[0048] Other embodiments may additionally or alternatively include gripping elements of other configurations to allow attachment to various sizes of infusion lines. The following embodiments may additionally or alternatively include any of the features described above for adapter device 100, and vice versa. For example, an embodiment may have any combination of gripping elements disclosed herein, even if not all combinations are specifically described.

[0040]

[0049] 3A shows a receiving surface 205 with a fixed gripping element 204 positioned opposite a biasing gripping element 206 at a location on the periphery of the device. The biasing gripping element 206 includes one or more fins 213 that are biased toward the opposing fixed gripping element 204. The fins 213 can accommodate different sized infusion lines by rotating from a more transverse orientation to a more longitudinal orientation to provide more space between the opposing gripping elements 204 and 206 while maintaining a biasing force against the line once it is positioned within the device. The illustrated embodiment also includes a centrally located gripping element 208. In this embodiment, the centrally located gripping element 208 does not include fins.

[0041]

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, each pair of gripping elements includes a fixed gripping element 204 opposing a biased gripping element 206 having fins 213, although other embodiments may include opposing gripping elements both having fins 213 extending toward each other.

[0042]

[0051] FIG. 3B illustrates another configuration for receiving surfaces 205 utilizing fins 213. In this configuration, fins 213 extend inward from the centrally located gripping elements 208. As in FIG. 3A, fins 213 can also be biased toward a more transverse position to help secure the infusion line, while moving toward a more longitudinal orientation to create space for the received infusion line. The illustrated embodiment shows opposing gripping elements 208 both including fins 213. Alternatively, one gripping element 208 may omit fins (as with gripping elements 204 and 206 shown in FIG. 3A). The outer peripheral gripping element 204 may omit fins (as shown) or include additional fins.

[0043]

[0052] 4 illustrates a receiving surface 305 with gripping elements 306 that are each biased toward the opposing gripping element 306. That is, for a given pair of gripping elements 306, the opposing gripping elements are biased toward each other. This contrasts with configurations that include fixed and biased gripping elements (such as that illustrated in FIG. 2A). While the gripping elements 306 are biased toward each other, they can rotate in a horizontal plane to expand the space between them to accommodate an infusion line.

[0044]

[0053] As shown, the gripping element 306 can include one or more protrusions 315 (eg, ridges, teeth, grooves, etc.) to increase friction and resist against the received infusion line.

[0054] Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the gripping elements 306 can include structural features that allow for a variable span 307. That is, the span 307 can contract to allow the gripping elements 306 to move away from the opposing gripping elements 306, and can expand to bias the gripping elements 306 toward the opposing gripping elements 306. Here, the arched structure forming the variable span 307 lies in a horizontal plane, while the arched structure forming the variable span 107 of FIG. 2A lies in a vertical plane. Additionally or alternatively, the biasing force can be provided by the curved shape of the gripping elements 306 themselves.

[0045]

[0055] 5 shows another embodiment of receiving surface 405. This embodiment includes a fixed gripping element 404 and a biased gripping element 406. In this embodiment, biased gripping element 406 has a curved shape and is rotatable in a horizontal plane, similar to gripping element 306 of FIG. 4. However, in this embodiment, gripping element 406 is disposed within a corresponding channel 411 that allows movement of gripping element 406 in a horizontal plane.

[0046]

[0056] 6A and 6B illustrate another embodiment of receiving surface 505 having gripping elements 504 and / or 508 arranged with rotational and / or longitudinal offset. Such an embodiment advantageously induces a bend in the received infusion line that aids in securing the device to the infusion line without creating excessive bends that could cause the line to kink or pinch.

[0047]

[0057] For example, in Figure 6A, the centrally located gripping elements 508 are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device. However, each set of peripherally located gripping elements 504 are rotationally offset such that the width of the gripping elements 504 extends transversely to the longitudinal axis. This forces the infusion line into a bent shape, causing the infusion line to press against the walls of the gripping elements 504 to aid in securing the device to the infusion line.

[0048]

[0058] Each set of gripping elements 504 may be independently rotated relative to the longitudinal axis by an amount suitable to create a desired bend in the received infusion line. For example, each set of gripping elements 504 may be independently rotated relative to the longitudinal axis (in either direction) by an amount ranging from about 10 degrees to about 45 degrees, from about 15 degrees to about 40 degrees, from about 20 degrees to about 35 degrees, or any combination of these angles. The sets of gripping elements 504 may be rotated in opposite directions, as shown, or may be rotated in the same direction.

[0049]

[0059] In Figure 6B, the outer gripping elements 504 are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, while the central gripping elements 508 are rotated relative to the longitudinal axis. The central gripping elements 508 may also be slightly offset longitudinally, as shown. Similar to the set of outer gripping elements 504 in Figure 6A, the central gripping elements 508 in Figure 6B compress the received infusion line to create a gentle bend that helps secure the infusion line without creating excessive bends that could cause kinking or binding.

[0050]

[0060] FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of the receiving surface 605, in which one or more gripping elements have a sloped portion to assist in forcing a bend in the received infusion line. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the centrally located gripping elements 608 has a main portion substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and a sloped portion 619 that slopes inward (toward the longitudinal axis) from the center. The first gripping element 608a of the pair has a first sloped portion 619a on a first side (i.e., the "left" side from the illustrated view), and the second gripping element 608b of the pair has a second sloped portion 619b on a second side (i.e., the "right" side from the illustrated view) opposite the first side. Thus, the gripping elements 608 cooperate to define a curved path for the infusion line received therebetween.

[0051]

[0061] The embodiment shown in Figure 7 includes peripherally located gripping elements 604 that are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device. In another embodiment, one or more of such gripping elements 604 may be angled (as shown in Figure 6A).

[0052]

[0062] 8 illustrates another embodiment of a receiving surface 705 in which the gripping elements define multiple infusion line passageways. The illustrated embodiment includes peripherally located gripping elements 704 that help define the infusion line passageways, and at least three centrally located gripping elements that define multiple infusion line passageways. For example, a first infusion line passageway 721a can be located between a first (i.e., "top") gripping element 708a and a second (i.e., "middle") gripping element 708b, while a second infusion line passageway 721b can be located between a second (i.e., "bottom") gripping element 708c. Additional gripping elements can be stacked transversely to define even more infusion line passageways.

[0053]

[0063] As shown, the infusion line passages 721 do not have to be the same size. In some circumstances, it may be beneficial to provide infusion line passages 721 of different sizes so that a user can select the infusion line passage 721 that best fits their particular infusion line. In the illustrated embodiment, infusion line passage 721a is relatively smaller in size, while infusion line passage 721b is relatively larger in size. This allows a user to select the passage that best fits their particular infusion line without having to use a different adapter device. For example, an infusion line that would be at risk of excessive pinching when placed in smaller infusion line 721a can instead be positioned in infusion line passage 721b, while an infusion line that is too small to be properly secured in infusion line passage 721b can instead be positioned in infusion line passage 721a.

[0054]

[0064] The receiving surface 705 may also include one or more indicator indicia 723 to help a user identify how to route the infusion lines through the device. For example, the indicator indicia 723 may show lines of different thicknesses to indicate to the user the relative sizes of the different infusion line passages 721.

[0055]

[0065] 9A and 9B illustrate another embodiment of a receiving surface 805 that includes gripping elements in the form of guide posts 808. The guide posts 808 can serve as structure to guide the infusion line to assist in securing the device to the infusion line. For example, in the device of FIG. 9A, the infusion line can be routed through one set of gripping elements 804, then "above" one of the guide posts 808, then "below" the next guide post, and then through the final set of gripping elements 804. The guide posts 808 can be included in addition to or instead of centrally located gripping elements in other embodiments.

[0056]

[0066] The guide posts 808 can be positioned substantially in line with one another longitudinally, as shown in FIG. 9A . Alternatively, the guide posts 808 can be laterally offset with respect to one another, such that they are positioned on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis and / or at different distances from the longitudinal axis (as shown in FIG. 9B ). Such offsets can beneficially define differential paths for the infusion lines with different degrees of bending. For example, a smaller infusion line may require a larger bend for effective fixation, while a larger infusion line may not require the same degree of bending for effective fixation and may jam if bent too far.

[0057]

[0067] In the illustrated example, a larger infusion line can be routed (from right to left) through a first set of gripping elements 804, then over a first guide post 808, under the next guide post 808, and then through a second set of gripping elements 804. A smaller infusion line can be routed (from right to left) through a first set of gripping elements 804, then under the first guide post 808, over the next guide post 808, and then through a second set of gripping elements 804. The transverse offset of the guide posts 808 forces the smaller infusion line into a larger bend, while also forcing the larger infusion line to bend less.

[0058]

[0068] The receiving surface 805 may also include one or more indicator indicia 823 to help a user identify how to route an infusion line through the device. For example, as shown, the indicator indicia 823 may display lines of different thicknesses to indicate to a user the preferred direction to route the infusion line based on the relative size of the infusion line.

[0059]

[0069] 9A and 9B each include two guide posts 808. While two guide posts 808 typically provide optimal balance and sufficient bending without excessive infusion line smacking, other embodiments may include more than two guide posts 808 (e.g., when relatively small infusion lines are anticipated). In some embodiments, one guide post 808 may be sufficient to create effective infusion line bending and fixation (e.g., when relatively large infusion lines are anticipated). [Additional Terms and Definitions]

[0070] As used herein, the "longitudinal axis" of an adapter device is used to refer to the axis running in the same general direction of the infusion line positioned therein, typically extending from a set of peripherally located gripping elements on a first side of the device to an opposing set of peripherally located gripping elements on a second side of the device (i.e., from "left" to "right" in the orientation of the drawing). The "transverse axis" is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and extends along the width of the device (i.e., from "top" to "bottom" in the orientation of the drawing). A "longitudinal" or "transverse" direction is any direction parallel to the longitudinal or transverse axis, respectively. A "horizontal plane" is a plane defined by the longitudinal and transverse axes and may, for example, be parallel to the receiving surface of the device. A "vertical plane" is perpendicular to the horizontal plane (i.e., extends off the page in the orientation of the drawing).

[0060]

[0071] Unless otherwise indicated, a "set of gripping elements" is used herein to include at least one pair of opposing gripping elements spaced laterally apart from one another by a distance that allows an infusion line to pass between them. While the exemplary embodiments described herein include two or three sets of gripping elements, other embodiments may include one set of gripping elements or more than three sets of gripping elements.

[0061]

[0072] Although certain embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail with respect to particular configurations, parameters, components, elements, etc., these descriptions are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention as claimed.

[0062]

[0073] Furthermore, for any given element of the components of the described embodiments, any of the possible alternatives listed for that element or component may generally be used individually or in combination with one another, unless otherwise implicitly or explicitly stated.

[0063]

[0074] Reference numbers referring to multiple instances of the same element may take the form of the reference number followed by a letter. For example, if an embodiment includes multiple instances of component 150, such components may be referred to generally as "component 150" when referring to such components and / or the collective set of such components, while individual instances of the component may be referred to as "component 150a," "component 150b," "component 150c," etc.

[0064]

[0075] Additionally, unless otherwise indicated, numbers expressing quantities, components, distances, or other measurements used in the specification and claims are understood to be optionally modified by the term "about" or its equivalents. When terms such as "about," "approximately," and "substantially" are used in conjunction with a stated quantity, value, or condition, they may be considered to mean an amount, value, or condition that deviates by less than 20%, less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, or less than 0.01% of the stated quantity, value, or condition.

[0065]

[0076] Any headings and sub-headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims.

[0066]

[0077] It should also be noted that in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are used as such without excluding plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, embodiments referring to a singular referent may also have two or more such referents.

[0067]

[0078] The embodiments disclosed herein should be understood as including / having the disclosed components and, therefore, may have additional components not specifically recited. The embodiments disclosed herein may optionally essentially or completely exclude components not specifically recited. That is, undisclosed components may optionally be completely or essentially omitted from the disclosed embodiments. For example, the disclosed adapter devices may optionally omit any undisclosed gripping elements and / or other components (e.g., foam inserts) intended for securing infusion lines or other medical lines.

[0068]

[0079] It will also be understood that the embodiments described herein may also have properties and / or characteristics (e.g., components, components, parts, components, parts, and / or portions, etc.) described in one or more separate embodiments, and are not necessarily limited to the precise features explicitly described for that particular embodiment. Thus, various features of a given embodiment can be combined with and / or incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, the disclosure of a particular feature in connection with a particular embodiment of the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting the application or inclusion of that feature to the particular embodiment. Rather, it will be understood that other embodiments can also have such features. Illustrative Embodiments

[0080] The following sections provide a non-limiting list of exemplary embodiments according to this disclosure.

[0069]

[0081] Clause 1. An adapter device for attaching an indicator device to a medical line, comprising: a longitudinal axis along which the medical line extends when the adapter device is attached; The receptive side and and one or more pairs of laterally opposed gripping elements projecting from the receiving surface, each pair of laterally opposed gripping elements defining a space therebetween for receiving a medical line.

[0070]

[0082] Clause 2. The device of clause 1, further comprising a first portion in which the receiving surface is disposed and a second portion to which the first portion is attached via a hinge.

[0071]

[0083] Clause 3. The device of clause 2, wherein the first portion and the second portion define an interior chamber when in the closed configuration.

[0084] Clause 4. The device of clause 3, further comprising an indicator within the internal chamber.

[0072]

[0085] Clause 5. The apparatus of clause 4, wherein the indicator comprises a light and / or a speaker.

[0086] Clause 6. The apparatus of any one of clauses 2-5, further comprising a third portion to which the second portion is attached via a hinge.

[0073]

[0087] Clause 7. The device of clause 6, wherein the second and third portions are closable to surround the first portion.

[0088] Clause 8. The device of clause 7, wherein the second and third sections define an opening through which the medical line can pass.

[0074]

[0089] Clause 9. The device of any one of clauses 1-8, wherein at least one of the gripping elements in each pair of gripping elements is a biased gripping element that can bend to expand the space between the opposing gripping elements, thereby accommodating medical lines of various sizes.

[0075]

[0090] Clause 10. The device of clause 9, wherein the biased gripping elements have a deformable arch structure, the arch structure being biased toward an expanded state and contractible to expand the space between opposing gripping elements.

[0076]

[0091] Clause 11. The device of clause 10, wherein the arch structure has a portion facing the opposing gripping element, the portion facing the opposing gripping element not fixed to the receiving surface, thereby being movable laterally toward and away from the opposing gripping element.

[0077]

[0092] Clause 12. The device of any one of clauses 1-11, wherein at least one of the gripping elements has fins biased toward a more transverse position and is bendable toward a more longitudinal position to accommodate an inserted medical line.

[0078]

[0093] Clause 13. The device of any one of clauses 1-12, wherein both of the gripping elements in each pair of gripping elements are biased toward each other and are bendable to expand the space between the gripping elements.

[0079]

[0094] Clause 14. The device of any one of clauses 1-13, wherein at least one of the sets of gripping elements is rotationally offset relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0080]

[0095] Clause 15. The device of any one of clauses 1-14, wherein the gripping elements in at least one of the sets of gripping elements each have a ramp configured to force a bend in a medical line placed between the gripping elements.

[0081]

[0096] Clause 16. The device of any one of clauses 1-15, wherein the device comprises a set of gripping elements having at least three laterally co-located gripping elements arranged to define two or more medical line passageways, at least two of the two or more medical line passageways being different sizes to accommodate different sized medical lines.

[0082]

[0097] Clause 17. The device of any one of clauses 1-16, wherein at least one of the sets of gripping elements comprises a gripping element configured as a guide post for forcing a bend in the medical line.

[0083]

[0098] Clause 18. The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 17, wherein the apparatus comprises one or more sensors configured to detect gas bubbles, flow rate, sediment formation, temperature, and / or salinity.

[0084]

[0099] Clause 19. Medical Line Identification System; Two or more adapter devices according to claim 1 are provided; 1. A medical line identification system, wherein the adapter devices are configured to wirelessly communicate with each other such that when a first indicator associated with a first adapter device is manually activated to emit an indicator signal, a second indicator associated with a second adapter device is also automatically activated to emit a corresponding indicator signal without requiring manual activation.

[0085]

[0100] Clause 20. A medical line sensor system comprising one or more adapter devices according to claim 1, each adapter device comprising: one or more sensors configured to sense bubbles, flow rate, sediment formation, temperature, and / or salinity; and one or more indicator components communicatively coupled to the one or more sensors and configured to activate in accordance with predetermined sensor activity.

Claims

1. 1. An adapter device for attaching an indicator device to a medical line, comprising: a longitudinal axis along which the medical line extends when the adapter device is attached; The receptive side and one or more pairs of laterally opposed gripping elements projecting from the receiving surface, each pair of laterally opposed gripping elements defining a space therebetween for receiving a medical line; An adapter device comprising:

2. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, at least one of the gripping elements in each set of gripping elements is a biased gripping element that can bend to expand the space between the opposing gripping elements to accommodate medical lines of various sizes; Device.

3. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, The device further includes a first portion on which the receiving surface is disposed and a second portion to which the first portion is attached via a hinge. Device.

4. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, the first portion and the second portion define an interior chamber when in a closed configuration; Device.

5. 5. The apparatus of claim 4, further comprising an indicator within the internal chamber. Device.

6. 6. The apparatus of claim 5, The indicator comprises a light and / or a speaker. Device.

7. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a third portion to which the second portion is hinged; Device.

8. 8. The apparatus of claim 7, The second and third portions are closable to surround the first portion. Device.

9. 9. The apparatus of claim 8, the second and third portions define an opening through which the medical line can pass; Device.

10. 3. The apparatus of claim 2, the biased gripping element has a deformable arch structure; the arch structure is biased toward an expanded state and is contractible to expand the space between opposing gripping elements; Device.

11. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, the arch structure has a portion facing the opposing gripping element; the portion facing the opposing gripping element is not fixed to the receiving surface and is thereby movable towards and away from the opposing gripping element in a lateral direction; Device.

12. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, At least one of the gripping elements has fins biased toward a more lateral position and is bendable toward a more longitudinal position to accommodate an inserted medical line. Device.

13. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, Both of the gripping elements in each pair of gripping elements are biased toward each other and bendable to expand the space between the gripping elements. Device.

14. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, At least one of the sets of gripping elements is rotationally offset relative to the longitudinal axis. Device.

15. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, the gripping elements in at least one of the sets of gripping elements each have a ramp configured to force a bend in a medical line placed between the gripping elements; Device.

16. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, the device includes a set of gripping elements having at least three laterally co-located gripping elements arranged to define two or more medical line passageways; At least two of the two or more medical line passages are different sizes to accommodate different sized medical lines. Device.

17. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, At least one of the sets of gripping elements includes a gripping element configured as a guide post for forcing a bend in the medical line. Device.

18. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, the device includes one or more sensors configured to detect bubbles, flow rate, sediment formation, temperature, and / or salinity; Device.

19. A medical line identification system, Two or more adapter devices according to claim 1 are provided, the adapter devices are configured to wirelessly communicate with each other such that when a first indicator associated with a first adapter device is manually activated to emit an indicator signal, a second indicator associated with a second adapter device is also automatically activated to emit a corresponding indicator signal without requiring manual activation; Medical line identification system.

20. A medical line sensor system, comprising: One or more adapter devices according to claim 1, Each adapter device is one or more sensors configured to detect bubbles, flow rate, sediment formation, temperature, and / or salinity; one or more indicator components communicatively coupled to the one or more sensors and configured to activate in accordance with predetermined sensor activity; Equipped with Medical line sensor system.

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