Fluid connector assembly that seals the flow path when the connector is disconnected

Abstract

A fluid connector assembly is disclosed that seals off a fluid path in each connector. When the connectors of the fluid connector assembly are connected to each other, each compressible member in the connector is displaced, allowing downstream fluid passage through the fluid connector assembly. The connectors maintain their connection by a snap mechanism that applies a threshold retention force. If an external force greater than the threshold force is applied to the fluid connector assembly, the snap mechanism no longer holds the connectors together and may cause the connectors to decouple from each other. However, each of the compressible members can return to their respective original position and shape, sealing off a respective fluid path in the connector, thus preventing further downstream and upstream flow through the fluid connector assembly and limiting or preventing fluid loss.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to medical fluid connectors, and more particularly to a fluid connector assembly including medical connectors that are designed to decouple from one another upon an applied force, with each medical connector automatically sealing its respective fluid path. The decoupling can be due to intentional or unintentional separation between the medical connectors. [Background technology]

[0002] A peripheral intravenous (PIVC) catheter is a medical device inserted into a patient's peripheral veins to deliver medical fluids to the patient. In an example application, the medical fluid is delivered to the patient, and a medical professional then removes the PIVC catheter from the patient. However, these catheters can become unintentionally dislodged. For example, a catheter line subjected to unintended or unexpected pulling force can pull on the IV tubing, causing the catheter to be pulled out of the patient. In other examples, the catheter is accidentally dislodged from the patient and medical professional. Unintended or unexpected dislodgment can lead to patient blood loss, loss of IV fluids, and delays in the delivery of IV fluids. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] In accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein, it is recognized that the unintended disconnection or detachment of a medical connection, such as a medical fluid line, can result in injury to a patient or medical personnel, such as by depriving the patient of medication, increasing the likelihood of infection to the patient, and exposing medical personnel to medication.

[0004] Aspects of the present disclosure provide fluid connector assemblies having medical connectors, each of which includes one or more fluid paths, that respond to unintended or unexpected external forces by decoupling and sealing off their respective fluid paths from one another. Decoupling can include automatic decoupling using bellows or other resiliently compressible members that are decompressed and return to their original shape when the external force no longer acts on them. Advantageously, the fluid connector assemblies described herein can limit or prevent patient blood loss, loss of IV fluids, infection, and delayed delivery of medications.

[0005] Accordingly, an aspect of the present disclosure provides a fluid connector assembly comprising: a first connector, the first connector comprising a first housing having a cavity, a post disposed in the first housing having an opening, and a compressible member surrounding the post; and a second connector configured to be coupled to the first connector, the second connector comprising a second housing and a plate coupled to the second housing, the plate displacing the compressible member and exposing the opening when the second housing is positioned in the cavity.

[0006] Some examples of the present disclosure provide a connector suitable for use with intravenous applications, the connector comprising: a housing; a post disposed within the housing defining a channel; an opening formed in the post fluidly connected to the channel; and a compressible member surrounding the post, wherein in response to an external force displacing the compressible member, the compressible member releases the opening, and when the external force is removed, the compressible member seals the opening.

[0007] Some aspects of the present disclosure provide a connector suitable for use with intravenous applications, the connector comprising a housing, a compressible member disposed in the housing, and a plate coupled to the housing that defines an opening, wherein in response to an external object entering the opening and displacing the compressible member, the compressible member releases the opening, and when the external force is removed, the compressible member seals the opening.

[0008] Some examples of the present disclosure provide methods for conditioning fluid for intravenous application, including providing a first connector with a fluid connector assembly, the first connector comprising a post defining a channel, a first compressible member surrounding the post, an opening formed in the post fluidly connected to the channel, and a cavity; receiving a second connector with a plate and a second compressible member in the cavity; and displacing the first compressible member with the plate to release the opening, and displacing the second compressible member with the post, thereby allowing fluid to pass through the opening.

[0009] Some examples of the present disclosure provide a method for regulating fluid by a connector in a housing having a post with an opening, the method including the steps of: subjecting an external force to the external force; displacing a compressible member disposed in the housing based on the subjecting of the external force; and releasing the opening based on the displacing of the compressible member.

[0010] Some methods for adjusting the fluid include the steps of: applying an external force to a housing having a plate including an opening through a connector; displacing a compressible member disposed in the housing based on the step of applying the external force; and opening the opening based on the step of displacing the compressible member.

[0011] Thus, the present application addresses some of the operational challenges faced in unintended or unexpected catheter dislodgement.

[0012] Additional features and advantages of the subject technology will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the subject technology. The advantages of the subject technology will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and examples herein, as well as the accompanying drawings.

[0013] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the subject technology.

[0014] Various features of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the drawings. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate, but not limit, the present invention. The drawings include the following figures: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an IV set connected to a patient, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fluid connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a connector of a fluid connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a connector of a fluid connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a connector of a fluid connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a connector of a fluid connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a fluid connector assembly showing the mated connectors and further illustrating the actuation of the respective compressible members, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8]1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a fluid connector assembly showing the connectors decoupled from one another and the fluid paths of the connectors sealed based on a compressible member, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 9] 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method for conditioning a fluid for intravenous application according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method for conditioning a fluid, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method for conditioning a fluid, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the subject technology. It should be understood that the subject technology may be practiced without some of these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order to avoid obscuring the subject technology.

[0017] Furthermore, while the present description sets forth specific details of various embodiments, it will be appreciated that the description is illustrative only and should not be construed as limiting in any way. In addition, while particular embodiments of the present disclosure may be disclosed or illustrated in the context of an IV set, it is contemplated that such embodiments may be used in other fluid delivery systems. Still further, various applications of and modifications to such embodiments that may occur to those skilled in the art are also encompassed by the general concepts described herein.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the present disclosure includes various features and advantages of a fluid connector assembly having medical connectors that seal their respective fluid paths when the medical connectors are decoupled from one another. The medical connectors can each include a compressible member that is decompressed in response to decoupling, resulting in automatic sealing of the respective fluid paths.

[0019] Referring now to the figures, Figure 1 illustrates an IV set 1 connected to a patient 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. IV set 1 includes a medication bag 12, a drip chamber 14, and tubing 22. Tubing 22 extends between drip chamber 14 of IV set 1 and a fluid connector assembly 100. To resist unintentional removal or disconnection of tubing 16 or catheter 18 from the patient, tape 26 is placed across tubing 16 and catheter 18 such that tape 26 engages tubing 16, catheter 18, and patient 10.

[0020] 2 illustrates a perspective view of a fluid connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The fluid connector assembly 100 is designed for use in medical applications, such as, by way of non-limiting example, an IV set 1 (shown in FIG. 1) using catheters, including PIVC catheters, as well as other IV medical fluid delivery applications.

[0021] As shown, fluid connector assembly 100 includes connector 102 and connector 104 coupled to connector 102. Connectors 102 and 104 may be referred to as a first connector and a second connector, respectively. However, "first" and "second" may be interchangeable. Each of connectors 102 and 104 may also be referred to as a medical connector. When connectors 102 and 104 are connected to one another as shown in FIG. 2, a fluid path for medical fluid is established by fluid connector assembly 100.

[0022] In some embodiments, connector 104 is connected to a medical fluid (not shown). Additionally, in some embodiments, connector 102 is connected to a catheter line (not shown) that delivers medical fluid to a catheter. In this regard, connector 104 may include a fluid inlet 106 that serves as a fluid receiving location for fluid connector assembly 100. Connector 102 may also include a fluid outlet 110 that serves as a fluid transport location for fluid connector assembly 100.

[0023] To facilitate connection to medical fluids, connector 104 includes a luer 108. In some embodiments, luer 108 is a female luer designed to mate with a male connector that is connected to the medical fluid. To facilitate connection to a catheter line, connector 102 includes a luer 112. In some embodiments, luer 112 is a male luer designed to mate with a female connector that is connected to the catheter line. Additionally, each of luers 108 and 112 may conform to standards established by the International Organization for Standards (ISO) to improve patient safety, minimize medical fluid spills, and reduce misconnections with other connecting devices.

[0024] Additionally, connector 102 includes a post 114 that passes through the center, or at least approximately the center, of connector 102. Post 114 includes a channel that establishes fluid outlet 110. As shown, post 114 is cylindrical; however, other shapes are possible.

[0025] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a connector showing additional features according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Connector 102 includes housing 120 integrated with luer 112. Housing 120 includes slots 122 and 124, each designed to facilitate proper connection between connector 102 and connector 104 (shown below). Housing 120 includes a hollow or generally hollow body that carries one or more components. For example, compressible member 126 is located in housing 120. In some embodiments, compressible member 126 includes a resiliently compressible bellows. Thus, compressible member 126 can be compressed by an external force and then return to its original, uncompressed form when the external force is removed. Compressible member 126 is designed to regulate fluid flow through connector 102, as will be described in more detail below. Compressible member 126 includes an engagement surface 128 designed to engage with a component of connector 104. The engagement surface 128 provides a planar or generally planar surface that can be easily accessed for cleaning and sterilization.

[0026] The engagement surface 128 includes an opening 129 through which the post 114 is positioned. The post 114 includes two opposite ends, each having a different configuration. For example, the post 114 includes a closed end 132 and an open end 134 opposite the closed end 132. The closed end 132 is covered, for example, by a surface formed from the material of the housing 120, while the open end 134 is free and integrated with the fluid outlet 110. As shown, the closed end 132 of the post 114 extends through the opening 129 in the engagement surface 128.

[0027] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of connector 104 showing additional features according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Connector 104 includes housing 130. Housing 120 (shown in FIG. 3) and housing 130 may be referred to as a first housing and a second housing, respectively. However, "first" and "second" may be interchangeable. As shown, housing 130 is integrated with luer 108. Housing 130 includes pins 142 and 144, each of which functions as a guide pin designed to facilitate proper connection between connector 104 and connector 102 (shown in FIG. 3). For example, to couple connectors 102 and 104 together, pins 142 and 144 are aligned with and positioned in slots 122 and 124 (shown in FIG. 3), respectively. Housing 130 includes a hollow or generally hollow body that carries one or more components. For example, housing 130 includes a compressible member 146 located, or at least substantially located, in housing 130. In some embodiments, compressible member 146 includes a bellows that can be resiliently compressed. Thus, compressible member 146 can be compressed by an external force and then return to its original, uncompressed form when the external force is removed. Compressible member 146 is designed to regulate the flow of fluid through connector 104, as will be described in more detail below.

[0028] Additionally, connector 104 includes a plate 148 connected to housing 130. The connection between housing 130 and plate 148 may include welding (e.g., ultrasonic welding, adhesive, etc.). Upon connection, a seal is formed between housing 130 and plate 148 such that fluids do not flow between housing 130 and plate 148. Plate 148 includes an engagement surface 150 designed to engage with engagement surface 128 (shown in FIG. 3) of compressible member 126. Engagement surface 150 provides a planar or generally planar surface that can be easily accessed for cleaning and sterilization. Plate 148 also includes an opening 152 through which a portion of compressible member 146 is positioned. As a result, compressible member 146 can engage closed end 132 (shown in FIG. 3) of post 114 when connectors 102 and 104 are coupled together. Plate 148 also aligns compressible member 146 within housing 130 based on a portion of compressible member 146 being within opening 152 of plate 148 .

[0029] FIG. 5 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the connector 102 of the fluid connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the compressible member 126 is located in a hollow portion of the housing 120 and is at least partially engaged with an inner surface 160 of the housing 120. The post 114 is connected to the housing 120 by a wall 162. While the post 114 is integral with the wall 162, the post 114 includes a channel 164 therein that opens to the fluid outlet 110 and passes through the wall 162. The post 114 also includes an opening 166, which represents one or more radial through-holes formed in the post 114. The opening 166 is fluidly connected to the channel 164 and the fluid outlet 110. Any additional openings similar to the opening 166 formed in the post 114 may be fluidly connected to the channel 164 and may include any of the features shown and described for the opening 166. Wall 162 separates housing 120 into two cavities. For example, housing 120 includes cavity 168, which is defined by housing 120 and post 114. As shown, compressible member 126 surrounds post 114 in cavity 168. Housing 120 also includes cavity 170, which is separated from cavity 168 by wall 162.

[0030] Housing 120 includes two opposing ends. As shown, housing 120 includes end 172 and end 174 opposite end 172. End 172 of housing 120 includes inner diameter 176. Additionally, end 174 of housing 120 includes inner diameter 178 having a dimension smaller than that of inner diameter 176. Based on the difference in dimensions of inner diameters 176 and 178, in some embodiments, cavity 168 may include a volume larger than that of cavity 170.

[0031] 5, opening 166 is covered by compressible member 126. In this regard, compressible member 126 seals opening 166 and fluid is prevented from flowing through connector 102. For example, fluid entering end 172 of housing 120 is prevented from entering opening 166 based on the position of compressible member 126.

[0032] FIG. 6 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the connector 104 of the fluid connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the compressible member 146 is located in a hollow portion of the housing 130 and is at least partially engaged with an inner wall 180 of the housing 130. The compressible member 146 includes an opening 182, which represents an additional opening (shown without a number) in the compressible member 146. While FIG. 6 shows multiple openings formed in the compressible member 146, the number of openings may vary. For example, in some embodiments, one or more openings may be formed in the compressible member 146. In any event, each opening may include any of the features shown and described for the openings 182. Fluid flowing through the fluid inlet 106 may pass through the compressible member 146 via the opening 182. Additionally, the compressible member 146 includes a protrusion 184 that extends into the opening 152 in the plate 148.

[0033] The housing 130 includes two opposing ends. As shown, the housing 130 includes an end 186 and an end 188 opposite the end 186. The end 186 of the housing 130, where the fluid inlet 106 is located, includes an inner diameter 190. The end 188 of the housing 130, to which the plate 148 is connected, includes an inner diameter 192 that is larger than the inner diameter 190 of the end 186. In addition, the end 188 of the housing 130 includes an outer diameter 194. In some embodiments, the outer diameter 194 of the end 188 of the housing 130 is the same as, or at least substantially similar to, the diameter of the plate 148. The outer diameter 194 includes a dimension that allows at least a portion of the plate 148 and at least a portion of the housing 130 to enter the connector 102 (shown in FIG. 5). In this manner, the dimension of the inner diameter 176 of the end 172 (shown in FIG. 5) may be larger than the outer diameter 194 of the end 188 of the housing 130. Additionally, the size of the inner diameter 176 of the end 172 may be greater than the diameter of the plate 148 .

[0034] 6, the connector 104 prevents fluid flow therethrough. For example, when the protrusion 184 of the compressible member 146 is positioned in the opening 152 of the plate 148 and the compressible member 146 engages the plate 148, fluid entering the fluid inlet 106 is prevented from exiting through the end 188 of the housing 130.

[0035] To facilitate fluid passage through connectors 102 and 104, each compressible member can be actuated or displaced to release the respective opening in connectors 102 and 104.

[0036] 7 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of fluid connector assembly 100 showing mated connectors 102 and 104 and further illustrating actuation of compressible members 126 and 146, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Based on the respective dimensions of outer diameter 194 of housing 130 (shown in FIG. 6) and inner diameter 176 of end 172 of housing 120 (shown in FIG. 5), plate 148 can be inserted into cavity 168 (labeled in FIG. 5) of housing 120, and housing 130 can be at least partially inserted into cavity 168 of housing 130. Connectors 102 and 104 remain coupled together by snap mechanism 189.

[0037] The snap mechanism 189 may include a friction or interference fit between mating ends of the connectors 102, 104. For example, in some embodiments, the connector 102 may include an inwardly extending inner rim 191. As shown in FIG. 7 , the inner rim 191 may extend circumferentially, which in some embodiments may result in opposing rims 191 separated by slots 122, 124. When the inner rims 191 are separated by slots 122, 124, the housing 120 may be configured to flex outward at the slots to provide a friction or interference fit when the connector 104 is inserted into the housing 120. The inner rim 191 may include a beveled edge to allow for sliding engagement with portions of the connector 104 when the connector 104 is inserted within the housing 120. The connector 104 may include an outer rim 193 that extends slightly radially outward, such that when the connector 104 is inserted into the housing 120 of the connector 102, the outer rim 193 causes a slight deflection in the housing 120 as the inner rim 191 passes over the outer rim 193. As the connector 104 is advanced further into the housing 120, the housing 120 is allowed to recover slightly or fully from its deflected state as the inner rim 191 passes over the outer rim 193. A friction or interference fit between the inner rim 191 and the outer rim 193 provides a snap mechanism 189 that secures the connector 102 with the connector 104 when the connectors 102, 104 are coupled together.

[0038] 7 , the snap mechanism 189 provides a retention force to maintain the connection / coupling between the connectors 102 and 104. The retention force provided by the snap mechanism 189 may also be equal to a threshold force that maintains the connection / coupling between the connectors 102 and 104. However, if an external force, such as a pulling force applied to one or more of the connectors 102 and 104, is applied to at least one of the connectors 102 and 104 that is greater than the threshold force, the snap mechanism 189 may no longer maintain the connection / coupling between the connectors 102 and 104, and the connectors 102 and 104 may become decoupled from one another. When this occurs, the plate 148 and the housing 130 of the connector 104 are detached from the housing 120 of the connector 102.

[0039] Upon insertion of the housing 120, the plate 148 may engage with the compressible member 126 of the connector 102. For example, as shown in FIG. 7 , the engagement surface 150 of the plate 148 engages with the engagement surface 128 of the compressible member 126. From the perspective of the compressible member 126, an external force is applied by at least the plate 148. Upon insertion and engagement, the plate 148 applies a force that actuates the compressible member 126. For example, actuation of the compressible member 126 may include compression of the compressible member 126. In this manner, compression of the compressible member 126 causes the compressible member 126 to reduce in size and move relative to the post 114, exposing the opening 166 in the post 114. Thus, the opening 166 in the post 114 is released by the compressible member 126, and the compressible member 126 no longer provides a seal against fluid intrusion into the opening 166. Thus, compressible member 126 located on housing 120 is designed to actuate, eg, compress, in response to a force received by one or more objects external to connector 104 .

[0040] Simultaneously, or approximately simultaneously, with the insertion of the plate 148 and housing 130 into the housing 120, the post 114 of the connector 102 engages with the compressible member 146 of the connector 102. For example, the closed end 132 of the post 114 engages with the protrusion 184 of the compressible member 146. From the perspective of the compressible member 146, an external force is applied by at least the post 114. As the plate 148 and housing 130 are further inserted into the housing 120, the post 114 applies a force that actuates the compressible member 146. For example, actuation of the compressible member 146 may include compressing the compressible member 146, thereby reducing the size of the compressible member 146 and forcing the protrusion 184 of the compressible member 146 out of the opening 152 of the plate 148, disengaging the compressible member 146 from the plate 148. Disengagement between compressible member 146 and plate 148 breaks the seal between compressible member 146 and plate 148. Actuation of compressible member 146 also allows post 114 to pass through opening 152 in plate 148 and extend into housing 130. Post 114 then passes through opening 152 in plate 148, such that opening 166 in post 114 also passes through opening 152 in plate 148 and is positioned in housing 130. Thus, compressible member 146, located in housing 130, is designed to actuate, i.e., compress, in response to forces received by one or more objects external to connector 102.

[0041] Based on the configuration of the fluid connector assembly 100 shown in FIG. 7 , a fluid path is established. For example, the arrows in the connectors 102 and 104 indicate exemplary fluid paths, including the respective fluid paths through the connectors 102 and 104. The direction of the arrows represents a downstream, or at least generally downstream, flow path through the connectors 102 and 104. Thus, fluid, including medical fluid, can pass through the fluid connector assembly 100 downstream from connector 104 to connector 102. As shown, fluid can enter the fluid inlet 106 of the housing 130 and then pass through the compressible member 146 via the opening 182 in the compressible member 146. The fluid can then pass through the opening 166 in the post 114 and then through the channel 164 in the post 114. The fluid can exit the fluid connector assembly 100 through the fluid outlet 110 of the housing 120.

[0042] 8 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of fluid connector assembly 100 showing connectors 102 and 104 decoupled from one another and their respective fluid paths sealed based on compressible members 126 and 146, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Decoupling of connectors 102 and 104 may result from an external force applied to one or more of connectors 102 and 104, where the external force exceeds a threshold force applied by a snap mechanism that maintains the connection between connectors 102 and 104.

[0043] As shown, connector 104 is removed from connector 102. As plate 148 begins to exit housing 120, the force exerted by plate 148 is reduced and compressible member 126 is decompressed. As plate 148 disengages from compressible member 126, compressible member 126 expands and returns to its original shape, once again covering and sealing opening 166. As a result, fluid cannot flow upstream through connector 102 or through opening 166 in post 114.

[0044] Additionally, as plate 148 and housing 130 begin to exit housing 120, the force exerted by post 114 decreases, decompressing compressible member 146. When post 114 disengages from compressible member 146, compressible member 146 expands and returns to its original shape, resulting in protrusion 184 of compressible member 146 moving into opening 152 in plate 148, with compressible member 146 and plate 148 sealing opening 152. As a result, fluid cannot flow downstream through connector 104 or through opening 152.

[0045] Each of compressible members 126 and 146 can be used as a valve to regulate fluid flow through fluid connector assembly 100. Based on their resilient, spring-like properties, each of compressible members 126 and 146 automatically return to their respective shapes when an external force is no longer acting on them. Advantageously, compressible members 126 and 146 spring back in response to a decoupling between connectors 102 and 104, providing a relatively rapid sealing effect. Thus, blood loss, IV fluid loss, and delays in medication delivery can be limited or prevented based on one or more properties of compressible members 126 and 146 when connector assembly 100 is integrated with an IV set and catheter.

[0046] 9 illustrates a flow chart showing a method for conditioning fluid for intravenous application according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The fluid connector assembly described herein can perform one or more steps of the method shown and described in flow chart 200.

[0047] In step 202, a first connector is provided. In some embodiments, the first connector includes a post defining a channel. The first connector may further include a first compressible member surrounding the post. In some embodiments, the first compressible member includes a bellows. Furthermore, the first compressible member may resiliently compress based on an external force and return to its original shape after the external force is removed. The first connector may further include an opening formed in the post. In some embodiments, the opening is fluidly connected to the channel. The first connector may further include a cavity.

[0048] At step 204, a second connector is received in the cavity. The second connector may include a plate. The second connector may further include a second compressible member. In some embodiments, the second compressible member includes a bellows. In these embodiments, the bellows may include a spider bellows. Furthermore, the compressible member may resiliently compress based on an external force and return to its original shape after the external force is removed. Additionally, the cavity of the first connector includes a size and shape capable of receiving or at least partially receiving the second connector, including the plate of the second connector.

[0049] In step 206, the first compressible member is displaced by the plate to release the opening. The displacement may include compression of the first compressible member by the plate. Prior to the displacement, the first compressible member may seal the opening. However, as a result of the displacement of the first compressible member, the opening is no longer sealed by the first compressible member.

[0050] In step 208, the second compressible member is displaced by the post. Displacement of the second compressible member allows fluid to pass through the opening. Similar to the first compressible member, displacement of the second compressible member may include compression of the second compressible member by the post. The first and second compressible members may be decompressed and return to their original respective shapes when the first and second compressible members are no longer acted upon and displaced by their respective objects.

[0051] 10 illustrates a flow chart 300 showing a method for regulating a fluid according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. At least some connectors described herein may perform one or more steps of the method shown and described in flow chart 300. For example, connector 102 (shown in FIG. 2) may perform one or more steps of the method shown and described in flow chart 300.

[0052] In step 302, an external force is received by a housing of a connector. The housing may include a post with an opening. The external force may be applied by an additional connector designed to mate with the connector. Additionally, the external force may be applied by a component (e.g., a plate) of the additional connector.

[0053] In step 304, a compressible member disposed in the housing is displaced based on the step of receiving an external force. In some embodiments, the compressible member includes a bellows. The displacement may include compression of the compressible member by an additional connector including that component. Furthermore, the compressible member may resiliently compress based on the external force and return to its original shape after the external force is removed.

[0054] In step 306, the opening is released based on the step of displacing the compressible member. Prior to displacement, the compressible member may seal the opening. However, based on displacement of the compressible member, the opening is no longer sealed by the compressible member. The compressible member may be decompressed and return to its original, uncompressed shape when it is no longer acted upon and displaced by additional connectors, including its own components. Thus, the compressible member can then cover and seal the opening.

[0055] 11 illustrates a flow chart 400 showing a method for regulating a fluid according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. At least some connectors described herein may perform one or more steps of the method shown and described in flow chart 400. For example, connector 104 (shown in FIG. 2) may perform one or more steps of the method shown and described in flow chart 400.

[0056] In step 402, an external force is received by a housing of the connector. The housing may include a plate including an opening. The external force may be applied by an additional connector designed to mate with the connector. Additionally, the external force may be applied by a component (e.g., a post) of the additional connector.

[0057] In step 404, a compressible member disposed in the housing is displaced based on the step of receiving an external force. In some embodiments, the compressible member includes a bellows. In these embodiments, the bellows may include a spider bellows. The displacement may include compression of the compressible member by an additional connector, including its own components. Furthermore, the compressible member may elastically compress based on the external force and return to its original shape after the external force is removed.

[0058] In step 406, the opening is released based on the step of displacing the compressible member. Prior to displacement, the compressible member may cooperate with the plate to seal the opening. However, based on displacement of the compressible member, the opening is no longer sealed by the compressible member because the compressible member is no longer engaged with the plate. The compressible member may be decompressed and return to its original, uncompressed shape when it is no longer acted upon and displaced by additional connectors, including its own components. Thus, the compressible member can then engage with the plate and seal the opening.

[0059] A feature of the present disclosure provides first and second compressible members that can be used as valves to regulate a fluid pathway therebetween. The first and second compressible members are located in first and second connectors, respectively. When the first and second connectors are separated, either unintentionally or intentionally, the fluid pathway for each of the first and second compressible members is closed or occluded, preventing fluid loss therefrom. A feature of the present disclosure also provides that upon separation of the first and second compressible members, either of the first and second compressible members can be cleaned and sterilized, and the first and second compressible members can be reconnected together to form a fluid pathway therebetween.

[0060] Examples of subject matter art as clauses The subject technology is exemplified by various aspects, for example, as 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 do not limit the subject technology. Any of the dependent clauses may be combined in any combination and incorporated into a respective independent clause, e.g., clause 1, clause 11, clause 17, clause 23, clause 26, or clause 29. Other clauses may be presented similarly.

[0061] Clause 1. A fluid connector assembly comprising: a first connector, the first connector comprising a first housing having a cavity, a post disposed in the first housing having an opening, and a compressible member surrounding the post; and a second connector configured to be coupled to the first connector, the second connector comprising a second housing and a plate coupled to the second housing, the plate displacing the compressible member and exposing the opening when the second housing is positioned in the cavity.

[0062] Clause 2. A fluid connector assembly as described above, wherein the compressible member seals the opening when the second housing is removed from the cavity.

[0063] Clause 3. A fluid connector assembly as described above, wherein the opening includes a first opening, the plate has a second opening, and when the second housing is positioned in the cavity, the post is positioned in the second opening.

[0064] Clause 4. A fluid connector assembly as described above, wherein the compressible member includes a first compressible member, and the second connector further includes a second compressible member disposed in the second housing, and wherein the post displaces the second compressible member when the second housing is positioned in the cavity.

[0065] Clause 5. The fluid connector assembly described above, further comprising a channel formed in the post, the channel fluidly connected to the first opening, and the first opening, the second opening and the channel defining a fluid path.

[0066] Clause 6. The fluid connector assembly described above, further comprising a third opening formed in the second compressible member, the third opening further defining a fluid path.

[0067] Clause 7. A fluid connector assembly as described above, wherein the second compressible member seals the second opening when the plate is disengaged from the first compressible member.

[0068] Clause 8. A fluid connector assembly as described above, wherein the second housing includes a fluid inlet and the first housing includes a fluid outlet, the fluid inlet and fluid outlet further defining a fluid path.

[0069] Clause 9. A fluid connector assembly as described above, wherein the second connector is held in the cavity by a threshold force, and in response to an external force greater than the threshold force applied to at least one of the first connector and the second connector that removes the second housing from the cavity, the first compressible member seals the first opening and the second compressible member seals the second opening.

[0070] Clause 10. A fluid connector assembly as described above, wherein the second compressible member is movable relative to the plate.

[0071] Clause 11. A connector suitable for use with intravenous applications, comprising: a housing; a post disposed within the housing defining a channel; an opening formed in the post fluidly connected to the channel; and a compressible member surrounding the post, wherein in response to an external force displacing the compressible member, the compressible member releases the opening, and when the external force is removed, the compressible member seals the opening.

[0072] Clause 12. The connector as described above, further comprising a cavity defined by the housing and the post, wherein the compressible member releases the opening upon an external object entering the cavity and applying an external force.

[0073] Clause 13. The connector as described above, further comprising a wall disposed in the housing, the post being integral with the wall and the channel passing through the wall.

[0074] Clause 14. The connector as described above, wherein the cavity includes a first cavity, and the body and post further define a second cavity separated from the first cavity by a wall.

[0075] Clause 15. A connector as described above, wherein the housing holds an external object in the cavity with a threshold force, and in response to an external force greater than the threshold force applied to at least one of the housing and the external object, the housing disengages from the external object in the cavity, and the compressible member seals the opening.

[0076] Clause 16. A connector as described above, wherein the post is positioned in the cavity such that when the external object is positioned in the cavity, the second compressible member of the external object is compressed by the post.

[0077] Clause 17. A connector suitable for use with intravenous applications, comprising a housing, a compressible member disposed in the housing, and a plate coupled to the housing defining an opening, wherein in response to an external object entering the opening and displacing the compressible member, the compressible member releases the opening, and when the external force is removed, the compressible member seals the opening.

[0078] Clause 18. The connector as described above, wherein the housing defines a fluid inlet, and when the compressible member is displaced to release the opening, the compressible member allows fluid entering the fluid inlet to pass through the opening.

[0079] Clause 19. The connector described above, wherein the opening defines a first opening and the compressible member defines a second opening, and when the compressible member releases the first opening, a fluid path is established by the fluid inlet, the first opening, and the second opening.

[0080] Clause 20. The connector as described above, wherein the compressible member is movable relative to the plate.

[0081] Clause 21. The connector as described above, wherein the compressible member includes a protrusion, and when the compressible member engages with the plate, the protrusion is positioned in the opening.

[0082] Clause 22. The connector described above, wherein when the main body is disposed on the outer body, the main body is held by a threshold force, and in response to an external force greater than the threshold force applied to at least one of the main body and the outer body, the main body is disengaged from the outer body and the compressible member covers the opening.

[0083] Clause 23. A method for conditioning fluid for intravenous application, comprising the steps of: providing a first connector with a fluid connector assembly, the first connector comprising a post defining a channel, a first compressible member surrounding the post, an opening formed in the post fluidly connected to the channel, and a cavity; and receiving a second connector with the cavity, the second compressible member and a plate; displacing the first compressible member with the plate to release the opening; and displacing the second compressible member with the post, thereby allowing fluid to pass through the opening.

[0084] Clause 24. The method as described above, further comprising the step of positioning the post at least partially in the second connector based on the step of receiving the second connector.

[0085] Clause 25. The method described above, further comprising the step of removing the second connector from the cavity by an external force, thereby causing the first compressible member to seal the opening.

[0086] Clause 26. A method for regulating fluid, comprising the steps of: subjecting a housing having a post with an opening, by a connector, to an external force; displacing a compressible member disposed in the housing based on the step of subjecting the external force; and releasing the opening based on the step of displacing the compressible member.

[0087] Clause 27. The method as described above, wherein the step of displacing the compressible member includes compressing the compressible member.

[0088] Clause 28. The method as described above, wherein compressing the compressible member comprises moving the compressible member relative to the post.

[0089] Clause 29. A method for regulating a fluid, comprising the steps of: applying an external force to a housing having a plate including an opening through a connector; displacing a compressible member disposed in the housing based on the step of applying the external force; and opening the opening based on the step of displacing the compressible member.

[0090] Clause 30. The method as described above, wherein the step of displacing the compressible member includes compressing the compressible member.

[0091] Clause 31. The method as described above, wherein compressing the compressible member comprises moving the compressible member relative to a plate.

[0092] Clause 33. The method as described above, wherein the step of displacing the compressible member includes the step of disengaging the compressible member from the plate.

[0093] Clause 34. The method as described above, further comprising the step of removing a protruding portion of the compressible member from the opening based on the step of displacing the compressible member.

[0094] Further Considerations In some embodiments, any of the clauses herein may depend on any one of the independent clauses or any one of the dependent clauses. In one aspect, any of the clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses) may be combined with one or more other clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses). In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, actions, means, or components) recited in a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words recited in one or more clauses, sentences, phrases, or paragraphs. In one aspect, some of the words in each clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph may be removed. In one aspect, additional words or elements may be added to a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements, functions, or operations described herein. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented using additional components, elements, functions, or operations.

[0095] This disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. While this disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, 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 generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects.

[0096] 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 "some" refers to one or more unless specifically stated otherwise. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter pronouns (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if present, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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 of 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 "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 of an embodiment may apply to all embodiments, or to one or more examples. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as "embodiment" may refer to one or more embodiments, 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 of a configuration may apply to all configurations, or to one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as a configuration may refer to one or more configurations, and vice versa.

[0099] In one aspect, unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, estimates, 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 function to which they relate and with that which is customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0100] In one aspect, the term "coupled" or the like can refer to being directly coupled. In another aspect, the term "coupled" or the like can refer to being indirectly coupled.

[0101] As used in this disclosure, terms such as "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," etc., should be understood to refer to any frame of reference other than the typical gravity-based frame of reference. Thus, upper, lower, front, and rear surfaces may extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravity-based frame of reference.

[0102] Various items may be arranged differently (e.g., placed in a different order or divided in a different manner) without departing from the scope of the subject technology. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later become known to those of ordinary skill 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 expressly recited in the claims. No claim element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for," or, in the case of a method claim, unless the element is recited using the phrase "step for." Still further, with respect to the use of the terms "comprises," "having," and the like, such terms are intended to be as inclusive as "comprising," as the term "comprising" would be interpreted when used as a transitional phrase in a claim.

[0103] 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 a limiting description. This disclosure is submitted with the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Additionally, in the Detailed Description, it may be recognized that the description provides exemplary illustrations, and that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to 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.

[0104] The claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the claims as written and to encompass all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, no claim is intended to, and should not be construed to, encompass subject matter that does not satisfy the requirements of 35 U.S.C. §§ 101, 102, or 103.

Claims

1. a first connector, a first housing having a cavity; a post disposed in the first housing, the post having an opening; and a compressible member surrounding the post a first connector comprising: a second connector configured to be coupled with the first connector, a second housing; and a plate coupled to the second housing, the plate displacing the compressible member and exposing the opening when the second housing is positioned in the cavity; a second connector comprising: A fluid connector assembly comprising:

2. The fluid connector assembly of claim 1 , wherein the compressible member seals the opening when the second housing is removed from the cavity.

3. the opening includes a first opening; the plate includes a second opening; When the second housing is positioned in the cavity, the post is positioned in the second opening. The fluid connector assembly of claim 1 .

4. The fluid connector assembly of claim 3 , wherein the second connector comprises a protrusion configured to extend into the second opening.

5. the compressible member includes a first compressible member; the second connector further comprising a second compressible member disposed in the second housing; 4. The fluid connector assembly of claim 3, wherein the post displaces the second compressible member when the second housing is positioned in the cavity.

6. 6. The fluid connector assembly of claim 5, further comprising a channel formed in the post, the channel fluidly connected to the first opening, the first opening, the second opening and the channel defining a fluid path.

7. 7. The fluid connector assembly of claim 6, further comprising a third opening formed in said second compressible member, said third opening further defining said fluid path.

8. 7. The fluid connector assembly of claim 6, wherein the second compressible member seals the second opening when the plate is disengaged from the first compressible member.

9. the second housing includes a fluid inlet; the first housing includes a fluid outlet; the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet further define the fluid path.

7. The fluid connector assembly of claim 6.

10. the second connector is held in the cavity by a threshold force; in response to an external force greater than the threshold force applied to at least one of the first connector and the second connector that removes the second housing from the cavity; the first compressible member sealing the first opening; the second compressible member sealing the second opening; 7. The fluid connector assembly of claim 6.

11. The fluid connector assembly of claim 6 , wherein the second compressible member is movable relative to the plate.

12. The fluid connector assembly Posts defining the channel, a first compressible member surrounding the post; an opening formed in the post that is fluidly connected to the channel; and cavity providing a first connector comprising: In the cavity, Plate and Second compressible member receiving a second connector comprising: displacing the first compressible member with the plate to release the opening; and displacing the second compressible member with the post, thereby allowing the fluid to pass through the opening.

10. A method for preparing a fluid for intravenous administration, comprising:

13. The method of claim 12 , further comprising the step of positioning the post at least partially in the second connector based on the step of receiving the second connector.

14. The method of claim 12 , further comprising removing the second connector from the cavity with an external force, thereby causing the first compressible member to seal the opening.

15. The method of claim 12 , wherein displacing the first compressible member comprises compressing the first compressible member.

16. The method of claim 15 , wherein compressing the first compressible member comprises moving the first compressible member relative to the post.

17. The method of claim 12 , wherein displacing the second compressible member comprises compressing the second compressible member.

18. The method of claim 17 , wherein compressing the second compressible member comprises moving the second compressible member relative to the plate.

19. The method of claim 12 , wherein displacing the second compressible member comprises disengaging the second compressible member from the plate.

20. The method of claim 12 , further comprising the step of removing a protrusion of the second compressible member from the opening based on the step of displacing the second compressible member.

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