Automatic Cleaning Valve

Abstract

A connector assembly is disclosed. The connector assembly includes a housing having a post and a valve surrounding the post. The valve is displaceable and allows fluid to pass therethrough based on the displacement. During fluid delivery, a fluid delivery device applies an external force to displace the valve, causing the valve to form a fluid pocket that receives fluid from the fluid delivery device. When the fluid delivery device is removed from the connector assembly, the fluid pocket collapses, expelling the fluid stored in the fluid pocket through an opening in the post, where the fluid flows downstream to the catheter line. Additionally, the valve closes and covers the post prior to removal of the fluid delivery device. The collapse of the fluid pocket and the closing of the valve prevent upstream fluid flow of fluid previously in the fluid pocket that would otherwise be caused by removal of the fluid delivery device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to medical fluid valves, and more particularly to an improved valve for controlling medical fluid, including residual medical fluid, delivered by a syringe. When the syringe is removed from the valve, the valve can pump medical fluid located in a fluid pocket of the valve downstream through the valve and into a catheter. [Background technology]

[0002] For intravenous ("IV") applications, valves, including needleless access valves, can be used to deliver fluids to a patient. When a syringe applies sufficient pressure to the valve, the valve opens, allowing fluid delivery downstream from the syringe to the catheter. However, when the syringe is removed from the valve, some of the remaining fluid may flow upstream due to syringe removal, leading to problems such as blood clotting and obstruction or blockage of the catheter. When these types of problems occur, the IV set needs to be replaced, resulting in additional costs and an unpleasant experience for the patient. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] Aspects of the present disclosure provide a connector assembly having a post (e.g., a central post) and a valve positioned on the post. When engaged with a fluid delivery device (e.g., a syringe), the valve is displaced (e.g., compressed) relative to the post, causing the post to protrude through the valve. Upon displacement of the valve, the valve forms a fluid pocket, which in some instances receives residual fluid from the fluid delivery device. When the fluid delivery device is removed from the valve, the valve begins to return to its original shape, thereby collapsing the fluid pocket. The collapse of the fluid pocket forces residual fluid in the fluid pocket downstream through the valve to a catheter connected to the connector assembly.

[0004] Additionally, when the fluid delivery device is removed from the connector assembly, the force applied by the fluid delivery device is reduced, allowing the valve to cover the post. When the post no longer protrudes through the valve, the valve prevents upstream fluid flow, including residual fluid previously located in the fluid pocket. Thus, the valve promotes downstream fluid flow and prevents upstream fluid flow, resulting in problems such as blood clotting and catheter blockage.

[0005] In accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein, it is recognized that unintentional catheter blockage or obstruction can result in injury to the patient or caregiver, such as by depriving the patient of medication, increasing the likelihood of infection for the patient, and exposing the caregiver to harmful medications. Additionally, unintentional catheter blockage can render the IV set unusable. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure provide a connector assembly for use with a catheter comprising a first housing having a fluid inlet, a second housing coupled to the first housing and having a post including an opening, and a valve surrounding the post, wherein in response to an external force, the valve has a fluid pocket and when the external force is removed, the fluid pocket collapses, allowing fluid received from the fluid inlet and stored in the fluid pocket to enter the post through the opening.

[0007] Some examples of the present disclosure provide a valve comprising a compressible body that, in response to an external force applied by a fluid delivery device, the compressible body contracts from a first dimension to a second dimension to form a fluid pocket that receives fluid from the fluid delivery device, and when the external force is removed, the compressible body expands from the second dimension to the first dimension, causing a reduction in the volume of the fluid pocket, the reduction in volume causing fluid to leave the fluid pocket.

[0008] Some examples of the present disclosure provide a method for regulating fluid to a catheter, the method including the steps of: subjecting a valve to an external force; forming a fluid pocket in the valve based on the external force; receiving fluid in the fluid pocket; reducing a volume of the fluid pocket when the external force is removed to define an amount of volume reduction; and expelling at least a portion of the fluid from the fluid pocket based on the amount of volume reduction.

[0009] Thus, the present application provides numerous improvements and refinements for flushing fluids through a catheter that may address some of the operational difficulties encountered with conventional valves, including needleless access valves used to administer fluids using a syringe, reduce fluid backflow, and limit or prevent catheter occlusion or blockage.

[0010] 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.

[0011] 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.

[0012] 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]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a connector according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram of the connector assembly of FIG. 1 in use with a fluid delivery device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3]FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] A partial cross-sectional view of a connector assembly further showing a fluid delivery device inserted into the housing and engaging the valve, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] A partial cross-sectional view of a connector assembly further showing a fluid delivery device inserted into the housing and engaging the valve, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of a connector assembly showing a fluid delivery device further inserted into the housing, further displacing the valve, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of a connector assembly showing a fluid delivery device further inserted into the housing, further displacing the valve, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of a connector assembly with a fluid delivery device removed from the housing, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method for regulating fluid to a catheter, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the subject technology. 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.

[0015] 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.

[0016] Needleless connectors are essential devices for delivering fluids to patients via IV catheters. Needleless connectors can be used in a wide range of patient populations, including neonatal, pediatric, and adult patients. In various applications, the pressure applied to blood components must not exceed 40 kPa (300 mmHg (5 psi)) because this can cause hemolysis or bag rupture; IV fluids must be injected in boluses without control during high-pressure injections; and infusion pressures must not exceed 172 kPa (25 psi) because pressures higher than 172 kPa (25 psi) can damage blood vessels. Therefore, healthcare professionals using needleless connectors face difficulties maintaining various high-pressure limits during infusion delivery with typical connectors.

[0017] Typical needleless connectors used with syringes have other drawbacks. For example, if the syringe is removed after fluid delivery, a valve located in the needleless connector may withdraw at least some fluid from the catheter, causing blood clotting and / or catheter blockage. Either problem can lead to a complete replacement of the IV set. The following devices and methods provide design improvements to overcome the aforementioned problems.

[0018] Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate perspective views of a connector assembly 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The connector assembly 100 may include a housing 102 and a housing 104 coupled to the housing 102. The housing 102 and the housing 104 may be referred to as a first housing and a second housing, respectively. The coupling between the housing 102 and the housing 104 may be a detachable connection such that the housing 102 can be separated from the housing 104. The housing 102 includes a fluid inlet 106, and the housing 104 includes a fluid outlet 108. As shown, the fluid inlet 106 and the fluid outlet 108 are cylindrical or generally cylindrical bodies having circular cross sections. However, other shapes are possible. To regulate fluid flow, the connector assembly 100 includes a valve 110 carried within portions of the housing 102 and the housing 104.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 2, connector assembly 100 can be used to provide a connection point for fluid delivery device 150. In some embodiments, fluid delivery device 150 includes a syringe, such as a needleless syringe. Thus, in some embodiments, connector assembly 100 can take the form of a needleless connector assembly. For some exemplary IV applications, fluid delivery device 150 can be used for rapid infusion of medication, sometimes referred to as a "push" or "bolus," to quickly deliver a dose of medication into a patient's bloodstream. Fluid delivery device 150 is connected to fluid inlet 106 (shown in FIG. 1) of connector assembly 100. Additionally, fluid outlet 108 of connector assembly 100 can be connected to catheter line 109. Valve 110 is positioned to regulate the flow of fluid delivered by fluid delivery device 150 to catheter line 109.

[0020] 3 and 4 illustrate partial cross-sectional views of a connector assembly 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The housing 104 may include a post 112 extending into the housing 104. The post 112 provides a hollow body that facilitates the transfer of fluid through the connector assembly 100. The post 112 includes a proximal end and a distal end 120, and in some embodiments of the present disclosure, the exterior surface of the post defines a cross-sectional width that decreases in a direction from the proximal end toward the distal end 120 of the post.

[0021] The valve 110 includes a channel 113 that allows the valve 110 to receive the post 112. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the valve 110 surrounds the post 112. In some embodiments, the valve 110 is disposed on and engaged with the post 112. The post 112 also includes an opening 114 (representing one or more openings in the post 112) that is designed to receive fluid from the fluid inlet 106 of the housing 102. Thus, the fluid inlet 106 is fluidly connected to the opening 114. For illustrative purposes, the post 112 in FIG. 4 is rotated so that the opening 114 is visible. As shown in FIG. 4 , a lumen 116 is formed by or positioned in the channel 115 of the post 112. When fluid is received from the opening 114, it can then flow into the lumen 116. Thus, the opening 114 is fluidly connected to the lumen 116. To secure the lumen 116 , the housing 104 includes a luer 117 .

[0022] 3 and 4, the valve 110 is in a closed position, covering the opening 114, thereby preventing fluid flow into the opening 114 in the post 112 and into the lumen 116. However, the valve 110 is designed to regulate flow based in part on a displacement (e.g., compression) of the valve 110 such that the opening 114 is not covered by the valve 110, as shown and described in detail below. It should be noted that the displacement of the valve 110 may include an elastic displacement (e.g., elastic compression), thus allowing the valve 110 to return to its original shape (shown in FIGS. 3 and 4) after the displacement when the fluid delivery device is detached / disengaged from the valve 110.

[0023] Also formed in the valve 110 is a slit 118 that represents a break or other discontinuity in the valve 110. In the closed position of the valve 110, no object can be positioned in the slit 118 of the valve 110, and the slit 118 is generally closed. For example, the distal end 120 of the post 112 does not protrude through the slit 118 in the closed position of the valve 110.

[0024] 4, longitudinal axis X1 represents an axis extending parallel to a major dimension of connector assembly 100. Housing 102 of connector assembly 100 is sized such that when housing 102 is coupled with housing 104 (as shown in FIG. 4), housing 102 extends further along longitudinal axis X1 in the direction of arrow A1 of longitudinal axis X1 than post 112. In other words, distal end 120 of post 112 is contained within housing 102 and does not protrude from fluid inlet 106 of housing 102. Additionally, valve 110 has dimension 140 that represents the lengthwise dimension of valve 110 when no external force is acting on valve 110 and valve 110 is in a closed position.

[0025] 5 and 6 illustrate partial cross-sectional views of the connector assembly 100, further showing the fluid delivery device 150 inserted into the fluid inlet 106 of the housing 102 and engaging the valve 110, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The fluid inlet 106 of the housing 102 has a size and shape that allows the fluid delivery device 150 to enter the housing 102 through the fluid inlet 106 and engage the valve 110. In terms of the valve 110, an external force is applied by the fluid delivery device 150. The external force applied by the fluid delivery device 150 causes a displacement of the valve 110. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the valve 110 compresses or contracts to a dimension 142 (smaller than the dimension 140 shown in FIG. 4) based on the external force applied by the fluid delivery device 150. The compression of the valve 110 also refers to the relative movement of the valve 110 compared to the housing 102, the housing 104, and the post 112.

[0026] Upon displacement of the valve 110, the valve 110 is in an open position and can receive fluid from the fluid delivery device 150. Several arrows with dotted lines are shown on the connector assembly 100 and the fluid delivery device 150. The arrows represent fluid flow from the fluid delivery device 150 through the connector assembly 100. Also shown in FIG. 6 is a downstream direction of fluid flow. In the open position of the valve 110, the distal end 120 of the post 112 protrudes through a slit 118 in the valve 110. Additionally, displacement of the valve 110 exposes an opening 114 in the post 112. For illustrative purposes, the post 112 in FIG. 6 is rotated so that the opening 114 is visible. When the opening 114 is not covered by the valve 110, fluid flows from the fluid delivery device 150 through the slit 118 (now open) and then through the opening 114 to the lumen 116. Thus, the slit 118 is fluidly connected to the opening 114 and the lumen 116 .

[0027] As a result of the displacement of the valve 110, a fluid pocket 124 is formed in the valve 110. The fluid pocket 124 represents a volume, i.e., a three-dimensional cavity or recess, in the valve 110. In some embodiments, during fluid delivery provided by the fluid delivery device 150, the fluid pocket 124 receives at least a portion of the fluid. The volume of the fluid pocket 124 depends on the amount of displacement of the valve 110 caused by an external force from the fluid delivery device 150 and can vary as described below.

[0028] 7 and 8 illustrate partial cross-sectional views of a connector assembly showing the fluid delivery device 150 further inserted into the fluid inlet 106 of the housing 102, further displacing the valve 110, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Upon increased insertion into the fluid inlet 106 of the housing 102, the fluid delivery device 150 exerts an additional external force on the valve 110, causing further displacement of the valve 110. For example, the valve 110 is further compressed within the housing 102, causing the distal end 120 of the post 112 to further protrude through the slit 118 in the valve 110. The valve 110 is further reduced to dimension 144 (smaller than dimension 142 of the valve 110 shown in FIG. 6). However, fluid delivered by the fluid delivery device 150 can still be delivered through the opening 114 to the lumen 116. For illustrative purposes, the post 112 in FIG. 8 is rotated so that the opening 114 is visible.

[0029] 5 and 6 , at least a portion of the fluid delivered by the fluid delivery device 150 flows into the fluid pocket 124. However, upon further compression of the valve 110 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 , the fluid pocket 124 is sealed off from the fluid path, and the fluid pocket 124 is no longer fluidly connected to the fluid delivery device 150. As shown in FIG. 8 , fluid 126 is disposed in the fluid pocket 124. The fluid 126 represents the residual fluid delivered by the fluid delivery device 150 that was retained by the fluid pocket 124 before the fluid pocket 124 was sealed off from the fluid path. Further compression of the valve 110 also expands the volume of the fluid pocket 124, causing the valve 110 to engage with the inner wall 130 of the housing 102 at a location of the valve 110 corresponding to the fluid pocket 124. In some embodiments, engagement between the fluid pocket 124 of the valve 110 and the inner wall 130 of the housing 102 represents maximum compression of the valve 110 and maximum insertion of the fluid delivery device 150 into the fluid inlet 106 of the housing 102 .

[0030] FIG. 9 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the connector assembly 100 with the fluid delivery device 150 removed from the housing 102, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. When the fluid delivery device 150 (shown previously) is removed from the housing 102, the valve 110 begins to depressurize. For example, the distal end 120 of the post 112 no longer protrudes through the slit 118 in the valve 110, and the valve 110 returns to a closed position. As a result, the valve 110 prevents fluid (outside the valve 110) from subsequently entering the valve 110. Thus, the valve 110 covers the opening 114 and the distal end 120 of the post 112. When the fluid delivery device 150 is removed from the fluid inlet 106 of the housing 102 and no longer engages the valve 110, the valve 110 is no longer displaced and returns to its original shape (shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 ). Although not shown, the valve 110 may cover the opening 114 before the fluid delivery device 150 is fully removed from the fluid inlet 106 of the housing 102 and before the fluid delivery device 150 is fully disengaged from the valve 110.

[0031] Additionally, due in part to the decompression of valve 110, fluid pocket 124 collapses. The collapse of fluid pocket 124 forces fluid 126 through lumen 116 into opening 114 of post 112. As shown in the enlarged view, fluid 126 is forced out of fluid pocket 124 upon collapse of fluid pocket 124. Furthermore, the force exerted by the collapse of fluid pocket 124 causes fluid 126 to flow in a downstream direction, where it can enter a catheter line (not shown) connected to connector assembly 100. Due to the collapse of fluid pocket 124 and the fact that distal end 120 no longer protrudes through slit 118 of valve 110 (thereby closing slit 118), the force exerted by closing valve 110 and / or removing fluid delivery device 150 does not cause fluid 126 to flow in an upstream direction, as opposed to the downstream direction.

[0032] The collapse of fluid pocket 124 also changes the volume of fluid pocket 124. In some embodiments, the collapse reduces the volume of fluid pocket 124 to a smaller volume than it would be if valve 110 were displaced by fluid delivery device 150. Also, in some embodiments, the smaller volume of fluid pocket 124 in FIG. 9 includes a zero volume, which indicates that fluid pocket 124 is completely collapsed and has no volume at all.

[0033] 10 illustrates a flow chart 200 showing a method for regulating fluid to a catheter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The method shown in flow chart 200 may be performed by the valves described herein. Thus, the valves described herein may perform the method shown in flow chart 200.

[0034] In step 202, an external force is received by the valve. The external force may be applied by a fluid delivery device that delivers fluid to a connector assembly that houses the valve. Based on the external force applied by the fluid delivery device, the valve may be displaced. The displacement may include compression of at least a portion of the valve.

[0035] In step 204, a fluid pocket is formed in the valve based on an external force. The fluid pocket represents a recess or cavity in the valve when the valve is displaced. Additionally, the external force may partially cause the valve to open. Furthermore, the external force may compress the valve and further cause the post of the connector assembly to pass through the slit in the valve.

[0036] Fluid is received in the fluid pocket at step 206. The fluid received in the fluid pocket may include fluid that has not yet passed through a valve to another structure, such as a catheter line.

[0037] In step 208, the volume of the fluid pocket is reduced when the external force is removed, defining the amount of reduction in the volume of the fluid pocket. For example, when the fluid pocket is formed based on the external force, the fluid pocket has an initial volume. However, as the external force is removed, the valve begins to depressurize and return to its initial configuration. As a result, the fluid pocket reduces in volume as the external force is removed. Furthermore, in some embodiments, when the external force is completely removed, the fluid pocket reduces to zero volume.

[0038] In step 210, at least a portion of the fluid from the fluid pocket is removed based on the amount of volume reduction. The volume reduction represents the fluid pocket collapsing as the external force is removed. The reduction in volume of the fluid pocket causes fluid to be forced out of the fluid pocket. Furthermore, the force exerted by the collapsing fluid pocket can force fluid downstream through the valve and into the catheter line. Furthermore, the valve can close, preventing upstream flow of fluid.

[0039] Although the present disclosure includes examples in which the post includes a single opening in the figures, it should be understood that the post may include any number of openings, each of which may receive fluid from a fluid delivery device.

[0040] A feature of the present disclosure provides that multiple housings can be connected together to form a fluid pathway therebetween. When connected together, the feature of the present disclosure resists unintentional separation between the housings. However, when the housings are separated, either unintentionally or intentionally, the fluid pathway through the housings can be closed or blocked to prevent loss of fluid therefrom. A feature of the present disclosure provides that upon separation of the housings, any of the housings can be cleaned and sterilized, and the housings can be reconnected together to form a fluid pathway therebetween.

[0041] Examples of subject matter art as clauses The subject technology is exemplified by various aspects described below, for example. 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. It is noted that any of the dependent clauses may be combined in any combination and incorporated into a respective independent clause, e.g., clause 1, clause 9, or clause 16. Other clauses may be presented similarly.

[0042] Clause 1. A connector assembly for use with a catheter comprising: a first housing having a fluid inlet; a second housing coupled to the first housing and having a post including an opening; and a valve surrounding the post, wherein the valve has a fluid pocket in response to an external force, and when the external force is removed, the fluid pocket collapses, allowing fluid received from the fluid inlet and stored in the fluid pocket to enter the post through the opening.

[0043] Clause 2. The connector assembly of clause 1, wherein the open position of the valve includes an opening not covered by the valve and the closed position includes the valve covering the opening.

[0044] Clause 3. The connector assembly of clause 2, wherein an external force causes the valve to be in an open position.

[0045] Clause 4. The connector assembly of clause 2, wherein the valve has a first dimension based on an external force, and the valve has a second dimension when the external force is removed, the second dimension being greater than the first dimension.

[0046] Clause 5. The connector assembly of clause 2, wherein a fluid pocket is formed in the open position, and wherein the fluid pocket collapses upon transition of the valve from the open position to the closed position.

[0047] Clause 6. The connector assembly of clause 1, wherein the first housing has an interior wall and the fluid pocket contacts the interior wall.

[0048] Clause 7. A connector assembly as described in clause 1, wherein the post has a distal end that extends into the first housing, the open position of the valve includes the distal end not covered by the valve, and the closed position of the valve includes the valve covering the distal end.

[0049] Clause 8. The connector assembly of clause 1, wherein the valve includes a slit and the open position of the valve includes a post protruding through the slit.

[0050] Clause 9. A valve comprising a compressible body, wherein in response to an external force applied by a fluid delivery device, the compressible body contracts from a first dimension to a second dimension to form a fluid pocket that receives fluid from the fluid delivery device, and when the external force is removed, the compressible body expands from the second dimension to the first dimension, causing a reduction in the volume of the fluid pocket, the reduction in volume causing fluid to leave the fluid pocket.

[0051] Clause 10. The valve of clause 9, wherein an external force opens the compressible body, thereby allowing fluid from the fluid delivery device to flow in a first direction, and when the external force is removed, the compressible body closes, thereby preventing fluid from flowing in a second direction opposite the first direction.

[0052] Clause 11. The valve of clause 9, wherein the compressible body has a first dimension based on an external force, and the compressible body has a second dimension when the external force is removed, the second dimension being greater than the first dimension.

[0053] Clause 12. The valve of clause 9, wherein an external force causes the fluid pocket to define a first volume, and removal of the external force causes the fluid pocket to define a second volume smaller than the first volume.

[0054] Clause 13. The valve of clause 9, wherein the compressible body includes a slit that opens in response to an external force.

[0055] Clause 14. A valve as claimed in clause 13, wherein the slit closes when the external force is removed.

[0056] Clause 15. The valve of clause 13, wherein the compressible body includes a channel that receives the post, and in response to an external force, the slit opens and fluidly connects to the channel.

[0057] Clause 16. A method for regulating fluid into a catheter, the method comprising: subjecting a valve to an external force; forming a fluid pocket in the valve based on the external force; receiving fluid in the fluid pocket; reducing a volume of the fluid pocket when the external force is removed to define an amount of volume reduction; and expelling at least a portion of the fluid from the fluid pocket based on the amount of volume reduction.

[0058] Clause 17. The method of clause 16, wherein when the external force is removed, the fluid pocket collapses and allows at least a portion of the fluid into the channel of the valve.

[0059] Clause 18. The method of clause 17, pumping at least a portion of the fluid downstream through the valve based on the amount of volume reduction.

[0060] Clause 19. The method of clause 16, further comprising, prior to the step of receiving the fluid in the fluid pocket, the step of receiving the fluid in a slit formed in the valve, and pumping the fluid downstream such that the fluid is prevented from passing through the slit when the external force is removed.

[0061] Clause 20. The method of clause 16, wherein the step of subjecting the external force includes the step of subjecting the contact to contact from a fluid delivery device.

[0062] 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 any other clause or 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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 housing having a fluid inlet; a second housing coupled to the first housing and including a post with an opening; and a valve surrounding the post, the valve having a fluid pocket in response to an external force; When the external force is removed, the fluid pocket collapses, allowing the fluid received from the fluid inlet and stored in the fluid pocket to enter the post through the opening. A connector assembly for use with a catheter, comprising:

2. an open position of the valve with the opening not covered by the valve and a closed position with the valve covering the opening; 10. The connector assembly of claim 1.

3. The connector assembly of claim 2 , wherein the external force causes the valve to be in the open position.

4. 3. The connector assembly of claim 2, wherein the valve has a first dimension based on the external force, and the valve has a second dimension when the external force is removed, the second dimension being greater than the first dimension.

5. 3. The connector assembly of claim 2, wherein the fluid pocket is formed in the open position, and the fluid pocket collapses upon transition of the valve from the open position to the closed position.

6. 2. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the first housing includes an inner wall, and the fluid pocket contacts the inner wall.

7. 2. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the post has a distal end that extends into the first housing, the open position of the valve includes the distal end not covered by the valve, and the closed position of the valve includes the valve covering the distal end.

8. the valve comprises a slit; the open position of the valve includes the post protruding through the slit; 10. The connector assembly of claim 1.

9. A compressible body, In response to an external force applied by a fluid delivery device, the compressible body contracts from a first dimension to a second dimension to form a fluid pocket that receives fluid from the fluid delivery device; when the external force is removed, the compressible body expands from the second dimension to the first dimension, causing a reduction in the volume of the fluid pocket, the reduction in volume forcing the fluid out of the fluid pocket; Compressible body A valve comprising:

10. 10. The valve of claim 9, wherein the external force causes the compressible body to open, thereby allowing the fluid from the fluid delivery device to flow in a first direction, and when the external force is removed, the compressible body closes, thereby preventing the fluid from flowing in a second direction opposite the first direction.

11. 10. The valve of claim 9, wherein the compressible body has a first dimension based on the external force, and wherein the compressible body has a second dimension when the external force is removed, the second dimension being greater than the first dimension.

12. 10. The valve of claim 9, wherein the external force causes the fluid pocket to define a first volume, and removal of the external force causes the fluid pocket to define a second volume smaller than the first volume.

13. 10. The valve of claim 9, wherein the compressible body includes a slit that opens in response to the external force.

14. 14. The valve of claim 13, wherein the slit closes when the external force is removed.

15. 14. The valve of claim 13, wherein the compressible body includes a channel that receives a post, and in response to the external force, the slit opens and fluidly connects to the channel.

16. 1. A method for regulating fluid to a catheter, comprising: subjecting the valve to an external force; forming a fluid pocket in the valve based on the external force; receiving the fluid in the fluid pocket; reducing a volume of the fluid pocket when the external force is removed to define a volume reduction amount; and Discharging at least a portion of the fluid from the fluid pocket based on the amount of reduction in volume. A method comprising:

17. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein when the external force is removed, the fluid pocket collapses, allowing at least a portion of the fluid into the channel of the valve.

18. The method of claim 17 , further comprising: pumping at least a portion of the fluid downstream through the valve based on the amount of reduction in volume.

19. receiving the fluid in a slit formed in the valve before receiving the fluid in the fluid pocket; and directing the fluid downstream such that the fluid is prevented from passing through the slit when the external force is removed.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising:

20. The method of claim 16 , wherein the step of receiving an external force comprises receiving contact from a fluid delivery device.

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