Manifold for a medical waste collection system

Abstract

To provide a medical waste collection system for collecting medical waste and a manifold for filtering waste and / or coupling a suction tube to the system.SOLUTION: The system comprises a receptacle in which the manifold is configured to be inserted in a proximal direction with corresponding distal movement of the inlet feature. The manifold comprises arms, spines, locking elements, and / or catches, each of which has a surface having a relative position in the proximal-distal direction. The rim and the catch are spaced apart by a void and the rim is positioned under the catch. The housing includes a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion, and a second leg spaced from the first leg to define a cavity. The rim may be on the first leg and the catch may be on the second leg.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 54

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application was filed on July 25, 2019, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 522,066, filed April 12, 2019 No. 16 / 383,218, filed July 19, 2019, and U.S. Patent Application No. Priority and all benefits of US Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 876,229 are claimed. [Background technology]

[0002] Liquid, semi-solid and / or solid waste products are generated as by-products of some surgical procedures. Liquid waste may include body fluids and irrigation solutions at the surgical site, solids and Semi-solid waste may include tissue debris and small pieces of surgical material. Regardless of the phase, the procedure is performed without contaminating the surgical site. Without posing a biological hazard to the medical suite Preferably, the data is collected.

[0003] Medical waste is removed from the surgical site through a suction tube under the influence of a vacuum provided by a suction source. One exemplary medical waste collection system is the Stryker C Corporation (Kalamazoo, Michigan) under the trade name NEPTUNE This system is based on a patent application filed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005-08-40577, which is co-owned by the applicant. International Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 0171495, published June 21, 2007 Publication No. WO2007 / 070570 and International Publication No. published May 1, 2014 A specific bar of the medical waste collection system disclosed in WO2014 / 066337 and John, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] It is possible to provide a manifold that facilitates connection of a suction tube to a medical waste collection system. Additionally or alternatively, the manifold may filter the waste material to Filter elements to avoid clogging or damage to components of medical waste collection systems Any unused manifolds may be collected from a medical waste collection system before or during the procedure. The manifold can be operatively coupled to the system, and the manifold used can be used during or after the procedure. The manifold and the medical waste collection system can be operatively separated. To facilitate safe and efficient repeated docking and undocking with the collection system, a robust infrastructure is required. A new interface is needed and this remains an area of ​​particular interest for development. In cases where the manifold is configured to filter waste, the manifold However, components, including those with complex shapes, can become contaminated. Therefore, the effort to reprocess used manifolds may be insufficient, and unused pure As a result, there may be quality issues with the reprocessed items compared to the original manifold. For this reason, ensure that the manifold is single-use and disposable. may be desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Without limiting the effect of this summary, the claims and clauses contained herein are With the scope of the invention defined by clause (1), the present disclosure relates to a medical waste collection system. This manifold is intended for medical waste filtering. and / or for connecting the suction line to a medical waste collection system. The medical waste collection system is designed so that the manifold is inserted proximally and the The manifold includes a receiving portion defining an opening configured to be removed in a distal direction. The manifold includes a housing. The housing defines a manifold volume and a flow path between the manifold volume and the flow path. The housing may define an outlet opening in fluid communication with the outlet opening. The filter element may be disposed within the manifold volume. The housing may include arms, locking elements, a spine, and / or a cap. The arm may have a proximally facing surface, and the locking element may be a distally facing surface positioned distally of the proximally facing surface of the The spine may be located proximally of the distally facing surface of the locking element and adjacent to the arm. a proximally facing surface positioned distally of the proximally facing surface of the The proximally facing surface of the spine may be an inclined surface, e.g., a sloped surface, a curved surface, or a stepped surface. The catch may be positioned closer to the proximal facing surface of the arm than the proximal facing surface of the arm. The catch may include a proximally positioned distally facing surface. The manifold may be inserted into the opening of the receiving portion. When oriented as such, the rim can be positioned under the catch.

[0006] The housing includes a body portion, a first leg extending proximally from the body portion, and a cavity. and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg. The second leg may include , can extend proximally from the body portion. The catch can be disposed on the body portion and / or the first leg. The arms, locking elements and / or catches may be arranged on two legs. Each of them has at least one pair of arms, one pair of locking elements and one pair of catches. The proximal facing surface of the arm is designed to interface with the receiver threads during manifold insertion. The sled assembly is configured to engage the sled assembly in a proximal direction. The distally facing surface of the locking element contacts the locking element of the receiver after insertion of the manifold into the receiver. configured to engage (or be engaged by) a lock assembly The proximally facing surface of the spine prevents translation of the sled assembly in the proximal direction. The thread locking assembly is configured to engage the thread locking assembly of the receiver to permit the thread locking assembly to be inserted into the receiver. The distally facing surface of the latch engages (or is engaged by) the detents of the receiver, To facilitate movement of the thread assembly in the distal direction during removal of the manifold from the outlet. It is configured to:

[0007] The thread assembly is moved proximally during insertion of the manifold into the receiver. The mouth mechanism correspondingly moves distally to place the manifold in its fully inserted operating position. and establishing fluid communication between the suction outlet and the receiver outlet, and further connecting the waste container and the manifold. The thread assembly is configured to establish fluid communication between the manifold from the receiver. During removal of the hold, it is moved distally and the inlet mechanism moves correspondingly proximally to apply suction. The lock is further configured to facilitate breaking fluid communication between the outlet and the receiver outlet. The lock assembly is configured to lock the lock assembly. ion), and in the locked configuration, the engagement surfaces may be fully engaged. In the inserted operating position, the manifold engages the threaded assembly. An actuator coupled to the release member prevents distal movement of the lock assembly. Move the assembly from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. n) may be configured to receive input from the user to move the In this configuration, the engagement surface prevents movement of the manifold and sled assembly in the distal direction. The thread lock assembly disengages from the manifold to allow movement. A biasing element configured to bias the switch into the locked configuration may be provided, The latch engages the sled assembly and moves the sled assembly in the proximal direction. Insertion of the manifold into the receptacle to the first operating position prevents thread movement. The lock assembly moves from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration The latch secures the sled assembly to allow movement of the sled assembly in the proximal direction. The pawl is movably coupled to the housing and disengages from the sled assembly. The pawls may be pivotally coupled to the manifold in a fully inserted operating position. The manifold engages the manifold, causing it to move distally during removal of the manifold from the receiver. The sled assembly is configured to move distally in response to being pulled.

[0008] The seal may be bonded to the rim. The seal is shaped to cover the outlet opening. The outlet opening has a width greater than its height so that it has a non-circular shape. The closure may be shaped to cover a non-circular outlet opening. The seal defines an inner seal rim coupled to the seal body and a groove sized to receive the rim. and an outer sealing rim spaced from the inner sealing rim so as to The non-circular outlet opening is coupled to the housing by an interference fit with a seal that covers the non-circular outlet opening. The filter element may include a basket and a closure retaining element coupled to the basket. A seal retaining element on the filter element supports the seal in sealing engagement with the rim. The filter element of the filter includes a plurality of apertures configured to filter medical waste. The projection may have a keyway separate from the aperture. , can extend from the inner surface of the housing through the keyway of the filter element. It is bonded to the filter element, for example by thermoplastic staking, and the housing Removing the filter element from the manifold requires damaging the manifold. The element may further comprise a rib fused to the slot in the housing, for example by laser welding. and removing the filter element from the housing does not require damaging the manifold. A use indicator is disposed within the manifold volume to separate liquids and and / or configured to absorb solids. The use indicator can be supported on a plain tray. The device may be disposed within the housing.

[0009] The manifold lacks the manifold volume described above through which the medical waste is directed. In certain embodiments, the suction line may be connected to a medical waste collection system. The device for mating includes a void space, and a portion of the suction tube is disposed through the void space. The device is configured to include a first housing portion and a second housing portion. and a second housing portion coupled to the first housing portion. The void space is accessible through an open configuration and is inaccessible through a closed configuration. The tubing adapter may be configured to move the device in a manner that allows the inlet port to be positioned within the void space. The housing may be coupled to the port so that the port is disposed therein.

[0010] The manifold may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag coupled to the housing. The RFID tag allows the manifold to be used with medical waste collection systems. The RFID tag may be provided with a memory for storing data for determining whether or not the RFID tag is When the manifold is connected to the manifold receiver, the data reader and the power supply of the receiver are connected to the manifold receiver. The receiver is adapted to communicate with the controller in a proximal to distal direction. a sensor configured to output a signal indicative of a position of the sled assembly at the The controller may be configured to control the vacuum source based on a signal from the sensor. The medical waste collection system includes a docking station having an off-load pump. and an off-load pump is operated to transfer waste to the docking station. The sensor may include a docking controller for detecting the temperature of the manifold in the receiving portion. The controller may be configured to output a signal based on the presence of a shield. Whether the chassis is docked or not and the sensor output Configured to generate an offload signal to the docking controller based on the signal received The offload signal notifies the docking controller that the docking station The off-load pump in the application draws waste from the waste container into the docking station. The output signal is operable to further indicate the position of the sled assembly. The output signal can be displayed in the operating position where the manifold is fully inserted into the receptacle. The controller can further indicate whether the manifold is inserted with When the switch is not fully inserted into the operating position, the off-loop function is activated based on the output signal. The device may be further configured to prevent operation of the heat pump.

[0011] The advantages of this disclosure will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: will be well understood and easily recognized. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a medical waste collection system in which two manifolds are configured to be removably inserted into two receptacles of the medical waste collection system, and two suction tubes are shown and configured to be removably coupled to each of the two manifolds. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the medical waste collection system and manifold of FIG. 1 with the front cover of the medical waste collection system removed to show receptacles coupled to each of two waste containers of the medical waste collection system. [Figure 3]1 is a perspective view of a manifold and a receiver, with the manifold oriented for insertion into an opening in the receiver. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the head of the manifold. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a rear elevation view of the head. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of the head. [Figure 8] 1 is a rear perspective view of the trunk of the manifold with the seal of the manifold removed to show the outlet opening of the trunk; [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of the trunk. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a rear elevation view of the trunk. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of the trunk. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a detailed side elevation view of a portion of the trunk. [Figure 13] FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a filter element. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the filter element. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of a filter element. [Figure 19] FIG. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a rear elevation view of the closure. [Figure 21] FIG. [Figure 22] 22 is a cross-sectional plan view of the closure of FIG. 21 taken along section line 22-22. [Figure 23] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a portion of a manifold including a trunk, a filter element, and a seal. [Figure 24] FIG. [Figure 25] FIG. [Figure 26] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the manifold of FIG. 23, including a detail showing the filter element holding the seal. [Figure 27] FIG. [Figure 28] FIG. [Figure 29] FIG. [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the lower housing of the receiver. [Figure 31] FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of the lower housing. [Figure 32] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the lower housing. [Figure 33] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the inlet mechanism of the receiver. [Figure 34] FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of the inlet mechanism. [Figure 35] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the inlet mechanism. [Figure 36] FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of the inlet mechanism. [Figure 37] 1 is a top perspective view of the sled assembly of the receiver, with the entrance mechanism, thread lock assembly, and pawl of the receiver shown engaged with the sled assembly in their respective positions. The lower housing to which the entrance mechanism, thread lock assembly, and pawl are coupled is not shown for clarity. [Figure 38] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a sled assembly. [Figure 39] 1 is a bottom perspective view of the sled assembly, and the sled lock assembly is shown engaged with the sled assembly. [Figure 40] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one of the claws. [Figure 41] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a latch of the thread locking assembly. [Figure 42] FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of the latch. [Figure 43] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a lock assembly shown in a default and / or unlocked configuration. [Figure 44] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a lock assembly shown in a locked configuration. [Figure 45] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the manifold and receiver in a first operating position. [Figure 46] 46 is a cross-sectional elevation view of FIG. 45 taken along section line 46-46. [Figure 47] 47 is a detailed cross-sectional elevation view of FIG. 46 within boundary line 47. [Figure 48] 48 is a cross-sectional plan view of FIG. 46 taken along section line 48-48. [Figure 49] FIG. 49 is a detailed cross-sectional elevation view of FIG. 48 within boundary line 49-49. [Figure 50] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the manifold and receiver in a second operating position. [Figure 51] 51 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the receiver of FIG. 50 taken along section line 51-51, with the manifold shown in elevation. [Figure 52] 51 within boundary line 52. FIG. [Figure 53] 53 is a cross-sectional plan view of FIG. 50 taken along section line 53-53. [Figure 54] 54 is a detailed cross-sectional elevation view of FIG. 53 within boundary line 54. [Figure 55] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the manifold and receiver in a third operating position. [Figure 56] 56 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the receiver of FIG. 55 taken along section line 56-56, with the manifold shown in elevation. [Figure 57] 56 within boundary line 57. FIG. [Figure 58] 58 is a cross-sectional plan view of FIG. 55 taken along section line 58-58. [Figure 59] 59 is a detailed cross-sectional elevation view of FIG. 58 within boundary line 59. [Figure 60] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the manifold and receiver in a fourth, or fully inserted, operating position. [Figure 61] 61 is a cross-sectional elevation view of FIG. 60 taken along section line 61-61. [Figure 62]62 is a detailed cross-sectional elevation view of FIG. 61 within boundary line 62. [Figure 63] 63 is a cross-sectional plan view of FIG. 60 taken along section line 53-53. [Figure 64] 64 is a detailed cross-sectional elevation view of FIG. 63 within boundary line 64. [Figure 65] 65 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the receiver of FIG. 60 taken along section line 65-65, with the manifold shown in elevation and the locking assembly in a locked configuration. [Figure 66] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the manifold and receiver with the locking assembly in an unlocked configuration. [Figure 67] 67 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the receiver of FIG. 66 taken along section line 67-67, with the manifold shown in elevation. [Figure 68] FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the inverted trunk of the manifold. [Figure 69] FIG. 69 is a rear elevation view of the inverted trunk of FIG. 68. [Figure 70] FIG. 69 is a side elevational view of the inverted trunk of FIG. 68. [Figure 71] FIG. 69 is a detailed side elevational view of a portion of the inverted trunk of FIG. 68. [Figure 72] FIG. 69 is a bottom view of the inverted trunk of FIG. 68. [Figure 73] FIG. 69 is a top view of the inverted trunk of FIG. 68. [Figure 74] FIG. [Figure 75] FIG. 75 is an exploded view of the manifold of FIG. 74. [Figure 76] 76 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the manifold of FIG. 74 taken along section line 76-76. [Figure 77] 76 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the manifold of FIG. 75 taken along section line 76-76, with a tissue trap disposed within the manifold volume. [Figure 78] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a filter element with a tray and a manifold with a use indicator. [Figure 79] FIG. 79 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the manifold of FIG. 78. [Figure 80]FIG. 79 is a front elevational view of the trunk of the manifold of FIG. 78. [Figure 81] FIG. 79 is a rear perspective view of the filter element of the manifold of FIG. 78. [Figure 82] 79 is a cross-sectional elevation view of a portion of the trunk of the manifold in detail 79 of FIG. 79, with the projections extending through the keyways of the filter element. [Figure 82A] FIG. 83 is a cross-sectional elevation view of a portion of the trunk of FIG. 82, with projections joining the filter element to the housing by thermoplastic staking. [Figure 83] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portion of a manifold with a filter element fused to a housing by laser welding. [Figure 84] FIG. 79 is a rear perspective view of the manifold of FIG. 78 with a portion of the trunk cut away to access the manifold volume. [Figure 85] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of the device coupled to a suction tube. [Figure 86] FIG. 86 is a partially exploded view of the device of FIG. 85 with a suction tube coupled to the device. [Figure 87] FIG. 86 is a partially exploded view of the device of FIG. 85, with the suction tube separated from the device. [Figure 88] 1 is an exploded view of the device with the suction tube separated from the device. [Figure 89] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of the device coupled to a suction tube. [Figure 90] FIG. 90 is a partially exploded view of the device of FIG. 89, with the suction tube separated from the manifold. [Figure 91] 91 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the device of FIG. 89 taken along section line 91-91. [Figure 92] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the device coupled to a suction tube with the seal exploded from the device. [Figure 93] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of the device coupled to a suction tube. [Figure 94] FIG. 94 is a rear perspective view of the device of FIG. 93 in an open configuration. [Figure 95]94 is a partial cross-sectional elevation view of the device of FIG. 93 in an open configuration, with the tube adapter and suction tube disposed within the void space of the housing of the device. [Figure 96] FIG. 94 is a partial cross-sectional elevation view of the device of FIG. 93 in an open configuration with the tube adapter and suction tube removed from the void space. [Figure 97] 97 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the manifold of FIG. 93 taken along section line 97-97, with a tissue trap disposed within the void space. [Figure 98] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of the device coupled to a suction tube. [Figure 99] FIG. 99 is a partially exploded view of the device of FIG. 98 with a tube adapter and suction tube coupled to the device. [Figure 100] FIG. 99 is a partially exploded view of the device of FIG. 98, with the suction tube separated from the device. [Figure 101] FIG. 99 is a front perspective view of the device of FIG. 98, with the suction tube separated from the device. [Figure 102] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an inlet feature of the receiver spaced from the tube adapter with a seal configured to provide a face seal with the suction inlet of the inlet feature. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] 1 and 2 show a method for collecting waste generated during a medical procedure, and more specifically, during a surgical procedure. The medical waste collection system 100 shown in FIG. Collecting waste until offloading and disposal of the waste is required or desired; and / or store the waste. The medical waste collection system 100 includes a docking station. and can be transported to the docking station 101 and operatively coupled to the docking station 101. , waste is emptied through the docking station 101. Docking Station 101 includes an off-load pump 103 and a drive operatively coupled to the off-load pump 103. The docking station 101 is also provided with a docking controller 105. The present invention may take any suitable form, for example, any of the foregoing, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. No. 6,999,313, issued Nov. 24, 2009, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. ,621,898.

[0014] The medical waste collection system 100 is configured to move the system 100 along the floor of a medical facility. The medical waste collection system may include a chassis 102 and wheels 104 for supporting the medical waste collection system. The waste volume 100 is used to collect and store waste. The system includes at least one waste container 106, 108 defining a second waste container. The first waste container 106 is shown positioned above the second waste container 108. , has a relatively larger volume than the first waste container 106. A vacuum pump 110 (shown in phantom) ) is supported on the chassis 102 and includes one or more vacuum lines 112, 114 through one or both of the first waste container 106 and the second waste container 108 At least one vacuum regulator (not shown) is configured to draw a vacuum. ) are also in fluid communication with the vacuum pump 110 and waste containers 106, 108 on the chassis 102. The vacuum regulator can be supported in the waste containers 106, 108. The level of suction is adjusted. The proper structure and operation of the subsystem is described in the commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 109,313, filed on Oct. 1, 2002, entitled "Compounds for Subsystems." Patent Publication No. 2005 / 0171495, International Publication No. WO2007 / 070570, and This is disclosed in International Publication No. WO2014 / 066337. The proper structure and operation of several subsystems of the present invention are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. International Publication No. 2017 / 06 / 29, published on June 29, 2017, owned by the applicant and incorporated herein by reference. This may also be disclosed in WO2017 / 112684. A system is planned.

[0015] The medical waste collection system 100 comprises at least one receiving unit supported on a chassis 102. In the most general sense, the receiving portion 116 is the same as that described throughout this disclosure. An opening sized to removably receive at least a portion of the manifold 124 in a manner that 2 shows two receptacles 116, each of which has a first The waste containers 106 and 108 are associated with the first and second waste containers, respectively. Alternatively, a single receiver and / or a single manifold may be provided. 16 are configured to be placed in fluid communication with waste containers 106, 108, respectively. The suction path includes a suction inlet 266 (see FIGS. 33 to 36). ) 120 through a manifold 124 removably inserted into the receiving portion 116 to be disposed of. The object containers 106, 108 can be established. A vacuum pump 110 generates The vacuum creates suction in the suction tube 120, and waste material at the surgical site is drawn through the manifold 1. 24, through the suction inlet 266, through the suction outlet 410 of the receiver 116, and into the waste container Pulled into 106 and 108.

[0016] Referring to FIG. 3, the manifold 124 is shown in an isolated operating position. In this arrangement, the manifold 124 may be separate from the receiver 116 or may be connected to the receiver 116. 3 shows the casing 116 prior to insertion into and / or removal from the casing 116. 1. The manifold 124 may be depicted after removal of the manifold 124. 124 is configured to be inserted into the receiving portion 116 through the opening 118, and the suction tube 1 20 is coupled to the inlet fitting 126 of the manifold 124. The resulting configuration is This is shown diagrammatically in Figure 1. In Figure 1, two suction tubes 120 are connected to each manifold 124. It is coupled to two of the four inlet fittings 126. Any number of inlet fittings is contemplated. It is further contemplated that the suction tube 120 may be integral with the housing 128 . The suction path described above is established and connected to the opposite end of the suction tube 120 from the manifold 124. The attached instrument (not shown) pumps the waste material under the influence of a vacuum provided by a vacuum pump 110. The device can be directed to the surgical site to collect the

[0017] Referring to Figure 4, the manifold 124 includes a housing 128. 8 is the manifold volume 130 in a particular configuration. The housing 128 may define any external structure or 4 is a perspective view of a housing 128 formed at least in part from a metal plate 126. 1 shows a manifold 124 having a head 132 coupled to a trunk 134 to form a As shown in FIG. 3, the manifold 124 is inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116. When oriented to do so, head 132 is positioned distal to trunk 134. As used throughout this disclosure, the terms "distal" and "proximal" refer to The respective directions designated by the arrows in FIG. 3 and other figures throughout the disclosure are meant In another convention, the term "distal" refers to the rear of the receiving portion 116 (see FIG. 27). The term "proximal" can refer to a direction generally away from the barrier 602, and the term "proximal" can refer to a direction generally away from the receiving portion 1. 16 rear barrier 602. The term "distal" refers to a direction generally toward the front of the manifold 124, toward the surgical site. The term "proximal" can mean (i.e., when the manifold 124 is within the receptacle 116) When inserted) generally toward the rear of the manifold 124 and away from the surgical site Instead of a multi-piece structure with a head 132 and a trunk 134, The housing 128 of the field 124 may be of unitary or monolithic construction. (See, for example, FIGS. 89 to 92).

[0018] The head 132 (or any other portion of the housing 128) includes an inlet fitting 126. The inlet fitting 126 may be configured to define the distal end of the manifold 124. The inlet attachment may extend distally from the crown 136. The head 126 may be coupled to a separate structure from the housing 128 (i.e., the head 1 32), the inlet fitting 126 is in fluid communication with the outlet opening 242, which will be described later. and establishes a suction path (see Figures 85 to 102). Any feature that is included may alternatively be part of the trunk 134, and may be part of the trunk 134. It is further noted that any feature described as a part may alternatively be part of head 132. In certain embodiments, the housing 128 defines an exit opening 242. The structure may simply provide structural support for certain various components without requiring additional wiring (FIG. 8). 5-102). In other words, the housing 128 defines a manifold volume 130. Instead of specifying, alternatively, but not limited to, Arm 284, Catch 254, Spy Specific components described below include a spine 300 and / or locking elements 306. Alternatively, the outlet opening 242 may be supported by a structure separate from the housing. The configuration defined by the above is shown in FIGS. 81-98, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0333, published November 22, 2018, This is shown in the publication in No. 520.

[0019] Each of the inlet fittings 126 may define an inlet bore 138. 3-5 show a side-by-side arrangement of the crown 136 in a distal direction, according to one embodiment. The manifold 124 thus includes four inlet fittings 126 extending from the medical waste The four suction tubes 120 are detachable so that they can be operated simultaneously with the operation of the object collection system 100. One or more of the inlet fittings 126 are configured to be coupled to the suction tube 1 When not removably coupled to the cap 140, the cap 140 protects the inlet from fluid communication with the surroundings. Removably coupled to the distal portion of the inlet fitting 126 so as to seal each of the bores 138 The resulting configuration allows each inlet fitting 126 to be Ambient air is pumped into the inlet bore 138 under vacuum when not in use for at least a portion of the procedure. The vacuum is applied to the inlet fitting where the suction tube 120 is securely connected. 126, thereby improving the vacuum level at the surgical site. The cap 140 extends outwardly from the head 132. The cap may be coupled to the housing 128 by one or more tethers 142. The pair of 140 can be connected to each other by webbing 144. , a pair of caps 140 are coupled together to a respective pair of inlet fittings 126 and separated therefrom. Alternatively, the cap 140 may be provided separately and / or The tether 142 may be removably coupled to the head 132 .

[0020] The crown 136 shown in FIG. 5 may include a lower surface 146 and an upper surface 148, each A pair of inlet fittings 126 extend distally from the manifold 124. When oriented for insertion into the opening 118 of the Since the lengths of the inlet fitting portions 126 are equal, the inlet fitting portions 126 The lower surface 146 is configured such that the lower pair of inlet fittings 126 extend more distally than the upper pair of inlet fittings 126. The resulting configuration is shown in FIG. axial offset between the upper and lower pairs of inlet fittings 126. This allows the user's hands to secure the suction tube 120 and / or cap 140 to the inlet fitting 126. The inlet fitting 126 can provide additional clearance for coupling and uncoupling. It is contemplated that the components may be positioned in other suitable locations to achieve the desired functionality. .

[0021] The head 132 can include at least one side 150. The side 150 can include: The distal rim 151 may extend between an opposing proximal rim 153. 1 is positioned slightly distal to the crown 136 so that the crown 136 is recessed. The side 150 may be a single cylindrical surface as shown in FIGS. can be considered as a number of surfaces arranged in any suitable configuration. The inner surface of the side 150 and the proximal surface of the manifold 130 cooperate to define a small area of ​​the manifold volume 130. 6) that may at least partially define a cavity 152. In such a configuration, the inlet bore 138 may define a cavity 152 The side 150 is in fluid communication with the manifold volume 130. The user manipulates the screw 124 to insert it into the opening 118 of the receptacle 116. The control surface 154 may include at least one control surface 154 configured to be 4 are recesses formed in the side 150 and positioned diametrically opposite each other (one of which is shown in FIG. 5 and the other in FIG. 6). 7), or other configurations that enhance handling of the manifold 124. The side portion 150 may include any suitable geometric features or materials. The manifold 124 is configured to visually indicate the proper orientation for insertion into the opening 118. At least one orienting indicator 5 to 7 are diametrically opposed to each other and are shown on the side 150. The directional indicator 15 is a raised portion extending from proximally to distally along the lateral and inferior portions. 6. The direction indicator 156 may be positioned relative to other features or marks, such as the It may include a color that contrasts with adjacent portions.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the head 132 and trunk 134 are removably coupled to one another. 4 to 9, the head 132 is connected to at least one of the trunks 134. Configured to be removably coupled to a keyway 160 or trunk coupler The key 158 is connected to the head coupler. Two diametrically opposed keys 152 extend proximally from the proximal rim 153 of the head 132. 58. The keyways 160 are diametrically opposed to each other and may be positioned on the trunk 134 Between at least one lip 166 extending radially outward from the collar 168 The keyway 160 may have two keyways 160 defined therein. The keyway 160 may have an insert 170 and The insertion portion 170 may include a locking portion 172 in communication with the insertion portion 170. This is best seen in FIG. Thus, the insertion portion 170 can be wider than the locking portion 172. The portion of the lip 166 that defines the lock portion 172 is the same as the portion of the lip 166 that defines the insert portion 170. The key 158 has a shank 162 and a shaft 163. The shaft may have a barb 164 extending from it. The width of the insertion portion 170 can be made thicker than the thickness of the return portion 164. The width of the locking portion 172 is larger than the thickness of the shank 162. The thickness of the shank 162 is smaller than the thickness of the shank 162. may be at least equal to the length of the lip 166. More specifically, The length of the lip 162 is greater than the length of the portion of the lip 166 that defines the insert 170. The length of the shank 162 can be determined by the length of the portion of the lip 166 that defines the locking portion 172. As a result, during assembly of the manifold 124 or When it is desired to couple the head 132 to the trunk 134, the head 132 may include a barb. 164 is rotated relative to the trunk 134 so that the insert 170 is rotationally aligned with the insert 170. The head 132 is oriented such that the barb 164 passes through the insert 170 and into the lip 166. 160. The shank 162 is positioned within the insert 170. The head 132 is moved clockwise in FIG. It is rotated relative to the trunk 134, moving the key 158 within the keyway 160. 62 moves from the inside of the insertion portion 170 into the lock portion 172, and the barb portion 164 The lip 166 is positioned in an interference arrangement with the portion of the lip 166 that defines the Axial movement of the head 132 relative to the rank 134 is prevented, and the head 132 is 134 to form the housing 128 of the manifold 124.

[0023] A removable connection between the head 132 and the trunk 134 allows the filter element 174 to It can provide access to the manifold volume 130 in which it is disposed. Among other things, access to the filter element 174 is restricted by the user's collection of data in the filter element 174. The collected waste, particularly polyps or tissue samples, can be used for further examination during certain surgical procedures. and retrieval for processing. Applicant's own International Publication No. 2013 / 06 / 2013, published on June 20, 2013, is incorporated herein by reference. WO2013 / 090579 discloses a tissue trap for collecting polyp or tissue samples. In a particular embodiment, the head 132 is The manifold 124 containing the tissue sample may include additional features to facilitate collection of the tissue sample. One such embodiment is described in the document, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Co-owned International Publication No. PCT / US201, filed May 17, 2019 This is disclosed in patent application Ser. No. 9 / 032911.

[0024] When it is desired to separate the head 132 from the trunk 134, the steps of the method described above are repeated. The head 132 rotates counterclockwise in FIG. 9 relative to the trunk 134. The shank 162 is rotated to move the key 158 within the keyway 160. 2 into the insertion portion 170, and the barb portion 164 contacts the lip 162 that defines the locking portion 172. 6 is removed from the interference arrangement. The head 132 is moved away from the trunk 134. 166, and the key 158 moves in a direction such that the barb 164 passes the lip 166. The cavity 152 in the head 132 can be considered disengaged from the groove 160. and / or the manifold volume 13 of the trunk 134. 0 is at least partially defined by the neck 192 of the trunk 134, as shown in FIG. The distal end of the septum 190 is accessible through a distal opening 190 .

[0025] In certain embodiments, the head 132 and trunk 134 are joined by a suitable joining process. , for example, by spin welding, solvent bonding, adhesives, mechanical fastening, etc. As described above, the housing 128 is designed so that there is no separate head and trunk. The housing 128 may be of unitary or monolithic construction. Suitable manufacturing processes for this include injection molding, 3D printing, computer generated These may include controlled numerical control (CNC) machining, polymer casting, vacuum forming, and blow molding. Suitable materials for forming the housing 128 include polymers, composites, metals, and ceramics. and combinations thereof. The material when exposed to the waste The corrosion resistance provided by the medical waste collection system 100 is sufficient to avoid deterioration. and sufficient mechanical properties to maintain integrity under the vacuum levels required. Polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate (PET, PETE), Polymers of polystyrene, polycarbonate, and poly(methyl methacrylate) have low It is particularly well suited for manifold 124 in cost-effective, disposable embodiments.

[0026] Referring again to FIG. 4, the manifold 124 connects the manifold volume 130 to the inlet bore. at least one valve 176 configured to prevent backflow into the With further reference to FIG. 6, the valve 176 can be coupled to the head 132. , a cavity 15 in a head 132 that defines at least a portion of a manifold volume 130 2. In particular, the inner or proximal surface of crown 136 may be The valve 176 shown in FIG. The coupler 180 is complementary to the coupler 178 of the valve 132. 176. The central hub 182 of the The slot may be a slot formed by a groove. The slot may be a cross shape. Additionally or alternatively, a suitable joining process such as adhesives, mechanical fastening, etc. may be used to secure the ball The head 176 may be coupled to the head 132 .

[0027] The valve 176 comprises a pair of flanges connected to a central hub 182 by flexible wings 186. The head may include a flapper 184. Flexible wings 186 may be 132 and a corresponding pair of inlet bores 138. 15. The length of the flappers 184 is sufficient to space each pair of flappers 184 from the central hub 182. As shown, flapper 184 is sized to cover inlet bore 138, and flapper 18 4 is optionally circular in shape. The bulb 176 has a width and a length of the bulb 176. The valve 176 can be dimensioned to have a thickness that is significantly smaller than that of the valve 176 itself, and the valve 176 can be dimensioned to have a suitable viscoelastic The valve 176 may be made of a resilient material such as rubber or other polymers. The dimensions and material of the valve 176 are such that they accommodate elastic deformation about an axis transverse to the length of the valve 176. In other words, the dimensions and materials of the valve 176 are configured to facilitate proximal to distal The wing 186 is elastically deformed to allow the flapper 184 to move in the direction of the arrow. FIG. 15 shows a ball in its natural or unstressed state. The flexible wing 186 has at least one notch 18 8, and the notch 188 defines a living hinge about the axis mentioned above. FIG. 15 shows the width of the wings 186 on both sides. Two of the notches 188 on the opposite side are shown, with the axis passing through the apex of the notch 188. The size and shape of the notch 188 are determined by the vacuum pump 110. The desired amount of movement of the flapper 184 under the level of vacuum expected to be provided by the Based on this, the bending characteristics of the wings 186 can be designed to be adjusted.

[0028] During assembly of the manifold 124, the valve 176 is attached to the housing 128, more specifically can be coupled to the head 132. Complementary couplers 178, 180 are mated with each other. The valve 176 is positioned directly adjacent to or against the inner or proximal surface of the head 132. In particular, when the valve 176 is in its natural or unstressed state, the flapper 18 4 abuts the inner or proximal face of head 132 and covers inlet bore 138. The medical waste collection system 100 is operated when the cord 124 is inserted into the receiving portion 116. This provides a manifold 124 in fluid communication with the waste containers 106, 108, or A vacuum is drawn through the hold 124. Either cap 140 is attached to the inlet bore 138. If each is not sealed from fluid communication with the environment, The vacuum passing through the wing 186 elastically deforms the flapper 124 in the proximal direction. In other words, the dimensions, material and / or Alternatively, notch 188 may be provided at the bend of wing 186 and away from the proximal end of inlet bore 138. 138. The movement of the flapper 184 away from the proximal end of the inlet bore 138 is facilitated by the 84 travels from the inlet bore 138 to the manifold volume 130 and thus to the waste container Establish a suction path to the manifold 124 or manifold 12 Upon cessation of vacuum suction through valve 176, valve 176 returns to its natural or unstressed state, In this state, the wings 186 resiliently move the flapper 184 to open the inlet bore 13. 8 abuts the inner or proximal surface of head 132 so as to cover and seal the proximal end of The seal at the proximal end of the inlet bore 138 prevents reverse flow from the manifold volume 130 to the inlet bore 138. This blocks the flow and therefore the escape of waste products that may occur through the inlet bore 138 .

[0029] 4 and 16-18, the filter element 174 may optionally include: The filter element 174 may be disposed within the manifold volume 130. The medical waste is passed through the manifold 124 under vacuum provided by the medical waste collection system 100. to capture or collect semi-solid or solid waste contained within liquid waste being sucked through the The filter element 174 includes a base wall 194 and a structure configured to 94 and defining a mouth 198 opposite the base wall 194. The manifold 124 may include a basket 206 having a side 196. When oriented for insertion into the opening 118 of the receptacle 116, the filter element 17 4 is at least partially disposed in a trunk 134, which will be described later. The filter element 174 includes a top wall 200, a bottom wall 202, and opposing sides 204. Opposite sides 204 may extend between the upper wall 200 and the lower wall 202. 200, and each of the upper wall 200, the lower wall 202, and the opposing side portions 204 are spaced apart from the base wall 194. The resulting configuration can be substantially square or rectangular. It can be seen as the basket 206 described above having a cross section. The basket 206 may be substantially cylindrical in cross section, although other suitable shapes may also be used. It is further contemplated that the filter element 174 may capture or collect semi-solid or solid waste materials. a foam or synthetic member configured to allow air to pass through while All manifold configurations require the use of a filter element 174. It is not required, and manifold designs that do not include filter elements are contemplated. It should be understood that the filter element 174 is also disposed at the outlet opening of the manifold 124. 242 may be disposed at a location remote from the manifold volume 130 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 130. .

[0030] The filter element 174 may include a rim 208 coupled to the basket 206. A lip 208 extends distally from the basket 206 and extends from the mouth 198 of the basket 206. The rim 208 may extend radially outward from the basket 206. Further referring to FIG. 4, basket 2 may include an outer diameter or outer dimension greater than The length of the basket 206 is such that the basket 206 is disposed within the body portion 210 of the trunk 134. The length of the lip 208 can be such that the lip 208 is disposed within the neck 192 of the trunk 134. The step 212 extends radially inward from the inner surface of the neck 192. and / or extending radially outward from the inner surface of body portion 210, 0. Neck 192 is larger than the inner diameter or dimension of body portion 210. The flared wall 214 of the filter element 174 may include a larger inner diameter or dimension. The basket 206 defines a transition between the trunk 134 and the stepped portion 212 of the trunk 134. The resulting arrangement is configured to be positioned adjacent to the basket 206. is disposed within a portion of the manifold volume 130 defined by the body portion 210. and the edge 208 is within the portion of the manifold volume 130 defined by the neck 192. Other suitable configurations are contemplated, including, for example, a basket 206 and and / or the rim 208 may define a portion of the manifold volume 130. 32 in the cavity 152. The edge 208 of the filter element 174 is Filter elements that may be considered optional and are suitable for a particular implementation of manifold 124 may be used. Further shapes and configurations of element 174 are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. International Publication No. WO2018 / 1 filed on March 15, 2018, owned by the applicant. This is disclosed in US Pat. No. 70233.

[0031] To facilitate coupling and installation of the filter element 174 within the trunk 134, The filter element 174 includes at least one guide 216 and at least one centering element. 16 to 18, and further reference to FIG. 2, the guide 216 extends laterally from one of the opposing sides 204 of the basket 206. The rail may extend outwardly from the transverse axis and along a proximal-distal direction. The rails 222 are defined between parallel rails 222 extending laterally inward from the inner surface of the body portion 210 of the rack 134. sized and oriented to be slidably inserted into a complementary slot 220 9 and 17 show two ribs extending laterally outward from opposite sides 204. The rails and two complementary slots extend laterally inward from opposing inner surfaces of the body portion 210. The guide 216 is shown at its proximal end near the base wall 194 of the basket 206 and at its distal end near the base wall 194 of the basket 206. and a distal end adjacent to or on the flared wall 214 of the rim 208. A laterally outward taper 224 near the distal end of the guide 216 allows the filter element 174 When fully seated within manifold volume 130, the complementary The structure can be configured to be in an interference arrangement with the structure. As best shown in FIG. Thus, the centering hole 218 may be defined in the base wall 194 of the basket 206. As shown in FIG. 9, the centering hole 218 of FIG. 17 is formed in the proximal wall 2 of the trunk 134. 28. The inner surface of the stud 226 extends distally from the inner surface of the stud 228. The cross shape is merely an example and other shapes are contemplated. The two centering holes 218 may have different shapes, and there may be fewer than two. One or more centering holes 218 may be provided in any suitable location on the base wall 194 of the basket 206. It is further contemplated that the two centering holes 218 may be utilized in any position. The guides 216 and 226 are spaced apart from each other by a distance equal to the distance separating the guides 216 and 226. The centering holes 218 cooperate to allow the filter element 174 to move with minimal "play." ) (e.g., unintended proximal, distal, lateral and / or rotational variations from part tolerances) movement, etc.) to ensure that the manifold is fully seated within the manifold volume 130. The guide 216 and the centering hole 218 may be configured with respect to their relative shapes, dimensions, and / or In terms of location, they work together to prevent fraud when attempting to reprocess, for example, manifold 124. This can prevent unwanted filter elements from being coupled to the trunk 134. The specific shape of the centering holes 218 is such that only the original filter element 174 is compatible. If not, the protrusion 226 prevents the incorrect filter element from being detected. 134, thereby preventing the head 132 from being fully seated within the from being properly coupled to trunk 134.

[0032] The apertures of the filter element 174 may include, among other things, holes 230, pores 232 and / or or slots 234. The slot 234 is formed by the base wall 194, the top wall 200, the bottom wall 202, the opposing sides 204, The grooves 214 and 208 may be defined within any one or more of the grooved walls 214 and edges 208. 16-18 show the hole 230 defined in the base wall 194 and the upper and lower walls 200, 200. 2, flared wall 214 and pores 232 defined within edge 208 and opposing side 23 4 and a slot 234 defined within the aperture. The filter elements 174 are positioned to minimize clogging. For example, the opposing sides 2 The slot 234 defined in the slot 234 is positioned closer to the upper wall 200 than to the lower wall 202. As the semi-solid or solid waste material is collected, it falls into the basket 206 under the influence of gravity. The waste is accumulated at the bottom and subsequent flows pass over the top of the accumulation. As solid waste accumulates, it may be desirable for the waste to contact slot 234. This is because the slots 234 are designed to accommodate semi-solid or solid waste material of the same size as the pores 232. The minimum dimension (to capture material) is roughly equal to the pore 232, but the larger flow is through the slot 2 34. The vertical orientation of the slot 234 is transverse to the suction path and parallel to gravity. Therefore, even if further accumulation of semi-solid or solid waste occurs, at least one of the slots 234 The portion will not become blocked until substantially the entire basket 206 is filled with waste. This maximizes the operational life of the manifold 124.

[0033] The lip 208 extends between the flared wall 214 and the distal rim 238 of the filter element 174. The sidewall 236 may comprise a single cylindrical wall. The side wall 23 may be considered a side, or a number of side walls arranged in any suitable configuration. The length of the basket 206 can be smaller than that of the basket 206, and the sidewall 236 can be 16. Thus, the sidewall 236 may include pores 232, particularly in the lower portion of the sidewall 236. The sidewall 236 has at least one overfill opening positioned in an upper portion of the sidewall 236. The overfill opening 240 may further define a mouth 240. The overfill opening 240 may be Designed to maximize operational life. As explained above, semi-solid or solid As bodily waste is collected, it accumulates at the bottom of the basket 206 under the influence of gravity. Due to the direction of the path (i.e., proximal), semi-solid or solid waste may enter the basket. During the surgical procedure, a sufficient amount of semi-solid or If solid waste is generated, the entire basket 206 is filled with accumulated semi-solid or solid waste. In other words, the holes 230 of the filter element 174 may be filled with waste. , most or all of the pores 232 and / or slots 234 are semi-solid or solid. The overfill opening 240 may become clogged with waste. The basket 206 is sized and positioned to allow it to be set outside of the basket 206. In other words, according to the principles of fluid dynamics, which understand that fluids will take the path of least resistance, The suction path in the above scenario is from the inlet bore 138, through the head 132, to the overfill. through the fill opening 240 and into the trunk 134 between the basket 206 and the interior surface of the trunk 134; 4 to an outlet opening 242, which will be described later. The cavity 152 of the head 132 defining the cavity 152 is such that the suction path passes through the overfill opening 240. When directed in this way, the filter element 17 is used for the accumulation of additional semi-solid or solid waste. Additional volume distal to the 4 can be provided.

[0034] 4, 8, 10-14, certain features of manifold 124 are 4 and 8, and will be further described later in connection with the complementary components of the receiver 116. 11 and 12 show the casing 116 being inserted into the opening 118 of the receiving portion 116. 3, the manifold 124 is shown oriented as shown in FIG. The direction (for example, proximal, distal, upper, lower, upper, lower, etc.) is determined based on the insertion direction of the guide 124. Furthermore, the definition of the direction based on the insertion direction of the manifold 124 is as viewed in a diagram (e.g., Figures 11 and 12) and / or by directional arrows Each can be understood as being seen from a specific direction.

[0035] The manifold 124 includes a housing 128. The housing 128 is A volume 130 and an outlet opening 242 can be defined. The outlet opening 242 can be The outlet opening 242 can be in fluid communication with the hold volume 130. The housing 128 may be defined by a trunk 134 of the body portion 21. 0, first leg 244 and / or second leg 246. The first leg 244 and / or the second leg 246 may extend from the body portion 210. More specifically, one or both of the first leg 244 and the second leg 246 may extend proximally from body portion 210. Alternatively, first leg 244 and and / or second leg 246 may be a collar positioned distally of body portion 210. 168, the first leg 244 can extend proximally from the second leg 246. and / or the second leg 246 may be at least as long as the first leg 244. It can extend from a part. When the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiving part 116, the first leg 244 can be positioned above or below the second leg 246. When the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiving part 116, the first leg 244 can be positioned above or below the second leg 246. It can be positioned above or below the second leg 246.

[0036] As best shown in the perspective view of FIG. 8 and the side elevational views of FIGS. 11 and 12, the first leg 244 and the second leg 246 can be spaced apart from each other to at least partially define a void 248. The void 248 can be at least partially defined between the lower face 250 of the second leg 246 and the upper face 252 of the first leg 244. The lower face 250 of the second leg 246 is shown as a wall generally extending between the opposing sides of the second leg 246. In a particular embodiment, the lower face 250 may extend over a shorter range in the lateral direction than shown in the figure. For example, in this case, a slot or other geometric feature may extend through the second leg 246. In a particular embodiment, the catch 254 described below may be of a generally self - contained structure such that the catch 254 and the first leg 244 define the void 248 (see, for example, FIG. 68). For example, the second leg 246 having the catch 254 may be narrower than shown in FIG. 6 and may extend proximally from the body portion 210 and / or the first leg 244. As best shown in the perspective view of FIG. 8 and the side elevational views of FIGS. 11 and 12, the first leg 244 and the second leg 246 can be spaced apart from each other to at least partially define a void 248. It can be positioned above or below the second leg 246. The void 248 can be at least partially defined between the lower face 250 of the second leg 246 and the upper face 252 of the first leg 244. The lower face 250 of the second leg 246 is shown as a wall generally extending between the opposing sides of the second leg 246. In a particular embodiment, the lower face 250 may extend over a shorter range in the lateral direction than shown in the figure. For example, in this case, a slot or other geometric feature may extend through the second leg 246. In a particular embodiment, the catch 254 described below may be of a generally self - contained structure such that the catch 254 and the first leg 244 define the void 248 (see, for example, FIG. 68). For example, the second leg 246 having the catch 254 may be narrower than shown in FIG. 6 and may extend proximally from the body portion 210 and / or the first leg 244. It can be positioned above or below the second leg 246. For example, the second leg 246 having the catch 254 may be narrower than shown in FIG. 6 and may extend proximally from the body portion 210 and / or the first leg 244. The body portion 210 can include a distal face 256, and the void 248 can be further defined by the distal face 256.

[0037] The body portion 210 can include a distal face 256, and the void urchased 248 can be further defined by the distal face 256. The distal face 256 extends between the first leg 244 and the second leg 246 and defines the degree of separation between the first leg 244 and the second leg 246. The distal face 256 extends between the first leg 244 and the second leg 246 and defines the degree of separation between the first leg 244 and the second leg 246. The distal face 256 extends between the first leg 244 and the second leg 246 and defines the degree of separation between the first leg 244 and the second leg 246. More specifically, the distal surface 256 is located between the upper surface 252 and the lower surface 250. 1 and can extend to define three sides of a slot-shaped cavity 248. 2 defines the distal boundary of cavity 248 and generally defines the height of cavity 248, generally vertically. The upper and lower surfaces 252 and 250 are shown as the upper and lower surfaces, respectively. and a generally horizontal direction that bounds the cavity 248 from below and generally defines the depth of the cavity 248. Other sizes and / or shapes of the void 248 are contemplated. The first leg 244 and / or the second leg 246 extend from the distal surface 256. It can be considered that

[0038] As identified in FIG. 11, for convenience, the distal surface 2 is perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction. A vertical plane extending through the most proximal point of the first leg 244 and / or the second leg 246 is defined as a plane extending through the most proximal point of the first leg 244 and / or the second leg 246. Alternatively, the second leg 246 can be regarded as a boundary (B) that separates the first leg 246. The most distal portion of the housing 128, more specifically the trunk 134, is connected to the body portion 210. The housing 128 proximal to the boundary (B), more specifically the trunk, The upper and lower portions of 134 are second leg 246 and first leg 2 44. The distal surface 256 may include a curvature in the proximal-distal direction. and / or the upper surface 252 of the first leg 244 may include a curvature in the up and down direction. This results in the shapes best seen in Figures 8 and 12. It will be understood that interface 258 may at least partially separate body portion 210 and / or first leg 244. The first leg 244 and the second leg 245 may extend between adjacent surfaces that at least partially define the first leg 244 and the second leg 245. and second leg 246 may include a cross-sectional area that is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​body portion 210, Each cross-sectional area lies on a vertical plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction.

[0039] The housing 128 has an upper wall 260, a lower wall 262, and a space between the upper wall 260 and the lower wall 262. 8 shows a top wall 260 and a bottom wall 262. and the conventions for depicting the opposing sides 264. In particular, The boundary is shown in phantom to identify one of them, and the same boundary on the other of the opposing sides 264. The upper portion of the trunk 134 between the opposing sides 264 can be considered as an upper boundary. The lower portion of the trunk 134 between the opposing sides 264 can be considered a wall 260. Similarly, the opposing sides 264 can be considered as upper and lower walls 260 and 262. Another convention is for the opposing sides 264 to be generally vertically oriented. The upper wall 260 has a generally horizontally oriented outer top surface. and the lower wall 262 may include a generally horizontally oriented outer lower surface. The upper wall 260, the lower wall 262, and the opposing sides 264 of the housing 128 are depicted. Yet another convention for achieving this can relate to the complementary shape of the opening 118 in the receptacle 116. FIG. 31 shows the lower housing 268 of the receiver 116, including a front elevation view of the opening 118. 118. The four marked markings indicate the four marked The markings are positioned at approximately the four corners of the generally square or rectangular shaped opening 118. The opening 118 can be located in the upper segment between the upper pair of inscribed markings. 270 and the lower segment 272 (spine slot) between the lower pair of marked markings. 277) and the opposing side sections between each left and right pair of the indicated markings. segment 274 (excluding arm slot 278 and recess 279). and / or may be defined by the upper wall 26 of the housing 128. 0 indicates that when the manifold 124 is inserted into the opening 118, the upper segment 27 Any surface positioned towards, near, or adjacent to 0 can be considered The lower wall 262 of the housing 128 is configured to accommodate the manifold 124 inserted into the opening 118. When inserted, the lower segment 272 The side 264 of the housing 128 may be considered any surface positioned on the When the fold 124 is inserted into the opening 118, the fold 124 faces the side segment 274. Therefore, it can be considered as any surface positioned near or adjacent to this. Other conventions are contemplated, including the shape and features of the manifold 124 and the shape of the openings 118. Due to the characteristics of the receiving portion 116, the manifold that fits the receiving portion 116 can be easily identified. It should be understood that the device may have separable upper and lower walls and sides. It is understood that potentially obvious variations in the conditions may be included without departing from the above practice. It is understood.

[0040] Referring again to FIG. 8, the opposing sides 264 and bottom wall 262 cooperate to form the first leg. 244, and the opposing side 264 and top wall 260 can cooperate to form at least a portion of the second leg 246. The tubular wall 280 that at least partially defines the gasket 244 has an upper surface 252 and opposing side surfaces. The second leg 246 may include a lower surface 250 and a lower wall 264. , may have opposing sides 264, a top wall 260, and a base wall 281. As can be generally seen from the drawing, the lower surface 250, the opposing sides 264, the top wall 260, and the base The interior of the second leg 246 formed by the wall 281 is hollow. A cavity (not identified) can be defined such that: At least a portion of the manifold volume 130 may be defined, such that the outlet opening In certain embodiments, the second leg 246 can be in fluid communication with the second leg 242. is at least substantially solid relative to the remainder of the manifold volume 130; or In such a configuration, the second leg 246 is closed. The base wall 281 defines the proximal end of the manifold 124. In certain embodiments, the housing 128 may include a collar 168 and / or or a third leg, a fourth leg, a fifth leg, or any other leg extending from body portion 210. It is contemplated that the leg may include:

[0041] The housing 128 may include a rim 276 that defines the outlet opening 242 . The rim 276 may be disposed on the first leg 244, and more specifically, the first leg The rim 244 may be disposed at or near the proximal end of the rim 244. 276 can be considered the proximally facing surface at the proximal end of first leg 244. In another convention, the rim 276 extends from the proximal end of the first leg 244 to a depth For example, FIGS. 8 and 11 show a three-dimensional structure having a first leg 24 2 shows a step 283 extending radially inward from a tubular wall 280 that at least partially defines the tubular wall 280. 12, a rim 276 extends proximally from shoulder 283. rim 276, which will be described later. The location of the rim 276 in the proximal-distal direction is shown for clarity. The tubular wall 280 may include a width greater than a height such that the portion 242 is non-circular. The rim 276 may also include a width greater than a height, and the dimensions of the rim 276 may be such that the outlet opening 242 is The tubular wall 280 is dimensioned to have a complementary shape that approximates the cross section of the leg 244 of the first leg. Alternatively, the rim 276 may have a cross-sectional area that is approximately equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the first leg 244. The rim 276 is configured to mate with a seal 282, which will be described later. It can be achieved.

[0042] The manifold 124 has at least one arm 2 extending outwardly from the housing 128. 84. Although a pair of arms 284 is referenced throughout this disclosure, a single arm may be used. 8 and 11 to 13 are views showing the arrangement of the proximal and distal ends of the Arms 284 are shown as elongated rib-like structures having a width greater than their thickness. In an embodiment, the arms 284 are not elongated in the proximal-distal direction, e.g., the housing The arm 284 may be a square or cylindrical post extending outward from the arm 284. It may be integrally formed with the housing 128 or may be formed separately and secured directly to the housing 128. The housing 128 may be connected to the housing 128 through an intermediate structure.

[0043] The arm 284 is attached to at least one of the body portion 210 and the first leg 244. In other words, the arms 284 can extend outward from the manifold volume 130. With particular reference to FIG. 11, arms 284 (one shown) can extend away from the At least a portion of the arm 284 extends outwardly from the body portion 210, and the proximal end of the arm 284 is Optionally, near the boundary (B) between body portion 210 and first leg 244. Generally, the proximal end of arm 284 is adjacent the boundary between body portion 210 and first leg 244. The boundary between the body portion 210 and the first leg 244 may not be adjacent to the boundary. When surface 258 is angled distally, a portion of arm 284 extends outward from body portion 210. and the other portion of arm 284 extends outward from first leg 244. Additionally, arms 284 extend outward from opposing sides 264 of housing 128. and more specifically, may extend laterally outward from opposing sides 264. As used herein, "lateral" or "lateral" The term "laterally" refers to a direction perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction, and and / or pointing toward or away from the opposing side 264 of the manifold 124. Alternatively, the arms 284 may extend in other ways, not necessarily outwardly. The arms 284 may extend from the rim 128. 29-31) that also partially define an arm slot 278. The width of the arm 284 can be sized and shaped to fit into the arm 284. The arm 284 may be smaller than the width of the slot 278, and the manifold 124 may be When oriented for insertion into the opening of the receptacle 116, the receptacle 116 is positioned substantially horizontally. The arm 284 may be angled relative to the adjacent surface of the housing 128 as shown. The arm 284 may be of any suitable length and may be attached to the body portion 210 and / or the first lever. It is understood that all of the components of the manifold 124 may extend from the block 244. The configuration does not require the use of arms 284, and manifold designs that do not include arms It should be understood that also is contemplated.

[0044] Each arm 284 includes a proximal facing surface 286. The proximal facing surfaces 286 extend into the receiver 116. 116 (FIG. 11C). 38 and 39), the receiving portion 116 and its components are moved between a plurality of operating positions described below. The proximal facing surface 286 is configured to move the element. , and thus, in such a practice, arm 28 4 extends laterally outward only from the main body portion 210. FIG. a vertical plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the proximal surface 286; This shows the proximal and distal positions of the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284. The proximally facing surface 286 of the shaft 284 may be positioned distally of the rim 276. Thus, the rim 276 can be positioned proximally relative to the proximal surface 286. (i.e., plane A is distal to plane R, and plane R is proximal to plane A).

[0045] The manifold 124 is provided with the catches 254 described above, and includes a pair of catches 254 A single catch may be provided, and a manifold without a catch may be provided. It should also be understood that a wide range of designs is contemplated. 28, and more specifically, by trunk 134. As best shown in FIGS. 10-12, catch 254 is located on second leg 246. The catch 254 can be attached to the opposing side 246 that defines the second leg 246. 64 section or within this section and / or The ridges 254 may be laterally spaced apart by the underside 250 of the second leg 246. The catch 254 may be integrally formed with the housing 128 or may be formed separately. It may be fixed directly to the housing 128 or may be coupled to the housing 128 through an intermediate structure. This may also be done.

[0046] The rim 276 and at least one of the catches 254 are secured to each other by a void 248. More specifically, the rim 276 on the first leg 244 may be spaced apart. , spaced from the catch 254 in the second leg 246 by the void 248 In other words, the rim 276 can be on a first side or underside of the cavity 248. and catch 254 is located on a second side or top of cavity 248 opposite the first side or top. Furthermore, as best shown in Figures 11 and 12, the manifold When the blade 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116, the rim 276 is positioned below the catch 254 .

[0047] Each catch 254 includes a distal surface 290. The distal surface 290 of the catch The thread assembly of the receiving portion 116 is 40, and is engaged by a pawl 292 of the bridge 288 between a number of operating positions, which will be described later. The distal surface 290 is configured to move the receiving portion 116. FIG. 12 shows a proximal-distal positioning diagram, identified as (C). 290 includes a vertical plane perpendicular to the distal direction and extending through the distal surface 290, which is the catch 2 The distal surface 290 of the catch 254 is shown in FIG. 276, so that rim 276 is positioned proximally relative to distal surface 29. 0 (i.e., plane C is more proximal than plane R, and plane (R is more distal than surface C). Additionally, the distal surface 290 of the catch 254 is positioned on the arm 28 4, so that the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284 The proximal facing surface 286 may be positioned distally of the distal facing surface 290 (i.e., (i.e., surface C is more proximal than surface A, and surface A is more distal than surface C).

[0048] In certain embodiments, the catch 254 may be a hook-like structure, 290 along the curve of the distal portion of the tubular structure, and further separated by a gap 296. It may have opposing upper and lower surfaces 293, 294. , 294 demarcate the gap 296 from above and below, respectively, and generally define the width of the gap 296. The width of the gap 296 may be a generally horizontally oriented surface that defines the gap 296. In certain embodiments, the catch 254 is at least equal to the thickness. , lateral surface 298 so that catch 254 is molded as a recess in housing 128. The lateral surfaces 298 may be generally vertically oriented surfaces and may further include The gap 296 can be bounded by other features of the catch 254, i.e., threaded a body including a distally facing surface 290 adapted to be engaged by a pawl 292 of the assembly 288; Any suitable structure disposed on portion 210 and / or second leg 246 is contemplated. For example, each catch may include a collar 168, a body portion 210, a first leg 244, and and / or may be configured as a protrusion extending from the second leg 246, the protrusion being as described above. The catch 254 includes two or more catches 254. If so, catch 254 may be configured differently from one another, including variations in shape and / or position. In other words, the catch 254 has the above-mentioned hook-like structure. It is not required and can be any suitable structure having a distally facing surface 290 .

[0049] The manifold 124 includes a spine 300 extending outwardly from the housing 128. 8 and 11-13 show a proximal-distal configuration including a width greater than a thickness. In particular embodiments, spine 300 is , is not elongated in the proximal-distal direction, but is, for example, a square or rectangular shape extending outward from the housing 128. The spine 300 may be a cylindrical post. The spine 300 is integrally formed with the housing 128. It may be formed separately and secured directly to the housing 128, or it may be secured through an intermediate structure. The housing 128 may be coupled to the housing 128 via a

[0050] The spine 300 may include a body portion 210, a first leg 244, and / or a second leg 246. 246. In other words, the spine 3 00 can extend away from the manifold volume 130. See particularly FIG. The spine 300 then extends outward from the housing 128 distal to the boundary (B), This allows the spine 300 to extend outward from the body portion 210. Furthermore, the spine 300 , can extend outwardly from the bottom wall 262 of the trunk 134, and more specifically, from the bottom wall 26 2. Alternatively, the spine 300 may extend downwardly, not necessarily outwardly. The spine 300 may extend from the housing 128 in other ways. The width of the slot 277 can be made smaller (see Figures 29-31) and the spine 300 1, the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening of the receiver 116. The spine 300 can be oriented substantially vertically, as best shown in FIG. to a position adjacent to the collar 168 or a distal position spaced from the collar 168 so that In other words, various lengths of spine 300 are contemplated. Not all manifold configurations require the use of a spine 300; It should be understood that pine-free manifold designs are also contemplated.

[0051] The spine 300 includes a proximal surface 302. FIG. 12 shows the proximal surface, identified as (S). a vertical plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the proximal end of the proximal-direction surface 302; This indicates the proximal-distal position of the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300. The proximal surface 302 of the rib 300 may be positioned distal to the rim 276, Therefore, the rim 276 can be positioned proximally relative to the proximal surface 302 (i.e., (i.e., surface S is more distal than surface R, and surface R is more proximal than surface S). Furthermore, spine 30 The proximal surface 302 of the catch 254 is positioned distally of the distal surface 290 of the catch 254. Thus, the distal surface 290 of the catch 254 is larger than the proximal surface 302. can be positioned proximally (i.e., surface S is more distal than surface C, and surface C is more distal than surface S) Furthermore, the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300 is closer to the arm 284 than the The proximal surface 286 of the arm 284 may be positioned distally of the proximal surface 286. The direction surface 286 can be positioned more proximally than the proximal direction surface 302 (i.e., Surface S is distal to surface A, and surface A is proximal to surface S). The proximal surface 302 is inclined proximally toward the lower wall 262 of the housing 128. , which defines the proximal end of the spine 300. The slope may be an inclined surface, a curved surface, or a series of stepped surfaces. Alternatively, the proximal surface 302 may include a surface facing the trunk 134, for example. Other shapes with orthogonal surfaces are also possible. Thread lock assembly 304 of receiver 116 during insertion and removal of nifold 124 39, and the receiving portion 116 and its components are engaged between a number of operating positions described below. The device is configured to move the element.

[0052] The manifold 124 includes at least one locking element extending outwardly from the housing 128. Although a pair of locking elements 306 are referenced throughout this disclosure, a single Locking elements may be provided, and manifold designs that do not include locking elements are also contemplated. 8 and 11 to 13 show a corresponding one arm 284 and an elongated structure. The locking elements 306 are shown as sharing a common structure. In particular, each locking element 306 has an arm 284 includes a distal surface 308 at the distal end of the elongated structure opposite the proximal surface 286. The locking element 306 may be at least as long as the arms 284 in the proximal-distal direction. In certain embodiments, the locking element 30 may be substantially flush with the locking element 30. The distal surface 308 of the arm 284 may be disposed on a separate structure from the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284. For example, a second elongated structure may be provided in the proximal-distal direction, with a width greater than the thickness. In other words, the slot or cavity allows the locking element 306 can be spaced from arm 284. In certain embodiments, locking element 3 06 is not elongated in the proximal-distal direction, e.g., so as to define the distal surface 308 described above. The posts may be square or cylindrical in shape and extend outward from the housing 128, as shown. The locking element 306 may be integrally formed with the housing 128 or may be formed separately and attached to the housing. The sensor may be fixed directly to the housing 128 or may be coupled to the housing 128 through an intermediate structure. Good too.

[0053] The locking element 306 is attached to the body portion 210 and at least one of the first leg 244. In other words, the locking element 306 can extend outward from the manifold volume. The locking element 306 can extend away from the boundary (B) in FIG. The locking element 30 can be positioned more distally than the locking element 30 in the presented practice. 6 extends laterally outward only from body portion 210. Locking element 306 is attached to housing 1. 28, and more specifically, can extend outwardly from opposing sides 264 thereof. 264. Alternatively, the locking element 306 may be The locking element 306 may extend from the housing 128 in other manners than just outward. , arm slot 278 (FIGS. 29-30) at least partially defining the opening of receiver 116. 31) The width of the locking element 306 can be smaller than the width of the arm slot 278, The locking element 306 is oriented so that the manifold 124 is inserted into the opening of the receptacle 116. When the housing 128 is in the upright position, it is angled relative to the adjacent surface of the housing 128 so that it is substantially horizontal. Other features of the locking element 306, such as the body, including the distal surface 308, may be Any of the optional components disposed on portion 210, first leg 244 and / or second leg 246. Suitable configurations of body portion 210 and / or first leg 244 are contemplated. For example, and a prong extending from the collar 168 separate from the second leg 246 , can define a distal facing surface 308.

[0054] The distal surface 308 is configured to contact the receiving portion 116 after insertion of the manifold 124 into the receiving portion 116. 43 and 44) ​​and engages the locking assembly 310 of the receiving portion 116. 12 is configured to selectively prevent distal movement of the manifold 124. ) perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the distal surface 308 Included is a vertical plane, which indicates the proximal-distal position of the locking element 306. The distal surface 308 of the element 306 can be positioned distal to the rim 276, Therefore, the rim 276 can be positioned proximally relative to the distal surface 308 (i.e., (i.e., surface L is more distal than surface R, and surface R is more proximal than surface L). The distal surface 308 of the catch 254 is positioned distally of the distal surface 290 of the catch 254. Thus, the distal surface 290 of the catch 254 is closer to the distal surface 308 than the distal surface 308. can also be positioned proximally (i.e., surface L is more distal than surface C, and surface C is more distal than surface L). Furthermore, distal surface 308 of locking element 306 is positioned relative to arm 28. 4, so that the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284 The proximal facing surface 286 may be positioned more proximally than the distal facing surface 308 (i.e., (i.e., surface L is more distal than surface A, and surface A is more proximal than surface L). The distal surface 308 of the element 306 is located distally of the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300. The spine 300 can be positioned such that the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300 faces the distal surface 303. 08 (i.e., surface L is more distal than surface S, (Surface S is more proximal than surface L). The distal surface 290 of the spine 254, the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300, and / or the lock The relative proximal-distal positions of the distal faces 308 of the elements 306 are When the rod 124 is inserted into the receptacle 116, precise operation of the complementary components of the receptacle 116 is ensured. The timing is advantageously adjusted to facilitate the movement.

[0055] Referring again to FIG. 10, the shape and / or radial position of the outlet opening 242 may vary. Among other advantages, gravity and the orientation of the manifold 124 into the receptacle 116 are taken into consideration. The manifold 124 is configured to maximize the volumetric flow rate of waste through the manifold 124. As such, the rim 276 is greater than the height so that the exit opening 242 is non-circular. In certain embodiments, the outlet opening 242 may have a rectangular or oval shape. It can be oblong, and the upper segment 312 and the upper segment 31 2 opposite lower segment 314 and upper segment 312 and lower segment 314 and a rim 276 having opposing side segments 316 extending therebetween. The upper segment 312, the lower segment 314 and / or the opposing side segments The outlet opening 2 may be arcuate or flat. 42, for example, November 1, 2009, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. At least one of the methods described in commonly owned U.S. Patent No. 7,615,037, issued on Both may have a substantially circular shape.

[0056] The width of the outlet opening 242 can be defined between the opposing outermost points, and the outlet opening 242 The height of the can be defined between the highest point and the opposite lowest point, which are shown in FIG. The outermost and uppermost points of the outlet opening 242 are located in the proximal-distal direction. , and the vertical and horizontal planes extending through the lowest point are (S oo ), (U oo ) and ( L oo ) The opposing side segments 316 are labeled opposite the outlet openings 242. The outermost point of the upper segment 312 is the intersection of the upper segment 312 with each of the opposing side segments 316. The lower segment 314 and the opposing side segments The intersection of each of the segments 316 with the upper segment 312 is the intersection of the upper segment 312 with the opposite side segment 316. 10. The axially spaced axially inwardly relative to the intersection with each other can result in the The resulting shape is at least similar to that of the upper and lower segments 312. and define concave surfaces facing each other, the uppermost and lowermost points are the upper and lower The outlet opening may be located at the midpoint of the lower segment 312. The vertical plane that bisects the portion 242 may be a plane of symmetry (PS). It can be equidistant from each of the opposing outermost points and further intersect with the uppermost and lowermost points. The outlet opening 242 may be symmetrical about a plane of symmetry (PS). However, for the horizontal plane in the proximal-distal direction and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry (PS), It does not have to be symmetrical in mind.

[0057] FIG. 10 shows the manifold 124 oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiver 116. When the manifold 124 is closed, the outlet opening 2 is located entirely within the lower half of the manifold 124. During operation of the medical waste collection system 100, waste is pumped through the outlet opening under the influence of gravity. It can also be positioned entirely within the lower half, for example, and can be lowered towards the mouth 242. achievable through the exit opening 242 at a given vacuum level compared to a circular opening. At a given vacuum level, the circular opening to achieve a volumetric flow rate equivalent to that of the outlet opening 242 of the manifold 124 through the mouth. This would require a circular opening that fills nearly the entire proximal end of the manifold. The exit opening 242 of the hold 124 addresses the technical challenges discussed above.

[0058] In the particular embodiment described above, the arm 284 is attached to the trunk 13 of the housing 128. 4, extending laterally outward from the opposing sides 264 of the housing 128; and / or more generally from the housing 128, for example, from the collar 168. Continuing with FIG. 10, arm 284 extends in a proximal-distal direction across exit opening 242. Each arm 284 may be disposed on a horizontal surface in the lateral direction. The lateral surfaces 318 may cooperate to extend beyond the width of the rim 276 and the outlet opening 242. FIG. 10 shows a cross section extending through lateral surface 318 in the proximal-distal direction. 2 shows the vertical plane extending from the arm 284, which is identified as (A), and indicates the lateral position of the arm 284. In other words, in the illustrated configuration, the lateral surface 318 of the arm 284 faces the outlet opening 242 are positioned further from the plane of symmetry (PS) than the outermost points of each of the Surface (A) is plane S oo (It is located farther from the plane of symmetry (PS) than the locking element.) The element 306 extends outwardly from the trunk 134 of the housing 128 and / or The locking elements 30 may extend laterally outward from opposing sides 264 of the locking element 128. 6 may also be disposed on a horizontal plane in the proximal-distal direction that intersects with the outlet opening 242. Each locking element 306 can include a lateral surface that cooperates to: 10, defines a width greater than the width of the rim 276 and the outlet opening 242. The lateral surface of the locking element 306 is the same as the lateral surface 318 (i.e., surface A) of the arm 284. Alternatively, the locking element 306 may be formed in a trunk of the housing 128. 134 and / or extend laterally from opposing sides 264 of the housing 128. The arm 284 may extend outwardly toward the front a greater or lesser distance than the arm 284 .

[0059] The catch 254 (identified by phantom lines in FIG. 10) is a catch that the manifold 124 receives. When the manifold 12 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the portion 116 The catch 254 can be located at the top half of the outlet opening 242. Furthermore, the lateral surfaces 298 of the catch 254 cooperate to The rim 276 and the outlet opening 242 may define a width that is less than the width of the outlet opening 242. , in the proximal-distal direction, denotes a vertical plane extending through the lateral surface 298, which is (C ) and indicates the lateral position of the catch 254. In other words, the catch 254 The lateral surfaces 298 of the outlet openings 242 are closer to the plane of symmetry (PS) than the outermost points of each of the outlet openings 242. (i.e., plane C is located at plane S oo shorter from the plane of symmetry (PS) than at a distance).

[0060] The spine 300 is inserted into the opening 118 of the receiving portion 116 when the manifold 124 is inserted into the opening 118 of the receiving portion 116. When oriented as shown, it can be positioned in the lower half of the manifold 124. The spine 300 can be positioned below the lowest point of the outlet opening 242. , the spine 300 may be coplanar with the plane of symmetry (PS). In the distal direction, a horizontal plane extending through the inferior surface 320 of the spine 300 is shown, which (S) to indicate the location below the spine 300. In other words, the spine 30 The lower surface 320 of the nozzle 300 is positioned below the lowest point of the outlet opening 242 (i.e., the plane S is the plane L oo under

[0061] The rim 276 is configured to mate with a seal 282 of the manifold 124. As will be described, the seal 282 is fitted with a complementary sealing surface of the inlet mechanism 324 that includes the suction inlet 266. 322 and / or the suction intake defining the suction inlet 266. A radial seal can be provided with the attachment portion 326 (see Figures 33 and 60-64). The seal is formed at the interface between the manifold 124 and the receptacle 116. ) and can be thought of as maintaining attraction across the boundary. In this manner, the suction fitting 326 passes through the seal 282 and into the manifold volume 130. When configured to extend, the radial seal allows for suction attachment through the seal 282. The seal 282 can reduce or prevent the escape of waste materials around the seal 326. It may be a single or monolithic structure, or a multi-part component. 2 is a polymer material having appropriate hardness and elasticity, for example, about 20 to about 90 durometer. In particular, the range of about 35 to about 75 durometers. The material is rubber or plastic having a Shore hardness in the range of about 50 to about 60 durometers. It can be formed from

[0062] 19-22, the sealing portion 282 is formed on the outer surface thereof so as to define a groove 332. The sealing rim 328 and the inner sealing rim 330 spaced apart from the outer sealing rim 328 are provided. The groove 332 is shaped to be complementary to the shape of the rim 276, and the groove 332 is sealed. The rim 276 is then rotated so that the stop 282 and the trunk 134 are coupled together by an interference fit. Among other benefits, interference fit allows the manifold to During assembly of the cable 124, external bonding of the seal 282 may be permitted for ease. Furthermore, when the suction fitting 326 penetrates the seal 282 in a manner to be described below, the rim 276 The above advantages can be achieved by using a retaining ring, a cleaner, or the like. Unitary or monolithic single-component encapsulation without additional components such as caps Solvent bonding, adhesives, etc. can be used to compensate for interference engagement. It is also contemplated that the seal 282 may be secured to the rim 276 without including the groove 332. It can also be done as follows.

[0063] The outer sealing rim 328 may include an inwardly tapered surface 334, and the inner sealing rim 3 30 may include an outwardly tapered surface 336. Due to the resilience of the seal 282, The tapered surfaces 334, 336 cooperate to secure the rim 276 of the housing 128 during assembly. 19, the proximal end of the inner sealing rim 330 is guided into the groove 332. Or the proximal edge is positioned distally of the proximal end or edge of the outer sealing rim 328. The depth of the outer sealing rim 328 in the proximal-distal direction is greater than the first step 283 proximal to the first step 283. It may be approximately equal to the depth of the legs 244 (see Figures 8 and 11). The thickness of the stop rim 328 may be approximately equal to the size of the step 283. When the first leg 24 is coupled to the rim 276, the outer surface of the outer sealing rim 328 contacts the first leg 24. 4. In this configuration, an outer seal spaced from the second leg 246 and at least partially defining a cavity 248; It may include an upper surface of a stop rim 328 .

[0064] The inner sealing rim 330 may include a lip 340 extending radially outward. The cap 340 has the outwardly tapered surface 336 introduced above and a proximally facing retention surface. 342. The depth of the inner sealing rim 330 in the proximal-distal direction may be A proximal surface 344 at least partially defines the groove 332, and a retaining surface 342 define a groove 332 therebetween. 8, the depth of the inner sealing rim 330 can be adjusted to the depth of the rim 276 and the first ledge 330. The distance between the seal 282 and the inner step 338 in the seal 244 is approximately equal to the distance between the seal 282 and the rim 276. When mated, the retention surface 342 is adjacent the distal end of the inner step 338 of the housing 128. The retaining surface 342 and the inner step 338 can be bent outward to be positioned. The interference fit between the suction fitting 326 and the seal 282 is particularly effective when the suction fitting 326 is removed from within the seal 282 in a manner described below. When the seal 282 is attached to the rim 276, the seal 282 can be better held against the rim 276.

[0065] The sealing portion 282 may include a sealing surface 346. The sealing surface 346 may be formed by an outer sealing ring. The seal surface 282 may be disposed on the support 328 and define a proximal-most surface of the seal portion 282. 346 is configured to provide the face seal described above with the sealing surface 322 of the inlet feature 324. (See FIG. 62.) The seal 282 is formed to accommodate the outlet opening 242, more specifically the non-circular outlet opening 242. A seal 348 may be provided that is shaped to cover the mouth opening 242. 48 may include a width greater than a height, the width and height being each equal to the exit opening 2 The closure 348 generally corresponds to the width and height of the closure 348. The closure 348 has at least one flap 350. and the flap 350 may comprise a configured to deform upon insertion of suction fitting 326 through aperture 352 19-21 show an aperture 352 sealed to define a pair of flaps 350. The suction fitting 32 is shown as a slit extending laterally through the body 348. By inserting the suction attachment portion 326, the upper flap of the flap 350 is moved upward. 350. Other suitable configurations, e.g. For example, two strips arranged in a cross shape to define four flaps in a generally triangular shape. Lit is also contemplated.

[0066] With continued reference to Figures 20 and 21, the outer sealing rim 328 is The cavity 354 may at least partially define the outer sealing rim 328. The inner surface 356 may be at least partially defined by an inner surface 356 of the encapsulant. 348 can be considered to be recessed within seal 282 relative to seal surface 346. The cavity 354 may be positioned distal to the sealing surface 346. The radial sealing surface 358 may be further defined by a proximal-distal sealing surface 358. oriented in a direction such that it fits snugly and slidably to receive the suction fitting 326 of the inlet mechanism 324. The radial sealing surface 358 is formed so that the cavity 354 is an annular pocket. 360 may be positioned radially inward from the inner surface 356. During operation of the medical waste collection system 100, the suction fitting 326 is closed by the seal 348. and when a vacuum is drawn through the manifold volume 130, the flap 350, The annular pocket 360, the radial sealing surface 358 and the sealing surface 346 may be individually or collectively In addition, the outflow of waste from the manifold volume 130 can be reduced or prevented. Due to the resilience of the flap 350, the flap 350 contacts the outer surface 362 of the suction mount 326. The flap 350 is generally aligned with the aperture 352. The aperture 352 and the outer surface 36 of the suction fitting 326 can reduce or prevent leakage. If a waste spill occurs between the two, the waste is no longer subject to the vacuum and is subject to the influence of gravity. The radial sealing surface 358 is located in the annular pocket 360. Waste collected within the 360 ​​waste management facility can be prevented from spilling out, or if this is not the case, The flow of waste between the outer surface 362 of the suction fitting 326 and the sealing portion 282 can be prevented. The sealing surface 346 can abut the sealing surface 322 of the inlet feature 324, as described above. The surface seal can further prevent waste from escaping. At least four mechanisms can be provided, and these four mechanisms can reduce the amount of waste released. Reduced or prevented.

[0067] The sealing portion 282 has a tapered surface extending between the sealing surface 346 and the radial sealing surface 358. 364. The radial sealing surface 358 and the outer surface 362 of the suction fitting 326 Due to the relatively tight tolerances between the manifold and the receiving portion 116, the tapered surface 364 The suction fitting 326 can be guided into the cavity 354 during insertion of the mold 124. .

[0068] In certain embodiments, the filter element 174 is utilized to filter the air through the outlet opening 242. A seal 282 can be positioned to block fluid escape. 3 and 26, the filter element 174 is attached to a sealed container coupled to the basket 206. In particular, the closure retaining element 207 may be provided on the basket. The seal retaining element 207 can extend proximally from the base wall 194 of the upper The upper surface 209 and the lower surface 211 cooperate to form a structure that is tubular in shape and defines a void space 219. and opposing side surfaces 213 that form an upper surface 209, a lower surface 211, and Each of the opposing side surfaces 213 terminates in a rim 215. The seal retaining element 207 , the first leg 244 of the housing 128 may have a generally molded axial contour. In other words, the closure retaining element 207 can be non-circular in shape and The closure retaining element 207 may be shaped to generally correspond to the shape of the mouth 242. The upper surface 209 and / or the lower surface 211 may have an aperture 21 communicating with the void space 219. 23, adjacent portions of base wall 194 may extend to apertures 230. In embodiments that do not include pores 232, the suction path extends from the filter volume 169 to the upper wall 200, bottom wall 202 and / or base wall 194, through aperture 217, An outlet opening 242 is established within the storage space 219 .

[0069] 24 and 25 are configured to be positioned by a seal retaining element 207. 1 shows an embodiment of the sealing portion 282. More specifically, the sealing portion 282 may be, for example, The rim 215 of the seal retaining element 207 and the rim 276 defining the outlet opening 242 are The seal 282 can be compressed between the groove 3 and bonded to the seal retaining element 207. an outer sealing rim 328 and an inner sealing rim 329 spaced from the outer sealing rim 328 to define a groove 32 The seal retaining element 207 includes a seal rim 330. The groove 332 corresponds to the shape of the rim 215 of the seal retaining element 207. Complementarily shaped, groove 332 allows seal 282 and trunk 134 to fit together through an interference fit. It is sized to snugly receive the rim 215 so that they are joined together. The seal 282 can also be secured to the rim 215 without including the groove 332. The interference fit between the rim 215 of the base 207 and the groove 332 of the seal 282 is 333 configured to engage slots 335 defined by . The slots 335 may be provided vertically and horizontally within the seal retaining element 207. The rib 333 may be defined vertically within the groove 332 of the seal 282. Alternatively, the ribs 333 and slots 335 may be arranged vertically and horizontally. , it is understood that they may be oriented in a complementary radial arrangement.

[0070] When the seal 282 is positioned within the first leg 244 of the trunk 134, the seal The stop 282 includes at least one tongue 337 configured to be elastically deformable. FIG. 24 shows two tongues 337 positioned opposite each other relative to the seal 348. A tongue 337 extends distally from the outer sealing rim 328 and includes a flange 339. The flange 339 can be extended outward (i.e., In other words, the tongue 33 including the flange 339 extends away from the seal 348. The thickness of the seal retaining element 207 is greater than the gap between the seal retaining element 207 and the inner surface of the first leg 244. Therefore, when the seal 282 is assembled into the first leg 244, e.g. The flange 339 biases the tongue 337 inwardly and elastically. In this example, flange 339 is a generally triangular shaped flange when viewed in side elevation. The flange 33 has a tapered surface and a locking surface 341 to form a flange. Other suitable shapes, such as circular and square, may be used as long as the seal retaining element 207 bends inward. In particular, FIG. 26 illustrates a configuration for blocking fluid flow through the outlet opening 242. 1 shows the seal retaining element 207 of the filter element 174 that holds the seal 282 in place. During assembly, seal 282 is engaged with rim 215 by interference fit into groove 332. The tongue 337 can be coupled to the seal retaining element 207 so as to be disposed within the seal retaining element 207. a proximal-distal distance greater than the distance between the aperture 217 of the seal retaining element 207 and the cam 215 In other words, the sealing portion 282 can be attached to the rim 215. 217. The tongue 337 is axially positioned adjacent the aperture 217. As a result, As shown in the detailed view of FIG. 26, when the filter element 174 and the seal 282 are inserted into the manifold volume 130, the flange 339 engages the inner surface of the first leg 244 and elastically deflects the tongue 337 inwardly within the aperture 217. The locking surface 341 engages the inner surface of the first leg 244 such that the tongue 337 prevents axial movement of the seal 282 relative to the housing 128. In particular, since the axial position of the filter element 174 is maintained by the head 132 coupled to the trunk 34, the component stack maintains the axial position of the seal 282 especially when the inlet mechanism 324 is inserted through the seal 282 by a distal force relative to the seal 282. A lip 351 extending outwardly from the outer seal rim 328 by a distance greater than the gap between the seal retaining element 207 and the inner surface of the first leg 244 can provide additional sealing. The lip 351 can be elastically compressed and / or deformed to effectively seal the outlet

[0071] opening 242 from the manifold volume 130 to block the outflow of fluid through the outlet opening 24, as shown in FIG. 26, the seal 282 can further include a step surface 347 positioned to abut the inner surface of the rim 276. FIG. 26 shows the step surface 347 engaging the rim 276 to prevent proximal movement of the seal 282 relative to the rim 276. As shown in FIG. 26, the most proximal surface (e.g., the step surface 347) of the seal 282 can be understood to be at least slightly concave. In an embodiment, the sealing portion 282 provides a sealing surface (e.g., sealing surface 346 in FIG. 21). ) it is also contemplated that the proximal end of the rim 276 may extend proximally beyond the rim 276.

[0072] The basket 206 can be disposed in the body portion 210, and the seal retaining element 207 can be disposed in the The seal 282 can be disposed in one leg 244. Specifically, the nozzle includes a seal 348 shaped to cover the non-circular outlet opening 242. The seal 348 may include an aperture that at least partially defines the flap 350. At least one suction fitting 326 configured to deform upon insertion through 352 The suction attachment portion 326 is inserted through the slit. The suction attachment portion 326 deforms the upper flap of the flap 350 upward, The outer sealing rim 328 is then deformed downward to close the cavity. The cavity 354 may at least partially define a radial seal. The radial sealing surface 358 may be further defined by a proximal-distal sealing surface 358. oriented in a direction perpendicular to the inlet mechanism 324 to slidably and snugly receive the suction fitting 326 of the inlet mechanism 324. It can be made as large as

[0073] 27 to 29, the receiving portion 116 is the lower housing 116 introduced above. 268 and an upper housing 366 coupled to the lower housing 268. The lower housing 268 and the upper housing 366 cooperate to define the opening 118 and The manifold 124 defines a fluidly connected receiving volume 368. The receiving volume 368 is The lower housing 268 is sized to removably receive at least a portion of the lower housing 268. The base 370 has a base portion 370, opposing side portions 372 extending upward from the base 370, and a and a rear wall 374 extending upwardly and between the opposing sides 372. The housing 268 may further define an opening 118. Rounds 376 are opposed to each other so as to collectively define a box-shaped cavity 378. The side wall 372 and / or rear wall 374 may be coupled to the base 370 on the opposite side. The round 376 defines an opening 118 in fluid communication with the cavity 378. 78 can be considered a portion of the receiver volume 368. The crown 376 extends distally The rim 380 may include a radially outwardly flared edge 380 at the rim. The medical waste collection system 100 may be positioned outside the system 100 so that it is visible to the user. The lip 380 may be shaped at least similar to a truncated cone, and the manifold When the rod 124 is ready to be inserted into the receptacle 116, the manifold is turned toward the opening 118. The edge 380 can be configured to guide the proximal end of the rod 124. a recess shaped to receive at least a portion of tongue 384 of lock assembly 310 A portion 382 can be defined.

[0074] With continued reference to FIG. 27, the upper housing 366 is looped against the upper portion of the rim 380. The upper housing may include a face plate 388 defining a contoured semicircular cutout. When the upper housing 366 is coupled to the lower housing 268, the faceplate of the upper housing 366 388 and the face plate 390 of the lower housing 268 are arranged in a planar manner so as to be flush with each other. The face plates 388, 390 are contoured to the complementary exterior surfaces of the medical waste collection system 100. It can be angled to the vertical, for example, pointing proximally, to match the Alternatively, the face plates 388, 390 can be vertical or in any other suitable orientation. The first barrier 392 can be coupled to the upper housing 366 and When the fold 124 is in the isolated configuration, at least most of the openings 118 are selectively Alternatively, the first barrier 392 may be configured to cover another portion of the receptacle 116. It may be pivotally coupled to any suitable structure, such as the lower housing 268. 28, the first barrier 392 is pivotally coupled to the upper housing 366. The pin 394 extends through the upper coupler 400 of the first barrier 392 and Extending laterally between opposing recesses in the underside of housing 366. A biasing element 396, e.g. The torsion spring can be coupled to the first barrier 392 and the upper housing 366. The biasing element 396 is configured to bias the first barrier 392 into the closed configuration, , the front surface 398 of the first barrier 392 is substantially flush with the crown 376 that defines the opening 118. The front surface 402 of the upper coupler 400 is flush with the front surface 398 of the first barrier 392. In the closed configuration, the anterior surface 402 is positioned proximally to the inner surface of the crown 376. and a front surface 398 of the first barrier 392 is substantially flush with the outer surface of the crown 376. The first barrier 392 is configured to move from a closed configuration to an open configuration, and in the open configuration In this case, the first barrier 392 is pivoted about a pin 394 relative to a biasing element 396. For example, during insertion of the manifold 124 into the receptacle 116, the base wall 28 of the manifold 124 1 contacts the front surface 398 and urges the front surface 398 in a proximal direction, causing the first 45-47. When at least partially inserted within trunk 134, first barrier 392 29, the first barrier 392 and the opening 118, so that the first barrier 392 It is easy to understand that the first The barrier 392 is positioned within the manifold volume 130 which may contain residual waste from previous medical procedures. The first barrier 392 can prevent the manifold 12 from entering the receiving portion 116. 4 may or may not be locked in the closed configuration prior to insertion of the

[0075] The receiver 116 can define a receiver outlet 404. The receiver outlet 404 can be The receptacle outlet 404 may be defined within the base 370 of the housing 268. 116 may be in fluid communication with each of the waste containers 106, 108 to which it is coupled. As will be explained in more detail below, the inlet mechanism 324 described above is adapted to allow the manifold 124 to be fully The fluid between the receiver outlet 404 and the receiver volume 368 remains in the fully inserted operating position. communication can be blocked, after which the receiver outlet 404 (via the inlet mechanism 324) The manifold 124 is in fluid communication with the manifold volume 130 .

[0076] 33-36 illustrate an inlet mechanism 324 including a suction mount 326 that defines a suction inlet 266. The inlet mechanism 324 includes a suction inlet 266 and a nozzle 412 defined within the base 412 of the inlet mechanism 324. The nozzle may include a housing 406 defining a passageway 408 between the nozzle and a suction outlet 410. The suction fitting 326 extends distally from the housing 406 adjacent the sealing surface 322. A passageway 408 extends through the suction fitting 326 and at least a portion of the housing 406. and a second portion extending from the first portion to the suction outlet 410. The first and second portions of the passageway 408 may be at least substantially perpendicular to one another. In particular, the first portion can be arranged in a proximal-distal direction and the second portion can be arranged in a superior-inferior direction. The inlet mechanism 324 is disposed in a cavity 378 of the lower housing 268. The inlet mechanism 324 is movably disposed, and the movement of the inlet mechanism 324 moves the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404. Selectively providing or preventing fluid communication between the

[0077] In some embodiments, the suction fitting 326 is attached to the first leg of the manifold 124. The seal 282 is configured to penetrate the seal 282, which is at least partially positioned within the gasket 244. The suction fitting 326 tapers radially outward, away from the suction inlet 266 in a proximal direction. The outer taper may provide a seal with the suction inlet 266. More specifically, between the outer surface 362 and the flap 350 and the radial sealing surface The suction fitting 326 penetrates the seal 282, improving the seal between the surface 358. When passing through, fluid communication is provided between the manifold volume 130 and the suction outlet 410. do.

[0078] The inlet features 324 each accommodate a manifold within the receiver 116 in its fully inserted, operating position. to facilitate positioning of the hold 124 and / or in the fully inserted operating position; a first support element 414 configured to support the manifold 124 and / or The first support element 414 is coupled to the housing 406 and includes a second support element 416. The first support element 414 can extend distally from the housing 406. 10 and 11 may also include a lower surface 418 opposite the face 420. For reference, the lower surface 418 is arcuate and is spaced apart from the upper surface 252 of the first leg 244. Additionally, the lower surface 418 may be configured to at least partially cover the first leg 244. suction a distance at least equal to the thickness of the upper surface 252 of the tubular wall 280 that also partially defines The lower surface 362 of the mounting portion 326 may be spaced apart from the lower surface 362. The surface 418 is attracted a distance at least equal to the thickness of the outer sealing rim 328 of the seal 282. The lower surface 418 and the upper surface 420 may be spaced apart from the outer surface 362 of the mounting portion 326. The thickness of the first support element 414 defined between the first leg 244 and the second leg 24 6, and more specifically, the thickness of the cavity 248 defined between the first leg 24 the distance between the upper surface 252 of the fourth leg 246 and the lower surface 250 of the second leg 246. Furthermore, the depth of the first support element 414 is such that the distance between the distal edge 422 and the sealing surface 322 is and the depth can be defined between the upper and lower bounds of the cavity 248, respectively. The depth of the cavity 248 defined between the length of the upper surface 252 and the lower surface 250 is less than or equal to the depth of the cavity 248. Still further, the distal edge 422 of the first support element 414 may be The first leg 244 and the second leg 246 are arcuate in the direction of the arrow A and extend between the first leg 244 and the second leg 246. The manifold 248 may be contoured to a distal surface 256 that at least partially defines the manifold 248. When the holder 124 is inserted into the receiving portion 116 to its fully inserted operating position, As a result of the above configuration, the first support element 414 is mounted or is located on one of the sealing surfaces 322, 362 of the inlet feature 324. In other words, the first support element 414 engages with at least one of the manifold 12. 4 is inserted into the receiving portion 116 to an appropriate insertion depth in the fully inserted operating position. The first support element 414 is positioned such that it is in the fully inserted operating position. The manifold 124 is rotated to minimize movement of the manifold 124 relative to the outlet 116. can be further supported.

[0079] A second support element 416 is coupled to the housing 406 and extends distally from the housing 406. The second support element 416 can extend from the first support element 416 to the suction mount 326. The second support element 416 can be positioned on the opposite side of the upper surface 42. 6. At least the upper surface 426 may have a circular The upper surface 426 may be arcuate and contoured to the first leg 244. The thickness of the lower surface of the tubular wall 280 that at least partially defines one leg 244 is at least The suction mount 326 may be spaced apart from the outer surface 362 by an equal distance. Alternatively, the upper surface 426 may extend at least as far as the thickness of the outer sealing rim 328 of the seal 282 . The lower portion 362 of the suction mount 326 may be spaced apart from the outer surface 362 of the suction mount 326 by an equal distance. The thickness of the second support element 416 defined between the surface 424 and the upper surface 426 is The thickness of the tubular wall 280 can be smaller than the thickness of the tubular wall 300, more specifically, the lower surface of the tubular wall 280 and The distance between the lower surface 320 of the spine 300 can be smaller than the distance between the lower surface 320 of the spine 300 (see FIG. 11). The manifold 124 is inserted into the receptacle 116 in the fully inserted operating position. As a result of the above arrangement, the second support element 416 is positioned below the first leg 244. adjacent to the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300 and the rim 276 in the proximal-distal direction. The second support element 416 cooperates with the first support element 414 to support the manifold. In the operating position where the bolt 124 is fully inserted, the bolt 124 is inserted into the receiving portion 116 to an appropriate depth. The second support element 416 can be inserted to ensure that the second support element 416 is fully inserted. The manifold 124 is configured to minimize movement of the manifold 124 relative to the receiver 116 when in the operating position. The manifold 124 can be further supported as shown.

[0080] As mentioned above, the inlet mechanism 324 is relocated within the cavity 378 of the lower housing 268. 28, 30 and 32, the lower housing 2 68 includes a rail 428 extending upward from the base 370. The rail 428 is attached to the rear wall 37 4 and crown 376. Rails 428 are parallel to each other and extend between proximal and The receiver outlet 404 may include a pair of distally oriented rails 428. The lower housing 268 can be defined within the base 370 between the rails 428. At least one retaining element 430 positioned near the hole 428 may be provided. The retention element 430 comprises an L-shaped tab extending upward from the base 370 adjacent the rail 428. The rails 428 and the retaining elements 430 may be arranged in a proximal-distal direction. to allow slidable movement of the inlet mechanism 324 relative to the lower housing 268 Inlet mechanism 324 may be cooperatively coupled to lower housing 268. The base 412 of the four electrodes comprises a substrate 432 and at least one electrode bonded to opposing edges of the substrate 432. The base 432 has two legs 434. The legs 434 are attached to opposing sides of the base 432 in the proximal-distal direction. The feet 434 can extend along the edge of the rail 428. 8. The base 370 of the base 432 extends downward from the substrate 432 by a distance equal to or less than the distance the base 370 of ...432 extends upward. The feet 434 are spaced apart from one another by a distance at least equal to the distance between the rails 428. The base plate 432 can be supported on the rails 428, and the feet 434 can be attached to the rails. positioned adjacent to the rail 428 in a gap defined between the rail 428 and the retaining element 430 The holding element 430 can support the substrate 432 on the rail 428. The inwardly extending flange of the retaining element 430 extends over at least a portion of the foot 434. The retaining member 434 may have a height at least equal to the thickness of the foot 434 so as to extend. Element 430 has all freedom except translation in the proximal-distal direction. The inlet mechanism 324 can be prevented from moving relative to the lower housing 268 to a certain degree. .

[0081] The entrance mechanism 324 can include at least one rack gear 436. 33 shows rack gears 436 arranged parallel to one another and oriented in a proximal-distal direction. Two of the rack gears 436 are shown. The rack gear 436 is positioned on the lower housing 26 in the proximal-distal direction. 8 from at least one transmission gear 438 to facilitate movement of the inlet mechanism 324 relative to As mentioned above, when the manifold 124 is fully inserted, When not in the closed operating position, the inlet mechanism 324 is positioned between the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404. In particular, the manifold 124 is positioned so that no fluid communication is provided between the manifold 124 and the nozzle 126. When not in the engaged operating position, the substrate 432 allows the receiver volume 368 to flow through the receiver outlet 404. The manifold is positioned over the receiver outlet 404 so as to at least substantially seal it. As the rod 124 is moved toward its fully inserted operating position, the entrance mechanism 324 , the lower housing 2 is moved so that the suction outlet 410 is aligned with the receiver outlet 404. 68. For example, during removal of the manifold 124, if the manifold 124 is completely When moved away from the operative position inserted into the inlet mechanism 324, the inlet mechanism 324 10 against the lower housing 268 so that it moves out of alignment with the receiver outlet 404. Finally, when the manifold 124 is in its fully inserted operating position, the suction The outlet 410 and receptacle outlet 404 separate the receptacle volume 368 and the waste containers 106, 108. (See Figures 61 and 62.) Advantageously, the manifold 124 is fully inserted into the receptacle 116 in an operating position. If the device is not inserted into the suction inlet 266, it will prevent suction from passing through the suction inlet 266. The medical waste collection system 100 is operational and is drawing a vacuum into the waste containers 106, 108. Even if the suction outlet 410 is in the receiving portion, the suction path is interrupted between the suction outlet 410 and the receiving portion outlet 404. .

[0082] With continuing reference to FIG. 28 and further reference to FIG. 37, each transmission gear 438 is attached to the lower housing. 268. The recess 442 is disposed in a corresponding one of the opposing sides 372 of the ring 268. The transmission gear 438 may include a hub 440. A shaft 444 extends through the transmission gear 438. The gear 438 is configured to rotate around an axis 444. Two transmission gears 438 are shown in FIG. 4, these transmission gears 438 rotate together around an axis 444. They are fitted together in a tongue-in-groove arrangement. Each transmission gear 438 is coupled to an input spur gear 446, an output spur gear 448, and The input spur gear 446 may include a 39, the output spur gear 448 engages the rack gear 450 of the inlet mechanism 32. The manifold 124 engages with each of the four rack gears 436 in the receiving portion 116. Insertion moves sled assembly 288 proximally, driving transmission gear 438 into the inlet mechanism. 324 in the distal direction. Similarly, removal of the manifold 124 from the receiver 116 This causes sled assembly 288 to move distally, and transfer gear 438 to enter inlet mechanism 32. 4 in the proximal direction. The transmission gear 438 is connected to the thread (through the manifold 124). The mechanical relationship between the forces on the door assembly 288 and the resulting forces on the entrance mechanism 324 In other words, the transmission gear 438 can be configured to improve the inlet mechanism. This reduces the force required to apply to the manifold 124 to move the mechanism 324. The mechanical advantage can be greater than 1:1, and can be as high as 2:1, 3:1, or even more. or 4 to 1 (or more).

[0083] The sled assembly 288 is attached to the lower housing 268 and / or the upper housing 3 66. In certain embodiments, the lower housing 268 and the upper Complementary surfaces on side housing 366 cooperate to define proximal-distal extending slots 456 The lower housing 268, best seen in FIG. 30, defines opposing sides 372. More specifically, the lower housing includes a slot 456 at or near the top surface of the A slot 456 in the flange 268 may be defined between opposing sides 372, Extending laterally outward from the opposing sides 372 are the ribs 458 of the upper housing 366. A complementary arrangement is provided on the underside of flange 460 to provide a thread assembly extending in the proximal-distal direction. The rail 462 of the rail 288 may have a thickness at least equal to the thickness of the rail 462. 462 are opposite sides of the platform 452 and the roof 454 connected to the platform 452. In certain embodiments, the rails 462 may extend laterally outward from the Extending along the length of the sled assembly 288. When the mating flanges 458, 460 of the frame 366 are joined together, the rail 462 The thread is configured to move proximally-distal within slot 456. The housing assembly 288 is located between the lower housing 268 and the upper housing 268 in the proximal-distal direction. The actuator 360 is configured to move relative to the ring 366 .

[0084] The roof 454 is in an operating position where the manifold 124 is fully inserted into the receptacle 116. configured to selectively accommodate at least a portion of the entrance mechanism 324 prior to insertion. 27, 38 and 39, the roof 454 may be a second barrier. 464 to selectively accommodate at least a portion of the inlet mechanism 324. The roof 454 has an upper wall 466 and extends downwardly from the upper wall 466 to define a cavity 470. The cavity 470 may include at least an inlet port 464 and opposing sides 468. At least one mount 4 is sized and shaped to accommodate the opening mechanism 324. 72 is coupled to the roof 454 and / or rails 462, and a second barrier 464 is For example, mounts 472 may be secured to each other using pins 474 extending laterally between two of the mounts 472. The second barrier may be positioned and / or It should be understood that the biasing element 476, such as a torsion spring, may be coupled. coupled to the second barrier 464 and configured to bias the second barrier 464 into a closed configuration. In the closed configuration, the second barrier 464 is oriented substantially vertically. Thus, the entrance mechanism 324 is accessible from above by the roof 454 and from above by the roof 454 and / or below. and from the side by the upper housing 268, 366 and from the lower housing 268. from below, from the rear by the lower housing 268, and from the front by the second barrier 464. As a result, they may be contaminated with residual waste from previous medical procedures. The inlet mechanism 324, including the suction fitting 326, is inaccessible to the user. Exposure to the user is avoided.

[0085] The second barrier 464 is configured to move from a closed configuration to an open configuration, wherein in the open configuration: The second barrier 464 is pivoted about a pin 474 against a biasing element 476. For example, During insertion of the manifold 124 into the receiver 116, the thread assembly 288 is and the inlet mechanism 324 is moved distally by the transmission gear 438. 324 engages the second barrier 464 and pivots the second barrier 464 about pin 474. For example, the distal edge 422 of the first support element 414 may be 464 in the proximal direction to provide pivoting. Further movement, and corresponding movement of entrance feature 324 in the distal direction, causes entrance feature 3 As the 24 exits the cavity 470 defined by the roof 454, the second barrier 464 The manifold 124 "rides up" the inlet mechanism 324. When inserted into the fully inserted operating position within the inlet mechanism 16, the second barrier 464 is From the top surface of the structure 324, more specifically, from the upper surface 420 of the first support element 414 upward. The second barrier 464 may be supported on a rib 478 extending from the Positioned proximal to the base wall 281 of the trunk 134 in the fully inserted operating position (See FIG. 57.) For this reason, the inlet mechanism 324 is is inserted into (and removed from) the receiver 116, at least substantially Removal of the manifold 124 from the receptacle 116 leaves the manifold 124 inaccessible. The sled assembly 288 moves distally, and the transmission gear 438 moves the inlet mechanism 324 proximally. The entrance mechanism 324 is moved in the direction of the cavity 470 defined by the roof 454. Upon entering the closed configuration, biasing element 476 biases second barrier 464 back to the closed configuration.

[0086] The sled assembly 288 may include the cradle 452 described above. Continuing with reference to FIG. 38, the platform 452 has opposing sides 480 and opposing sides 482. 80 and a lower wall 482 extending therebetween. In this manner, the opposing side 480 can extend downwardly from the rail 462. 482 is an arc-shaped portion when the cradle 452 is viewed in elevation in the proximal-distal direction. The bottom wall 202 of the manifold 124 may be contoured to assume a generally U-shaped configuration. can.

[0087] The mount 452 of the sled assembly 288 includes at least one push feature 484. A pair of push features 484 are described below. 84 is inserted into the manifold 124 when the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiving portion 116. 4. The proximal surface 286 of one or more arms 284 of the The engagement of the push feature 484 and the proximal surface 286 allows for proximal The push feature 484 facilitates movement of the sled assembly 288 in the axial direction. The slot may extend proximally inward from the distal end of the head assembly 288. The slots can be coplanar and / or oriented in a proximal-distal direction. The slot is at least equal to the thickness of the proximal portion of the arm 284, including the proximal surface 286. It can have different dimensions.

[0088] The mount 452 of the sled assembly 288 includes at least one window 486; The pair of windows 486 are described below. The windows 486 allow the manifold 124 to be inserted into the receiving portion 1. 16. The connector 16 is sized and shaped to receive each of the prongs 292 when inserted within the connector 16. The engagement of the pawl 292 with the distal surface 290 of the catch 254 causes the receiving portion 11 Distal movement of thread assembly 288 during removal of manifold 124 from Windows 486 are defined in each of the opposing sides of the platform 452. The windows 486 can be coplanar and / or oriented in a proximal-distal direction. The window 486 can have a thickness at least equal to the thickness of the tab 292.

[0089] The pawl 292 acts on the sled assembly 288 at each of the pair of hinges 488. The hinges 488 extend laterally outward from each of the rails 462. The hinge 488 may be disposed on a flange extending from the pawl 292. 40, each of the claws 2 may have a post feature 490 that is mated with the claw. 92 has a shoulder 49 defining a bore 494 sized to receive the post feature 490. 2. The first segment 496 can extend from the shoulder 492, A second segment 498 extends from the first segment 496 at a first elbow 500; The second segment 498 can be oriented relative to the first segment 496. Additionally, the third segment 502 is connected to the second segment 498 at the second elbow 503. and a third segment extending from the first segment 496 and the second segment 498. The third segment 502 can be oriented in a manner described below. , the engagement surface 50 configured to engage each of the distal surfaces 290 of the catch 254. 4 can be defined.

[0090] Each claw 292 may include a guide 506. The guide 506 may be positioned at the first elbow 500. At a position close to the first segment 496 and / or the second segment 498 The guide 506 can extend downwardly from the lower housing 268. 30 and 32. Additionally, the track 508 is disposed within the mating flange 458 of the lower housing 268. The rack 508 may include a distal portion 510 and a proximal portion 512. The proximal portion 512 can be oriented in a proximal-distal direction, and the distal portion 51 of the track 508 0 can be angled or oriented relative to the proximal portion 512. In embodiments, distal portion 510 can extend laterally outward from proximal portion 512. The guide 506 is positioned between the distal portion 510 and the proximal portion 512 of the track 508 of the lower housing 268. The pawl is configured to slide between the pawl and the positioning portion 512. 292 may be pivotally coupled to sled assembly 288 at hinge 488. The sled assembly 288 may be configured to move relative to the lower housing 268. Therefore, before inserting the manifold 124 into the receiving portion 116, For example, the sled assembly 288 can be in a proximal-most position, with the guide 506 in the traction The distal portion 510 of the track 508 is located at the distal end of the guide 50 6 and a third segment 502 of the pawl 292 including an engagement surface 504 engages the window 452 of the platform 452. 486 (see, for example, FIG. 49). When the sled assembly 288 is inserted into the receiver 116 and moved proximally , the guide 506 is slidable from a distal portion 510 to a proximal portion 512 of the track 508. The distal portion 510 is angled or oriented relative to the proximal portion 512. As a result, pawl 292 pivots laterally inward about hinge 488, engaging surface 5 The third segment 502 of the jaw 292, including the jaw 292 segment 04, moves through the window 486 in the platform 452. 59). Further movement of the sled assembly 288 at - slideably moving within the proximal portion 512 of the distally facing track 508. 04 remains engaged with the distal surface 290 of the catch 254. When it is desired to remove the manifold 124, the manifold 124 is moved distally. The engagement of the engagement surface 504 with the distal surface 290 of the catch 254 causes the thread The assembly 288 can easily move distally with the distal movement of the manifold 124. In particular, the proximal portion 512 of the track 508, which is oriented in the proximal-distal direction, is positioned such that the pawl 292 from pivoting about hinge 488, thereby preventing distal movement of manifold 124. The movement results in distal translation ( The guide 506 moves in the direction of the distal translation of the track 508. Upon reaching the engagement portion 510, the pawl 292 pivots laterally outward about the hinge 488, The mating surface 504 disengages from the distal surface 290 of the catch 254. The process is described in more detail below for each of the insertion operating positions.

[0091] In one embodiment, the pawl 292 is fixedly coupled to the sled assembly 288. As the guide 506 moves within the track 508, the second segment 498 and and third segment 502 toward and from sled assembly 288. The assembly 288 is provided with a pair of flexible arms so that it can be flexibly moved away from the assembly 288. As a result, the engagement surface 504 can be engaged with the catch 2 by bending the flexible arm. 54. The distal surface 290 of the distal end 292 of the stud 54 moves into and out of engagement with the distal surface 290 of the stud 54.

[0092] Returning to FIG. 38, thread assembly 288 is the thread lock assembly introduced above. a lock interface 514 configured to be selectively coupled to the bridge 304. The locking interface 514 is defined within the bottom wall 482 of the platform 452. The lock interface 514 may include a recessed aperture 516. The aperture 512 may further comprise a slot 518 defined in the bottom wall 482 of the aperture 512. 16 and slot 518 are thread assemblies extending laterally, e.g., in the proximal-distal direction. The upper and lower edges of the ... The chuck 516 can be positioned proximally relative to the slot 518. See also FIG. When the receiver 116 is in the first operating position, the opening 118 of the receiver 116 is slightly Positioning slot 518 adjacent to spine slot 277 that at least partially defines It will be appreciated that the slot 518 may be 4. The latch 522 is sized and shaped to removably receive the contact block 520 of the latch 522. Aperture 516 is adapted to removably receive key 524 of latch 522. The size and shape can be as follows.

[0093] 28, 30 and 32, the lower housing 268 includes a latch 52 At least one mount 526 configured to couple the lower housing 268 The mount 526 can be supported on the base 370 and can include a proximal- Adjacent to the distally extending rail 428 and positioned laterally outward from the rail 428 The mount 526 is spaced from the distal-most retaining element 430 and is The mount 526 can be positioned distally of the thread lock assembly 304. 522. The latch 522 includes a hole configured to align with a bore 528 extending through the latch 522. The pin 530 pivotally couples the latch 522 to the lower housing 268. 3. The latch 522 may extend through a bore 528 in the latch 522 and a hole in the mount 526 (FIG. 3). 7 and 38). Mount 526 is pivotally coupled to lower housing 268. The latch 522 allows the contact block 520 of the latch 522 to pass through the slot 518. and a key 524 of the latch 522 selectively extends through the aperture 516. It is positioned as follows.

[0094] The thread lock assembly 304 is coupled to a biasing element 532, e.g., a latch 522. The biasing element 532 may further comprise a torsion spring that is attached to the latch 522 in the locked configuration. In the locked configuration, the front face 534 of the key 524 is configured to bias the aperture The biasing element 532 engages a front surface 536 that at least partially defines the wrapper 516. The pin 530 is disposed in the gap 533 between the bores 528 of the pin 522 and can be supported on the pin 530. In the locked configuration, the abutment surface 538 of the latch 522 is proximal to the aperture 516. 37, 38, 41 and 38. With continued reference, front surface 534 is at least partially in contact with latch 522 when latch 522 is in the locked configuration. Similarly, the front surface 536 of the aperture 516 is oriented to be at least As a result, the key 5 of the latch 522 can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the latch 522. When 24 extends through aperture 516 in the locked configuration, surfaces 536, 53 8 represents the movement of the sled assembly 288 relative to the lower housing 268 in the proximal direction. In other words, the receiving portion 116 interferes with the thread lock assembly 3. Movement from the isolated operating position is prohibited unless the O4 is moved from the locked to the unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the latch 522 pivots about the pin 530. 522 from the front surface 536 of the aperture 516.

[0095] As described in detail above, the spine 300 has a proximal surface 302, e.g., an inclined surface The manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiving portion. When the spine 300 is in contact with the proximal surface 302 of the contact block 520, the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300 contacts the distal surface 54 of the contact block 520. is positioned to engage with 0. More specifically, the spine 300 is directed through a spine slot 277 that at least partially defines the opening 118 and engages the distal face 540 of the contact block 520 (see FIG. 47). By this engagement, the latch 522 can be pivoted about the pin 530 against the biasing of the biasing element 53 2. By pivoting the latch 5 22, the abutment surface 538 of the latch 522 can be disengaged from the front face 536 of the aperture 516, and the threaded assembly 288 is permitted to move proximally downward relative to the lower housing 268. It is understood that the distal face 540 of the contact block 520 is oriented at least substantially perpendicular in the locked configuration . As a result, the inclined surface of the spine 300 is particularly well-suited, optionally, to impart the desired pivoting of the latch 522 of the thread lock assembly 304. In other words , if the proximal face 302 of the spine 300 is angled or oriented such that it does not deflect the at least substantially perpendicular distal face 540 of the contact block 520, these surfaces engage flat-on-flat and do not move the thread lock assembly 304 to the unlocked configuration, thus inhibiting further insertion of the manifold 124 into the receiving portion 116. In certain embodiments, the inclined surface is oriented at an angle within a range of about 20° to about 70°, more specifically within a range of about 30° to about 60°, still more specifically within a range of about 40° to about 50°, relative to the horizontal, the distal face 540 of the contact block 520, and / or the lower face 320 . For example, the proximal face 302 of the spine 300 and the distal face 540 of the contact block 520 ​​​ and the angle between the recess 116 and the recess 116 advantageously cooperate to prevent an incorrect manifold from being fully inserted into the recess 116. It is possible to prevent the insertion up to the inserted operating position.

[0096] When the thread lock assembly 304 is in the unlocked configuration, the thread assembly 2 88 is movable in the proximal direction relative to the lower housing 268. 532 is slidable against the lower surface 320 when the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiving portion 116. As a result, the spy The proximal surface 302 of the stent 300 extends distally to at least the vicinity of the collar 168. In other words, the spine 300 has a slot between its opposing ends. The spine 300 may be formed from a trunk or other discontinuities. 134 and a lower surface 320 of the lower wall 262 of the at least substantially constant width and For example, if a slot is present, the front face 534 of the key 524 may be The manifold 124 may be prevented from being inserted further into the receiving portion 116. However, as mentioned above, the spine 300 is, in all embodiments, the trunk 13 4.

[0097] When it is desired to remove the manifold 124 from the receptacle 116, the manifold 124 is 24 is moved distally, and the thread assembly 288 moves distally of the manifold 124. Latch 522 moves distally with the movement of the spine under the influence of biasing element 532. 300. The inclined surface 524 of the key 524 opposite the front surface 534 of the key 524 slides against the lower surface 320 of the key 524. 42 meets the distal edge of the cradle 452 of the sled assembly 288. When the distal edge of the platform 452 moves distally relative to the key 524, the latch 522 is pinned. 530. The width of the key 524 is smaller than the width of the slot 518. It is noted that latch 522 eventually encounters aperture 516 and biasing element 532 Key 524 is moved into aperture 516 so that surfaces 534, 536 engage. The above process is explained in more detail below for each of the operating positions of insertion.

[0098] 43 and 44, the locking assembly of the receiver 116 introduced above The assembly 310 inserts the manifold 124 to its fully inserted operating position, and then The lock assembly 31 is configured to engage the distal surface 308 of the hold 124. 0 in the locked configuration, the manifold 124 (and thus The distal movement of the sled assembly 288 is selectively prevented. is configured to be actuated by a user to move from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration. and in the unlocked configuration, distal movement of the manifold 124 relative to the receiver 116 Figure 43 shows the default configuration associated with the isolated operating position ( That is, before inserting the manifold 124 into the receiving portion 116 or Release member 544 and lock member of lock assembly 310 (after removal of hold 124) 43 also shows the relative positions of lock assembly 346 in the unlocked configuration. 10. The relative positions of the release member 544 and the lock member 546 can be roughly reflected. The unlocking configuration is configured to lock the manifold 124 when the manifold 124 is at least partially inserted into the receptacle 116. and lock assembly 310 is not in the locked configuration, different from the default configuration (i.e., the manifold 124 is inserted in the fully inserted operating position). and / or after actuating the lock assembly 310). Figure 44 shows the lock assembly in the locked configuration. Default configuration, unlocked The configuration and locking configuration will be further described with reference to each of the operating positions of insertion.

[0099] The lock assembly 310 includes a release member 544 and a lock member coupled to the release member 544. 546. The release member 544 may include at least one lever 548. and the locking member 546 may include at least one lever 550. 43 and 44 show a release mechanism comprising a pair of levers 548, 550 coupled together. 5 shows a locking member 544 and a locking member 546 in relation to a pair of levers 548, 550. It will be understood that a single lever 548, 550 may be utilized as further described. The levers 548 of the release member 544 can be coupled together by the tongue 384 described above. The tongue 384 is adapted to be disposed within a recess 382 in the edge 380 of the lower housing 268. a proximal portion 552 sized and shaped to fit the proximal portion 552 (see FIG. 30 ); and a distal portion 554 that flares substantially downwardly in the distal direction. The portion 384, particularly the proximal portion 552, is secured to the rim 384 that extends around the crown 376 of the receiving portion 116. 0. The lever 54 8 can extend in a proximal-distal direction from tongue 384 and can be spaced apart parallel to one another. The lever 548 of the release member 544 is positioned adjacent to the recess 382 of the edge 380. The recessed portion 554 can extend through a recessed slot 556 into the receptacle volume 368 (see FIG. 31). (see).

[0100] The lever 548 of the release member 544 is configured to lock the release member 544 and the lock member 546 together. The locking member 546 is connected to the lever 550 by means of a pin 558 so as to be pivotable. Referring to FIG. 30, the levers of the release member 544 and the lock member 546 548, 550 are mounts extending from the base 370 and the opposing side 372, respectively. 560 within the cavity 378 of the lower housing 268. The lever 550 of 46 is adjacent to the mount 560 and is laterally outward from the mount 560. The lever 548 of the release member 544 can be positioned 50 and positioned laterally outward of lever 550. 8 passes at least partially through holes in the mount 560, levers 548, 550, and A hole disposed in each recess 562 in the corresponding side 372 of the side housing 268 A biasing element 564, such as a torsion spring, extends at least partially through the release member 54. Each of the four levers 548 may be operatively coupled to the lower housing 268. In an embodiment, biasing elements 564 are located on opposite sides 372 of lower housing 268. The biasing element 564 may also be positioned within the recess 562. release member 568 engages the upper surface of slot 556 in lower housing 268. 44 is configured to pivot upwardly about pin 558. The lever 548 engaged with the release member 544 is prevented from further pivoting upward. can be considered to be in a default and unlocked configuration.

[0101] The upper surface 568 of the lever 548 contacts the foot 572 of the locking member 546 in the default position. 43 and 44 show the lever 550. Two of the feet 572 are shown disposed at or near the distal end; The foot 572 is oriented at least substantially perpendicular to the lever 550. an upper engagement surface 570 spaced from a lower engagement surface 574 to define a gap 576 therebetween; The lever 548 of the release member 544 is movably disposed. In the locked and unlocked configurations, the upper surface 568 of the lever 548 rests on the foot 572. The lever 548 of the release member 544 is rotated around the pin 558 so as to engage with the side engagement surface 570. It may be configured to bias it to pivot upward.

[0102] The levers 550 of the locking member 546 can be coupled together by a crossbar 578. The crossbar 578 may be a plate-like structure extending laterally between the inner surfaces of the lever 550. A biasing element 580, such as a coil spring, is disposed in engagement with the underside of the crossbar 578. The opposite end of the biasing element 580 may be attached to the lower housing 2. 30 and 32. 288). The biasing element 580 is configured to bias the upper surface of the lever 550 toward the base 4 of the sled assembly 288. 52. The lever 550 of the locking member 546 is then moved over the pin 55 so as to engage the track 586 of the locking member 546. 34 and 35. 35, the underside of the cradle 452 extends laterally from the opposing sides 480 of the cradle 452. The track 586 is positioned outwardly in the proximal-distal direction. Each of the tracks 586 may have at least one surface 588. As the sled assembly 288 moves proximally and / or distally, The upper surface of lever 550 slides along surface 588. Surface 588 faces generally upward. 550 . Additionally, the upper surface of the lever 550 is angled relative to the distal surface 590. 43 and 44 show a proximal facing surface 592. 5 shows a proximal surface 592 that slopes downwardly away from the distal surface 590.

[0103] When the sled assembly 288 is positioned in the disengaged operating position, e.g., The track 586 is configured such that a surface 588 of the track 586 is aligned with a distal surface 590 of the lever 550 and and / or positioned to engage a proximal surface 592 of the lever 550 adjacent the distal surface 590 (When the manifold 124 is inserted into the receptacle 116) As assembly 288 is moved proximally, track 586 engages the proximal surface of lever 550. The proximal surface 592 of the lever 550 is slidably movable along the length of the lever 550. The proximal surface 592 may be angled downwardly away from the distal surface 590. The tilted profile is effectively counteracted by biasing element 580, thereby 578, which biases lever 550 upward, causing surface 588 of track 586 and lever 550 to contact each other. Contact is maintained between the foot 572 and the proximal surface 592 of the release member 544. The release member 544 is pivoted upward about a pin 558. As described above, the release member 544 is a lever. 548 and the slot 556 in the lower housing 268. It remains in the default position.

[0104] The distal surface 308 of the locking element 306 of the manifold 124 contacts the foot of the locking member 546. When positioned proximal to locking surface 594 of portion 572, biasing element 580 biases lever 550, thus pivoting foot 572 upward about pin 558 and locking surface 594 is positioned distal to and in interference engagement with distal surface 308 of manifold 124. This can be thought of as a locking configuration, and the lock table The interference engagement between surface 594 and distal surface 308 provides a secure connection between manifold 124 and receiver 116. FIG. 44 shows locking assembly 310 in a locked configuration. 5, with the lower surface 596 of the lever 548 adjacent the lower engagement surface 574 of the foot 572. In other words, lock assembly 310 can be switched from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration. The lever 548 engages the upper engagement surface 570 within the gap 576 of the foot 572. and moving the lower engagement surface 574 from a position adjacent the lower engagement surface 574 to a position adjacent the lower engagement surface 574. .

[0105] In one embodiment, the locking member is configured to pivot inwardly and has a locking surface is positioned distal to and in interference engagement with distal surface 308 of manifold 124. In such an embodiment, the locking member is structurally separate. The locking mechanism comprises two locking members, each of which is pivotable about an axis in the proximal-distal direction. The locking members are biased inwardly by respective biasing elements. A first pin located in a recess in the release member 268 and a second pin positioned in a recess in the release member. (When the manifold 124 is inserted into the receiving portion 116, d) When the sled assembly 288 is moved proximally, the locking member engages the arm 284 10. The manifold 124 is biased into contact with the lateral surface 318 of the manifold 124. The distal surface 308 of the locking element 306 is positioned proximally relative to the locking surface of the locking member. When this occurs, the biasing element pivots the locking members laterally inward until the locking surfaces engage the manifold. so as to be positioned distal to and in interference engagement with distal surface 308 of blade 124. This can be considered a locking construct.

[0106] As described above, the lock assembly 310 is actuated by a user to release the lock from the locked configuration. The input is configured to move the release member 544 from the locking position to the unlocked position. Specifically, the tongue 384 can be provided to act as an actuator. is adjacent to indicate to the user that tongue 384 functions as an actuator. The biasing element 564 may be a different color than the release member 544. The lever 548 pivots downward about the pin 558 against the bias of the lever 548. When the lower surface 596 of the lever 548 is adjacent to the lower engagement surface 574 of the foot 572, the lever As a result of the downward pivoting of the bar 548, the lever of the locking member 546 moves about the pin 558. The bar 550 pivots downward in response. The downward pivoting of the lever 550 engages the locking surface 594 to the extent that it disengages from the distal surface 308 of the locking element 306 of the manifold 124. , thereby permitting distal movement of the manifold 124 relative to the receiver 116. In one embodiment, an input to the release member 544 causes the second pin of the locking member to The recess positioned therein is biased downward. The locking member resists the bias from the biasing element. The laterally outward pivoting of the locking members occurs when the locking surfaces contact the manifold. to the extent that it disengages from the distal surface 308 of the locking element 306 of the bolt 124, This allows distal movement of the manifold 124 relative to the receiver 116 .

[0107] 3 and 37, a biasing element 598, such as a coil spring, is attached to the lower housing. The biasing element 598 can be operatively coupled to the sled assembly 268. 288. The actuator 288 may be disposed within a cavity 600 defined in the roof 454 of the actuator 288. The end of the element 598 can be coupled to the sled assembly 288, and the biasing element 598 The opposite end of the manifold 124 is free to move when the manifold 124 is not in its fully inserted operating position. Therefore, when the manifold 124 is not in its fully inserted operating position, , biasing element 598 can be in a natural or unstressed state. 24 is inserted into the receiver 116 and the sled assembly 288 is moved in the proximal direction. As the biasing element 598 is pulled out, the free end of the biasing element 598 contacts the rear barrier 666 associated with the lower housing 268. 02. When the manifold 124 is in its fully inserted operating position, the biasing element The free end of 598 can engage the rear barrier 602, and the biasing element 598 It is in a deformed or stressed state where energy accumulates. As will be further described below, when lock assembly 310 is in the locked configuration, biasing element 598 can be in a deformed or stressed state. , the lock assembly 310 is moved from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. 124 relative to the receiving portion 116. The biasing element 598 may be configured to bias the manifold 124 (and thread assembly 124) in a distal direction. 288) can release stored potential energy. Distal movement of the hold 124 prepares the manifold 124 to be removed from the receiver 116. Additionally or alternatively, a lockout may be provided to visually indicate to the user that the lockout has been completed. The receiving part 1 before and after the assembly 310 assumes the locked and unlocked configurations, respectively. The position of the manifold 124 relative to the manifold 124 is such that the manifold 124 is fully inserted and actuated. It can indicate to the user that they are not in a location.

[0108] In some embodiments, one or more magnets are utilized in conjunction with complementary ferromagnetic materials. This can generate a repulsive force that promotes distal migration as described above. The electronic linear actuator is controlled by an electronic controller to move the manifold 124 The movement can be controlled to move in a desired manner. A pneumatic linear actuator may be utilized. In response to the configuration, the manifold 124 (and thread assembly Other alternatives to biasing element 598 are contemplated for moving spring 598.

[0109] 3 and 45-65, manifold 124 is inserted into receiving portion 116. Each of the operational positions for insertion of the manifold into the receptacle 116 will now be described in detail. before insertion of the manifold 124 and / or after removal of the manifold 124 from the receiver 116. , can represent separated operating positions. The first barrier 392 and the second barrier 464 In the closed configuration, the thread assembly 288 is in its distal most position and the thread lock The assembly 304 is in a locked configuration, and the threaded assembly is secured to the lower housing 268. The inlet mechanism 324 is in its most proximal position and prevents movement of the suction outlet 410. and the receiver outlet 404. The lock assembly 310 is in the default It can be in a custom configuration.

[0110] The manifold 124 is oriented for insertion into the opening 118 of the receiver 116. In particular, the manifold 124 is configured such that the upper wall 260 of the trunk 134 is positioned above the upper section of the opening 118. segment 270, and the lower wall 262 of the trunk 134 is aligned with the lower section of the opening 118. segment 272, and opposing sides 264 are aligned with opposing side segments of opening 118. segment 274. Further, manifold 124 The trunk 134 requires insertion of the manifold 124 into the opening 118 in a single orientation. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 10 and 31, the orientation feature 265 may be located on the top wall 260 and / or the opposing at least one transition surface 267 defining at least a portion of the side 264 facing the The transition surface 267 is the change in contour from the top wall 260 to the opposing side 264. FIG. 10 shows a relatively more vertically oriented arrangement than, for example, a substantially circular arrangement. The opposing sides 264 of the orientation determining feature 26 represent the resulting transition surface 267. 5 includes at least one undercut defining at least a portion of the opposing side 264. The undercut surfaces 269 may be adjacent to the opposing sides 264. extending laterally inward from the abutting top surface and / or adjacent bottom of opposing side 264 The undercut surface 269 can extend laterally outward from the surface of the receiving portion 11. 6. The recess 279 may be contoured to at least partially define the opening 118 of the The transition surface 267 and / or undercut surface 269 are formed on the upper wall 260, the lower wall 262, and the and opposing side 264 to form a manifold that can be inserted into opening 118 in a single orientation. The inlet profile of the groove 124 may be defined. The undercut surface 269 cooperates with the manifold 116 to be inserted into the receiving portion 116. The shape of the manifold 124 is visually enhanced to allow the user to easily identify the proper orientation of the 24. The manifold 124 is oriented as described above. 118. When the arm 284 of the manifold 124 is in position with the arm slot 278 of the opening 118, 1. The spine 300 of the manifold 124 is aligned with the spine slot 2 of the opening 118. Aligned with 77.

[0111] 45-49 show the device at least partially inserted into the receiving portion 116 to a first operating position. The user can, for example, use the control surface 154 on the head 132 to manifold 124 to insert the base wall 281 of the second leg 246 into the receiving portion 116. 118 and engages the first barrier 392, and pivots the first barrier 392. The second leg 246 can enter the receptacle volume 368 and / or Alternatively, the first leg 244 and the seal 282 can enter the receptacle volume 368 . An arm 284 with a proximal surface 286 passes through the arm slot 278 and into the receiving volume 368 and having a proximal surface 302, the spine 300 is 277 and engages with the thread lock assembly 304. The proximal surface 302 of the spine 300 may be attached to the arms 284 and / or the cap. Before the switches 254 are engaged with or by the receivers 116, The locking mechanism 304 can be engaged with the contact block 520 of the locking assembly 304. Thus, the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300 is located distal to the rim 276 and is connected to the catch 25. 4 and distal to the proximal surface 286 of arm 284. Regardless of the relative distal position described above, To allow movement of the sled assembly 288 relative to the lower housing 268, The proximal surface 302 of the pin 300 first locks the thread lock assembly 304 from the locked configuration. It may be necessary to move the lock from the locked position to the unlocked position. This is best seen in Figures 46 and 47. As shown, the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300 is in contact with the distal surface 520 of the contact block 520. 40. The engagement causes the latch to rotate around pin 530 against the bias of biasing element 532. The pivoting of the latch 522 causes the abutment surface 538 of the latch 522 to 516. Therefore, in certain embodiments, the first The operating position is when the spine 300 engages the locking assembly 304 and / or the spine Related to moving the red lock assembly 304 from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration. The manifold 124 may be attached or defined as such. When in the first operating position, the arm 284 has a slot defining a push feature 484. , but the proximal surface 28 of the arm 284 6 may not engage the push feature 484. For example, The arm must be in contact with push feature 4 before lock assembly 304 is moved to the unlocked configuration. 84, insertion of the article may not be possible. and / or a spine 300 in a proximal-distal direction relative to the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284. Positioning and / or spacing of the proximal facing surface 302 of the This may be useful to prevent the lock assembly 3 from being used with the receiver 116. 10 can be considered to have been moved from the default configuration to the unlocked configuration.

[0112] Referring to the top views of Figures 48 and 49, the manifold 124 is in a first operating position. When the guide 50 is in the forward position, the pawl 292 has not yet engaged the catch 254. More specifically, the guide 50 6 is positioned within the distal portion 512 of the track 508 of the lower housing 268. 2, a third segment 502 of the pawl 292 including an engagement surface 504 engages the cap of the manifold 124. In the first operating position, the engagement surface 504 is laterally outward from the catch 254. 254. Furthermore, in the first operating position, the sled Assembly 288 may not have moved proximally, so entrance mechanism 324 may not be As a result, the suction outlet 410 and the receiving There is no fluid communication between the outlet 404 and the vacuum provided by the vacuum pump 110. The suction fitting 326 that defines the suction inlet 266 does not extend beyond the proximal-distal The seal 282 and / or the rim 276 are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction.

[0113] 50-54 show the device at least partially inserted into the receiving portion 116 to the second operating position. The user can, for example, use the control surface 154 on the head 132 to to operate the manifold 124, and move the manifold 124 from the first operating position to the second operating position. The second operating position is when the manifold 124 is in contact with the receiving portion 11. 6, the second operating position may be positioned more proximal than the first operating position. The operating position is associated with the arm 284 engaging the push feature 484 or As such, the manifold 124 can be moved from a first operating position to a second operating position. The distance required to move the spine 300 to the proximal position is determined by the proximal-distal The distance between the proximal-facing surface 302 and the proximal-facing surface 286 of the arm 284 may be at least approximately the same. Referring to FIG. 12, the distance is at least substantially equal to the distance between surface S and surface A. In the second operating position, the sled assembly 288 is still in the proximal position. There may be no movement in the direction.

[0114] When the manifold 124 and the receptacle 116 are in the second operating position, the latch 522 The lower surface 320 of the spine 300 can be slidably contacted, thereby providing a thread lock. The assembly 304 remains in the unlocked configuration. The tracks 586 of the cradle engage with the biasing element 580. 550 against the bias provided by the lockout lever 550. The assembly 310 can remain in the unlocked configuration. The view shows that the pawls 292 rest laterally outward from the catches 254 on the manifold 124. 292 has not yet engaged with the catch 254 in the second operating position. Furthermore, in the second operating position, the inlet mechanism 324 is not moved distally. Therefore, there is no fluid communication between the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404. The suction fitting 326 may be positioned proximally-distally between the seal 282 and / or It remains spaced from the rim 276 .

[0115] 55-59 show the device at least partially inserted into the receiving portion 116 to the third operating position. The user can, for example, use the control surface 154 on the head 132 to to operate the manifold 124, and move the manifold 124 from the second operating position to a third operating position. The third operating position is when the manifold 124 is in contact with the receiving portion 11. 6, the first and second operating positions may be positioned proximally relative to the first and second operating positions. The third operating position is when the catch 254 of the manifold 124 engages with the claw 292 of the receiving portion 116. More specifically, the engagement surface 504 of the pawl 292 is engaged by the catch 254. Associated with or defined as being positioned adjacent to the distal surface 290 The manifold 124 can be moved from the second operating position to the third operating position. The distance required for the guide 506 of the pawl 292 to move from the distal portion 510 of the track 508 to the track is The rack 508 then moves to the proximal portion 512, thereby rotating the pawl 292 around the hinge 488. 49 and 54. indicate the first and second operating positions, respectively, and the third segment 502 of the pawl 292 is , positioned laterally outward from the catch 254 (and typically in a proximal-distal direction (The third segment 502 of the pawl 292 is aligned with the third segment 502 of the pawl 292 at the A guide 506 (shown in phantom) is positioned at a distal portion 510 of the track 508. When the hold 124 is moved from the second operating position to the third operating position, the sled assembly The thread 288 moves proximally. In particular, the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284 moves proximally. Assembly 288 engages push features 484, allowing a user to push manifold 124 proximally moving the sled assembly 288 results in a corresponding change in the sled assembly 288 in the proximal direction. As mentioned above, the pawl 292 is attached to the threaded assembly at the hinge 488. Therefore, movement of the sled assembly 288 in the proximal direction This results in a corresponding movement of the pawl 292 in the proximal direction. The proximal portion 512 may extend laterally outward from the distal portion 512. It can be positioned laterally inward from portion 510. As pawl 292 moves proximally, In doing so, the guide 506 follows the track 508 from the distal portion 510 to the proximal portion 512. As it moves, it pivots the pawl 292 about the hinge 448. A guide 506 (shown in phantom) for the pawl 292 is positioned within a proximal portion 512 of the hook 508. ) is shown. The inward pivoting causes the engagement surface 504 of the pawl 292 to move into and / or into the catch 254. To the extent that it is positioned adjacent to the distal surface 290 of the catch 254 .

[0116] Movement of the manifold 124 and the receiver 116 from the second operating position to the third operating position When the pawl 292 pivots inward to engage the catch 254, the arm 284 swings. The movement of the red assembly 288 requires precise timing, making it easy to It will be understood that, for example, the arm of an unauthorized article may be inadequately positioned to catch the item. When push feature 484 is engaged with or absent, insertion of the item is permitted. The guide 506 may not need to move along the track 508 of the receiver 116. The pawl 292 may be prevented from pivoting inward to a necessary extent so that the receiver 116 is restrained. Additionally or alternatively, the item may be improperly positioned or carried. Without the threads, the thread assembly would be disassembled when the manifold 124 was removed from the receiver 116. It may not be possible to return the bridge 288 to its initial distal position. Subsequent operation of 100 may be impaired and / or another manifold may be inserted into the receiver 116. Subsequent insertion of holds may not be possible. For this reason, the rim 276 and / or Position the catch 254 proximally-distally relative to the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284 and and / or spacing may involve the use of non-genuine components with the receiving portion 116. may be useful in preventing

[0117] proximal direction as the manifold 124 is moved from the second operating position to the third operating position Movement of the sled assembly 288 at the entrance mechanism 324 moves distally. The rack gear 450 of the thread assembly 288 is connected to the output spur gear 44 of the transmission gear 438. 48 and the input spur gear 446 to facilitate rotation of the thread assembly 288. The rotation of the input spur gear 446 causes the rack gear of the inlet mechanism 324 to move. 56 and 57 show, for example, a first operating position. 46, which shows the inlet mechanism 3 closer to the outlet opening 242 of the manifold 124. 24 suction fitting 326 is shown. Second barrier 464 is at least partially retracted from the closed configuration. The entry mechanism 324 can be moved to an open configuration. 464 and allows the second barrier 464 to pivot about pin 474 ( (See FIG. 57.) The second barrier 464 prevents the entrance feature 324 from being delimited by the roof 454. Upon exiting the cavity 470, the nozzle may "ride up" the inlet feature 324. The portion 326 is spaced from the seal 282 and / or the rim 276 in the proximal-distal direction. Furthermore, as the inlet mechanism 324 moves in the distal direction, , the suction outlet 410 of the inlet mechanism 324 moves toward alignment with the receiver outlet 404. shows the suction outlet 410 in general fluid communication with the receiver outlet 404. In most cases, the suction The suction path at the interface between the outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404 remains blocked; The vacuum provided by the vacuum pump 110 does not effectively reach the suction inlet 266. do.

[0118] When the manifold 124 and the receptacle 116 are in the third operating position, the latch 522 The lower surface 320 of the spine 300 can be slidably contacted, thereby providing a thread lock. The assembly 304 remains in the unlocked configuration. The tracks 586 of the cradle engage with the biasing element 580. 550 against the bias of the lock assembly 31. The free end of the biasing element 598 can remain in the unlocked configuration. 598. The biasing element 598 may be spaced apart from the biasing element 598, with the biasing element 598 in its natural or unstressed state.

[0119] 60-64 show the receiving portion 116 in its fully inserted operating position, as used herein. 1 shows the manifold 124 inserted to a fourth operating position, also referred to as the fourth operating position. , manifold 124 is operated using control surface 154 on head 132, and manifold 1 24 can be moved from a third operating position to a fourth operating position. The manifold 124 is positioned relative to the receiving portion 116 in the first, second, and third operating positions. The fourth operating position may include suction attachment 326 being positioned proximally. coupled to the outlet opening 242 and providing fluid communication between the manifold volume 130 and the suction inlet 266 It can be defined as or related to establishing communication. Alternatively, the fourth operating position may be such that the suction fitting 326 extends through the outlet opening 242. Additionally or alternatively, a fourth The operating position may be associated with or include a suction outlet 410 being in fluid communication with the receiver outlet 404. can be defined as such. Additionally or alternatively, the fourth operating position is The assembly 310 moves from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration to lock the manifold 124. 306 and, for example, against the bias of biasing element 598, manifold 1 24 in a proximal-distal direction. Cut.

[0120] As the manifold 124 moves proximally, the proximal surface 248 contacts the thread assembly. 288 continue to engage the push feature 484 of the manifold 124 to prevent proximal movement of the manifold 124. The movement results in a corresponding movement of the sled assembly 288 in the proximal direction. As described above, movement of the rack gear 450 of the sled assembly 288 causes the transmission gear 43 8, and rotation of transmission gear 438 drives the rack of entrance mechanism 324 in the distal direction. The inlet mechanism 324 and the manifold 124 move toward each other. The suction fitting 326 of the inlet mechanism 324 moves in a direction perpendicular to the manifold volume 130 and the suction inlet 266 through a rim 276 that defines the outlet opening 242 to establish fluid communication between the As best shown in Figures 62 and 64, suction fitting 326 is a manifold volume 130 at least partially defined by the first leg 244. In certain embodiments, the suction fitting 326 penetrates the seal 282. In other embodiments described below, the suction fitting 326 abuts the sealing portion 282 (FIG. 10). 2). The flap 350 generally conforms to the outer surface 362 of the suction fitting 326 and is adapted to accommodate the above-described The radial sealing surface 358 is collected in an annular pocket 360. Furthermore, the sealing surface 346 of the sealing portion 282 , can abut sealing surface 322 of inlet feature 324 to provide the face seal described above.

[0121] When the manifold 124 and the receiver 116 are in the fourth operating position, the first support element 414 is defined between the first leg 244 and the second leg 246 of the manifold 124. 62 shows at least one A first support element 4 positioned adjacent a distal surface 256 that partially defines the cavity 248. The distal edge 422 of the first leg 14 is best shown. 244 and between the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300 and the rim 276. The second support element 416 can be positioned distally of the first support element 41 4, so that the manifold 124 is properly inserted into the receptacle 116 in the fourth operating position. The manifold 124 may be inserted to a sufficient depth and / or may securely support the manifold 124.

[0122] Movement of the portal mechanism 324 in the distal direction, as best shown in FIGS. 61 and 62 This aligns the suction outlet 410 of the inlet feature 324 with the receiver outlet 404. The suction path at the interface between the outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404 is into the suction inlet 266 and into the manifold volume 130 (thus to a suction tube 120 that can be coupled to a manifold 124 .

[0123] When the manifold 124 and receiver 116 are in the fourth operating position, the lock assembly The lock 310 can be moved from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration. 10, the locking assembly 310 of the receiver 116 engages the distal surface 308 of the locking element 306. 124. The manifold 124 engages the receiving portion 116 to selectively prevent distal movement of the manifold 124 relative to the receiving portion 116. The biasing element 580 biases the lever 550 (shown in phantom) of the locking member 546 through the pin 558. pivoting the sled assembly 288 upwardly to engage the tracks 586 of the platform 452. As a result, the manifold 124 can be moved from the third operating position to the fourth operating position. a foot disposed at or near the distal end of lever 550 when lever 550 is moved to its operating position; 572 is biased into engagement with the lower surface of arm 284. Surface 588 faces generally downward. Due to the tilt of the locking element 306, the locking element 306 is positioned proximally relative to the foot 572. The biasing element 580 biases the lever 550 of the locking member 546 to pivot upward, Positioning the locking surface 594 adjacent the distal surface 308 of the manifold 124 The interference engagement between the locking surface 594 and the distal surface 308 provides a secure fit to the receiver 116. The free end of the biasing element 598 selectively prevents distal movement of the manifold 124. The biasing element 598 can engage the wall 602 and bias the manifold 124 to the receiving portion 116 The stent is deformed or stressed, tending to bias the stent distally. Lock assembly 310 in the locked configuration prevents such relative distal movement. will be done.

[0124] When the manifold 124 and the receiver 116 are in the fourth operating position, the engagement of the pawls 292 Surface 504 is within catch 254 and / or adjacent distal surface 290 of catch 254. Furthermore, the latch 522 is attached to the lower surface 320 of the spine 300. The slidable contact allows the thread lock assembly 304 to be in an unlocking configuration. Remain successful.

[0125] Moving the manifold 124 and the receiver 116 from the third operating position to the fourth operating position In the locked configuration, the lock assembly 310 locks the manifold 124. While engaged with the locking element 306, the suction fitting 326 extends through the outlet opening 242 ( For example, the sealing surface 346 of the sealing portion 282 abuts the sealing surface 322 and / or the first The support element 414 is positioned at least partially within the cavity 248. For example, it is easy to understand that the article requires a properly positioned lock. In the absence of features and features that define the void, full insertion of the article may not be possible. Without full insertion, for example, the sled assembly 288 may be may assume a proximal-distal position that is not sufficient to permit movement of the system 100 (e.g., The controller 122 can prevent the operation of the vacuum pump 110. First leg 244, second leg 246, cavity 248, rim 276 and / or lock The positioning, dimensions, and / or spacing of elements 306 may be adjusted to accommodate the non-genuine product used with receiver 116. This may be useful in preventing the

[0126] The lock assembly 310 is actuated by a user to move from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration. , and in the unlocked configuration, manifold 1 relative to receiver 116. 66 and 67, the tongue 384 is allowed to move distally. An input such as a push-down can be applied to the tongue 384. FIG. 66 shows the tongue 384 and the edge 208. 382, and the gap 604 is formed so that the tongue 384 is pressed down in the actuated state. As explained above, the force on the tongue 384 causes the release member 544 pivots downward against the bias provided by biasing element 564, resulting in Corresponding downward movement of locking member 546 against the bias provided by biasing element 580 The downward pivoting of lever 550 causes locking surface 594 to engage manifold 124. from the distal surface 308 of the locking element 306, thereby Distal movement of the manifold 124 relative to the receiver 116 is permitted. 10 no longer constrains distal movement of manifold 124 relative to receiver 116, The biasing element 598 generates stored latent energy in a deformed or stressed state. The manifold 124 (and thread assembly 288) The sled assembly 288 can be moved in the distal direction. As a result, the inlet mechanism 324 moves proximally, thereby displacing the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404, the suction path at the interface between the lock assembly 310 and the lock assembly 310 is in the unlocked configuration. Once activated, it can be shut off immediately.

[0127] The manifold 124 has at least the same configuration as the first to fourth operating positions described above, but with the first to fourth operating positions reversed. The head 132 can be removed from the receiving portion 116 in a similar manner. The upper control surface 154 is used to manipulate the manifold 124, moving the manifold 124 distally. When manifold 124 is moved distally, catch 2 The distal surface 290 of the pawl 292 engages the engagement surface 504 of the pawl 292, and the sled assembly 288 The guide 506 of the pawl 292 is moved distally in a corresponding manner. While slidably moving within the proximal portion 510 of the rack 508, the pawl 292 engages the hinge 488. The suction mount 326 prevents the seal that defines the outlet opening 242 from pivoting about the seal. The seal 282 exits the rim 276. The interference fit between the seal 282 and the rim 276 326 from the outlet opening 242. The first support element 414 and the second support element 415 of the entrance mechanism 324 can be prevented from being broken. The tight tolerances of element 416 further help prevent separation of seal 282 from rim 276 The lip 340 of the seal 282 can be inserted into the inner step 338 of the first leg 244. 276. This also helps prevent separation of the seal 282 from the rim 276. The guide 506 of the pawl 292 is positioned within the distal portion 512 of the track 508. When this occurs, the pawl 292 pivots laterally outward about the hinge 488 (see FIG. 54). Further removal of the sled 124 causes the arm 284 to push the sled assembly 288 124. The spring 126 is disengaged from spring feature 484, and further removal of manifold 124 The proximal surface 302 of the thread lock assembly 300 contacts the contact block 52 of the thread lock assembly 304. 0. The biasing element 532 of the thread locking assembly 304 is The front surface 534 of the key 524 has a front surface 536 that at least partially defines the aperture 516. The latch 522 is urged to pivot upward about pin 530 to engage the The red lock assembly 304 returns to the locked configuration. The subsequent manifold 124 The manifold 124 can be removed and / or inserted into the receiving portion 116 as needed. The interface between the suction outlet 410 and the receiver outlet 404 is maintained constant throughout the entire time the filter is being replaced or replaced. The suction path at the interface remains disconnected and the vacuum provided by the vacuum pump 110 This prevents the suction inlet 266 from effectively reaching the suction inlet.

[0128] 68-73, the inverted trunk 134' of the manifold 124 2 is an embodiment shown in which a first leg 244' is positioned above a second leg 246'. , the specific structure is arranged correspondingly. In many respects, the inverted trunk 134' is the same as above for the similar components that correspond to similar signs (plus the prime sign (')). and should not be construed as limiting, but should be interpreted as having commonality with the corresponding components. Any disclosure of the complementary structure on the receiving portion 116 is deemed omitted for the sake of brevity. The component is inserted into the receiving portion 116 by inserting the inverted trunk 134' in the manner described above. that the IF-16444 may be modified in an appropriate manner to allow it to be removed from section 116. It should be understood that any suitable head, such as head 132 described above, may be used. Although described in connection with an inverted trunk 134' that can be coupled or disconnected, the present disclosure , more generally applicable to the housing 128 and / or the manifold 124 It should be understood that it is possible.

[0129] The inverted trunk 134' may define an exit opening 242'. The trunk 134' may include a body portion 210', a first leg 244', and / or a second leg 244'. The first leg 244' and / or the second leg 246' may be 246' can extend from body portion 210', and more specifically, first leg 2 44' and second leg 246' extend proximally from body portion 210'. This is best seen in the perspective view of FIG. 64 and the side elevation views of FIGS. 70 and 71. As best shown, the first leg 244' and the second leg 246' are at least The catch 2 can be spaced apart from one another to partially define a void 248'. 54' can generally be a single structure, with the catch 254' and the first leg The upper surface 252' of 244' defines the cavity 248. Further, as contemplated above, The trunk 134' may have three or more legs and may have catches 254' connecting them. The inverted trunk 134' is connected to the first leg regardless of the presence of the supporting strut 255'. The cavity 24 can be considered to comprise a pair of second legs 244' and a pair of second legs 246'. 8' may be further defined by a distal surface 256' of body portion 210', and / or second legs 244', 246' can extend from distal face 256'. 68 and 69 show that the distal surface 256' extends from the first leg 244' to the inverted transverse 70 shows that the support 255' extends to the lower wall 262' of the link 134'. As specified, for convenience, the most proximal point of the distal surface 256' is perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction. A vertical plane extending through the body portion 210' and the first leg 244' and / or the second leg 244' may be formed. The boundary (B) can be regarded as a boundary (B) separating the leg 246' from the leg 246'. The inverted trunk 134' portion can be considered the main body portion 210', and the boundary (B) The upper and lower portions of the inverted trunk 134' proximal to the first level are 2. The first leg 244' and the second leg 246' can be considered as the first leg 244' and the second leg 246'.

[0130] As described above, the manifold 124 is oriented to be inserted into the opening of the receptacle. When the first leg 244' is in position, the first leg 244' can be positioned over the second leg 246'. The inverted trunk 134' has a top wall 260', a bottom wall 262', and opposing side walls. The opposing sides 264' and bottom wall 262' cooperate to The opposing side 264' may form at least a portion of the second leg 246'. and upper wall 260' cooperate to form at least a portion of first leg 244'. can be done.

[0131] The inverted trunk 134' includes a rim 276' that defines an exit opening 242'. The rim 276' can be disposed on the first leg 244', more specifically The shoulder may be disposed at or near the proximal end of the first leg 244'. 283' extends radially out from the tubular wall 280' that at least partially defines the first leg 244'. 276' can extend inwardly in the direction of the shoulder 283', with a rim 276' extending proximally from the shoulder 283'. . FIG. 71 includes a vertical plane identified as (R), orthogonal to the proximal-distal direction, and extending through the rim 276', which indicates the position of the rim 276' in the proximal-distal direction. The rim 276' can include a width greater than the height such that the outlet opening 242' is non-circular. The tubular wall 280' can also include a width greater than the height, and the dimensions of the rim 276' can be generally equal to the dimensions of the tubular wall 280' such that the outlet opening 242' complements and / or approximates the cross-section of the first leg 244'. The rim 276' can be configured to couple with the seal 282'. The manifold 124 includes an arm 284' extending outwardly from the inverted trunk 134'. The arm 284' can extend outwardly from at least one of the body portion 210 and the first leg 244. In other words, the arm 284' can extend away from the manifold volume 130. Referring particularly to FIG. 71, at least a portion of the arm 284' (one is shown) extends outwardly from the body portion 210'. Further, the arm 284' can extend outwardly from the opposing side portion 264' of the inverted trunk 134', and more specifically, can extend outwardly laterally from the opposing side portion 264'. The arm 284' can be of any suitable length. The arm 284' includes a proximal-facing surface 286'. The proximal-facing surface 286' can be positioned distal to the boundary (B) of FIG. 70, and thus the arm 284' can be considered to extend outwardly laterally only from the body portion 210'. FIG. 71 is identified as (A), orthogonal to the proximal-distal direction

[0132]

[0133] and includes a vertical plane extending through the proximal surface 286', which is perpendicular to the proximal surface of the arm 284'. The proximal-distal position of the proximal surface 286' of the arm 284' is shown. 86' may be positioned distal to rim 276', such that rim 276' can be positioned more proximally than the proximal surface 286' (i.e., surface A is closer to surface R (Face R is more distal than face A, and face R is more proximal than face A).

[0133] The manifold 124 may be, for example, a stand-alone structure as described above and / or may be attached to the second leg 2 The catch 254' is considered to be disposed on the rim 276'. The chuches 254' may be spaced apart from one another by voids 248'. More specifically, The rim 276' in the first leg 244' is connected to the second leg 244' by the cavity 248'. 70 and 71 can be spaced apart from the catch 254' at 246'. , a rim 276' on a first side or upper side of the cavity 248' and a rim 276' on a second side of the cavity 248'. Further, the manifold 124 is shown with the opening of the receiving portion 116. When oriented for insertion into mouth 118, rim 276' engages catch 254. Due to the shape of the second leg 246', the catch 254' is , distal surface 290' along the bend between opposing upper and lower surfaces 293', 294'. The catch 254' has the appearance of a hook-like structure. With lateral surface 298' to be molded as a recess in inverted trunk 134' The distal surface 290' of the catch 254' is positioned proximal to the boundary (B) of FIG. It can be done. FIG. 71 is identified as (C), includes a vertical plane orthogonal to the proximal-distal direction and extending through the distal direction plane 290' of the catch 254', which shows the position of the catch 254' in the proximal-distal direction. The distal direction plane 290' of the catch 254' can be positioned more proximally than the rim 276', so the rim 276' can be positioned more distally than the distal direction plane 290' (i.e., plane C is more proximal than plane R, and plane R is more distal than plane C). Further, the distal direction plane 290' of the catch 254' can be positioned more proximally than the proximal direction plane 286' of the arm 284', so the proximal direction plane 286' of the arm 284' can be positioned more distally than the distal direction plane 290' (i.e., plane C is more proximal than plane A, and plane A is more distal than plane C). The distal direction plane 290' of the catch 254' can be positioned more proximally than the rim 276', so the rim 276' can be positioned more distally than the distal direction plane 290' (i.e., plane C is more proximal than plane R, and plane R is more distal than plane C). The distal direction plane 290' of the catch 254' can be positioned more proximally than the rim 276', so the rim 276' can be positioned more distally than the distal direction plane 290' (i.e., plane C is more proximal than plane R, and plane R is more distal than plane C). The distal direction plane 290' of the catch 254' can be positioned more proximally than the rim 276', so the rim 276' can be positioned more distally than the distal direction plane 290' (i.e., plane C is more proximal than plane R, and plane R is more distal than plane C). The distal direction plane 290' of the catch 254' can be positioned more proximally than the rim 276', so the rim 276' can be positioned more distally than the distal direction plane 290' (i.e., plane C is more proximal than plane R, and plane R is more distal than plane C). The distal direction plane 290' of the catch 254' can be positioned more proximally than the rim 276', so the rim 276' can be positioned more distally than the distal direction plane 290' (i.e., plane C is more proximal than plane R, and plane R is more distal than plane C). The distal direction plane 290' of the catch 254' can be positioned more proximally than the proximal direction plane 286' of the arm 284', so the proximal direction plane 286' of the arm 284' can be positioned more distally than the distal direction plane 290' (i.e., plane C is more proximal than plane A, and plane A is more distal than plane C). The distal direction plane 290' of the catch 254' can be positioned more proximally than the proximal direction plane 286' of the arm 284', so the proximal direction plane 286' of the arm 284' can be positioned more distally than the distal direction plane 290' (i.e., plane C is more proximal than plane A, and plane A is more distal than plane C). The distal direction plane 290' of the catch 254' can be positioned more proximally than the proximal direction plane 286' of the arm 284', so the proximal direction plane 286' of the arm 284' can be positioned more distally than the distal direction plane​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​surface, which is the proximal-distal position of the proximal surface 302' of the spine 300'. The proximal surface 302' of the spine 300' is positioned distally of the rim 276'. rim 276' may be positioned proximally relative to proximal surface 302'. (i.e., plane S is more distal than plane R, and plane R is more proximal than plane S.) Furthermore, the proximal surface 302' of the spine 300' faces the distal surface of the catch 254'. 290', so that the distal direction of catch 254' The facing surface 290' can be positioned more proximally than the proximal facing surface 302' (i.e. , surface S is distal to surface C, and surface C is proximal to surface S). The proximal surface 302' of the arm 280' is located distally of the proximal surface 286' of the arm 284'. Thus, the proximal surface 286' of the arm 284' is in contact with the proximal surface 3 02 (i.e., surface S is more distal than surface A, Surface A is more proximal than surface S).

[0135] The manifold 124 includes a locking element 306 extending outwardly from the inverted trunk 134'. Each locking element 306' may include a proximal surface 286' of the arm 284. The lock may include a distal surface 308' at a distal end of the elongated structure opposite the lock. The element 306' is attached to at least one of the body portion 210' and the first leg 244'. The locking element 306' can extend outward from the boundary (B) in FIG. so that the locking element 306' can be laterally secured only from the body portion 210. The locking elements 306' extend outward in the direction opposite the inverted trunk 134'. 264′, and more specifically, can extend laterally from the opposing sides 264′. FIG. 71 shows the proximal-distal extension of the ligament, identified as (L). and includes a vertical surface extending through distal surface 308', which is perpendicular to locking element 306'. The distal surface 308' of the locking element 306' is shown in the proximal-distal position. rim 276' may be positioned distally of rim 276' such that rim 276' may be positioned distally of rim 276'. It can be positioned more proximally than surface 308' (i.e., surface L is more distal than surface R). (wherein surface R is more proximal than surface L). Additionally, distal surface 308' of locking element 306' can be positioned distal to the distal surface 290' of the catch 254', Therefore, the distal surface 290' of the catch 254' is located more proximal than the distal surface 308'. (i.e., plane L is more distal than plane C, and plane C is more proximal than plane L. Furthermore, the distal surface 308' of the locking element 306' is located at the proximal end of the arm 284'. 284′ can be positioned distal to the proximal surface 286′, thereby The proximal surface 286' can be positioned more proximally than the distal surface 308' (i.e., (i.e., surface L is more distal than surface A, and surface A is more proximal than surface L). The distal surface 308 of the locking element 306' is further from the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300'. The spine 300' can be positioned so that the proximal surface 302' faces the distal 308′ (i.e., surface L is positioned closer to the proximal end of surface S). (The surface S is more distal than the surface L, and the surface S is more proximal than the surface L.) As explained in detail above, the rim 276 ', proximal surface 286' of arm 284', distal surface 290' of catch 254', The proximal surface 302' of the pin 300' and / or the distal surface of the locking element 306' 308′ in the proximal-distal direction, the manifold 124 is positioned in the receiving portion 11 6, facilitating precise timing of actuation of complementary components of receiver 116. The adjustment is favorable so that

[0136] Referring to FIG. 69, the outlet opening 242' may be rectangular or oblong. , upper segment 312', lower segment 314', and opposing side segments 31 6'. In the proximal-distal direction: Vertical planes extending through the opposite outermost, uppermost, and lowermost points of the outlet opening 242' and and horizontal planes are (S oo ), (U oo ) and (L oo ) is labeled. The vertical plane in the proximal-distal direction that bisects the mouth opening 242' is the vertical plane of symmetry (PS). The manifold 124 can be inserted into the opening 118 of the receiving portion 116. When facing the upper half of the inverted trunk 134', the exit opening 242' is By locating the outlet opening 242' in the upper half, Advantageously, the unintentional release of waste material from the manifold volume 130 can be avoided. In other words, waste that is not sucked through the seal 282 by the vacuum will be drawn under the influence of gravity. The waste material can descend into the manifold volume 130. The waste material is bounded by a lower wall 262'. and is bounded proximally by second leg 246' and / or distal face 256'. The collected fluid can be collected within a defined portion of the manifold volume 130. During removal of the manifold 124 including the inverted trunk 134' from the receptacle 116, There is minimal waste material (which has fallen into the manifold volume 130) distal to the seal 282. Since there is no suction attachment 262, the seal 282 is This can significantly reduce the possibility of waste leakage through 2.

[0137] The arm 284' can include a lateral surface 318', which can be configured to cooperate with 69 defines a width greater than the width of the rim 276' and the outlet opening 242'. , (A) and a vertical plane in the proximal-distal direction extending through the lateral surface 318'. , which indicates the lateral position of arm 284'. ' are positioned farther from the plane of symmetry (PS) than the outermost points of the respective outlet openings 242' (i.e., surface (A) can be oo Distance farther from the plane of symmetry (PS) than Similarly, the locking element 306' includes lateral surfaces that cooperate to lock the locking element 306'. The catch 254' defines a width greater than the width of the catch 254' and the exit opening 242'. (identified by phantom lines in FIG. 69) indicates that the manifold 124 is 118, the lower half of the inverted trunk 134' The catch 254' can be positioned below the lowest point of the outlet opening 242'. Furthermore, the lateral surfaces 298' of the catch 254' cooperate to It can define a width that is less than the width of the rim 276' and the outlet opening 242'. 9 is identified as (C) and extends proximally-distally through each of the lateral surfaces 298. The vertical plane indicates the lateral position of the catch 254'. The direction plane 298' is closer to the plane of symmetry (PS) than the outermost points of each of the exit openings 242'. (i.e., surface C is located at surface S oo Shorter distance from the plane of symmetry (PS) than (located in).

[0138] The spine 300' is configured such that the manifold 124 is inserted into the opening 118 of the receiving portion 116. When oriented as shown, it is positioned on the lower half of the inverted trunk 134'. The spine 300' can be positioned below the lowest point of the outlet opening 242'. Additionally, the spine 300' can be coplanar with the plane of symmetry (PS). 69 is identified as (S) and passes through the downwardly facing surface 320' of the spine 300'. A horizontal plane extending in the proximal-distal direction is shown, which indicates the inferior position of the spine 300'. The lower surface 320' of the spine 300' is positioned below the lowest point of the exit opening 242'. (i.e., surface S is surface L oo under

[0139] At least in some respects, the rim 276, 276' and / or the arm 28 4, 246′, and / or the proximal facing surfaces 286, 248′ of the locking elements 306, 306 ', the catches 254, 25' in the proximal-distal direction relative to the distal surfaces 308, 308' of the catches 254, 25' Positioning and / or spacing of the non-genuine parts 4' may be performed to prevent the non-genuine parts from interfering with the receiving part 116. This can be useful to prevent non-genuine products from being used with the receiver 116. Additional security features may be provided to prevent unauthorized access to the device. , the controller 122 (see FIG. 2) determines whether the manifold 124 is positioned within the receptacle 116 as a fourth or operation of the vacuum pump 110 when it is not fully inserted to the operating position. This configuration prevents the sled assembly 288, the lower housing 268 , upper housing 366, or any other suitable component of receiver 116. This can be easily realized by using at least one predetermined sensor, for example a Hall sensor. , allowing the manifold 124 to be in a fourth or fully inserted operating position. If the sensor does not have the required structure, it will send an appropriate signal to the controller 122. The controller 122 may not allow the medical waste collection system 100 to operate. Similarly, the controller 122 may be configured to determine whether the manifold 124 is inserted and / or received. Each time the receiving portion 116 is removed from the receiving portion 116, the receiving portion 116 is cycled through the separated operating position. If the rule is not followed, the operation of the vacuum pump 110 can be prevented. For example, as shown in FIG. 27, a magnet 676 coupled to a sled assembly 288 may be detected. This can be easily achieved by using a sensor configured as follows. The lead assembly 288 or the receiver 166 may be coupled to any suitable structure. FIG. 27 shows a magnet 676 positioned laterally off-center; Such an arrangement allows interaction with a data reader that detects a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag 606, which will be described later. This is particularly desirable to avoid interference. Manifold 1 is defined as moving to a closed operating position and / or returning to a closed operating position. If the item does not have the necessary structure (e.g., catch 254) to allow In this case, the sensor may not send the proper signal to the controller 122, 122 may not allow the medical waste collection system 100 to operate.

[0140] In certain embodiments, the sensor detects the presence or absence of the manifold 124 in the receptacle 116. The controller 122 is configured to send an appropriate signal based on the received signal. 22 configured to generate and transmit an offload signal to the docking controller 105 The docking controller 105 is notified by the offload signal that the docking station The off-load pump 103 of the pump 101 is operated to remove the docking fluid from the waste containers 106 and 108. In other words, the waste can be sucked up to the docking station 101. The off-load pump 103 of the waste station 101 is a receiving pump for the medical waste collection system 100. Control based on the presence or absence of manifold 124 in outlet 116 For example, the manifold 124 is fully inserted into the receiving portion 116 until it reaches the operating position. If so, the controller 122 sends an offload signal to the docking controller 105 and prevents the operation of the off-load pump 103. If no hold 124 is detected, the controller 122 detects the offload signal as docking. The signal is transmitted to the offload pump controller 105 to allow the offload pump 103 to operate. , emptying and / or cleaning the waste containers 106, 108 of the medical waste collection system 100. To clean the docking station 101, remove the It is necessary to remove the manifold 124. Operation of the docking station 101 The manifold 124 must be present in the receptacle 116 before operation is permitted. The reverse configuration is also contemplated.

[0141] In certain embodiments, the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag 606 is attached to the manifold 12 4 and by a sensor (e.g., a data reader) of the medical waste collection system 100. 3, the RFID tag 606 can be positioned to be detected. , can be disposed on the top wall 260 of the trunk 134. More specifically, the RFID tag 6 06 is positioned at least partially on the upper wall 260 that defines the body portion 210. and / or the RFID tag 606 may be attached to the top wall 260 that defines the second leg 246. As mentioned above, the upper wall 260 can be positioned at least partially above the When the fold 124 is oriented for insertion into the receptacle 116, it is generally horizontal. Furthermore, although the shape of the arrows in Figures 8, 10 and 11 is slightly arcuate, The top wall 260 is shown as being generally flat. The reliability of RFID tag detection is typically It can be improved when the FID tag is placed on a substantially flat surface. It will be appreciated that the substantially flat profile of the top wall 260 minimizes the need for the orientation feature 265. In addition to at least partially defining the surface area, sufficient surface area for attachment of the RFID tag 606 and improve detection by the data reader of the medical waste collection system 100. do.

[0142] The RFID tag 606 indicates that the manifold 124 is When in the operating position, it can be configured to be detected by a data reader. Additionally, the RFID tag 606 indicates that the manifold 124 is positioned at the fourth or complete position in the receptacle 116. The device may be configured to be detected by a data reader when in the fully inserted operating position. For example, a specially adjusted intensity interrogation radio signal from the data reader can be used. With respect to the wave, the manifold 124 is in the fourth or fully inserted position within the receptacle 116. The data reader is attached to the receiver 1 so that the RFID tag 606 is detectable only when the data reader is attached to the receiver 1 16. For the reasons stated above, it is recommended that the item be placed on the fourth or fully inserted position. If the RFID tag 606 cannot be inserted into the correct operating position, If data communication is not established, the controller 122 may In certain embodiments, the RFID tag 606 may be located in the manifold. for determining whether the medical waste collection system 100 can be used with the The RFID tag 606 may include a memory for storing data. The controller 122 of the medical waste collection system 100 sends data to the data reader. If the authentication is successful, the medical waste collection system 100 Some embodiments utilizing RFID are described in detail in the following references: No. 6,239,799, published Sep. 13, 2007, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. and in commonly owned International Publication No. WO2007 / 1038425. Alternative methods of data capture (AIDC), e.g., barcodes, magnetic stripes, optical Optical character recognition (OCR), smart cards, etc. are also contemplated.

[0143] 74-77, the manifold 124 is connected to the first housing portion 6 08 and a second housing portion 61 detachably coupled to the first housing portion 608. 0. The cartridge seal 61, which will be described later, may be provided. 2, the second housing portion 610 accommodates the replacement cartridge of the manifold 214. The cartridge seal 612 and the replacement cartridge may be Several benefits can be realized, for example, after a surgical procedure to maintain a sterile barrier. Only replacement of the housing portion 608 is required. Additionally or alternatively, A detachable connection between the first housing portion 608 and the second housing portion 610 in the In this case, the first housing portion 608 and / or the second housing portion 610 This can result in easier cleaning and / or sterilization of the components.

[0144] 74 and 75 show a generally L-shaped profile with a first hole defining a cavity 613. 1 shows a first housing portion or base 608. A second housing portion or cartridge 610 is at least partially disposed within cavity 613 and includes base 608 and cart The adjacent surfaces of the ridges 610 are sized and shaped to conform to one another. More particularly, FIG. 74 illustrates complementary components in each of the base 608 and cartridge 610. a top wall 260 and an opposing side wall of the housing 128 formed in part by the surface 260 (one shown). The resulting configuration is similar to the manifold 1 described above. The base 608 and cover 606 cooperate to provide a shape at least similar to the trunk 134 of FIG. As a result, the base 608 and the cartridge 610 At least a portion of the stud 110 is inserted proximally into the opening 118 of the receiving portion 116, The base 608 and cartridge are sized to be removed in a distal direction. The complementary surfaces on each of the annulus 610 form a circular annulus 615. The distal region of the annular portion 615 and the housing 128 may also be partially formed. , a large nozzle similar at least in part to the head 132 of the manifold 124 described above. It is made into a size and shape.

[0145] As best shown in FIG. 75, the base 608 is attached to the rim 27 that defines the outlet opening 242. 6. Furthermore, due to the embodiment of the base 608 shown in FIGS. , base 608 includes body portion 210, first leg 244, second leg 246, and a cavity at least partially defined by the second leg 246 and the first leg 244; 248. Further, the arm 246, the spine 300, the locking feature 3 06 and / or catch 254 may be disposed on base 608. More specifically, Typically, the arms 284 can extend outward from the base 608 or can be attached to the base 60 Arm 284 can extend laterally outward from a portion of side 264 of arm 284. Similarly, the locking element 306 may extend outwardly from the base 608. or may extend laterally outward from a portion of the side 264 of the base 608. The locking element 306 is positioned distal to the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284. The spine 300 may have a distal surface 308. The spine 300 may extend outward from the base 608. More specifically, the spine 300 may extend downwardly from the bottom wall 262 of the base 608. is located proximal to the distal surface 308 of the locking element 306 and proximal to the proximal surface of the arm 284. 286. Optional catch 254 The cap may be disposed on the second leg 246 formed by the base 608. The ridge 254 is proximal to the rim 276 and proximal to the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284. , proximal to the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300 and distal to the distal surface of the locking element 306 308. The catch 254 and the lever 308 have a distal surface 290 positioned proximally. The rims 276 may be spaced apart by the voids 248, and the rims 276 may be spaced apart by the voids 248. When catch 2 is oriented to be inserted into opening 118 of receiving portion 116, catch 2 54. For example, the arm 246, the locking feature 306, and and / or one or more of the catches 254 are disposed on the cartridge 610. Alternative configurations are also contemplated. and to provide a generally L-shaped profile of the base 608 that accommodates the catch 254. 1 shows a connection boundary 617 extending around the housing 128. In another example, 617 indicates that the catch 246 is disposed on the cartridge 610, and the arm 246 and the lock At least one of the housings 128 is divided so that the bracket feature 306 is disposed on the base 608. The surface may also be a substantially horizontal surface (see, for example, FIG. 86).

[0146] 75 and 76, the base 608 is attached to the body 6 of the cartridge 610. 16. Within cavity 613, which defines a socket 617 sized to receive The socket 617 may have an upstanding wall 614. Although the socket 617 is shown as rectangular, Other suitable shapes are also contemplated. Base 608 may be configured to accommodate complementary retention features on cartridge 610. At least one retention feature 618 configured to releasably engage with a FIG. 75 shows two openings through opposite sides of the upstanding wall 614. The retaining feature 618 is shown as an opening for retaining the cartridge 610 in a detent configuration. The device is configured to releasably accept an input from the external device.

[0147] The cartridge 610 may include an inlet fitting 126 that defines an inlet bore 138. The body 616 may define a manifold volume 130 in communication with the inlet bore 138. As mentioned above, the inlet fitting 126 allows the flow of air from the suction tube 120 to the manifold volume 13. 10. The suction tube 120 is configured to be removably coupled to the suction tube 120 to provide a suction path to the suction tube 120. The cartridge 610 also includes a first channel 620 that communicates with the manifold volume 130. As best shown in Figures 76 and 77, the first channel 6 20 may be a tubular structure extending from the body 616. The cartridge 610 includes A first stem 622 may be provided that defines a portion of one channel 620 .

[0148] The base 608 may define a second channel 624 in communication with the outlet opening 242. The second channel 624 extends through at least a portion of the first leg 244. 76 and 77 illustrate a second channel 624 defining a portion of the second channel 624. A second channel 624 is shown, which is a tubular structure that extends distally to a stem 626. The stem 626 has a first leg extending upward from the bottom wall 262 of the manifold 124. 244. The cartridge seal 612 is oriented perpendicular to the first stem 622 or The cartridge seal 612 can be coupled to the second stem 626. rim 626 (and seal 282 is bonded to rim 276), The second channel 624 is closed when the cartridge 610 is not coupled to the base 608. In other words, the cartridge seal 612 can define a fluid volume that is When the cartridge 610 and the base 608 are removably coupled to one another, the first channel The second channel 624 is configured to seal the interface between the first channel 620 and the second channel 624 .

[0149] The cartridge 610 provides fluid communication between the first channel 620 and the second channel 624. The body 616 can be removably coupled to the base 608 to establish communication therebetween. Located within the socket 614, the second stem 626 extends through the cartridge seal 612. As best shown in Figures 76 and 77, the first stem 622 is configured to establish fluid communication between the first channel 620 and the second channel 624. The second stem 626 may be at least partially located within the second stem 626.

[0150] The manifold 124 can be inserted into the receptacle 116 as described above, and the suction tube 120 can be coupled to an inlet fitting 126. Operation of the Medical Waste Collection System 100 In operation, the suction path extends from the suction tube 120 to the inlet bore 138, the manifold volume 130, the first The second channel 624 may extend through the outlet opening 242. 76, a tissue trap 630 is disposed within the manifold volume 130. The tissue trap 630 may be provided in the filter element 174 described above. Similar to the above, tissue trap 630 is configured to capture tissue drawn into the suction path. Following the operation of the medical waste collection system 100, 6, the manifold 124 can be removed and the cartridge 610 can be separated from the base 608. The cartridge 610 can be separated from the lid (not shown) or the cartridge 610 Other means for effecting removal of the tissue trap 630 from the tissue may be provided, and after removal, the tissue The sample can be removed for further processing and testing (e.g., pathology). Thus, manifold 124 can facilitate collection and removal of tissue samples. Additionally, a new cartridge can be provided for subsequent treatments, and the base 608 can be replaced. is not required.

[0151] Whether due to cost, convenience and / or other reasons, users may choose to You may be trying to reprocess a manifold that needs to be decontaminated. The filter element 174 is configured to filter out complex waste contaminated materials during operation of the medical waste collection system 100. It is readily understood that the present invention may include various shapes (e.g., holes 230 and pores 232). Therefore, efforts to reprocess previously used manifolds involve removing filter element 174. Then, clean and replace the filter element 174 or use another unused filter. As a result, removal of the filter element 174 is limited. The presence of at least one of the manifolds 124 of the present disclosure prevents reprocessing. This is an advantageous method.

[0152] 78-82A, the filter element 174 is an aperture, more specifically In practice, a keyway 632 may be provided that is separate from the hole 230 and the slot 232. As best shown in FIG. 1, the keyway 632 is defined in the base wall 194 of the basket 206. The keyways 632 are cross-shaped and are located on opposite sides of the basket 206. 04 and is further offset toward the top wall 200 of the basket 206. Shown as a single aperture, positioned with two or more keyways. It will be appreciated that the keyways may be positioned in any suitable manner. The cross shape is just one example, other shapes such as circle, oval, triangle, square, rectangle are also possible. , star-shaped, etc. are also contemplated. The keyway 632 may be the same or different shape as the aperture. It is further understood that it is possible to

[0153] The manifold 124 includes a protrusion 634 extending from the inner surface 139 of the housing 128. 80, 82 and 82A, the protrusion 634 is 34. In particular, the interior of the second leg 246 defines a manifold volume A cavity 636 may be defined that is in communication with (or forms part of) 130 . In other words, the second leg 246 can be at least partially hollow. 34 may be disposed within cavity 636 of second leg 246 and may be disposed within base wall 281 distally from the distal surface 256 of the trunk 134 within the manifold volume 130 distal to the distal surface 256 of the trunk 134 In certain embodiments, the protrusion 634 can extend to a position 8. With particular reference to FIGS. 82 and 82A, protrusion 634 is formed integrally with strap 632. The tip portion 640 may include a strut portion 638 and a tip portion 640. The end portions 640 may have a cross section that is smaller than the cross section of the strut portions 638. In other words, the transition from strut portion 638 to tip portion 640 includes a step 642. The step 642, among other benefits, allows the filter element 174 to In other words, the step 642 facilitates full installation within the volume 130. When end portion 640 extends through keyway 632 as described below, it contacts the base of basket 206. The recess 194 can act as a stopper that abuts against the recess wall 194 .

[0154] The protrusion 634 , and particularly the tip portion 640 , is configured to extend through the keyway 632 . The engagement of the tip portion 640 and the keyway 632 may be adjusted to accommodate "play" (e.g., due to part tolerances). Reduce unintended proximal, distal, lateral and / or rotational movements from the In addition, the protrusion 634 and the keyway 632 may have their relative shapes, dimensions, and / or positions In view of this, for example, while attempting to reprocess the manifold 124, The filter element can be prevented from being coupled with the trunk 134. For example, a keyway The specific shape of the 632 ensures that only genuine filter elements 174 are compatible otherwise, the protrusion 634 may interfere with the incorrect filter element, which may result in a broken or missing filter element. 128. The invention prevents the device from being completely installed within the trunk 134 of the housing 128, thereby This further prevents the head 132 from being properly coupled to the trunk 134 .

[0155] The protrusion 634 is joined to the filter element 174 such that removal of the filter element 174 from the housing 128 requires excision of the manifold 12 4. In certain embodiments the protrusion 634 is secured to the filter element 174 by an interference fit, such as thermoplastic staking. That is, during assembly of the manifold 124, the filter element 174 is inserted into the trunk 134 such that the tip portion 640 extends through the keyway 632 and then, as shown in FIG. 8 2A, the tip portion 640 is softened and deformed to radially expand through the joining process to form an interference fit between the protrusion 634 and the filter element 174. That is, a head 644 is formed through the joining process, and the head 644 has a radial dimension larger than the radial dimension of the keyway 632. As a result of thermoplastic staking the protrusion​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​may deform parts or remove or irreparably damage them. Examples of mutilation include breaking, fracture, or rupture. This includes plastic deformation through tearing, cutting, etc. For example, sufficient to remove the filter element 174. As a result of applying a mechanical force of a magnitude to the filter element 174, the head 644 is forced against the projection 634 As another example, the filter element 17 may be broken from the strut portion 638. As a result of applying a mechanical force to the filter element 174 that is sufficient to remove the The base wall 194 of the filter element 174 is ruptured to render the filter element 174 unusable. As yet another example, a filter element 174 large enough to remove the filter element 174 may be used. Applying a mechanical force to the filter element 174 may result in the housing 128 becoming unusable. The characteristics of the protrusion 634 allow the second leg 128 to be ruptured. Any structure of the housing 128, e.g. For example, the upper wall 200, the lower wall 202, the opposing sides 204 and the first leg 244 form a filter. It should be understood that the element 174 may be ruptured during removal.

[0157] Referring now to FIG. 83, the filter element 174 is adapted to remove the filter from the housing 128. The housing 12 is secured to the manifold 124 such that removal of the element 174 requires further cutting of the manifold 124. 8. In one embodiment, the filter element 174 is fused to the housing 128, thereby creating a permanent bond. 174 is laser welded to the housing 1 by laser welding at one or more laser interfaces 646. 6 and 7, the filter element 17 is fused to the inner surface 139 of the filter element 17. 4 extend laterally outward from one of the opposing sides 204 of the basket 206 and The guide 216 may be provided in a distally oriented direction. The rails 222 are defined between parallel rails 222 extending laterally inward from the inner surface of the body portion 210 of the rack 134. sized and oriented to be slidably inserted into a complementary slot 220 FIG. 81 shows two guides 21 extending laterally outward from opposite sides 204. 6, and FIG. 80 shows two phases extending laterally inward from opposing inner surfaces of body portion 210. A complementary slot 220 is shown.

[0158] As best seen in FIG. 83, a filter element 174 is disposed within manifold volume 13 0, the guide 216 is fitted to the slot 220 by, for example, laser welding. As a result, the laser weld interface 646 is located on the top surface of the guide 216. On the upper and lower surfaces and adjacent surfaces of the rails 222 that define the slots 220 As noted above, the proximal-distal extension may be achieved by laser welding or other methods. The fusion of the filter element 174 and the housing 128 by the Removal of 174 requires cutting of manifold 124. For example, a filter element As a result of applying a mechanical force to the filter element 174 that is sufficient to remove 174. , the guide 216 of the filter element 174 is broken so as to render the filter element 174 unusable. Alternatively, the filter element 174 may be split into pieces large enough to remove the filter element 174. Applying a mechanical force to the filter element 174 may result in the housing 128 becoming unusable. The body portion 210 of the housing 128 can be ruptured so that the laser welding The fusion of the filter element 174 and the housing 128 may be achieved by using thermoplastic staking or other means. In addition to or instead of joining the filter element 174 and the housing 128 in the manner It is understood that the present disclosure can be used in various ways, particularly when used in combination. The manifold 124 advantageously prevents removal of the filter element 174 from the housing 128. This advantageously prevents effective reprocessing of manifold 124.

[0159] In certain reprocessing methods, the manifold 1 is refilled without removing the filter element 174. 24. The manifold 124 of the present disclosure may be cleaned and / or sterilized. This is achieved by providing a use indicator 666 disposed within the manifold volume 130. This further prevents reprocessing of the manifold 124. During operation of the waste collection system 100, it absorbs medical waste, such as solid or liquid medical waste. Therefore, the manifold 1 can be easily opened without removing the filter element 174. Efforts to effectively reprocess 24 typically involve the use indicator (which absorbs medical waste). It is becoming increasingly difficult to achieve because it is not possible to sterilize or clean the equipment to the required degree. The inclusion of a usage indicator reduces the likelihood of inappropriate reuse. As used herein, the term medical waste refers to a use indicator. 666 and render the patient unsuitable for further clinical use in that patient or another patient. Contaminants refer to any material, for example, bodily fluids such as blood, urine, or fecal fluids or solids. These include excretions, exfoliated cells, lymphatic material, exudates, mucosal secretions, etc., which contain proteins. produced by proteins, metabolic products, bacterial flora, viruses, or normal or pathological processes in the body The composition may contain endogenous compounds.

[0160] The use indicator 666 indicates that solid medical waste has reached the use indicator after the manifold has been used. The indicator 6 may define a serpentine path to be retained within the indicator. 66 is configured to absorb contaminants during clinical use of the manifold. Contaminants are visible against the usage indicator 666. For example, 66 is for light-colored materials, such as white materials, that stain when exposed to blood or other contaminants. The light-colored material may be formed from a material that forms a gel when wetted with liquid waste. Thus, the material can be impregnated with specific, for example colored, particles.

[0161] The use indicator 666 may be formed from a porous material such as a foam insert. The foam insert can have a void content of 30-70% of its total volume. The pores may have a size ranging from 0.001 to 0.030 inches. The indicator 666 can be made from a variety of different materials. The indicator 666 comprises polyethylene, polyurethane, or a combination thereof. The use indicator 666 can be a foam, an open-cell foam, a closed-cell foam, and fibrous materials. The data pad 666 may be hydrophilic so as to readily absorb medical waste that it comes into contact with. The use indicator 666 is selected so that it does not dissolve when exposed to aqueous cleaning solutions. Alternatively, the use indicator 666 may be a screen or porous cube. The structure can be:

[0162] A usage indicator 666, such as a foam insert, is particularly useful when the filter element 174 is first If not removed, the manifold volume may be too large to remove the use indicator 666. 82, 82A, and 83. When illuminated, the use indicator 666 may be disposed within the second leg 246 . The filter element 174 is mounted on a tray 668 sized to support a use indicator 666 . 81 and 83, the filter element 174 may include , comprising the aforementioned basket 206 that defines the filter volume 169. More specifically, The base wall 194 and at least one side 196 extending distally from the base wall 194 form a flat surface. A filter volume 169 can be defined. As best shown in FIGS. 77 and 81, Thus, the tray 668 extends proximally from the basket 206, and specifically from the base wall 194. In other words, the tray 668 can be configured such that the sides 196 extend from the base wall 194. The tray 668 and basket 206 extend from the base wall 194 in the opposite direction. The conductors may be formed integrally or separately.

[0163] Further, the tray 668 extends proximally from the base wall 194. The upper wall 206 of the filter element 174 is disposed within the second leg 246 of the filter element 174. With particular reference to Figures 82 and 82A, tray 66 8 can be disposed within the second leg 246 and over the protrusion 166. The ray 668 can be external to the filter volume 169, thus providing a use indicator. The filter 666 is positioned within the manifold volume 130 but outside the filter volume 169. The shape of the apertures in the housing 128 and the filter element 174 can This allows the establishment of a primary flow path (PFP) and a secondary flow path (SFP). The waste passes through apertures in the filter volume 169 and filter element 174 to the outlet. The secondary flow path includes being directed generally downward toward the opening 242 and the seal 282. The waste material passes through the filter volume 169, the apertures of the filter element 174, and the filter through a gap defined between the upper wall 200 of the element 174 and the use indicator 666 The tray 668 includes a liquid use indicator 666. an aperture (e.g., , pores 232) to allow the use indicator 666 to be saturated with liquid or or encourage contamination of the use indicator with solid medical waste. Due to the nature and positioning of the filter 666, it is possible to remove the filter element 174 from the manifold without removing the filter element 174. Efforts to clean and / or sanitize the hold 124 are hindered. Providing 666 allows the filter element 174 and housing 128 to be separated as described above. This may be particularly advantageous in combination with bonding and / or fusing.

[0164] In addition to discouraging removal of the filter element 174 from the housing 128, By preventing initial access to the fold volume 130 and the filter element 174 , which can further hinder reprocessing efforts. In certain embodiments, head 132 and trunk 134 are fused together. For example, head 132 and trunk 134 can be fused through spin welding at spin weld interface 672 (FIG. 4 and (See Figure 6 and Figure 6.) Other suitable joining processes, such as solvent bonding, adhesives, mechanical fastening, etc., are also contemplated. The spin weld interface 672 is formed between the proximal face of the head 132 and the distal face of the trunk 134. The axial planes can be cooperatively defined by the axial planes.

[0165] Assembly of the manifold 124 involves attaching the use indicator 666 to the tray of the filter element 174. 668 or otherwise provide a use indicator within the manifold volume. The guide 216 may include slidably engaging the slot 220. Thus, the components can be oriented within the trunk 134 of the housing 128 . The rails 222 that define the slots 220 may be formed from a laser-transparent material; The guide 216 of the filter element 174 may be formed from a laser absorbing material. The weld interface 646 is formed by laser welding the guide 216 and the rail 222 together. The step of directing the components into the trunk 134 includes forming a filter element 174. The tip portion 640 of the projection 634 can be further positioned through the keyway 632 . Before, simultaneously with, or after fusing the filter element 174 to the housing 128, The filter element 174 is attached to the housing 128 by thermoplastic staking at the projections 634. After the valve is bonded to the head 132, the head 132 is spin welded. 134 to form a spin weld interface 672. The stop 282 is connected to the rim 276 so as to cover the outlet opening 242 at any suitable time. can be combined.

[0166] In an alternative embodiment, the head 132 and trunk 134 may be, for example, The above-mentioned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 383,218, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As described in No. 2004 / 002214, the head 132 and trunk 13 are detachably coupled to each other. 4 is a detachable connection between the manifold volume 130 in which the filter element 174 is disposed. Among other advantages, the filter element 174 can provide access to Access allows the user to view the waste collected in the filter element 174, among other things. Leaps or tissue samples are removed for further examination and processing during certain surgical procedures The manifold volume 130 of the trunk 134 can be As shown, the distal opening is at least partially defined by the neck 192 of the trunk 134. 190, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. and commonly owned International Publication No. WO2013, published June 20, 2013. No. 3 / 090579 includes a tissue trap for collecting polyps or tissue samples. In a particular embodiment, a manifold is disclosed that includes a head 132. The rod 124 may include additional features to facilitate collection of the tissue sample.

[0167] According to a particular method for reprocessing the manifold 124, the head 132 is connected to the trunk 134. 132 and the trunk 134. Another one is cut off at or adjacent to the spin weld interface 672. The element 174 can be removed from the manifold volume 130 where it is 8, at least one of the filter element 174 and the protrusion 634 is cut away. The filter element 174 can be fused to the housing 128 by laser welding. The element 174 is ablated at or adjacent to the laser weld interface 646. 4 can be joined to the filter element 174 by thermoplastic staking, and the protrusions 63 4 is broken or cut off. The use indicator 666 may be, for example, The filter element 17 can be removed from the tray 668. In addition, the use indicator 666 may be a set of pores larger than the pore size of 4. The ingredients can be selected to be insoluble in common cleaning compositions. Chemical properties are contemplated.

[0168] At least one of the used housing 128 and the used filter element 174 One can clean and / or sterilize. In one example, a cleaned filter The filter element is reinserted into the manifold volume 130. In another example, another filter element A new filter element may be provided and inserted into the manifold volume 130. The filter element can replace the removed usage indicator 666 with another usage indicator. It can be inserted into the manifold volume 130 without replacement. The elements may be fused and / or bonded to the filter element in the housing 128 in the manner described above. The head 132 can be inserted into the manifold volume 130 without any need for a suitable connection. It can be reattached to the trunk 134 through the connecting means and / or another head can be attached. and can be attached to the trunk 134.

[0169] Referring now to FIG. 84, a reprocessing attempt involves removing at least a portion of the manifold 124. This may include decoupling the transformer from the remainder of the manifold 124. The trunk 134 includes a first trunk portion 134a and a second trunk portion 134b (separate portion The first trunk portion 134a and the second trunk portion 134b may be separated into As a result of the splitting into first trunk portion 134a and second trunk portion 134b, The breaks are formed at the end faces 140a and 140b of the respective link portions 134b. proximal so that the data element 174 and / or the use indicator 666 are accessible. - It can be a location along the manifold 124 in the distal direction. Although the entire cross section of 124 can be broken, in certain embodiments, the second leg 246 The separation occurs in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the manifold. FIG. 84 shows the outlet opening 242 and the base wall 194 of the filter element 174. The second leg 246 is shown disconnected at an axial location between the housing 128. The severance may include severing the protrusion 634, generally referenced 674 in FIG. The usage indicator 666 and / or the tray 668 can be separated, Portions of the indicator 666 can be removed.

[0170] The trunk 134 is divided into a first trunk portion 134a and a second trunk portion 134b. When disconnected, the manifold volume 130 is accessible. In the method, at least one of the housing 128 and the filter element 174 is The disconnected portions of the projections 634 can be cleaned by the housing 128 and / or The filter element 174 may or may not be removed before cleaning. The enclosed portion 134b, at least the second leg 246, reseals the manifold volume 130. The severed portion can be reattached to the housing 128 for further storage. It can be reattached through a suitable joining process, for example, adhesive, fasteners, etc. By disrupting the housing 128 in the manner described above, the spin weld interface 672 and / or laser welding the manifold 124 at the laser weld interface 646. It will be appreciated that cutting away the manifold 124 is not necessary. Separating the housing 128 also allows for more effective cleaning. Instead of severing a portion of the manifold, the rework method involves milling a hole in the second leg. Milling and inserting a use indicator through the milled hole and removing the

[0171] The steps for cleaning the used housing and / or filter element include the following steps: The manifold may include at least one or more of the following: One or more components may be soaked in a detergent mixture, ultrasonically cleaned, or rinsed. As mentioned above, the reprocessing method includes one or more of the following: The step of sterilizing the nifold may involve heating. Pasteurization and the use of sterilizing agents, usually ethylene oxide (commonly called EtO) and other gases The chamber method involves filling a chamber with a mixture of conventional chemical methods such as sterilization (e.g., ethanol) and microdosing methods that require the introduction of sterilizing agents such as EtO. These methods may include micro-dose methods.

[0172] As noted above, in certain embodiments, manifold 124 has a manifold volume of 1 In other words, the waste material may not be drawn from the suction tube 120 to the housing 12. 8 to the manifold volume 130 defined by the outlet opening 242. In certain embodiments described below, device 125 may not The receiving portion 116 may include a component for engaging a complementary component therein. If not, a portion of the suction tube 120 extends through the housing 128 of the device 125. When a portion of the suction tube 120 extends through the housing 128, The void space 702 in the housing 128 allows waste to pass through the suction tube 120 to the inlet mechanism 324. When passing through the suction fitting 326, it may not be in fluid communication with the suction tube 120. In this configuration, the housing 128 of the device 125 engages the receiver 116 and 16. Figures 85 to 102 show this configuration. 1 illustrates several embodiments of a manifold configured to achieve the above. It corresponds to similar components of the device 125 described above and has tasks common to the corresponding components. The disclosure of the invention should not be construed as limiting, but may be deemed omitted for the sake of brevity. It is possible.

[0173] Referring to Figures 85 to 87, the housing 128 of the device 125 is a first housing. a housing portion 704 and a second housing portion 706 coupled to the first housing portion 704; The first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706 each include Although these may be considered as lower and upper housing portions, other suitable structures may be used. The first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706 are also contemplated. When the first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706 are coupled together Each cavity can be defined so that a void space 702 is formed. The first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706 are connectable to each other. and at least one tab 708 is adapted to engage with at least one slot 710. However, other suitable fastening means are contemplated. A portion of the pull tube 120 extends through the void space 702 and connects to a tube adapter 714, described below. will be done.

[0174] The first housing portion 704 and / or the second housing portion 706 may include an adapter. A lip 712 may be provided to define the opening. This is best seen in FIGS. As shown, each of the first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706 includes: The first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706 are coupled to each other. When the first half is inserted into the adapter, the first half includes a portion of the lip 712 that collectively defines the adapter opening. Due to the embodiment of the housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706, the first housing The housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706 are connected to the body portion 210 and the first leg. 244, and the second housing portion 706 may include a second leg 246. The cavity 248 is defined by the second leg 246 and the first leg 244. Further, the arm 246, the spine 300, the locking feature 3 06 and / or catch 254 are connected to the first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706. 706. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, In an embodiment, the arm 284 can extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704. or extending laterally outward from a portion of the side 264 of the first housing portion 704. Arm 284 includes a proximal surface 286. Similarly, locking element 30 6 can extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704 or can be attached to the first housing portion 704. The locking portion 704 may extend laterally outward from a portion of the side 264 of the locking portion 704. Element 306 has a distal surface positioned distal to proximal surface 286 of arm 284. The spine 300 extends outward from the first housing portion 704. More specifically, the first housing portion 704 may extend downwardly from the bottom wall 262 thereof. The spine 300 is located at the distal end of the locking element 306. 284. The proximal surface 308 of the arm 284 is positioned proximally of the proximal surface 308 and distally of the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284. The catch 254 has a proximal facing surface 302 that is in contact with the second housing portion 706. The catch 254 can be disposed on the second leg 246 formed by Proximal to lip 712, proximal to proximal surface 286 of arm 284, spine 3 302 of the locking element 306 and proximally of the proximal surface 302 of the locking element 306. The catch 254 and rim 276 include a proximally positioned distally facing surface 290. The lip 712 may be spaced apart by a cavity 248, and the device 125 may be inserted into the receiving portion 1 16. When oriented to be inserted into opening 118 of 16, the catch 254 is positioned below the catch 254. For example, the arms 246 and / or locking features 306 may be positioned One or more of them may be disposed on the second housing portion 706, and / or Alternatively, the catch 254 may be disposed on the first housing portion 704. is also contemplated.

[0175] The tube adapter 714 is best seen in FIG. 87 and includes a body portion 716. 716 may be configured to be removably or fixedly coupled to the housing 128. FIG. 87 shows two apertures 718 extending through the bottom wall 262 and the body portion The portion 716 is adapted to at least partially retain the tube adapter 714 relative to the housing 128. Two complementary protrusions (not shown) configured to be disposed within aperture 718, such as Further, the body portion 716 may be secured to the housing 12 in a friction fit configuration. 8. Other joining means, such as adhesives, fasteners, etc., are also contemplated.

[0176] The tubing adapter 714 includes an inlet port 722 coupled to the body portion 716. Inlet port 722 extends distally from body portion 716 and defines a bore. is disposed within the void space 702 of the housing 128 and prevents fluid from entering between the suction tube 120 and the bore. It is configured to be coupled to the coupler 121 of the suction tube 120 to establish communication. As a result, the suction tube 120 is coupled to the inlet port 722, as best shown in FIG. When the suction tube 120 is in the closed position, a portion of the suction tube 120 extends through the void space 702 of the housing 128. Furthermore, body portion 716 defines a fluid volume 724 and an exit opening of device 125. The outlet opening 242 includes a rim 276 that defines the fluid volume 724 and the inlet The fluid volume 724 is connected to the bore of the inlet port 722 when the suction tube 120 is When coupled to the void space 702, it is separated from (i.e., not in fluid communication with) the void space 702. can be considered as

[0177] Housing 128 further defines a distal aperture 726 in communication with void space 702. FIG. 87 shows a semicircular recess in the first housing portion 704 and a second housing portion 706. The housing portion 706 is partially defined by a second semicircular recess (not shown). The distal aperture 726 is shown. The distal aperture 726 allows the suction tube 120 to pass through the void space 702. The distal end of the device 125 is configured to permit the distal end to extend from the interior to the exterior of the device 125. The positional aperture 726 is large enough to facilitate retention of the suction tube 120 by the housing 128. You can also adjust the size.

[0178] Referring now to FIG. 88, device 125 is in many respects similar to that of FIGS. 1. Similar to the device, the tube adapter 714 is connected to the housing 128 and, more specifically, to the 85-87. 5 attaches the tube adapter 714 to the first housing portion 704 (i.e., the protrusions and ribs 720) as separate components fixedly or removably connected, whereas The manifold of FIG. 88 includes a body portion 71 integrally formed with a first housing portion 704. 6 and inlet port 722. Suitable manufacturing techniques for achieving this include, among others: , injection molding and additive manufacturing This can be done.

[0179] The void space 702 forms part of the suction path during operation of the medical waste collection system 100. Therefore, the form factor of the housing 128 is As mentioned above, any necessary components to accommodate the mating components of the receiver 116 may be included. For example, FIGS. 89 to 93 show a lattice frame 728. In other words, the housing 128 is a unitary structure having: The void space 702 may include a web 730 configured to form a frame. is in communication with the ambient environment outside the housing 128. Techniques can include injection molding and additive manufacturing, among others.

[0180] When the frame 728 is configured as shown, a portion of the suction tube 120 is evacuated. As described above, the frame 728 is configured to extend through the storage space 702. The arm 246, spine 300, and / or catch 254 accommodate the locking feature 306 and / or catch 254. It should also be understood that the housing 128 is sized and shaped to accommodate, for example, As shown in FIG. 89, the annular portion 615 may include a gripping portion 732 extending distally therefrom. The gripping portion 732 facilitates inserting and removing the device 125 from the receptacle 116. The device can be sized and shaped to be easily manipulated by a user to perform the desired function.

[0181] Referring to Figures 90 and 91, the tube adapter 714 is attached to the lip 712 of the housing. The seal 282, which may be fixedly or removably coupled, defines the outlet opening 242. 92 shows the housing 1. 28 shows a pipe adapter 714 integrally formed with a frame 728. The pipe adapter 714 is When the suction tube 120 is coupled to the inlet port 722 of the tube adapter 714, the void space 7 02 and defines a separate fluid volume 724. The suction tube 120 is coupled to the inlet port 722. device 12 before being inserted into void space 702 through distal aperture 726 as shown. 5 into the receptacle 116 or insert the device 125 and suction tube 120 into the receptacle 11 6, the suction tube 120 is inserted into the distal aperture 724 so as to be coupled to the inlet port 722. It can be inserted into the void space 702 through the opening 726.

[0182] In certain embodiments, the first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 7 06 can be movably coupled to each other to provide access to the void space 702. 93-97, the first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706 are The housing portions 706 are pivotally coupled to one another at a hinge 734. For example, the second housing portion 706 may be configured such that the void space 702 is inaccessible. 93 to an open configuration shown in FIG. 94 in which the void space 702 is accessible. The device 125 is configured to pivot about a shaft 734 to move the device 125 .

[0183] The first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706 comprise a body portion 210. The first housing portion 704 may include the first leg 244 and the second leg 246. The cavity 248 can include the second leg 246 and the first leg 248. In such a configuration, the second housing is at least partially defined by 244. The covering portion 706 can be considered a cover with the top wall 260 at a portion of the opposing sides 264. The arms 246, spine 300, locking feature 306 and / or The catch 254 is located between the first housing portion 704 and the second housing portion 706. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, The shaft 284 can extend outward from the first housing portion 704 or can be The housing portion 704 may extend laterally outward from a portion of the side 264 of the housing portion 704 . Arm 284 includes a proximal surface 286. Similarly, locking element 306 is attached to the first housing. The first housing portion 704 may extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704 or may be formed within the first housing portion 704. The locking element 306 may extend laterally outward from a portion of the side 264. The distal surface 308 is positioned distally of the proximal surface 286 of the shaft 284. The spine 300 extends outward from the first housing portion 704, more specifically can extend downwardly from the bottom wall 262 of the first housing portion 704 (FIG. 95 and 86). The spine 300 is located at the distal surface 308 of the locking element 306. a proximal surface positioned proximally and distally of the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284; 302. The catch 254, which may be optional, is attached to the first housing portion 704. 4 is proximal to the rim 276, proximal to the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284, and the spine 3 302 of the locking element 306 and proximally of the proximal surface 302 of the locking element 306. The catch 254 and rim 276 include a proximally positioned distally facing surface 290. The rim 276 may be spaced apart by a cavity 248, and the device 125 may be inserted into the receiving portion 11. 6. When oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the You can decide.

[0184] FIG. 94 shows a distal end of the suction tube 120 such that at least a portion of the suction tube 120 is disposed within the void space 702. 95 and 96 show the suction tube 120 extending through the distal aperture 726. A tube adapter 714 is shown removably coupled to the housing 128. When coupled to the housing 128, the inlet port 722 is disposed within the void space 702. and configured to be fixedly or detachably coupled to the suction tube 120. The seal 282 may be coupled to a tube adapter 714, or alternatively, to a seal as described below. The stop 736 (see FIGS. 98-102) can be coupled to the tube adapter 714.

[0185] 95 and 96, the device 125 is moved between a closed configuration and an open configuration. This advantageously allows the suction tube 120 and tube adapter to be removed between uses of the device 125. The adapter 714 can be easily replaced. extends through the void space 702 to the outlet opening 242 so as not to be in fluid communication with the suction path. When the housing 128 is in use, it may not become significantly contaminated. The ring 128 can be considered an adapter that engages with a complementary component of the receiver 116. The suction tube 120 is disposed in near direct or direct communication with the suction inlet 266 of the receiving portion 116. FIG. 95 shows the suction tube 120 and tube adapter prior to installation or removal from the housing 128. For example, the suction tube 120 and tube adapter 714 may have a body portion 716 128. The housing 128 is disposed in the first leg 244 of the housing 128. The non-circular shape of the outlet opening 242 defined by the rim 276, and the complementary non-circular shape of the body portion 716 of the tube adapter 714 allows for insertion in a single orientation. The tube adapter 714 is configured such that the flange 738 contacts the distal surface 25 of the housing 128. 7. The flange 738 and the distal end 242 are inserted into the first leg 244 until they abut the inner surface of the distal end 242. The interference fit of surface 250 secures the tube adapter 714 (and suction tube) to the housing 128. 120) is prevented from further proximal movement.

[0186] Referring also to FIG. 97, the second housing portion 706 closes about a hinge 734. The housing 128 is pivoted relative to the first housing portion 704 to the manifold configuration. at least one configured to hold the tube adapter 714 when the tube is in a closed configuration; In particular, the retention feature 740 is configured to be attached to the top wall 26 of the housing 128. The second housing 740 may have a protrusion 742 extending downward from the underside of the second housing 740. When device 125 is in the open configuration, protrusion 74 2 and flange 738 to allow for insertion and / or removal of pipe adapter 714. As shown in FIG. 97, when device 125 is in the closed configuration, protrusions 7 42 engages flange 738 on the opposite side of distal face 250 and tube adapter 714 is removed. The tube adapter 714 and the suction tube 120 connected to the tube adapter 714 are The device 125 is configured to accommodate the medical waste collection system 100 within the receptacle 116 for operation. can be inserted into

[0187] Additionally, moving the device 125 from the closed configuration to the open configuration removes the tissue trap 63 97 shows the suction tube 120 and the housing 128. Shown are tissue traps 630 coupled in series and disposed within void space 702. During operation of the collection system 100, tissue samples can be collected in the tissue trap 630. After operation of the medical waste collection system 100, the device 125 is 7, the suction tube 120, including the suction tube adapter 714, can be removed from the receiving portion 116. The second housing portion 706 allows the device 125 to move from a closed configuration to an open configuration. The tube is pivoted relative to the first housing portion 704 about a hinge 734 so as to allow the tube to move. The adapter 714 and suction tube 120 can be removed from the housing 128. In an embodiment, the tissue trap 630 can be removed from the void space 702 and the tissue The sample can be removed from the tissue trap 630 .

[0188] After removing the tube adapter 714, the housing 128 may be cleaned, e.g., autoclaved. The housing 128 is made of a material that can withstand the temperatures typical of an autoclave. For example, the housing 128 may be made of polypropylene, polypropylene, Pyrene copolymer (PPCO), polycarbonate, Teflon (registered trademark) perfluoro Alkoxyalkane (PFA), Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene (FEP) or Ethylene Tetra They can be made from tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), etc. Metals and composites are also being considered. 1. The pivotable first and second housing portions 704, 706 714. The placement and removal of the tube adapter 714 allows for convenient cleaning through known techniques. This results in a relatively simplified configuration that can be conveniently cleaned through known techniques. The housing 128 is formed from an autoclavable material having a shape that allows for the This may be applicable to any of the embodiments of device 125 described herein. It is intended that

[0189] In certain embodiments where the tube adapter 714 includes a seal, the tube adapter 714 and The seal can be removed from the housing 128. Another tube adapter (and seal) and / or a suction tube) can be coupled to the housing 128, and the device 125 can include: The tube adapter 714 and the suction tube 120 coupled to the tube adapter 714 are disposed of as medical waste. can be inserted into the receptacle 116 for repeated operation of the object collection system 100. .

[0190] 98-101, a suction inlet 266 of the inlet mechanism 324 is connected to the suction inlet 266. An embodiment of device 125 is shown in which sealing portion 736 is utilized for this purpose. The housing 128 includes a first housing portion 704 and a second housing portion 706 that collectively define a void space 702. and second housing portion 706, but housing 128 is a single unitary structure. It may also be a component (see Figures 89 to 92).

[0191] The first housing portion 704 and / or the second housing portion 706 may include a body portion 210 and first leg 244, and second housing portion 706 may include a second The cavity 248 can include the second leg 246 and the first leg 246. The spine 3 is at least partially defined by the legs 244. 00, the locking feature 306 and / or the catch 254 may be attached to the first housing portion 70 4 and the second housing portion 706. In the illustrated embodiment, the arm 284 extends from the first housing portion 704. A portion of the side 264 of the first housing portion 704 may extend outwardly. Arm 284 can extend laterally outward from arm 284. Arm 284 has a proximal surface 286. Similarly, the locking element 306 can extend outwardly from the first housing portion 704. or extending laterally outward from a portion of the side 264 of the first housing portion 704. The locking element 306 is located distal to the proximal surface 286 of the arm 284. The spine 300 may have a defined distal surface 308. outwardly from the housing portion 704, and more specifically from the bottom wall 262 of the first housing portion 704. The spine 300 can extend downward from the , proximal to the distal surface 308 of the locking element 306 and proximal to the proximal surface 2 of the arm 284. 86. The catch 254 has a proximal surface 302 positioned distally of the second catch 254. The housing portion 706 may be disposed on the second leg 246 formed by the housing portion 706. The catch 254 is located proximally of the lip 712 and proximally of the arm 284. proximal to the proximal surface 302 of the spine 300 and the locking element 306 The distal surface 290 is positioned proximally relative to the distal surface 308. 4 and rim 276 may be spaced apart by cavity 248, and lip 712 may be When the vise 125 is oriented to be inserted into the opening 118 of the receptacle 116, It can be positioned under the catch 254 .

[0192] The tube adapter 714 is best seen in FIGS. 99, 100 and 102 and comprises a body portion 716 may be configured to be removably or fixedly coupled to the housing 128. FIG. 99 shows a configuration in which the tubing adapter 714 and the housing 128 can be easily detachably coupled. 1 illustrates a device 125 having at least one guide feature 744 configured to The guide features 744 are disposed within the void space and are supported by opposing proximally extending rails 746. 46 (one shown). Rails 746 may be located at the distal aperture 726. a distal end near the first leg 244 and a proximal end in or near the first leg 244 The guide features 744 are detachably mated with complementary features 750 of the tube adapter 714, which will be described later. The locking mechanism may further include a retaining feature 748, such as a protrusion or detent, configured to removably engage the locking mechanism. The tube adapter 714 is disposed within the void space 702 of the housing 128. and coupled to the suction tube 120 to establish fluid communication between the suction tube 120 and the bore. 95. As best shown in FIG. 95, the result is Thus, when the suction tube 120 is coupled to the inlet port 722, a portion of the suction tube 120 , extending through the void space 702 of the housing 128. Further, the body portion 716 includes a suction tube 120 is coupled to the inlet port 722, the void space 702 is separate (i.e., The fluid volume 724 is not in fluid communication with the fluid.

[0193] The housing 128 comprises a first housing portion 704 and a second housing portion 706. The recesses 702 may be collectively defined by the recesses 702. A distal aperture 726 may further be defined. The distal aperture 726 may be configured to allow the suction tube 1 20 extends distally from within the void space 702 to the exterior of the device 125. As best shown in FIG. 101, the distal aperture 726 is configured to The adapter 714 can be sized and shaped to accommodate the suction tube 12 7. Insert the tube adapter 714, to which the tubing is coupled, through the distal aperture 726 into the housing 128. The tube adapter 714 can be oriented within the void space 702 of the housing 128. is inserted into the receiving portion 116 in the manner described above. It can be directed through Cha726.

[0194] A method for coupling a suction tube 120 and a device 125 to a medical waste collection system 100 The housing 128 is inserted into the opening 118 of the receiving portion 116. 14 and suction tube 120 may not yet be coupled to housing 128; When the ring 128 is inserted into the opening 118 of the receiving portion 116, the void space 702 and the suction inlet 266. In other words, the housing 128 is in fluid communication with the receiving portion 116. When inserted into the sled assembly 288, engagement of the arms 284 causes the sled assembly 288 to move proximally. and the inlet mechanism 324, including the suction inlet 266, moves distally in the manner described above. The inlet 266 is located in the cavity 248 between the first leg 244 and the second leg 246. and generally opens into the void space 702 of the housing 128.

[0195] The tube adapter 714 can be directed through the distal aperture 726. The inlet fitting 121 of 120 allows the tube adapter 714 to be directed through the distal aperture 726. The insert (not shown) can be connected to the tube adapter 714 before or after the insert (not shown) is inserted. 7. Using the tubing adapter 714 to move through the void space 702 of the housing 128 A flange 752 extending from the body portion 716 of the pipe adapter 714 As rail 714 moves proximally through void space 702, guide features 744, particularly rail 7 46. ​​The tube adapter 714 is slidably movable along and / or relative to the tube Retention features 750 on adapter 714 engage retention features 748 on housing 128. 100. For example, the detent engages the recess with an interference fit. The axial positioning of the tube adapter 50 is achieved when the complementary retention features 748, 750 engage. 714 is adapted to sealingly engage the suction inlet 266. A fluid communication is established between the receiver 116 of the collection system 100 and the housing 116. Fluid communication between the void space 702 of the medical waste collection system 10 and the void space 702 of the medical waste collection system 10 is eliminated. 0 can be operated in the manner described above.

[0196] In certain embodiments, the above-described configuration does not necessarily mean that the housing 128 is a medical waste collection facility. The duct adapter does not need to be removed between uses of the collection system 100. The nozzle 714 and the suction tube 120 were removed, and the housing 128 was inserted into the receiver 116. While still in place, direct another tube adapter and suction tube through distal aperture 726. Additionally or alternatively, removal of the tube adapter 714 and the housing 128 Possible characteristics can result in easier reprocessing of device 125. More specifically, 98 to 101, the internal shape of the housing 128 is relatively simple, and the cleaning operation is easy. In one method, the housing 128 and the tube adapter 714 is attached to the receiving portion 116 so that the suction between the sealing portion and the suction attachment portion 326 of the receiving portion 116 is broken. The tube adapter 714 can be removed from the opening 118 in the housing 12. 8, and the housing 128 can be cleaned. The ring 128 can be autoclaved by known techniques. The second tube adapter and second seal are then mated to the cleaned housing 128. The housing 128 can accommodate the second sealing portion of the second pipe adapter and the receiving portion 116. suction fitting 326. do.

[0197] The tube adapter 714 is attached to the housing 128 after the housing 128 is operatively coupled with the receptacle 116. In an embodiment where the body portion 714 of the tube adapter 714 is oriented through the casing 128 16 is specifically adapted to engage with the suction fitting 326 of the inlet mechanism 324. The sealing portion 736 may be integrally formed with the body portion 716. Alternatively, the sealing portion 736 and the body portion 716 can be separate components. It should be understood that, referring now to FIG. 102, a rear perspective view of the tube adapter 714 is shown. The seal 736 is shown spaced from the inlet feature 324 to show more detail. The flange 752 has an inner flange 756 and an outer flange 758 spaced apart to define a gap 760. For example, a sealing portion 736 as shown in FIGS. 98 to 100 can be used. In the particular embodiment of the housing 128 used, the housing 128 has an exit opening 2 42, the inner flange 756 of the sealing portion 736 may not define the The gap 760 defines the outlet opening 242. The gap 760 is complementary to the suction fitting 326 of the inlet feature 324. In particular, the inner flange 756 and the outer flange 758 can be formed in various shapes. Each has a non-circular axial cross section that is complementary to the non-circular axial cross section of the suction fitting 326. The outer flange 758 may be slightly larger than the suction mount 326. The inner flange 756 can be sized to allow the sealing portion 736 to engage the suction fitting 326. When mated, the distal rim of the suction fitting 326 is positioned within the gap 760 in sealing engagement, It may be sized slightly smaller than the suction fitting 326 to provide a seal. The sealing portion 736 is adapted to elastically deform and / or compress against the suction fitting 326. The sealing surface provided by the sealing portion 736 may be non-planar. Additionally, the seal 736 may engage the inner surface of the suction mount 326 to provide an internal seal. The inner flange may include a rib 762 configured to sag. 756 and may extend radially outwardly from the

[0198] In operation, the seal 736 axially approaches the suction mount 326 and applies suction in the manner described above. 326 to provide a face seal and an internal seal. The attachment portion 326 extends through the sealing portion 282 and the sealing surface 346 contacts the sealing surface 346 of the inlet feature 324. This is in contrast to seal 282 (see FIG. 62) which provides a face seal with 22. As a result, The sealing portion 736 does not need to be sized to contact the sealing surface 322 of the inlet feature 324. Therefore, the first leg 244 of the housing 128 may be sized differently than described above. If there is no first leg 244, For example, void 248 may be eliminated. can be utilized with any embodiment of the housing 128 of the device 125 It will also be understood that

[0199] Specific embodiments can be described with reference to the following exemplary clauses: .

[0200] Clause 1 - Medical waste received under the influence of a vacuum provided by the medical waste collection system A manifold for filtering materials, the medical waste collection system comprising: a manifold; The hold is configured to be inserted in a proximal direction and removed in a distal direction opposite the proximal direction. The manifold includes a manifold volume and a receiver defining an opening for receiving the manifold. a housing defining an outlet opening in fluid communication with the volume, the housing defining the outlet opening; a housing having a rim for supporting the filter element; a filter element disposed within the manifold volume; an arm extending outwardly from the housing and having a proximal surface; a locking element having a distal surface positioned distally of the proximal surface of the arm; a locking element; and a spine extending outwardly from the housing, the spine extending outwardly from the distal surface of the locking element. a proximal surface positioned proximally relative to the proximal surface of the arm and distal to the proximal surface of the arm; a catch having a distal surface positioned proximally relative to the proximal surface of the arm; wherein the rim and catch are spaced apart by a cavity, and the rim is adapted to be attached to a manifold receiving portion. is positioned under the catch when oriented to be inserted into the opening in and a catch.

[0201] Section 2 - The proximal surface of the arm is positioned distal to the limb and the distal surface of the catch 10. The manifold of claim 1, wherein the manifold is positioned proximally relative to the rim.

[0202] Section 3—The housing includes a body portion having a distal surface and a first proximal end extending from the distal surface. a leg and a second leg extending proximally from the distal face, the second leg being 3. The manifold of clause 1 or 2, wherein the first leg is spaced apart by a location.

[0203] Section 4 - The first and second legs each have a cross-sectional area less than the cross-sectional area of ​​the main body portion. 4. The manifold of claim 3.

[0204] Section 5 - The housing has an upper wall, a lower wall, and a manifold inserted into the opening of the receiving portion. and opposing sides extending between the upper and lower walls when the spine is oriented as described above. 5. The manifold of any one of clauses 1-4, wherein the lower wall extends downwardly.

[0205] Section 6 - Arm and locking element each extend laterally from one of the opposing sides , the manifold described in clause 5.

[0206] Section 7 - The proximal surface of the spine tapers proximally towards the housing. The manifold according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, comprising an inclined surface.

[0207] Section 8 - Arms includes a pair of arms each extending laterally from each of the opposing sides. The lateral surfaces of the pair of arms cooperate to define a width greater than the width of the rim. 8. A manifold according to any one of claims 7 to 7.

[0208] Section 9 - The second leg includes a cavity defining a portion of the manifold volume, 9. The method of claim 3, wherein the valve is in fluid communication with the outlet opening. Manifold.

[0209] Section 10—An arm extends outward from one of the body portion and the first leg and is The element extends outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg, and the spine is attached to the body portion. and a catch disposed on the second leg. The manifold according to any one of paragraphs 3 to 9,

[0210] Section 11 - The rim has a width greater than its height so as to define the outlet opening as non-circular. The manifold according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 10.

[0211] Node 12 - further comprising a seal coupled to the rim, the seal adapted to cover the non-circular outlet opening. 12. The manifold of clause 11, further comprising a seal shaped as follows:

[0212] Clause 13 - Non-circular outlet openings shall have opposite outermost, uppermost, and The arm is positioned further from the vertical plane of symmetry than one of the opposing outermost points of the outlet opening. 12. The manifold of clause 11, comprising a lateral surface positioned spaced apart from the

[0213] Clause 14 - Medical waste received under the influence of a vacuum provided by the medical waste collection system A manifold for filtering waste, the medical waste collection system comprising: The device is configured to be inserted proximally and removed distally. The manifold includes a manifold volume and a receiver defining an opening through which the manifold is inserted. a housing defining a cavity volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication therewith, the housing extending to a distal surface; a body portion; a first leg extending proximally from a distal surface; and a second leg extending proximally from the body portion to define a cavity. a housing having a first leg and a second leg spaced from the first leg; a filter element attached to the body portion; and an arm extending outwardly from one of the body portion and the first leg. an arm having a proximal surface; and one of the body portion and the first leg. an outwardly extending locking element positioned distally of the proximal face of the arm; a locking element having a proximal surface disposed on the second leg and proximal to the arm; a catch having a distal surface positioned at the body portion, a first leg and a second leg; a spine extending outward from one of the legs, the spine being located at a position closer to the distal surface of the catch than the distal surface of the catch; a spine having a proximal end positioned distally and distally of the proximal surface of the arm; A manifold comprising:

[0214] Clause 15 - The manifold of clause 14, wherein the second leg extends proximally from the distal surface. .

[0215] Node 16 - the first leg has a rim defining an outlet opening, the proximal surface of the arm has The distal surface of the catch is positioned more distal than the rim, and the distal surface of the catch is positioned more proximal than the rim. 16. The manifold of claim 14 or 15.

[0216] Clause 17 - When the manifold is oriented to be inserted into the opening of the receptacle, One leg is positioned below the second leg, as described in any one of clauses 14-16. The manifold is mounted.

[0217] Node 18—The spine further comprises an inclined surface, at least a portion of the inclined surface being at the proximal end of the spine. 18. The manifold of any one of clauses 14-17, defining

[0218] Section 19 - The first and second legs each have a cross-sectional area less than the cross-sectional area of ​​the main body. 19. The manifold of any one of clauses 14 to 18, comprising:

[0219] Section 20 - The rim has a width greater than its height so as to define the outlet opening as non-circular. 20. The manifold of any one of clauses 14 to 19.

[0220] Section 21 - arms are laterally attached to either opposite side of the body portion and the first leg Each arm includes a pair of extending arms, the lateral surfaces of the pair of arms cooperating to form a width greater than the width of the rim. 21. The manifold of claim 20, further comprising a larger width.

[0221] Clause 22 - Medical waste received under the influence of a vacuum provided by the medical waste collection system A manifold for filtering waste, the medical waste collection system comprising: The device is configured to be inserted proximally and removed distally. The manifold includes a manifold volume and a receiver defining an opening through which the manifold is inserted. a housing defining an outlet opening in fluid communication with the reservoir volume, the housing comprising an upper wall, a lower wall, and a mask; between the upper and lower walls when the nifold is oriented to be inserted into the opening of the receiving portion. a housing having opposing extending sides, the housing further comprising a rim defining the outlet opening; a filter element disposed within the manifold volume; and a filter element extending laterally from one of the opposing sides. an arm extending outwardly toward the base and having a proximal surface; and a proximal surface positioned proximally of the arm. a catch having a distally facing surface that is separate from the manifold volume and has an outlet opening; The rim is disposed on a first side of the cavity separate from the mouth, and the rim is disposed on a second side of the cavity opposite the first side. a catch disposed in the lower wall; and a spine extending downward from the lower wall, the spine being located distal to the catch. a spine having an inclined surface positioned distally from the facing surface.

[0222] Node 23 - limb distal to the distal surface of the catch and proximal to the proximal surface of the arm 23. The manifold of clause 22, wherein the manifold is positioned at and proximal to the inclined surface of the spine.

[0223] Section 24 - further comprising a locking element extending laterally outward from one of the opposing sides; The locking element is distal to the proximal surface of the arm and distal to the distal surface of the catch. 24. The method of claim 22 or 23, further comprising: Manifold.

[0224] Section 25 - Arm includes a pair of arms each extending laterally from opposite sides, The lateral surfaces of the arms cooperate to define a width greater than the width of the rim. The manifold according to any one of the preceding items.

[0225] Node 26—The housing has a first leg and a spaced apart portion from the first leg to define a cavity. and a second leg attached to at least a portion of the lower wall, the first leg being opposed to at least a portion of the lower wall. the second leg has at least a portion of the side wall facing the upper wall; 26. The manifold of any one of paragraphs 22-25, comprising at least a portion of a side portion. Rudo.

[0226] Node 27—the rim has a width greater than its height so as to define a non-circular outlet opening; The manifold further includes a seal coupled to the rim. The manifold described herein.

[0227] Clause 28 - Medical waste received under the influence of a vacuum provided by a medical waste collection system A manifold for filtering waste, the medical waste collection system comprising: The device is configured to be inserted proximally and removed distally. The manifold includes a manifold volume and a receiver defining an opening through which the manifold is inserted. a housing defining an outlet opening in fluid communication with the reservoir volume, a housing having a rim for fixing the filter element thereto; a filter element disposed within the manifold volume; an arm extending outwardly from the housing and having a proximal surface positioned distally of the rim; a locking element extending outwardly from the housing, distal to the proximal surface of the arm; and a locking element having a distal surface positioned distally of the rim; a cap having a distal surface positioned proximal to the distal surface and proximal to the rim; the rim and catch are spaced apart by a cavity on the exterior of the housing and a manifold.

[0228] Section 29 - Extends outward from the housing, distal to the rim and distal to the proximal surface of the arm and a ramp positioned proximally relative to the proximally facing surface of the locking element. 29. The manifold of clause 28, further comprising a spine.

[0229] Section 30 - The housing includes a body portion having a distal surface and a first proximal end extending from the distal surface. and a second leg extending proximally from the distal face, the second leg comprising: Extending proximally from the distal surface and spaced from the first leg by a void, the second leg is a segment 28 or 10. The manifold according to claim 9.

[0230] Section 31 - Manifolds for medical waste collection systems, The system is oriented so that the manifold is inserted proximally and removed distally. the manifold includes a manifold volume and a receiving portion defining an opening configured as follows: a housing defining an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the outlet a housing having a rim defining an opening; an arm extending outwardly from the housing; a catch having a distal surface positioned proximally of the arm and the rim, The manifold and catch are spaced apart by a cavity, and the rim is adapted to allow the manifold to be inserted into the opening in the receiver. When the catch is oriented to be inserted, the catch is positioned above or below the catch. A manifold comprising:

[0231] Section 32 - Manifolds for medical waste collection systems, The system is oriented so that the manifold is inserted proximally and removed distally. the manifold includes a manifold volume and a receiving portion defining an opening configured as follows: a housing defining an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the outlet a housing having a rim defining an opening; an arm extending outwardly from the housing; a locking element extending outward from the housing; a spine extending outward from the housing; proximal to the rim, proximal to the rim, proximal to the locking element, and proximal to the spine. A manifold comprising:

[0232] Section 33 - Manifolds for medical waste collection systems, The system is oriented so that the manifold is inserted proximally and removed distally. the manifold includes a manifold volume and a receiving portion defining an opening configured as follows: a housing defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication therewith, the housing having a non-circular shape; a housing having a rim having a width greater than a height so as to define an outlet opening; A catch having a distal surface positioned proximally of the rim, the rim and the catch The rim is configured to accommodate insertion of the manifold into the opening of the receiver. and a catch positioned below the catch when the manifold is oriented as shown. hold.

[0233] Section 34 - Manifolds for medical waste collection systems, The system is oriented so that the manifold is inserted proximally and removed distally. the manifold includes a manifold volume and a receiving portion defining an opening configured as follows: a housing defining an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising: a top wall; a lower wall and an upper wall when the manifold is oriented for insertion into the opening of the receptacle a housing having opposing sides extending between the bottom wall and the bottom wall; an arm extending outwardly from each of the arms, each arm having a proximal facing surface; a spine extending outwardly from the housing and positioned distal to the proximal faces of the arms; and a spine having a proximal surface that is curved in a proximal-distal direction. and the spines are positioned angularly equidistant between the arms.

[0234] Section 35 - Manifolds for medical waste collection systems, The system is oriented so that the manifold is inserted proximally and removed distally. the manifold includes a manifold volume and a receiving portion defining an opening configured as follows: a housing defining an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising: a body portion; a first leg extending proximally from the body portion; and a second leg extending proximally from the body portion to define a cavity. a housing having a body portion and a second leg spaced from the body portion; an abutment extending outward from one of the abutments a first distance relative to a vertical plane of symmetry oriented in a proximal-distal direction; a second leg, the second leg having an arm with a proximal surface; a catch having a distal surface positioned proximally relative to a vertical symmetric surface; a catch at a second distance from the manifold, the second distance being less than the first distance. World.

[0235] Section 36 - Manifolds for medical waste collection systems, The system is oriented so that the manifold is inserted proximally and removed distally. the manifold includes a manifold volume and a receiving portion defining an opening configured as follows: a housing defining an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the housing comprising: a body portion; a first leg extending proximally from the body portion; and a second leg extending proximally from the body portion to define a cavity. a second leg spaced apart from the manifold inlet profile; The first profile is defined in a vertical plane perpendicular to the proximal-distal direction. and the inlet profile is defined at least in part by a cross section of the second leg. a housing having a shape complementary to the opening of the receiving portion; an arm extending laterally outward to a position beyond the inlet pump; and a catch including a recess in the profile.

[0236] Section 37 - Manifolds for medical waste collection systems, The system includes a receiver defining an opening configured to receive the manifold. The manifold defines a manifold volume and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume. a housing defining a body portion and a first leg extending proximally from the body portion; and a second leg spaced from the first leg to define a cavity. and a receiving portion extending outward from the housing and configured to receive the manifold when the manifold is inserted into the opening. an arm configured to engage with a push feature of the upper wall of the housing; A transition surface, which is a change in contour between one of the sides and at least a portion of the opposing side. an undercut surface defining a portion of the orientation determining feature; ...

Claims

1. A medical waste collection system for collecting medical waste through a manifold during a medical procedure. It is a waste container; a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum to the waste container; a receptacle coupled to the waste container; Equipped with The receiving portion is an opening configured to receive the manifold; and a receiving portion outlet. a housing comprising: a suction inlet coupled to the housing for proximal and distal movement; an inlet mechanism including an inlet and a suction outlet in fluid communication with the inlet; a sled movably coupled to the housing and operatively coupled to the entrance mechanism 10. An assembly, comprising: a manifold; and the inlet mechanism correspondingly moves in the distal direction to connect the suction outlet and the front a thread assembly configured to establish fluid communication between the outlet of the receiver and the thread assembly; El Medical waste collection system.

2. The thread assembly is adapted to remove the proximal end during removal of the manifold from the receiver. the inlet mechanism moves in the opposite distal direction to the inlet mechanism, and the inlet mechanism moves in the proximal direction to open the inlet mechanism. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method is configured to interrupt fluid communication between the outlet and the receiver outlet. Medical waste collection system.

3. operatively coupling said sled assembly and said portal mechanism; a transmission gear for moving each of the sled assembly and the entrance mechanism in a direction The medical waste collection system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising:

4. the receiving portion further comprises a pawl coupled to the sled assembly; The pawls selectively engage the manifold to remove the manifold from the receiving portion. a distal end configured to move the sled assembly in the distal direction during removal of the sled assembly. Item 3. A medical waste collection system according to item 2.

5. the receiving portion is coupled to a thread lock assembly having a latch; a biasing element configured to bias the latch into a locked configuration, In a configuration, the latch prevents movement of the sled assembly in the proximal direction.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the sled assembly is selectively engaged to lock the sled assembly. Item 1. A medical waste collection system according to item 1.

6. a controller in communication with the vacuum source; The receiving portion communicates with the controller and controls the threads in the proximal and distal directions. a sensor configured to output a signal indicative of the position of the head assembly; The controller is configured to control the vacuum source based on a signal from the sensor.

6. The medical waste collection system according to claim 1, wherein the medical waste collection system is configured to:

7. a sensor disposed on the sled assembly and configured to be detected by the sensor; 7. The medical waste collection system of claim 6, further comprising a magnet.

8. The signal is transmitted when the manifold is inserted into the receiving portion to an operating position where the manifold is fully inserted into the receiving portion. Indicates whether The controller may be configured to position the manifold in the fully inserted operating position within the receiving portion. When the needle is not inserted to the position, the operation of the vacuum source is controlled based on the signal from the sensor. The medical waste collection system of claim 6 configured to prevent.

9. The receiving portion includes a first barrier pivotally coupled to the housing; and selectively moving the first barrier to at least a portion of the opening of the receiving portion. and a first biasing element configured to bias toward the covering closed position.

9. A medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The receiver is pivotally coupled to the sled assembly and is positioned further from the first barrier. a proximally positioned second barrier and a second barrier coupled to the second barrier and configured to close the second barrier; and a second biasing element configured to bias the device toward the position. Medical waste collection system.

11. Movement of the portal mechanism in the distal direction moves the second barrier from the closed position to an open position. In the open position, the suction inlet of the inlet mechanism is 11. The medical waste collection system of claim 10, wherein the medical waste collection system is exposed to a manifold.

12. The receiving portion further includes a locking assembly, the locking assembly having an engagement surface. a locking member for locking the lock assembly; a release member coupled to the locking member; and a biasing element biasing the engagement surface to a locking configuration, wherein in the locking configuration, the engagement surface is completely In an inserted operating position, the manifold engages the manifold and the switch. The medical device of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the medical device prevents distal movement of the sled assembly. Waste collection system.

13. The lock assembly is coupled to the release member, and the lock assembly is configured to receive input from a user to move from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration. and an actuator, wherein in the unlocked configuration, the engagement surface is to permit the movement of the manifold and the sled assembly in 13. The medical waste product of claim 1, wherein the medical waste product disengages from the manifold. Collection system.

14. The inlet mechanism is spaced from the suction mount and the manifold is fitted within the receiver.

10. The method of claim 1 further comprising: inserting a first support element to a desired insertion depth.

14. A medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. The inlet mechanism is spaced from the suction mount and positioned opposite the first support element.

15. The medical waste collection system of claim 14, further comprising a second support element.

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