Gas supply tubes and medical devices for medical equipment

Abstract

To improve sealing performance. [Solution] The gas supply tube 1 for medical devices comprises a cylindrical tube body portion 12, a tube 10 including a spiral portion 14 provided on the outer circumferential surface 12a of the tube body portion and extending in a spiral manner, a connector 100 having a cylindrical portion 138 inserted into the end of the tube body portion, a guide portion 140a protruding radially from the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion and extending along the spiral portion, and a covering member 170 that covers the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion and the connecting portion of the tube, including at least the end portion 12c of the tube body portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a gas supply tube for medical devices and medical devices.

Background Art

[0002] Medical devices for supplying gas to a human body, such as ventilators, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy devices, or bilevel positive airway pressure (BIPAP) therapy devices, are known. In such medical devices, the device body and the mask are connected by a gas supply tube. The gas supply tube includes a tube and connectors provided at both ends of the tube. The connectors provided at both ends of the tube are connected to the device body and the mask, respectively.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the above gas supply tube, improvement of the sealing performance between the tube and the connector is desired.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a gas supply tube for medical devices and a medical device capable of improving the sealing performance.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, according to the present disclosure, a cylindrical tube body portion, and a tube provided on an outer peripheral surface of the tube body portion and including a spiral portion extending spirally, A connector having a cylindrical portion that is inserted into the end of the tube body, A guide portion that protrudes radially from the outer surface of the cylindrical portion and extends along the helical portion, A covering member that covers the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion and the connecting portion of the tube, including at least the end portion of the tube body, A gas supply tube for medical devices is provided, equipped with the following features. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, it is possible to improve sealing performance. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the gas supply pipe from the equipment side. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the gas supply tube from the mask side. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the equipment-side tubing related to the gas supply pipe. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the mask-side tube related to the gas supply pipe. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the terminal block and connector body, seen from the front end. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the terminal block and connector body, viewed from the base end. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a top view of the terminal block and connector body. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a magnified view of the connector body as seen from the tip side. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a magnified view of the connector body as seen from the base end. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the assembled connector body and tube, seen from the tip side. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the assembled connector body and tube, seen from the base end. [Figure 12]Figure 12 is a top view of the assembled state of the connector body and the tube. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the covering member. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a top view of the device-side connector with the cover removed. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the device-side connector with the cover removed. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is an enlarged view of the second seal portion. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a diagram for explaining the connection state between the medical device body and the device-side connector. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a partially enlarged view of the medical device body. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view showing the connection state between the medical device body and the device-side connector. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a diagram for explaining the second seal portion of the modified example. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is an exploded perspective view of the mask-side connector. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a perspective view of the connector body of the mask-side connector. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the mask-side connector.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The specific dimensions, materials, numerical values, etc. shown in such embodiments are merely examples for facilitating understanding of the invention, and do not limit the present disclosure unless otherwise specified. In this specification and the drawings, elements having substantially the same functions and configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals to omit redundant descriptions, and elements not directly related to the present disclosure are not shown.

[0010] There are medical devices that supply various gases, including oxygen and air, to the human body, such as ventilators, CPAP therapy devices, or BIPAP therapy devices. In these medical devices, the mask worn on the human body and the main body of the medical device are connected by a gas supply tube. Connectors are provided at both ends of the gas supply tube; one connector is connected to the main body of the medical device, and the other connector is connected to the mask.

[0011] The mask covers at least a portion of the face of a patient receiving medical treatment using a medical device. The mask may be a nasal mask, a nasal-mouth mask, or a full-face mask, for example, as long as it is fitted so as to include at least the respiratory tract of the patient's face. For example, a medical device used in CPAP therapy has a blower for supplying a positive pressure airflow and supplies air of appropriate temperature and humidity to a mask fitted to the patient's respiratory tract via a gas supply tube 1.

[0012] The gas supply tube needs to be replaced periodically or for each patient. Therefore, the gas supply tube is configured to be detachable from the medical device and mask. This document describes an example of a gas supply tube used in a CPAP therapy device, which is a medical device. However, the gas supply tube described herein is also broadly applicable to other medical devices, such as ventilators. Furthermore, the gas supply tube described herein may be used not only for connecting a medical device to a mask, but also for connecting medical devices to each other.

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the gas supply tube 1 on the device side. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the gas supply tube 1 on the mask side. The gas supply tube 1 of this disclosure has one end connected to the medical device body and the other end connected to the mask. Here, the end of the gas supply tube 1 connected to the medical device body is called the device side, and the other end connected to the mask is called the mask side. The gas supply tube 1 comprises a tube 10, a device side connector 100, and a mask side connector 300. One end of the tube 10 is provided with the device side connector 100 shown in Figure 1, and the other end of the tube 10 is provided with the mask side connector 300 shown in Figure 2. The device side connector 100 is connected to the medical device, and the mask side connector 300 is connected to the mask. As a result, gas is supplied from the medical device body to the mask via the gas supply tube 1. The tube 10, device side connector 100, and mask side connector 300 that constitute the gas supply tube 1 will be described below.

[0014] (Configuration of tube 10) Figure 3 is a perspective view of the tube 10 on the equipment side related to the gas supply pipe 1. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the tube 10 on the mask side related to the gas supply pipe 1. Figure 3 shows the equipment-side end of the tube 10 with the equipment-side connector 100 of Figure 1 removed. Figure 4 shows the mask-side end of the tube 10 with the mask-side connector 300 of Figure 2 removed. The tube 10 is a flexible tube that is pliable and expandable. The tube 10 includes a tube body portion 12 and a spiral portion 14. Here, the tube body portion 12 is made of a cylindrical member made of rubber or plastic or other resin. However, the tube body portion 12 only needs to be hollow, and its material and shape are not particularly limited. For example, the tube body portion 12 may have a rectangular cross-section.

[0015] The helical portion 14 is provided on the outer circumferential surface 12a of the tube body portion 12. The helical portion 14 extends spirally from the equipment side to the mask side of the tube body portion 12. Here, a spiral groove 12b extending spirally is formed on the outer circumferential surface 12a of the tube body portion 12. The helical portion 14 is fixed to the spiral groove 12b by adhesive or welding, with a portion of it fitted into the spiral groove 12b. A portion of the helical portion 14 protrudes radially from the tube body portion 12. Note that the spiral groove 12b is not an essential component.

[0016] The spiral section 14 is made of insulating resin, and at least one conductor 16 is housed inside the spiral section 14. In other words, the spiral section 14 also functions as a covering cord that covers the conductor 16. Here, as an example, three conductors 16 are housed inside the spiral section 14 in an insulated state from each other. The spiral section 14 and the conductors 16 are spirally wound around the outer circumferential surface 12a of the tube body 12, extending from the equipment side to the mask side of the tube 10.

[0017] The material of the spiral section 14 may be the same as or different from the material of the tube body section 12. However, it is desirable that the material of the spiral section 14 be such that it can follow the expansion and contraction and bending of the tube body section 12. Furthermore, the number and purpose of the conductors 16 housed in the spiral section 14 can be appropriately designed according to the medical device to which the gas supply pipe 1 is connected. For example, the conductors 16 play a role in transmitting detection signals from a sensor (not shown) provided on either the mask or the medical device to the other of the mask or the medical device. In addition, the conductors 16 may also play a role in heating the gas inside the tube 10 by generating heat through conductivity.

[0018] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the equipment-side end 12c of the tube body 12, which is the end on the equipment side, extends spirally along the spiral portion 14. A device-side extension 14a is provided near the equipment-side end of the spiral portion 14. The device-side extension 14a is a portion that protrudes from the device-side end 12c in the longitudinal and circumferential (spiral) directions of the tube 10. That is, the device-side extension 14a of the spiral portion 14 extends from the equipment-side end 12c of the tube body 12. The device-side extension 14a includes a tip portion 14a1. The tip portion 14a1 is the portion that extends in the longitudinal direction of the tube 10 when the tube 10 is attached to the equipment-side connector 100. The conductor 16 is exposed, protruding from the end face of the tip portion 14a1.

[0019] Similarly, as shown in Figure 4, the mask-side end 12d of the tube body 12, which is the end on the mask side, extends spirally along the spiral portion 14. A mask-side extension 14b is provided near the mask-side end of the spiral portion 14. The mask-side extension 14b is a portion that protrudes from the mask-side end 12d in the longitudinal and circumferential (spiral) directions of the tube 10. In other words, the mask-side extension 14b of the spiral portion 14 extends from the mask-side end 12d of the tube body 12. The conductor 16 is exposed protruding from the end face of the mask-side extension 14b.

[0020] Furthermore, the tube body portion 12 is provided with a contact surface 12e. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the contact surface 12e is provided near the equipment-side end 12c and near the mask-side end 12d of the tube body portion 12. The contact surface 12e is a surface facing the circumferential direction of the tube 10 and is provided between the spiral portions 14 of the tube body portion 12. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the contact surface 12e is provided between the equipment-side extension portion 14a of the spiral portion 14 and the portion of the spiral portion 14 that is separated longitudinally from the equipment-side extension portion 14a. Also, as shown in Figure 4, the contact surface 12e is provided between the mask-side extension portion 14b of the spiral portion 14 and the portion of the spiral portion 14 that is separated longitudinally from the mask-side extension portion 14b.

[0021] (Configuration of the device-side connector 100) Next, the equipment-side connector 100 will be described. As shown in Figure 1, the equipment-side connector 100 consists of four parts: a terminal block 110, a connector body 130, a covering member 170, and a cover 190. In the manufacturing process of the gas supply pipe 1, the terminal block 110 is temporarily fixed to the connector body 130. The tube 10 is also connected to the connector body 130. Then, the covering member 170 is molded by overmolding onto a single component formed by integrating the terminal block 110, the connector body 130, and the tube 10.

[0022] The cover 190 is a separate component that can be attached to and detached from the integrated component which comprises the terminal block 110, the connector body 130, and the covering member 170. The cover 190 is a cylindrical component that, when attached to the integrated component, covers a portion of the connector body 130 and the covering member 170. However, the cover 190 is formed so as to expose the metal terminals 112, described later, provided on the terminal block 110, to the outside.

[0023] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the terminal block 110 and connector body 130 viewed from the tip side. Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the terminal block 110 and connector body 130 viewed from the base end side. Figure 7 is a top view of the terminal block 110 and connector body 130. Figures 5 and 6 show the terminal block 110 detached from the connector body 130. Figure 7 shows the terminal block 110 attached to the connector body 130, with the tube 10 connected to the connector body 130. Here, one end of the connector body 130 that is connected to the medical device body is called the tip side. The other end of the connector body 130 that is connected to the tube 10 is called the base end side.

[0024] The terminal block 110 is equipped with metal terminals 112. When the device-side connector 100 is connected to the medical device body, the metal terminals 112 make contact with terminals (not shown) provided on the medical device body. The conductors 16 housed in the spiral portion 14 of the tube 10 are connected to the metal terminals 112. The conductors 16 are an example of wiring provided within the spiral portion 14. The conductors 16 may be, for example, electric wires for heating the tube 10, or signal lines or power lines connecting the medical device and the mask. In addition, multiple conductors 16 and multiple metal terminals 112 may be provided. For example, in the examples of Figures 3, 5, and 6, since three conductors 16 are provided in the tube 10, three metal terminals 112 are provided in the terminal block 110. One of the three conductors 16 is connected to each of the three metal terminals 112.

[0025] Furthermore, to prevent errors in connecting the multiple conductors 16 to the multiple metal terminals 112, the multiple conductors 16 (three in the illustrated example) may each be colored differently. This reduces the risk of connection errors between the multiple conductors 16 and the multiple metal terminals 112. In this example, a terminal block 110 is provided as a separate component from the connector body 130, but the terminal block 110 is not essential. For example, the metal terminals 112 may be directly attached to the connector body 130.

[0026] The connector body 130 includes a cylindrical body portion 132. The body portion 132 includes a first cylindrical portion 134, a second cylindrical portion 136, and a third cylindrical portion 138. The first cylindrical portion 134 is located at the tip of the body portion 132, and the third cylindrical portion 138 is located at the base of the body portion 132. The second cylindrical portion 136 connects the first cylindrical portion 134 and the third cylindrical portion 138. The first cylindrical portion 134, the second cylindrical portion 136, and the third cylindrical portion 138 are all cylindrical in shape. The diameter of the first cylindrical portion 134 is larger than the diameter of the second cylindrical portion 136. Also, the diameter of the second cylindrical portion 136 is larger than the diameter of the third cylindrical portion 138.

[0027] A flat surface 134b is provided on a part of the outer circumferential surface 134a of the first cylindrical portion 134. The flat surface 134b is formed by cutting out a part of the outer circumferential surface 134a of the first cylindrical portion 134 in a planar shape. The flat surface 134b extends in the axial direction of the connector body 130 from the tip of the first cylindrical portion 134 to the vicinity of the second cylindrical portion 136. Hereafter, the axial direction of the connector body 130 or body portion 132 will be simply referred to as the axial direction. The circumferential direction of the connector body 130 or body portion 132 will be simply referred to as the circumferential direction. The radial direction of the connector body 130 or body portion 132 will be simply referred to as the radial direction.

[0028] A locking rib 134c is provided near the tip of the flat surface 134b. The locking rib 134c rises vertically from the flat surface 134b and then bends in a direction intersecting the axial direction. A groove 114 is formed in the terminal block 110 through which the locking rib 134c is inserted. The locking rib 134c is locked into the groove 114, temporarily fixing the terminal block 110 to the flat surface 134b of the connector body 130.

[0029] A pair of upright walls 136b are provided on the outer circumferential surface 136a of the second cylindrical portion 136. The circumferential position of the upright walls 136b is approximately the same as the circumferential position of the flat surface 134b. In other words, the upright walls 136b are provided on the axial extension of the flat surface 134b. The upright walls 136b rise radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 136a of the second cylindrical portion 136. A accommodating space 136c is formed between the pair of upright walls 136b. The tip 14a1 of the helical portion 14 of the tube 10 (see Figure 3) is accommodated in the accommodating space 136c. Therefore, the separation distance between the pair of upright walls 136b is slightly greater than the width of the tip 14a1 of the helical portion 14. The upright wall portion 136b is provided spanning the first cylindrical portion 134 and the second cylindrical portion 136. However, the upright wall portion 136b and the terminal block 110 are spaced apart in the axial direction.

[0030] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, a guide rib 140 is provided on the outer circumferential surface 138a of the third cylindrical portion 138. The guide rib 140 protrudes radially from the outer circumferential surface 138a of the third cylindrical portion 138 and extends intermittently in a spiral shape. Note that the guide rib 140 may extend continuously rather than intermittently. The guide rib 140 is provided with a guide portion 140a facing the base end side of the connector body 130. As will be described in detail later, the tube 10 and the connector body 130 are connected when the base end side of the connector body 130, i.e., the third cylindrical portion 138, is inserted into the tube body portion 12 from the equipment side end 12c. When the tube 10 and the connector body 130 are connected, the spiral portion 14 comes into contact with the guide portion 140a. In other words, the guide portion 140a extends along the spiral portion 14. The radial height of the guide rib 140 should be such that it contacts the helical portion 14 and guides it. For example, if the radial height of the guide rib 140 is more than half the thickness of the helical portion 14, the helical portion 14 will be easier to guide. On the other hand, if the radial height of the guide rib 140 is less than half the thickness of the helical portion 14, it will be less likely to interfere with other components, and material costs can be reduced.

[0031] Furthermore, the guide rib 140 is provided with a contact surface 140b. The contact surface 140b is located on the guide rib 140 closest to the base end of the connector body 130. The contact surface 140b is also the end surface of the guide rib 140 and faces in the circumferential direction.

[0032] Furthermore, a partition wall portion 142 is provided at the boundary between the second cylindrical portion 136 and the third cylindrical portion 138. The partition wall portion 142 protrudes radially from the outer circumferential surface 138a of the third cylindrical portion 138. The partition wall portion 142 protrudes radially outward beyond the outer circumferential surface 136a of the second cylindrical portion 136. The partition wall portion 142 is provided with a first opposing portion 144 and a second opposing portion 146 that protrude toward the third cylindrical portion 138.

[0033] The first opposing portion 144 is continuous with both the partition wall portion 142 and the outer circumferential surface 138a of the third cylindrical portion 138. Therefore, it can also be said that the first opposing portion 144 protrudes radially from the outer circumferential surface 138a of the third cylindrical portion 138. In this case, the second opposing portion 146 is provided on the partition wall portion 142, but the second opposing portion 146 may be provided, for example, so as to be continuous with the guide rib 140. In any case, the first opposing portion 144 and the second opposing portion 146 only need to be provided on the equipment-side connector 100 (connector body 130).

[0034] The first opposing portion 144 is provided with a first opposing surface 144a. The first opposing surface 144a is the surface of the first opposing portion 144 that faces in the circumferential direction. When the tube 10 is connected to the connector body 130, the first opposing surface 144a faces in the circumferential direction with respect to the equipment-side extension portion 14a (see Figure 3) provided on the helical portion 14.

[0035] The second opposing portion 146 faces the outer circumferential surface 138a of the third cylindrical portion 138, separated radially from it. The second opposing portion 146 is provided with a second opposing surface 146a. The second opposing surface 146a is the surface of the second opposing portion 146 that faces the outer circumferential surface 138a of the third cylindrical portion 138. When the tube 10 is connected to the connector body 130, the second opposing surface 146a faces the radially outer surface of the equipment-side extension portion 14a provided on the helical portion 14.

[0036] Furthermore, a pair of connecting portions 148 are provided on the radially outer surface of the partition wall portion 142. The connecting portions 148 protrude radially outward from the radially outer surface of the partition wall portion 142. Through holes 148a are formed in the connecting portions 148, penetrating in the axial direction. An extension portion 150 is continuous with each of the pair of connecting portions 148. In other words, the connector body 130 comprises a pair of extension portions 150. The pair of extension portions 150 are positioned approximately 180 degrees out of phase with respect to each other in the circumferential direction of the connector body 130. The pair of extension portions 150 are also positioned approximately 90 degrees out of phase with respect to the terminal block 110. The base end of each extension portion 150 is connected to the partition wall portion 142 by the connecting portion 148. As a result, the extension portion 150 is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the main body portion 132 via the connecting portion 148 and the partition wall portion 142.

[0037] The extended portion 150 prevents the device-side connector 100 from detaching from the medical device body and maintains the connection between the two. The extended portion 150 also acts as an operating part that receives operations for attaching and detaching the device-side connector 100 to the medical device body.

[0038] As shown in Figure 7, the extended portion 150 extends axially from the partition wall portion 142 toward the tip. The tip of the extended portion 150 is located near the axial center of the first cylindrical portion 134. Therefore, the extended portion 150 extends axially across the first cylindrical portion 134 and the second cylindrical portion 136. Furthermore, the extended portion 150 is located radially outward from the first cylindrical portion 134. At this time, the extended portion 150 is maintained in a non-contact state with the outer circumferential surface 134a of the first cylindrical portion 134.

[0039] Here, the extended portion 150 is formed such that the distance between the extended portion 150 and the first cylindrical portion 134 increases slightly as it approaches the tip of the extended portion 150. However, the extended portion 150 may extend parallel to the first cylindrical portion 134, or it may be formed such that the distance between the extended portion 150 and the first cylindrical portion 134 decreases as it approaches the tip.

[0040] The extended portion 150 has an opposing surface 150a and an outer surface 150b which is the back surface of the opposing surface 150a. The opposing surface 150a faces the outer circumferential surface of the main body portion 132, i.e., the outer circumferential surface 134a of the first cylindrical portion 134 and the outer circumferential surface 136a of the second cylindrical portion 136, at a distance from it. The extended portion 150 also includes a tip region 152 and a pressed region 154. The tip region 152 is located on the tip side of the extended portion 150, and the pressed region 154 is located on the base end side of the extended portion 150.

[0041] A locking portion 152a is provided on the outer surface 150b of the tip region 152. The locking portion 152a protrudes radially outward from the outer surface 150b. The locking portion 152a has an inclined surface that slopes radially outward as it moves from the tip side towards the base end side. The locking portion 152a is also provided with a locking surface 152b facing the base end side of the connector body 130. Thus, the locking portion 152a may be composed of a locking claw having a V-shaped cross-section.

[0042] The pressed area 154 is the area that is pressed by the user's fingers when attaching or detaching the device-side connector 100 to the device body. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the pressed area 154 has a greater circumferential width (length in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction) than the tip area 152. Also, the pressed area 154 is formed to be thicker in the radial direction than the tip area 152. The pressed area 154 has recessed portions 154a that are recessed from the four sides. Here, the planar shape of the recessed portion 154a is approximately square or rectangular, but the planar shape of the recessed portion 154a may be circular, elliptical, etc., and its shape is not limited. Also, the recessed portion 154a is not essential.

[0043] As shown in Figure 7, the proportion of the extended portion 150 occupied by the pressed region 154 in the axial direction is greater than the proportion occupied by the tip region 152 in the axial direction. Here, the ratio of the axial lengths of the tip region 152 to the pressed region 154 is approximately 1:2 to 2:3. However, the ratio of the axial lengths of the tip region 152 to the pressed region 154 can be designed as appropriate. For example, the pressed region 154 may have the same axial length as the tip region 152, or it may be formed to be shorter in the axial direction than the tip region 152.

[0044] Furthermore, a pair of cover locking pieces 156 are formed on the outer circumferential surface 134a of the first cylindrical portion 134. The cover locking pieces 156 protrude radially from the outer circumferential surface 134a. However, the cover locking pieces 156 are located radially inward from the opposing surface 150a of the extended portion 150. Also, the cover locking pieces 156 are provided on the axial extension line of the extended portion 150. A detailed explanation is omitted, but the cover 190 is locked to the connector body 130 by the cover locking pieces 156.

[0045] Figure 8 is a partially enlarged view of the connector body 130 as seen from the tip side. Figure 9 is a partially enlarged view of the connector body 130 as seen from the base end side. The tip of the first cylindrical portion 134 is provided with an annular outer ring portion 134d and an inner ring portion 134e that extend in an annular shape. The outer diameter of the outer ring portion 134d is larger than the outer circumferential surface 134a of the first cylindrical portion 134. Also, the inner diameter of the outer ring portion 134d is equal to the outer circumferential surface 134a. In other words, the outer ring portion 134d can be said to be raised radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 134a.

[0046] The outer diameter of the inner annular portion 134e is smaller than the outer circumferential surface 134a of the first cylindrical portion 134. On the other hand, the inner diameter of the first cylindrical portion 134 is constant from the tip to the base, and the inner diameter of the inner annular portion 134e is the same as the inner diameter of the other parts of the first cylindrical portion 134. That is, the inner circumferential surface of the inner annular portion 134e and the inner circumferential surface of the first cylindrical portion 134 are flush. A gap 134f is formed between the outer annular portion 134d and the inner annular portion 134e. However, multiple connecting portions 134g are formed between the outer annular portion 134d and the inner annular portion 134e, connecting the outer annular portion 134d and the inner annular portion 134e. The multiple connecting portions 134g are spaced apart in the circumferential direction, and a gap 134f is provided between multiple circumferentially adjacent connecting portions 134g. Thus, the tip of the first cylindrical section 134 has a double-tube structure.

[0047] Furthermore, an inclined hole 134h is formed on the outer circumferential surface 134a of the first cylindrical portion 134. The inclined hole 134h connects the outer circumferential surface 134a side of the outer annular portion 134d with the gap 134f. This inclined hole 134h guides the resin material, i.e., molten resin, that constitutes the covering member 170 from the outer circumferential surface 134a to the gap 134f during the overmolding of the covering member 170.

[0048] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the assembled connector body 130 and tube 10, seen from the tip side. Figure 11 is a perspective view of the assembled connector body 130 and tube 10, seen from the base end side. Figure 12 is a top view of the assembled connector body 130 and tube 10. In the assembled state of the connector body 130 and tube 10, the third cylindrical portion 138 of the connector body 130 is inserted into the tube body portion 12 of the tube 10.

[0049] At this time, the inner diameter of the tube body 12 is equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the third cylindrical portion 138. Therefore, when the third cylindrical portion 138 is inserted into the tube body 12, the inner circumferential surface of the tube body 12 and the outer circumferential surface 138a of the third cylindrical portion 138 are in close contact. By ensuring close contact between the inner circumferential surface of the tube body 12 and the outer circumferential surface 138a of the third cylindrical portion 138, gas leakage from the connection point between the connector body 130 and the tube 10 is suppressed.

[0050] On the other hand, because the inner circumferential surface of the tube body 12 and the outer circumferential surface 138a of the third cylindrical portion 138 are in close contact, when assembling the connector body 130 to the tube 10, it is necessary to push the tube 10 into the third cylindrical portion 138 of the connector body 130 while rotating it around its axis. Specifically, as shown in Figure 11, in the assembly process, the tube 10 is pushed in the X direction while rotating it in the R direction. This causes the third cylindrical portion 138 to gradually enter the tube body 12. Note that in the state of the tube 10 before assembly (see Figure 3), the equipment-side extension 14a of the helical portion 14 is not bent in the axial direction, but extends in the helical direction.

[0051] When the third cylindrical portion 138 is inserted into the tube body portion 12 by a predetermined amount, the helical portion 14 of the tube 10 comes into axial contact with the guide portion 140a of the guide rib 140 provided on the third cylindrical portion 138. Subsequently, as the tube 10 is pushed in further while rotating around its axis, the helical portion 14 slides spirally against the guide portion 140a, causing the tube 10 to advance further in the X direction. The tube 10 is then rotated in the R direction until the contact surface 12e (see Figure 3) of the tube body portion 12 comes into contact with the contact surface 140b (see Figure 6) of the guide rib 140. The contact surface 12e comes into contact with the contact surface 140b, restricting the rotation of the tube 10 in the R direction.

[0052] In this state, the equipment-side extension 14a of the spiral portion 14 crosses over the first opposing surface 144a. Then, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the equipment-side extension 14a is bent axially, and the tip 14a1 of the equipment-side extension 14a is housed in the accommodation space 136c between the pair of upright wall portions 136b. After the assembly process is completed as described above, one end of the conductor 16 protruding from the tip 14a1 is connected to the metal terminal 112.

[0053] In the assembled state of the connector body 130 and tube 10, the contact surface 12e of the tube body portion 12 and the contact surface 140b of the connector body 130 position the tube body portion 12 and the connector body 130 in the circumferential and longitudinal directions. This makes it possible to appropriately control the relative rotational position of the connector body 130 and the tube 10 during assembly. Furthermore, when pushing the tube 10 into the connector body 130, the helical portion 14 is guided by the guide portion 140a of the guide rib 140. This allows the tube 10 to be smoothly pushed into the connector body 130 while rotating, thereby improving the efficiency of the assembly work.

[0054] Furthermore, in the assembled state of the connector body 130 and tube 10, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the hook-shaped second opposing portion 146 is located radially outward of the helical portion 14. In this state, the second opposing surface 146a of the second opposing portion 146 faces the radially outward surface of the helical portion 14. The helical portion 14 and the second opposing surface 146a may face each other at a distance from each other, as shown in Figure 11. Alternatively, the helical portion 14 and the second opposing surface 146a may face each other in contact, as not shown, and the helical portion 14 may be pressed radially inward by the second opposing surface 146a. The second opposing surface 146a allows the helical portion 14 to be stably positioned in the appropriate position in the groove between two adjacent guide ribs 120. Therefore, when molding the covering member 170 around the connection portion of the assembled connector body 130 and tube 10, it is possible to suppress the spiral portion 14 from floating radially outward due to the resin being poured in.

[0055] As described above, a single component comprising the terminal block 110, connector body 130, and tube 10 is mounted in a mold, and a covering member 170 is formed around and inside the component by overmolding.

[0056] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the covering member 170. In Figure 13, the terminal block 110, connector body 130, and cover 190, which are four parts that make up the equipment-side connector 100 (see Figure 1), are omitted, and only the covering member 170 is shown. Figure 14 is a top view of the equipment-side connector 100 with the cover 190 removed. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the equipment-side connector 100 with the cover 190 removed.

[0057] The covering member 170 is formed by the curing of molten resin injected into a mold. Here, the covering member 170 is made of an elastomer resin. In this disclosure, the elastomer resin constituting the covering member 170 is different from the resin constituting the connector body 130. The covering member 170 has lower hardness or a higher modulus of elasticity than the connector body 130.

[0058] As an example, the elastomer resin constituting the coating member 170 is an ester-based elastomer (TPC) (Shore A hardness 67) of thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). However, the type of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is not limited to ester-based (TPC), but may also be olefin-based (TPO), polystyrene-based (TPS), etc. Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on hardness, but in order to ensure a certain degree of elasticity, a material having a hardness equivalent to a Shore A hardness of 30 to 80 is preferred.

[0059] In contrast, the resin that constitutes the connector body 130 is, for example, PP (polypropylene). However, the material of the connector body 130 is not particularly limited and can be a general thermoplastic resin. For example, the connector body 130 can be a general-purpose plastic such as ABS, PC, or PBT, or a general-purpose engineering plastic.

[0060] The covering member 170 includes a sealing portion S to prevent gas leakage. Here, the sealing portion S of the covering member 170 is provided as a first sealing portion S1 and a second sealing portion S2. As described above, the tube 10 is a flexible tube made of a separate component from the main body portion 132 of the connector body 130, with one end attached to the base end side of the main body portion 132. The first sealing portion S1 covers the connection portion between the main body portion 132 of the connector body 130 and the tube 10. The connection portion between the main body portion 132 of the connector body 130 and the tube 10 is sealed by the first sealing portion S1.

[0061] The second sealing portion S2 protrudes from the tip of the main body portion 132 (connector body 130) and contacts the medical device body when the main body portion 132 is connected to the medical device body. The second sealing portion S2 seals the gap formed between the medical device body and the gas supply pipe 1. The first sealing portion S1 and the second sealing portion S2 are provided on a single covering member 170. In other words, the second sealing portion S2 can be said to be molded integrally with the first sealing portion S1.

[0062] As shown in Figure 15, the first sealing portion S1 is provided on the base end side of the covering member 170. The first sealing portion S1 extends from the main body portion 132 of the connector body 130 across the tube 10. Here, the portion of the covering member 170 that is located on the base end side of the partition wall portion 142 of the main body portion 132 is referred to as the first sealing portion S1.

[0063] The first sealing portion S1 of the covering member 170 covers a portion of the tip side of the tube body portion 12, including the equipment-side end 12c, a portion of the tip side of the spiral portion 14, and the third cylindrical portion 138. The first sealing portion S1 of the covering member 170 also covers the contact portion between the equipment-side end 12c of the tube body portion 12 and the guide rib 140, and the contact portion between the spiral portion 14 and the guide rib 140. These contact portions, where gas leakage may occur, are sealed by the first sealing portion S1.

[0064] In this disclosure, the base end of the first seal portion S1 (the right end of the covering member 170 in Figure 15) is positioned to protrude axially (to the right in Figure 15) from the base end of the third cylindrical portion 138. However, the axial length of the first seal portion S1 is not limited to this disclosure. For example, the base end of the first seal portion S1 may be located on the tip side of the base end of the third cylindrical portion 138. In any case, the first seal portion S1 (covering member 170) only needs to be provided in a range that covers the outer circumference of the connection between the third cylindrical portion 138 and the tube 10, including at least the equipment-side end 12c of the tube body portion 12.

[0065] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 13 to 15, the covering member 170 includes a ring portion 172 provided at the tip. The ring portion 172 extends in an annular shape along the outer circumferential surface 134a and the outer annular portion 134d of the first cylindrical portion 134. In addition, a part of the ring portion 172 enters the inclined hole 134h and the gap 134f of the first cylindrical portion 134. In other words, the ring portion 172 of the covering member 170 fills the inclined hole 134h and the gap 134f. Moreover, the ring portion 172 protrudes toward the tip beyond the outer annular portion 134d and the inner annular portion 134e. Here, the portion of the ring portion 172 that protrudes toward the tip beyond the outer annular portion 134d and the inner annular portion 134e is referred to as the second sealing portion S2.

[0066] Figure 16 is an enlarged view of the second seal portion S2. The second seal portion S2 includes a first portion 180 that is positioned to protrude axially from the tip of the main body portion 132 (outer annular portion 134d and inner annular portion 134e). The second seal portion S2 also includes a second portion 182 that is positioned axially further away from the tip of the main body portion 132 than the first portion 180, and offset in a direction intersecting the axial direction with respect to the first portion 180.

[0067] More specifically, the second seal portion S2 is formed in an annular shape and curves from the first portion 180 to the second portion 182. Here, the second portion 182 is located radially outward from the first portion 180. Therefore, the second seal portion S2 has an expanding diameter shape (a so-called trumpet shape) in which the diameter increases as it moves axially away from the tip of the main body portion 132. The second seal portion S2 is made of elastomer resin and is elastic and flexible. The second seal portion S2 bends axially when pressed in the axial direction.

[0068] The shape of the second seal portion S2 in this disclosure is merely an example. For example, the second seal portion S2 may have a shape that tapers in diameter from the first portion 180 to the second portion 182. Alternatively, the second portion 182 may be provided radially inward from the first portion 180. In this case, the second seal portion S2 has a tapered shape in which the diameter decreases as it moves axially away from the tip of the main body portion 132. Alternatively, for example, multiple first portions 180 and second portions 182 may be provided in the axial direction, and the first portions 180 and second portions 182 may be arranged alternately in the axial direction. In this case, the second seal portion S2 has a so-called bellows shape that includes both a tapered portion and a tapered portion. As described above, it is preferable that the shape of the second seal portion S2 be one of various shapes including the first portion 180 and second portion 182, rather than a cylindrical shape. As a result, the second seal portion S2 deforms appropriately with only a small reaction force and adheres tightly to the sealing surface, thus ensuring stable sealing performance.

[0069] As described above, the gas supply pipe 1 has multiple parts that need to be sealed. If a sealing member were to be provided for each part that needs to be sealed, the number of parts would increase, potentially complicating the manufacturing process. According to this disclosure, the first sealing part S1 and the second sealing part S2 are integrally molded as a single covering member 170. This reduces the number of sealing member parts and simplifies the manufacturing process. Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a sealing part S is provided on the gas supply pipe 1, which can be designated as a regularly replaced part among the components of the medical device, to ensure the airtightness of the connections between components. As a result, the airtightness can be restored by replacing the gas supply pipe 1 that has deteriorated over time. Therefore, stability can be ensured even against the risk of fluctuations in airtightness due to the deterioration of the components of the medical device over time.

[0070] As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the covering member 170 is provided with a wiring covering portion 184. The wiring covering portion 184 extends from the first sealing portion S1 toward the tip. The wiring covering portion 184 is positioned opposite the flat surface 134b of the first cylindrical portion 134. The wiring covering portion 184 covers the base end side of the metal terminal 112, that is, the contact point between the metal terminal 112 and the conductor 16, and the equipment-side extension portion 14a of the spiral portion 14. In other words, the covering member 170 covers at least a portion of the wiring (e.g., the conductor 16) located between the tip portion 14a1 of the spiral portion 14 and the metal terminal 112.

[0071] According to this disclosure, the covering member 170 having a first sealing portion S1 includes a wiring covering portion 184. In other words, the wiring covering portion 184 is molded integrally with the first sealing portion S1. This reduces the number of parts and simplifies the manufacturing process compared to a case where separate parts are provided to cover the metal terminal 112, the conductor 16, and the equipment-side extension portion 14a.

[0072] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the covering member 170 includes an elastic portion 186. When the covering member 170 is molded, the molten resin is also filled into the through hole 148a of the connecting portion 148 and the gap between the extended portion 150 and the main body portion 132. As a result, the elastic portion 186 is molded between the extended portion 150 and the main body portion 132. The elastic portion 186 is the part of the covering member 170 located between the extended portion 150 and the main body portion 132, and is continuous with the first seal portion S1 via the through hole 148a. That is, the elastic portion 186 is molded integrally with the first seal portion S1.

[0073] More specifically, the elastic portion 186 is provided between the opposing surface 150a of the extended portion 150 and the outer wall surface (outer peripheral surface 134a, 136a) of the main body portion 132. Furthermore, the elastic portion 186 is provided on the base end side of the axial center position P1 of the extended portion 150. A gap is provided between the opposing surface 150a, which is located on the tip side of the center position P1, and the outer wall surface (outer peripheral surface 134a) of the main body portion 132.

[0074] Furthermore, the elastic portion 186 is provided between the pressed region 154 of the extended portion 150 and the outer wall surface (outer peripheral surface 136a) of the main body portion 132. However, the elastic portion 186 is not provided on a portion of the pressed region 154 on the tip side. In other words, a gap is provided between the tip side of the pressed region 154 and the outer wall surface (outer peripheral surface 134a) of the main body portion 132. Thus, in this disclosure, a gap is provided between the tip side of the pressed region 154 and the main body portion 132, and the elastic portion 186 is provided between the base end side of the pressed region 154 and the main body portion 132.

[0075] The elastic portion 186 is in contact with both the opposing surface 150a of the extended portion 150 and the outer wall surface (outer peripheral surfaces 134a, 136a) of the main body portion 132. Furthermore, the elastic portion 186 extends axially from the second cylindrical portion 136 to the first cylindrical portion 134. The first cylindrical portion 134 has a larger diameter than the second cylindrical portion 136. Therefore, the elastic portion 186 has a shape in which the tip side is relatively thin and the base end side is relatively thick.

[0076] Furthermore, as described above, the extended portion 150 and the main body portion 132 are integrally molded from the same resin (first resin), while the elastic portion 186 is made of a separate component from the extended portion 150 and the main body portion 132. The elastic portion 186 is made of an elastomer resin with lower hardness (or higher modulus) than the first resin.

[0077] The width (circumferential length) of the elastic portion 186 is shorter than the width of the pressed area 154. Therefore, the elastic portion 186 is contained within the range of the pressed area 154. However, the elastic portion 186 may be provided to make contact over the entire width of the pressed area 154. Alternatively, the elastic portion 186 may extend in an annular shape along the outer circumferential surface 136a of the second cylindrical portion 136.

[0078] Furthermore, the elastic portion 186 may extend beyond the center position P1 towards the tip. Alternatively, the elastic portion 186 may be provided on the tip side of the pressed area 154, rather than the base end side. In any case, the elastic portion 186 only needs to be provided between the opposing surface 150a of the extended portion 150 and the outer wall surface of the main body portion 132, and its range is not particularly limited. It is desirable to design the range in which the elastic portion 186 is provided appropriately according to the material of the elastic portion 186. In this disclosure, the elastic portion 186 is included in the covering member 170. That is, the elastic portion 186 is molded integrally with the sealing portion S. Since the elastic portion 186 is molded integrally with the sealing portion S, the manufacturing process is simplified. However, the elastic portion 186 may be made of a separate material from the covering member 170.

[0079] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating the connection between the medical device body 200 and the device-side connector 100. Figure 18 is a partially enlarged view of the medical device body 200. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view showing the connection between the medical device body 200 and the device-side connector 100. Note that Figures 17 to 19 show only the portion of the medical device body 200 to which the device-side connector 100 is connected. The medical device body 200 comprises a wall portion 202, an insertion hole 204 opening in the wall portion 202, and a through tube 206 provided within the insertion hole 204.

[0080] As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the insertion tube 206 includes a cylindrical connected portion 206a. The connected portion 206a is located within the insertion hole 204, with its end facing outward through the opening of the insertion hole 204. The opening of the insertion hole 204 formed in the wall portion 202 is approximately circular, and its diameter is larger than the outer diameter of the connected portion 206a.

[0081] As shown in Figure 19, the gas supply tube 1 is connected to the medical device body 200 by inserting the device-side connector 100 into the insertion hole 204. The outer diameter of the connected portion 206a is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the first cylindrical portion 134 of the device-side connector 100. As a result, the connected portion 206a of the insertion tube 206 is inserted into the first cylindrical portion 134. In other words, the insertion tube 206 of the medical device body 200 is inserted into the inside of the tip of the main body portion 132.

[0082] Furthermore, when inserting the device-side connector 100 into the insertion hole 204, the locking portion 152a of the extended portion 150 contacts the opening edge of the insertion hole 204 formed in the wall portion 202. In other words, the separation distance of the outermost diameter portion of the locking portion 152a of the pair of extended portions 150 is greater than the diameter of the opening of the insertion hole 204. For example, the user of the medical device body 200 pushes the device-side connector 100 into the insertion hole 204 while lightly pressing the pressure-receiving area 154 of the extended portion 150 so that the tip of the extended portion 150 tilts toward the main body portion 132. This allows the device-side connector 100 to be smoothly inserted into the insertion hole 204. Alternatively, the user may push the device-side connector 100 into the insertion hole 204 without pressing the pressure-receiving area 154. Even in this case, the flexible extension portion 150 comes into contact with the opening edge of the insertion hole 204 and naturally tilts radially inward, allowing the equipment-side connector 100 to be inserted into the insertion hole 204.

[0083] An annular groove 208 extending in an annular shape is formed on the inner wall surface of the insertion hole 204. A locking portion 208a is formed on the surface of the annular groove 208 that is located on the opening side of the insertion hole 204. When the device-side connector 100 is inserted, the pressure on the extending portion 150 is released when the locking portion 152a reaches the annular groove 208. Due to its elastic force, the tip of the extending portion 150 expands radially outward, and the locking portion 152a enters the annular groove 208. At this time, the locking surface 152b of the locking portion 152a faces the locking portion 208a in the axial direction. In other words, the locking portion 152a of the device-side connector 100 is locked to the locking portion 208a of the medical device body 200. In other words, the locking portion 152a provided on the outer surface 150b of the extended portion 150 faces the locking portion 208a of the medical device body 200 in the axial direction from the tip side of the main body portion 132 when the medical device body 200 is connected to the main body portion 132 of the device-side connector 100.

[0084] Furthermore, when the locking portion 152a is locked to the locked portion 208a, the tip of the main body portion 132 (outer annular portion 134d and inner annular portion 134e) faces the abutment surface 210 inside the insertion hole 204. At this time, the tip of the main body portion 132 and the abutment surface 210 are slightly separated in the axial direction. On the other hand, as described above, the equipment-side connector 100 is provided with a second sealing portion S2 that protrudes further forward than the main body portion 132. When the locking portion 152a is locked to the locked portion 208a, the second sealing portion S2 contacts the abutment surface 210.

[0085] The abutment surface 210 is an annular surface that surrounds the outer circumference of the base end of the insertion tube 206 of the medical device body 200. As shown in an enlarged view in Figure 19, the abutment surface 210 includes an inclined portion 210a and a flat portion 210b. The inclined portion 210a is a surface located radially inward from the flat portion 210b. In other words, the flat portion 210b is continuous radially outward with respect to the inclined portion 210a. The inclined portion 210a is inclined so that it moves axially away from the main body 132 as it moves radially outward. In this case, the inclined portion 210a is formed in a curved shape. However, the inclined portion 210a may also be formed in a straight shape. The flat portion 210b is a plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the device-side connector 100.

[0086] The inclined portion 210a is provided in an area that at least contacts the second seal portion S2. When the locking portion 152a is locked to the locked portion 208a, the distance between the tip of the main body portion 132 and the abutment surface 210 (inclined portion 210a) is smaller than the natural axial length (projection height) of the second seal portion S2. Therefore, when the locking portion 152a is locked to the locked portion 208a, the second seal portion S2 is sandwiched between the abutment surface 210 and the tip of the main body portion 132. As a result, a biasing force acts on the second seal portion S2 from the abutment surface 210 in the axial direction (opposite to the insertion direction of the equipment-side connector 100). Due to this biasing force, the second seal portion S2 expands in diameter while bending in the axial direction. At this time, the second sealing portion S2 comes into contact with the inclined and curved inclined portion 210a, making the second sealing portion S2 more easily deformable and improving sealing performance. In this way, the connection between the insertion tube 206 and the device-side connector 100 is sealed by the second sealing portion S2. Furthermore, the biasing force acting on the second sealing portion S2 from the abutment surface 210 ensures that the locking surface 152b of the locking portion 152a and the locked portion 208a are securely locked together, preventing the device-side connector 100 from falling off the medical device body 200.

[0087] In this example, a flat portion 210b is provided on the radially outer side of the inclined portion 210a, but the flat portion 210b is not essential. That is, the entire abutment surface 210 may be composed of the inclined portion 210a. Conversely, the entire abutment surface 210 may be composed of the flat portion 210b.

[0088] As is clear from Figures 17 and 19, the pressure-sensitive area 154 is located on the base end side (tube 10 side) of the main body 132, relative to the wall 202 of the medical device body 200, when the tip end of the main body 132 is inserted into the medical device body 200. In other words, when the device-side connector 100 is connected to the medical device body 200, the pressure-sensitive area 154 of the extended portion 150 is located outside the insertion hole 204 and is exposed.

[0089] When removing the device-side connector 100 from the medical device body 200, the user, for example, pinches the pressed areas 154 of the pair of left and right extended portions 150 from both sides and presses the pressed areas 154 radially inward. Due to the pressing force at this time, the extended portion 150 tilts, and the locking portion 152a moves in a direction closer to the main body portion 132. In other words, the locking surface 152b slides radially inward relative to the locked portion 208a, and the locking relationship between the locking portion 152a and the locked portion 208a is released. Then, the device-side connector 100 is pulled out from the insertion hole 204, and the gas supply pipe 1 is removed from the medical device body 200.

[0090] As described above, when attaching or detaching the gas supply pipe 1, a pressing force is applied to the extended portion 150, and if the pressing force is excessive, the extended portion 150 may be damaged. According to this disclosure, an elastic portion 186 is provided between the extended portion 150 and the main body portion 132. The provision of the elastic portion 186 limits the amount of deformation of the extended portion 150. In other words, the elastic portion 186 suppresses excessive deformation of the extended portion 150. As a result, the durability of the extended portion 150 and, consequently, the equipment-side connector 100 is improved.

[0091] Furthermore, the elastic portion 186 is provided on the radially inward side of the pressed area 154. Therefore, when a user presses the pressed area 154 radially inward with their finger, the pressing force acts on the elastic portion 186 via the extended portion 150. At this time, the elastic portion 186 acts as a reaction force radially outward against the user's finger. This improves the user's feel for operation. In this way, by providing the elastic portion 186 on the inside of the pressed area 154 of the extended portion 150, it becomes possible to suitably adjust the amount of pressure applied to the extended portion 150 without damaging the extended portion 150 due to excessive force, and without impairing the user's feel for operation.

[0092] In this disclosure, the case in which the second seal portion S2 protrudes from the tip of the main body portion 132 has been described, but the position in which the second seal portion S2 is provided is not limited to this. The second seal portion S2 may protrude from the inner wall surface of the main body portion 132, or it may protrude from the outer wall surface of the main body portion 132. In any case, it is desirable that the second seal portion S2 is molded integrally with the first seal portion S1, protrudes from at least one of the tip, inner wall surface, and outer wall surface of the main body portion 132, and contacts any part of the medical device body 200 when the main body portion 132 is connected to the medical device body 200.

[0093] Figure 20 illustrates a modified example of the second seal portion S2. In the modified example shown in Figure 20, the second seal portion S2 is provided on the inner wall surface of the main body portion 132 of the equipment-side connector 100. That is, the second seal portion S2 is provided on the base end side of the main body portion 132 rather than the tip end. The second seal portion S2 in the modified example is also made of a covering member 170, similar to the above. In the modified example as well, the second seal portion S2 extends in an annular shape. For example, the second seal portion S2 in the modified example is provided along the circumferential direction of the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical main body portion 132.

[0094] In another modified configuration, a fitting groove 206b is formed on the outer wall surface of the connected portion 206a of the medical device body 200. The fitting groove 206b extends in an annular shape, similar to the second seal portion S2. The fitting groove 206b has a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the second seal portion S2, for example, an arc-shaped cross-section. When the gas supply pipe 1 and the medical device body 200 are connected, the second seal portion S2 fits into the fitting groove 206b.

[0095] As described above, in the modified configuration, the second sealing portion S2 protrudes from the inner wall surface of the main body portion 132 and contacts the outer wall surface of the insertion tube 206 of the medical device body 200. With this configuration, sealing performance is ensured in the same way as above. Furthermore, in the modified configuration, the gap between the main body portion 132 and the insertion tube 206 is sealed by the radial pressure of the second sealing portion S2. Therefore, compared to the case where the second sealing portion S2 is provided at the tip of the main body portion 132 (see Figure 15), the risk of excessively high surface pressure between the locking surface 152b of the locking portion 152a and the locked portion 208a is reduced. This reduces the reaction force acting on the locking portion 152a, thus avoiding the risk of the locking between the locking portion 152 and the locked portion 208a becoming easily disengaged due to deterioration of the strength of the locking portion 152a, etc. In addition, the risk of damage to the extended portion 150 is reduced, and durability is improved.

[0096] In the modified example, a case in which a mating groove 206b is provided in the medical device body 200 was described, but the mating groove 206b is not essential. However, if a mating groove 206b is provided, the device-side connector 100 can be locked to the medical device body 200 by mating the mating groove 206b with the second sealing portion S2. Therefore, the device-side connector 100 connected to the medical device body 200 is prevented from falling off. Consequently, if a mating groove 206b is provided, it is also possible to omit the extension portion 150 from the device-side connector 100. This simplifies the mating structure for connecting the device-side connector 100 and the medical device body 200. Furthermore, it is possible to realize a structure that combines the sealing function of the second sealing portion S2 with the mating function.

[0097] Furthermore, in the modified example, a case was described in which the second sealing portion S2 is provided on the inner wall surface of the main body portion 132 of the equipment-side connector 100. However, the second sealing portion S2 may be provided at any multiple locations on the tip, inner wall surface, and outer wall surface of the main body portion 132. In other words, multiple second sealing portions S2 may be provided on the main body portion 132.

[0098] (Configuration of the mask-side connector 300) Next, the mask-side connector 300 will be described. Figure 21 is an exploded perspective view of the mask-side connector 300. Figure 22 is a perspective view of the connector body 310 of the mask-side connector 300. Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the mask-side connector 300. The mask-side connector 300 consists of two parts: the connector body 310 and the covering member 330. In the manufacturing process of the gas supply pipe 1, the tube 10 is connected to the connector body 310. Then, the covering member 330 is molded by overmolding onto a single component in which the connector body 310 and the tube 10 are integrated.

[0099] The mask to be worn by the user is connected to the mask-side connector 300. Here, one end of the mask-side connector 300 that is connected to the mask is called the tip end. The other end of the mask-side connector 300 that is connected to the tube 10 is called the base end. As shown in Figure 22, the connector body 310 has a cylindrical body portion 312. The body portion 312 includes a first cylindrical portion 314, a second cylindrical portion 316, and a third cylindrical portion 318. The first cylindrical portion 314 is located at the tip end of the body portion 312, and the third cylindrical portion 318 is located at the base end of the body portion 312. The second cylindrical portion 316 connects the first cylindrical portion 314 and the third cylindrical portion 318. The first cylindrical portion 314, the second cylindrical portion 316, and the third cylindrical portion 318 are all cylindrical in shape. The outer diameter of the first cylindrical portion 314 is larger than the outer diameter of the second cylindrical portion 316. Furthermore, the outer diameter of the second cylindrical portion 316 is larger than the outer diameter of the third cylindrical portion 318.

[0100] Hereinafter, the axial direction of the connector body 310 or body portion 312 will be simply referred to as the axial direction. The circumferential direction of the connector body 310 or body portion 312 will be simply referred to as the circumferential direction. The radial direction of the connector body 310 or body portion 312 will be simply referred to as the radial direction. In this disclosure, the connector body 310 is assumed to be made of the same first resin as the connector body 130 described above. However, the material of the connector body 310 is not particularly limited.

[0101] A metal terminal 320 is partially embedded in the second cylindrical portion 316. The metal terminal 320 penetrates the second cylindrical portion 316 radially. A conductor 16 extending from the helical portion 14 is connected to the metal terminal 320. In addition, multiple guide protrusions 316a are formed on the second cylindrical portion 316. The guide protrusions 316a are provided near the metal terminal 320. The multiple guide protrusions 316a are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction. Three conductors 16 are each held between adjacent guide protrusions 316a. In other words, the guide protrusions 316a play a role in guiding the conductors 16.

[0102] Furthermore, a guide rib 322 is provided on the outer circumferential surface 318a of the third cylindrical portion 318. The guide rib 322 protrudes radially from the outer circumferential surface 318a of the third cylindrical portion 318 and extends intermittently in a spiral shape. Note that the guide rib 322 may extend continuously rather than intermittently. The guide rib 322 is provided with a guide portion 322a facing the base end side of the connector body 310. The tube 10 and the connector body 310 are connected when the base end side of the connector body 310, i.e., the third cylindrical portion 318, is inserted into the tube body portion 12 from the mask side end 12d. When the tube 10 and the connector body 310 are connected, the spiral portion 14 comes into contact with the guide portion 322a. In other words, the guide portion 322a extends along the spiral portion 14.

[0103] Although not shown in Figures 21 and 22, the guide rib 322 is provided with a contact surface. The contact surface is located on the guide rib 322 closest to the base end of the connector body 310. Furthermore, the contact surface is the end surface of the guide rib 322 and faces in the circumferential direction.

[0104] Furthermore, the connector body 310 is provided with a first opposing portion 324 and a second opposing portion 326. The first opposing portion 324 protrudes radially from the outer circumferential surface 318a of the third cylindrical portion 318. The first opposing portion 324 is provided with a first opposing surface 324a. The first opposing surface 324a is the surface of the first opposing portion 324 that faces in the circumferential direction. When the tube 10 is connected to the connector body 310, the first opposing surface 324a faces in the circumferential direction with respect to the mask-side extension portion 14b (see Figure 4) provided on the helical portion 14.

[0105] The second opposing portion 326 is formed, for example, in a continuous manner with the guide rib 322. The second opposing portion 326 is formed to protrude in a hook shape from, for example, the outer circumferential surface of the connector body 310. The second opposing portion 326 faces the outer circumferential surface 318a of the third cylindrical portion 318, at a radial distance. The second opposing portion 326 is provided with a second opposing surface 326a. The second opposing surface 326a is the surface of the second opposing portion 326 that faces the outer circumferential surface 318a of the third cylindrical portion 318. When the tube 10 is connected to the connector body 310, the second opposing surface 326a faces the radially outer surface of the mask-side extension 14b provided on the helical portion 14.

[0106] As shown in Figure 23, in the assembled state of the connector body 310 and tube 10, the third cylindrical portion 318 is inserted into the tube body portion 12 of the tube 10. At this time, the inner diameter of the tube body portion 12 is equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the third cylindrical portion 318. Therefore, when the third cylindrical portion 318 is inserted into the tube body portion 12, the inner circumferential surface of the tube body portion 12 and the outer circumferential surface 318a of the third cylindrical portion 318 are in close contact. By ensuring close contact between the inner circumferential surface of the tube body portion 12 and the outer circumferential surface 318a of the third cylindrical portion 318, leakage from the connection point between the connector body 310 and the tube 10 is suppressed.

[0107] On the other hand, because the inner circumferential surface of the tube body portion 12 and the outer circumferential surface 318a of the third cylindrical portion 318 are in close contact, when assembling the connector body 310 to the tube 10, it is necessary to push the tube 10 into the third cylindrical portion 318 of the connector body 310 while rotating it around its axis. Specifically, as shown in Figure 21, in the assembly process, the tube 10 is pushed in the X direction while rotating it in the R direction. This causes the third cylindrical portion 318 to gradually enter the tube body portion 12.

[0108] When the third cylindrical portion 318 is inserted into the tube body portion 12 by a predetermined amount, the helical portion 14 of the tube 10 comes into axial contact with the guide portion 322a of the guide rib 322 provided on the third cylindrical portion 318. Subsequently, as the tube 10 is pushed in further while rotating around its axis, the helical portion 14 slides spirally against the guide portion 322a, and the tube 10 proceeds further in the X direction. The tube 10 is then rotated in the R direction until the contact surface 12e (see Figure 4) of the tube body portion 12 comes into contact with the contact surface (not shown) of the guide rib 322. The rotation of the tube 10 in the R direction is restricted when the contact surface 12e comes into contact with the contact surface.

[0109] In this state, the tip 14b1 of the mask-side extension 14b of the spiral portion 14 faces the first opposing surface 324a in the circumferential direction. After the assembly process is completed as described above, one end of the conductor 16 protruding from the tip 14b1 is connected to the metal terminal 320.

[0110] In the assembled state of the connector body 130 and tube 10, the contact surface 12e of the tube body portion 12 and the contact surface of the connector body 310 position the tube body portion 12 and the connector body 310 in the circumferential and longitudinal directions. This makes it possible to appropriately control the relative rotational position of the connector body 310 and the tube 10 during assembly. Furthermore, when pushing the tube 10 into the connector body 310, the helical portion 14 is guided by the guide portion 322a of the guide rib 322. This allows the tube 10 to be smoothly pushed into the connector body 310 while rotating, thereby improving the efficiency of the assembly work.

[0111] Furthermore, in the assembled state of the connector body 310 and tube 10, the hook-shaped second opposing portion 326 is located radially outward of the helical portion 14. In this state, the second opposing surface 326a of the second opposing portion 326 faces the radially outward surface of the helical portion 14. The helical portion 14 and the second opposing surface 326a may face each other while separated from each other, as shown in Figure 21. Alternatively, the helical portion 14 and the second opposing surface 326a may face each other while in contact, and the helical portion 14 may be pressed radially inward by the second opposing surface 326a. By providing the second opposing surface 326a, the helical portion 14 can be stably positioned in the appropriate position in the groove between two adjacent guide ribs 322. Therefore, when molding the covering member 170 around the connection portion of the assembled connector body 310 and tube 10, it is possible to suppress the spiral portion 14 from floating radially outward due to the resin being poured in.

[0112] As described above, a single component comprising the connector body 310 and the tube 10 is mounted in the mold, and a covering member 330 is molded around and inside the component by overmolding. The covering member 330 is formed by the curing of molten resin injected into the mold. Here, the covering member 330 is formed from the same elastomer resin as the covering member 170.

[0113] As shown in Figure 23, the covering member 330 includes a third sealing portion S3 as a sealing portion S to prevent gas leakage. As described above, the tube 10 is made of a separate component from the main body portion 312 of the connector body 310. The third sealing portion S3 covers the connection between the main body portion 312 of the connector body 310 and the tube 10. The connection between the main body portion 312 of the connector body 310 and the tube 10 is sealed by the third sealing portion S3.

[0114] The third sealing portion S3 is provided on the base end side of the covering member 330. The third sealing portion S3 is provided extending from the main body portion 312 of the connector body 310 across the tube 10. Here, the portion of the covering member 330 that is located on the base end side of the metal terminal 320 is referred to as the third sealing portion S3.

[0115] The third sealing portion S3 of the covering member 330 covers a portion of the tip side of the tube body portion 12, including the mask-side end 12d, a portion of the tip side of the spiral portion 14, and the third cylindrical portion 318. The third sealing portion S3 of the covering member 330 also covers the contact portion between the mask-side end 12d of the tube body portion 12 and the guide rib 322, and the contact portion between the spiral portion 14 and the guide rib 322. These contact portions, where gas leakage may occur, are sealed by the third sealing portion S3.

[0116] In this disclosure, the base end of the third seal portion S3 (the left end of the covering member 330 in Figure 23) is positioned to protrude axially (to the left in Figure 23) from the base end of the third cylindrical portion 318. However, the axial length of the third seal portion S3 is not limited to this disclosure. For example, the base end of the third seal portion S3 may be located towards the tip of the third cylindrical portion 318. In any case, the third seal portion S3 (covering member 330) only needs to be provided in a range that covers the outer circumference of the connection between the third cylindrical portion 318 and the tube 10, including at least the mask-side end 12d of the tube body portion 12. The metal terminal 320, the conductor 16, and the mask-side extension 14b are all covered by the covering member 330.

[0117] As described above, the mask-side connector 300 of this disclosure, like the equipment-side connector 100, achieves suppression of gas leakage, reduction of the number of parts, and simplification of the manufacturing process.

[0118] (Summary of the first aspect of this disclosure) According to the first aspect of this disclosure, the following configuration can be provided:

[0119] (1) A cylindrical main body portion is inserted into the connected member from the tip end, and a tube is provided at the base end, The main body has an opposing surface that is separated from and facing the outer wall surface of the main body, and an outer surface that is the back surface of the opposing surface, and at least one extending portion that extends in the axial direction of the main body, A locking portion provided on the outer surface of the extended portion and which engages with the locking portion of the connected member, An elastic portion is provided between the opposing surface of the extended portion and the outer wall surface of the main body, and is composed of a separate member from the extended portion and the main body. A gas supply tube for medical devices equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

[0120] (2) The tube is a flexible tube made of a separate component from the main body, with one end attached to the base end of the main body. A sealing portion is provided to cover the connection between the main body and the tube. The elastic portion is molded integrally with the sealing portion. (1) A gas supply tube for medical equipment.

[0121] (3) The elastic portion is provided on the base end side of the axial center position in the extended portion, A gap is provided between the opposing surface located on the tip side of the center position and the outer wall surface. A gas supply tube for the medical device described in (1) or (2).

[0122] (4) The extended portion includes a pressing region located on the base end side of the connected member when the tip side of the main body is inserted into the connected member, At least a portion of the elastic portion is provided between the pressed area and the outer wall surface of the main body portion. A gas supply tube for the medical device described in (1) or (2).

[0123] (5) The elastic portion is provided in a part of the space between the pressed area and the outer wall surface of the main body, and the remaining part of the space is provided with an air gap. (4) Gas supply tube for medical equipment.

[0124] (6) The extended portion and the main body portion are integrally molded from the same first resin. The elastic portion is formed of an elastomer resin having a higher modulus of elasticity than the first resin. A gas supply tube for the medical device described in (1) or (2).

[0125] (7) The gas supply pipe for the medical device as described in (1) or (2) above, The connected member and, A medical device equipped with the following features.

[0126] In this disclosure, the main body 132 of the device-side connector 100 is inserted into the medical device body 200 from the tip end, and the tube 10 is provided on the proximal end. However, in the first aspect, the connected member into which the main body is inserted is not limited to the medical device body 200, but may be a member worn on the human body, such as a mask. Furthermore, although this disclosure describes the case where the medical device body 200 is a CPAP therapy device, the function and configuration of the medical device body 200 are not particularly limited.

[0127] In this disclosure, the main body 132 of the device-side connector 100 is cylindrical. However, in the first aspect, the main body is not limited to a cylindrical shape, but may be a cylindrical shape having any cross-sectional shape, such as a rectangular cylinder, a polygonal cylinder, or an elliptical cylinder. In any case, the main body only needs to be cylindrical, and its shape is not particularly limited.

[0128] In this disclosure, the device-side connector 100 includes a pair of extensions 150, but in the first aspect, the number of extensions is not particularly limited. For example, there may be only one extension, or there may be three or more. Also, in this disclosure, the extensions 150 are molded integrally with the main body 132, but the extensions 150 may be made of a separate component from the main body 132.

[0129] In this disclosure, the elastic portion 186 is made of an elastomer resin, but in the first aspect, the material of the elastic portion is not particularly limited. In any case, the elastic portion only needs to be made of a separate component from the extended portion and the main body portion, and its material and shape can be designed as appropriate.

[0130] In this disclosure, the tube 10 is a flexible pipe composed of a separate component from the main body 132. However, in the first aspect, the tube may be integrated with the main body. Furthermore, the tube is not limited to a flexible pipe, and its material and shape can be designed as appropriate.

[0131] In this disclosure, the sealing portion S (first sealing portion S1) that covers the connection portion between the main body portion 132 and the tube 10 and the elastic portion 186 are integrally molded. However, in the first aspect, the elastic portion may be made of a different material from the sealing portion.

[0132] (Summary of the second perspective of this disclosure) According to the second aspect of this disclosure, the following configuration can be provided:

[0133] (11) Tube and, A cylindrical main body portion, the tip of which is connected to the member to be connected and the base end of which the tube is connected, A covering member comprising at least a first sealing portion that covers the connection portion between the main body and the tube, and a second sealing portion that is integrally molded with the first sealing portion, protruding from at least one of the tip, inner wall surface, and outer wall surface of the main body, and contacting the connected member when the main body and the connected member are connected, A gas supply tube for medical devices equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

[0134] (12) The second sealing portion is, A first portion is provided at a position that protrudes in the axial direction of the main body from the tip of the main body, A second portion is provided at a position that is further away in the axial direction from the tip of the main body than the first portion, and is offset in a direction intersecting the axial direction with respect to the first portion, including, (11) Gas supply tube for medical equipment.

[0135] (13) The second sealing portion is, Formed in an annular shape, and curved from the first part to the second part, (12) Gas supply tube for medical equipment.

[0136] (14) The insertion tube of the connected member is inserted into the tip of the main body, The second sealing portion protrudes from the inner wall surface of the main body and contacts the outer wall surface of the insertion pipe of the connected member. (11) Gas supply tube for medical equipment.

[0137] (15) The main body has an opposing surface that is separated from and facing the outer wall surface of the main body, and an outer surface that is the back surface of the opposing surface, and at least one extending portion that extends in the axial direction of the main body, A locking portion is provided on the outer surface of the extended portion, and when the connected member and the main body are connected, the locking portion of the connected member faces the locking portion of the main body in the axial direction from the tip side of the main body, Furthermore, The second sealing portion is provided on the base end side of the main body portion, (14) Gas supply tube for medical equipment.

[0138] (16) The second sealing portion extends in an annular shape along the inner wall surface of the main body and fits into an annular fitting groove formed on the outer wall surface of the insertion pipe of the connected member. (14) Gas supply tube for medical equipment.

[0139] (17) The gas supply pipe for the medical device as described in (11) or (12) above, The connected member and, A medical device equipped with the following features.

[0140] In this disclosure, the main body 132 of the device-side connector 100 is inserted into the medical device body 200 from the tip end, and the tube 10 is provided on the proximal end. However, in a second aspect, the connected member into which the main body is inserted is not limited to the medical device body 200, but may be a member worn on the human body, such as a mask. Furthermore, although this disclosure describes the case where the medical device body 200 is a CPAP therapy device, the function and configuration of the medical device body 200 are not particularly limited.

[0141] In this disclosure, the main body 132 of the device-side connector 100 is cylindrical. However, in a second aspect, the main body is not limited to a cylindrical shape, but may be a cylindrical shape having any cross-sectional shape, such as a rectangular cylinder, a polygonal cylinder, or an elliptical cylinder. In any case, the main body only needs to be cylindrical, and its shape is not particularly limited.

[0142] In this disclosure, the device-side connector 100 includes a pair of extensions 150, but in a second aspect, the number of extensions is not particularly limited. For example, there may be only one extension, or there may be three or more. Also, in this disclosure, the extensions 150 are molded integrally with the main body 132, but the extensions 150 may be made of a separate component from the main body 132.

[0143] (Summary of the third aspect of this disclosure) According to a third aspect of this disclosure, the following configuration can be provided:

[0144] (twenty one) A tube comprising a cylindrical tube body and a spiral portion extending in a spiral shape from the outer circumferential surface of the tube body, A connector having a cylindrical portion that is inserted into the end of the tube body, A guide portion that protrudes radially from the outer surface of the cylindrical portion and extends along the helical portion, A covering member that covers the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion and the connecting portion of the tube, including at least the end portion of the tube body, A gas supply tube for medical devices equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

[0145] (twenty two) One end of the helical portion extends from the end of the tube body. (21) Gas supply tube for medical equipment.

[0146] (twenty three) The connector has terminals, The wiring provided within the aforementioned spiral portion, Furthermore, One end of the aforementioned wiring protrudes from the tip of the spiral portion and is connected to the terminal. A gas supply tube for the medical device of (21) or (22).

[0147] (twenty four) The covering member covers at least a portion of the wiring located between the tip of the spiral portion and the terminal. (23) Gas supply tube for medical equipment.

[0148] (twenty five) Of the tube body portion, the contact surface provided between the helical portions, The connector is provided with a contact surface that contacts the contact surface in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion, A gas supply tube for a medical device, further comprising (21) or (22).

[0149] (26) A surface provided on the connector, facing the radially outer surface of the helical portion, A gas supply tube for a medical device, further comprising (21) or (22).

[0150] (27) The gas supply pipe for the medical device as described in (21) or (22) above, The connected member and, A medical device equipped with the following features.

[0151] In this disclosure, the spiral portion 14 is provided with an equipment-side extension 14a extending from the equipment-side end 12c of the tube body 12, and a mask-side extension 14b extending from the mask-side end 12d of the tube body 12. However, in a third aspect, the equipment-side extension 14a and the mask-side extension 14b are not essential. For example, the spiral portion 14 may be provided within the range of the tube body 12. In this case, the end of the spiral portion 14 may extend along the equipment-side end 12c or the mask-side end 12d of the tube body 12. Alternatively, for example, the end of the spiral portion 14 may be provided closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the tube body 12 than the equipment-side end 12c or the mask-side end 12d of the tube body 12. In this case, a gap should be provided between the guide portions 140a and 322a and the outer surfaces 138a and 318a, into which the equipment-side end 12c and the mask-side end 12d can enter.

[0152] In this disclosure, metal terminals 112 and 320 are provided on the equipment-side connector 100 or the mask-side connector 300. However, in a third aspect, the metal terminals are not essential. In this case, the conductor 16 provided on the spiral portion 14 is unnecessary.

[0153] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, it goes without saying that this disclosure is not limited to such embodiments. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these will naturally also fall within the technical scope of this disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0154] 1. Gas supply pipe 10 tubes 12 Tube body 12a Outer surface 12c Equipment side end 12d Mask side edge 14 Spiral part 16 Conductor 100 Device-side connector 112 Metal terminal 138 Third cylindrical section 138a Outer surface 140a Guide section 144a 1st facing surface 146a Second facing surface 170 Covering member 200 Medical device main unit 300 Mask-side connector 318 Third cylindrical section 318a Outer surface 320 metal terminal 322a Guide section 324a 1st facing surface 326a Second opposing surface 330 Covering member

Claims

1. A tube comprising a cylindrical tube body and a spiral portion extending in a spiral manner from the outer circumferential surface of the tube body, A connector having a cylindrical portion that is inserted into the end of the tube body, A guide portion that protrudes radially from the outer surface of the cylindrical portion and extends along the helical portion, A covering member that covers the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion and the connecting portion of the tube, including at least the end portion of the tube body, A gas supply tube for medical devices equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

2. One end of the helical portion extends from the end of the tube body. A gas supply tube for a medical device according to claim 1.

3. The connector has terminals, The wiring provided within the aforementioned spiral portion, Furthermore, One end of the aforementioned wiring protrudes from the tip of the spiral portion and is connected to the terminal. A gas supply tube for a medical device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The covering member covers at least a portion of the wiring located between the tip of the spiral portion and the terminal. A gas supply tube for a medical device according to claim 3.

5. Of the tube body portion, the contact surface provided between the helical portions, The connector is provided with a contact surface that contacts the contact surface in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion, A gas supply tube for a medical device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising the above.

6. A second opposing surface is provided on the connector and is opposite to the radially outer surface of the helical portion, A gas supply tube for a medical device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising the above.

7. The gas supply tube for the medical device according to claim 1 or 2, The connected member and, A medical device equipped with the following features.

Images