Connection assembly and manifold therefor

Abstract

The coupling assembly includes a manifold. The manifold includes a first plate having a first longitudinal slot and a second longitudinal slot, a second plate having a sidewall and a flange extending from the sidewall, a lever pivotally coupled to the first plate and the second plate, a first shaft, and a second shaft. The flange is configured to support a removable cartridge. The lever is configured to move the second plate relative to the first plate between a first position and a second position. The first shaft extends through the first longitudinal slot, the second plate, and the lever. The second shaft extends through the second longitudinal slot and the lever.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a connection assembly for a removable cartridge. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a connection assembly including a manifold for mounting a removable cartridge. [Background technology]

[0002] The connection assembly with the manifold allows for secure connection of the removable cartridge. The removable cartridge can be used, for example, for filtration, tool cleaning, chemical exchange, etc. In some cases, the removable cartridge can be configured to handle fluids. The removable cartridge can be, for example, a filter used to remove contaminants from fluids. For example, filters can be used in semiconductor systems to remove contaminants from deionized (DI) water, organic solvents, photoresist chemicals, photochemical solvents, etc. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one embodiment, the coupling assembly includes a manifold. The manifold includes a first plate having a first longitudinal slot and a second longitudinal slot extending perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to one another, a second plate, a lever, a first shaft, and a second shaft. The second plate includes a sidewall and a flange extending from the sidewall. The flange is configured to support a removable cartridge. The first plate is disposed between the sidewalls of the second plate. The lever is pivotally coupled to the first and second plates and configured to move the second plate relative to the first plate between a first position and a second position. The lever includes a side. The first shaft extends through the first longitudinal slot in the first plate, one of the sidewalls of the second plate, and one of the sides of the lever. The second shaft extends through the second longitudinal slot in the first plate and one of the sides of the lever.

[0004] In one embodiment, the coupling assembly includes a manifold. The manifold includes a first plate, a second plate, a lever pivotally coupled to the first and second plates, a first shaft, and a second shaft. The first plate includes a first longitudinal slot extending in a first direction and a second longitudinal slot extending in a second direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The second longitudinal slot has first and second ends offset from the first longitudinal slot in the first direction. The second plate includes a sidewall and a flange extending from the sidewall. The flange is configured to support a removable cartridge. The first plate is disposed between the sidewalls of the second plate. The lever is configured to move the second plate relative to the first plate between a first position and a second position. The lever includes a side. The first shaft extends through the first longitudinal slot in the first plate, one of the sidewalls of the second plate, and one of the sides of the lever. A second shaft extends through a second longitudinal slot in the first plate and through one of the sides of the lever. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a coupling assembly having a removable cartridge, the coupling assembly in a closed position. [Figure 1B] 2 is a perspective view of a coupling assembly with a removable cartridge of FIG. 1, the coupling assembly in an open position, according to one embodiment. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1B is a front view of the coupling assembly with the removable cartridge of FIG. 1A, according to one embodiment. [Figure 2B] FIG. 1C is a front view of a coupling assembly with a removable cartridge of FIG. 1B, according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1B is an exploded view of the linkage assembly of FIG. 1A, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1B is a side view of the first plate of the linkage assembly of FIG. 1A, according to one embodiment. [Figure 5A] 1B is a side view of the linkage assembly of FIG. 1A with the lever and second plate of the linkage assembly omitted, according to one embodiment. [Figure 5B] FIG. 1C is a side view of the linkage assembly of FIG. 1B, with the lever and second plate of the linkage assembly omitted, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1B is a top view of the coupling assembly of FIG. 1A, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly depicted in FIG. 6, according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a side view of one embodiment of a first side plate for a linkage assembly. [Figure 9] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a coupling assembly having a removable cartridge. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a top view of the coupling assembly of FIG. 9, according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly depicted in FIG. 10 according to one embodiment.

[0006] Like numbers refer to like features. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] 1A and 1B each show a perspective view of one embodiment of a connection assembly 1. The connection assembly 1 includes a manifold 2. A removable cartridge 90 is disposed within the manifold 2. The cartridge 90 is a filter cartridge configured to filter contaminants (e.g., solid contaminants, dissolved contaminants, etc.) from a liquid. The liquid passes through the cartridge 90, and the liquid is filtered as it flows through the cartridge 90. In one embodiment, the cartridge 90 can be a filter that can be used to remove contaminants in semiconductor manufacturing. For example, the liquid can be (but is not limited to) deionized (DI) water, organic solvents, photoresist chemicals, photochemical solvents, wet etching and cleaning chemicals, etc. For example, the liquid can be an acid or base used in semiconductor manufacturing.

[0008] 1A shows a perspective view of connection assembly 1 with manifold 2 in a closed position, according to one embodiment. FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of connection assembly 1 with manifold 2 in an open position. In the closed position, manifold 2 is configured to prevent removable cartridge 90 from being removed. Manifold 2 is configured to permit removable cartridge 90 to be removed from manifold 2 and connection assembly 1.

[0009] The connection assembly 1 includes a mounting plate 4 and ports 8A, 8B, and 8C. Each of the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C is configured to be fluidly coupled to a removable cartridge 90 when the manifold 2 is in the closed position. For example, each of the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C is fluidly coupled to a respective socket 92A, 92B of the removable cartridge 90 of FIG. 1A (a third socket of the cartridge 90 is not visible in FIGS. 1A-2B). Each of the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C forms a sealed fluid connection with a respective socket 92A, 92B.

[0010] The ports 8A, 8B, and 8C include a first port 8A and a second port 8B configured to pass liquid through the removable cartridge 90. For example, the first port 8A is configured to supply liquid into the removable cartridge 90, and the second port 8B is configured to receive liquid discharged from the removable cartridge 90 (i.e., after passing through and being filtered within the cartridge 90). For example, gas may enter the cartridge 90 along with the liquid. The ports 8A, 8B, and 8C may also include a vent 8C for removing gas (e.g., air, gaseous condiments) from the cartridge 90.

[0011] Manifold 2 includes first plate 10, second plate 30, and lever 40. Ports 8A, 8B, and 8C are fixedly coupled to first plate 10. For example, manifold 2 may include one or more port support plates 80 used to fixedly couple ports 8A, 8B, and 8C to first plate 10. In the illustrated embodiment, ports 8A, 8B, and 8C each extend through first plate 10. For example, ports 8A, 8B, and 8C extend through top wall 12 of first plate 10.

[0012] The cartridge 90 is positioned within the manifold 2 by being supported by the second plate 30. The second plate 30 is configured to support the cartridge 90. As shown in FIG. 2B , the second plate 30 includes flanges 34A, 34B configured to support the cartridge 90. For example, each flange 34A, 34B is positioned in a respective channel 94A, 94B within the cartridge 90. In the illustrated embodiment, the manifold 2 is configured to have the cartridge 90 suspended from the flanges 34A, 34B of the second plate 30.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1A, the first plate 10 includes a pair of side walls 14A, 14B and a top wall 12. The top wall 12 is disposed between the side walls 14A, 14B and connects the side walls 14A, 14B to one another. The side walls 14A, 14B extend downward from opposite ends of the top wall 12. As shown in FIG. 1A, the side walls 14A, 14B and the top wall 12 can form a U-shape (e.g., the first plate 10 has a U-shape). In the illustrated embodiment, each side wall 14A, 14B includes a first longitudinal slot 20A, 20B and a second longitudinal slot 24A, 24B (shown in FIG. 3). The longitudinal slots 20A, 20B, 24A, 24B are described in more detail below.

[0014] The second plate 30 includes a pair of side walls 32A, 32B and an end wall 36. The end wall 36 is disposed between the side walls 32A, 32B and connects the side walls 32A, 32B to one another. For example, the side walls 32A, 32B and the end wall 36 are disposed on different sides of the first plate 10. The first side wall 32A of the second plate 30 can extend parallel to the first side wall 14A of the first plate 10. The second side wall 32B of the second plate 30 can extend parallel to the second side wall 14B of the first plate 10. As shown in FIG. 1A , the side walls 32A, 32B and the end wall 36 can form a U-shape with the first plate 10 disposed within the U-shaped second plate 30.

[0015] The lever 40 is pivotally coupled to the first plate 10 and the second plate 30. The lever 40 is configured to be movable relative to each of the first plate 10 and the second plate 30. The lever 40 is configured to be moved to operate the manifold 2 between a closed position (as shown in FIG. 1A) and an open position (as shown in FIG. 1B). In the illustrated embodiment, the lever 40 is configured to be moved / pivoted upward to operate the manifold 2 from the closed position to the open position. The lever 40 includes a handle 42 and a pair of side portions 44A, 44B extending from the handle 42, respectively. For example, the side portions 44A, 44B extend from opposite ends of the handle 42. The first side portion 44A of the lever 40 can extend along the first side wall 14A of the first plate 10 and the first side wall 32A of the second plate 30. The second side 44B of the lever 40 is extendable along the second side wall 14B of the first plate 10 and the second side wall 32B of the second plate 30.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 2A , the first plate 10 is disposed between the side walls 32A, 32B of the second plate 30. Each side 44A, 44B of the lever 40 is disposed between the first plate 10 and the second plate 30. For example, the first side 44A of the lever 40 is disposed between the first side wall 14A of the first plate 10 and the first side wall 32A of the second plate 30. For example, the second side 44B of the lever 40 is disposed between the second side wall 14B of the first plate 10 and the second side wall 32B of the second plate 30. In one embodiment, one or both of the sides 44A, 44B of the lever 40 may be disposed outside the second plate 30 (e.g., the first plate 10 and the second plate 30 disposed between the sides 44A, 44B of the lever 40). For example, in such an embodiment, the first side wall 32A of the second plate 30 can be positioned between the first side wall 14A of the first plate 10 and the first portion 44A of the lever 40, and / or the second side wall 32B of the second plate 30 can be positioned between the second side wall 14B of the first plate 10 and the second portion 44B of the lever 40.

[0017] The configuration of first plate 10, second plate 30, and lever 40 allows manifold 2 to have a more compact size compared to conventional configurations / manifolds. For example, for the same size cartridge 90, the configuration of manifold 2 allows manifold 2 to have a width and / or depth that is less than conventional manifolds.

[0018] Actuation / movement of the lever 40 moves the second plate 30 between a first position and a second position relative to the first plate 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting plate 4 is fixed to the first plate 10 such that actuation / movement of the lever 40 moves the second plate 30 relative to the first plate 10 and the mounting plate 4. In alternative embodiments, the mounting plate 4 may be fixed to the second plate 30. In such an embodiment, actuation / movement of the lever 40 moves the first plate 10 relative to the mounting plate 4, such that actuation / movement of the lever 40 moves the second plate 30 relative to the first plate 10 (i.e., actuation / movement of the lever 40 moves the second plate 30 relative to the first plate 10 and moves the first plate 10 relative to the mounting plate 4).

[0019] 2A and 2B show front views of a connection assembly 1, according to one embodiment. FIG. 2A shows the manifold 2 of the connection assembly 1 in a closed position. FIG. 2B shows the manifold 2 of the connection assembly 1 in an open position. The manifold 2 is configured to be actuated to vertically move a cartridge 90 disposed within the manifold 2 relative to ports 8A, 8B, and 8C. Actuation from the open position (shown in FIG. 2B) to the closed position (shown in FIG. 2A) inserts ports 8A, 8B, and 8C into the cartridge 90. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, actuating the open manifold 2 (shown in FIG. 2B) to the closed position (shown in FIG. 2A) moves the cartridge 90 upward toward ports 8A and 8B, inserting each port 8A and 8B into the cartridge 90.

[0020] The first position of the second plate 30 corresponds to the closed position of the manifold 2 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2B ). The second position of the second plate 30 corresponds to the open position of the manifold 2 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2B ). As shown in FIG. 2B , in the open position, the second plate 30 is in a second position in which the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C are spaced apart from the cartridge 90 (e.g., the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C are not inserted into or fluidly connected to the cartridge 90). For example, in the second / open position, the flanges 34A, 34B of the second plate 30 are spaced apart from the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C by a first vertical distance d1. This first vertical distance d1 is configured to be large enough so that the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C are completely removed from the cartridge 90 (e.g., not inserted / located within the sockets 92A, 92B of the cartridge 90).

[0021] 2A , in the closed position, the second plate 30 is in a second position in which the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C contact the cartridge 90 (e.g., the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C are inserted into and fluidly connected to the cartridge 90). For example, in the first / closed position, the flanges 34A and 34B of the second plate 30 are spaced a shorter vertical distance d2 (i.e., shorter than the first vertical distance d1) from the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C. The flanges 34A and 34B of the second plate 30 in the first position are positioned closer to the top wall 12 of the first plate 10 in the vertical direction D1 than when the second plate 30 is in the second position.

[0022] 3 is an exploded view of the linkage assembly 1, according to one embodiment. The manifold 2 includes multiple shafts that movably connect the first plate 10, the second plate 30, and the lever 40. The shafts movably connect the first plate 10, the second plate 30, and the lever 40 such that actuation of the lever 40 moves the first plate 10 relative to the second plate 30 between a first position and a second position, as described herein. Each shaft extends through two or more of the first plate 10, the second plate 30, and the lever 40. For example, the shafts pass through side walls 14A, 14B of the first plate 10, side walls 32A, 32B of the second plate 30, and sides 44A, 44B of the lever 40.

[0023] The shafts include one or more first shafts 60A, 60B, each extending through the first plate 10, the second plate 30, and the lever 40. The first shaft(s) 60A, 60B each extend parallel or substantially parallel to the horizontal direction (e.g., parallel or substantially parallel to the direction D3). In the illustrated embodiment, the manifold 2 includes first shafts 60A, 60B. For example, one first shaft 60A extends through a first longitudinal slot 20A in the first side wall 14A of the first plate 10, an opening 38A in the first side wall 32A of the second plate 30, and an opening 46A in the first portion 44A of the lever 40. For example, the other first shaft 60B extends through the first longitudinal slot 20B in the second side wall 14B of the first plate 10, the opening 38B in the second side wall 32B of the second plate 30, and the opening 46B in the second portion 44B of the lever 40.

[0024] The shafts include one or more second shafts 62A, 62B, each extending through the first plate 10 and the lever 40. The second shaft(s) 62A, 62B each extend parallel or substantially parallel to the horizontal direction (e.g., parallel or substantially parallel to the direction D3). In the illustrated embodiment, the manifold 2 includes two second shafts 62A, 62B. For example, one second shaft 62A extends through the second longitudinal slot 24A in the first side wall 14A of the first plate 10 and the second opening 48A in the first portion 44A of the lever 40. For example, the other second shaft 62B extends through the second longitudinal slot 24B in the second side wall 14B of the first plate 10 and the second opening 48B in the second portion 44B of the lever 40.

[0025] The shafts may also include one or more third shafts 64 extending through the first plate 10 and the second plate 30. Each of the third shaft(s) 64 extends parallel or substantially parallel to the horizontal direction (e.g., parallel or substantially parallel to the direction D3). The third shaft(s) 64 do not extend through the lever 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the manifold 2 includes one third shaft 64. For example, the third shaft 64 extends through an opening 28A in the first side wall 14A of the first plate 10, a longitudinal slot 39A in the first side wall 32A of the second plate 30, a longitudinal slot 39A in the second side wall 32B of the second plate 30, and an opening 28B in the second side wall 14B of the first plate 10.

[0026] 4 is a side view of a first plate 10 of a manifold 2, according to one embodiment. The first plate 10 includes a (first) side wall 14A having a first longitudinal slot 20A and a second longitudinal slot 24A. It should be understood that the movement of the slots 20B, 24B in the second side wall 14B of the first plate 10 and the movement of the shafts 60B, 62B in the slots 20B, 24B may be similar to that described for the first side wall 14A of the first plate 10.

[0027] The first longitudinal slot 20A extends in a first direction D1, and the second longitudinal slot 24A extends in a second direction D2. As shown in FIG. 4, the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 extend perpendicular to each other (e.g., extend perpendicular to each other along the same plane). The first direction D1 can be vertical, such that the first longitudinal slot 20A is a vertical longitudinal slot in the first plate 10. The second direction D2 can be horizontal, such that the second longitudinal slot 24A is a horizontal longitudinal slot in the first plate 10.

[0028] The first longitudinal slot 20A has a first end 22A and a second end 23A, which are opposite ends of the first longitudinal slot 20A. The second longitudinal slot 24A has a first end 25A and a second end 26B, which are opposite ends of the second longitudinal slot 24A. As shown in FIG. 4 , the second horizontal slot 24A extends in a second direction D2 across the entire width of the first longitudinal slot 20A. Each end 25A, 26A of the second longitudinal slot 24A is offset from the first horizontal slot 24A in the first direction D1. For example, the longitudinal slot may have a shape with a major axis, and the longitudinal slot may extend in a direction along that major axis (e.g., the first longitudinal slot 20A extends in the first direction D1 along its axis A1).

[0029] 5A and 5B are side views of the linkage assembly 1, with the second plate 30 and lever 40 omitted, according to one embodiment. For example, the side views of FIGS. 5A and 5B are views of the horizontal direction D3 shown in FIG. 2A. FIG. 5A shows the manifold 2 in a closed position. FIG. 5B shows the manifold 2 in an open position. A first shaft 60A is disposed within the first longitudinal slot 20A of the first plate 10. A second shaft 62A is disposed within the second longitudinal slot 24A of the first plate 10.

[0030] Actuation of the lever 40 causes the first shaft 60A to move within the first longitudinal slot 20A along a first direction D1 (e.g., vertically downward, vertically upward). The first shaft 60A moves along the axis A1 of the first longitudinal slot 20A. The axis A1 of the longitudinal slot 20A extends in the first direction D1. This actuation of the lever 40 causes the second shaft 62A to move within the second longitudinal slot 24A in a second direction D2 (e.g., forward, rearward). In the closed / first position shown in FIG. 5A , the first shaft 60A is positioned at the first end 22A of the first longitudinal slot 20A, and the second shaft 60B is positioned at the first end 25A of the second longitudinal slot 24A. In the open / first position shown in FIG. 5B, the first shaft 60A is positioned at the second end 23A of the first longitudinal slot 20A, and the second shaft 62A is positioned at the second end 26A of the second longitudinal slot 24A.

[0031] The vector extends from the axis A2 of the first shaft 60A to the axis A3 of the second shaft 62A. For example, the vector extends parallel to the first sidewall 14A of the first plate 10. The axis A2 of the first shaft 60A and the axis A3 of the second shaft 62A extend perpendicular to the first and second directions D1, D2, respectively (e.g., into / out of the page in Figures 5A and 5B, the third direction D3 in Figure 2A).

[0032] In the open / second position shown in FIG. 5B , the angle α1 between the axis A1 of the first longitudinal slot 20A and the vector V1 extending between the axes A2, A3 of the shafts 62A, 62B is greater than 0 degrees. For example, 0 degrees is vertically downward (e.g., in a direction D1 parallel to the axis A1 of the first longitudinal slot 20A). As shown in FIG. 5B , the angle α1 is measured along a plane parallel to the first sidewall 14A of the first panel 10 (e.g., along a plane extending along the vertical direction D1 when viewed in a direction D3 perpendicular to the first sidewall 14A of the first panel 10). In one embodiment, the angle α1 is greater than 20 degrees. In one embodiment, the angle α1 is greater than 40 degrees. In one embodiment, the angle α1 is greater than 50 degrees. In one embodiment, the angle α1 is greater than 60 degrees. In one embodiment, the angle α2 is also less than 70 degrees. For example, the angle α1 in FIG. 5B is approximately 64 degrees.

[0033] In the closed / first position shown in FIG. 5A , the angle α2 between the axis A1 of the first longitudinal slot 20A and the vector V2 extending between the axes A2, A3 of the shafts 62A, 62B is less than 0 degrees. As shown in FIG. 5A , the angle α2 is measured along a plane parallel to the first sidewall 14A of the first plate 10 (e.g., along a plane extending along the vertical direction D1 when viewed in a direction D3 perpendicular to the first sidewall 14A of the first plate 10). In one embodiment, the angle α2 is less than or equal to −5 degrees. In one embodiment, the angle α2 is less than or equal to −10 degrees. In one embodiment, the angle α2 is less than or equal to −15 degrees. In one embodiment, the angle α2 is less than or equal to −20 degrees. In one embodiment, the angle α2 is also greater than −90 degrees. For example, the angle α2 in FIG. 5A is approximately −10 degrees.

[0034] For example, the configuration of the second longitudinal slot 24A advantageously allows the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C to be fully inserted into their respective sockets in the cartridge 90 and then slightly removed from the fully inserted position. For example, a seal (not shown) (e.g., an elastomeric seal, etc.) is disposed within each socket to ensure a fluid seal is formed between the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C and the cartridge 90. Each port 8A, 8B, and 8C compresses the seal in the fully inserted position and then slightly removes the seal so that a fluid seal is formed between the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C and the cartridge 90. The initial compression of the seal ensures that the seal is properly positioned / seated relative to the respective port 8A, 8B, and 8C, and maintains the seal at a desired amount of compression (e.g., a compression that will not damage the seal over time) in the closed position. This configuration advantageously prevents damage to the seal while ensuring that a fluid seal is formed between the ports 8A, 8B, and 8C and the cartridge 90.

[0035] 6 is a top view of the coupling assembly 1 of FIG. 1A. The manifold 2 of the coupling assembly 1 is in a first / closed position in FIG. 6. The coupling assembly 1 includes a locking tab 52 and a spring 54. The locking tab 52 and the spring 54 form a locking mechanism 50 for the lever 40. The locking tab 52 is movably coupled to the lever 40. For example, the locking tab 52 is configured to be movably coupled to the handle 42 of the lever 40 such that the locking tab 52 is slidable along the handle 42 of the lever 40. For example, the locking tab 52 surrounds the handle 42 of the lever 40.

[0036] The spring 54 biases the locking tab 52 (e.g., in a direction opposite to direction D3). The spring 54 urges the locking tab 52 in a first direction along the handle 42 (e.g., away from the first side 44A of the lever, in a direction opposite to direction D3). For example, a protrusion 56 extends from the handle 42, and the spring 54 is configured to press the locking tab 52 against the protrusion 56 on the handle 42. The locking tab 52 is configured to prevent the lever 40 from moving the manifold 2 from the closed position without applying an external force F1 to the locking tab 52. The spring 54 is configured to prevent the locking tab 52 from moving unless an external force F1 opposite to the biasing direction of the spring 54 is applied to the locking tab 52.

[0037] FIG. 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly 1 depicted in FIG. 6 , according to one embodiment. As described above, the cartridge 90 includes an outwardly protruding lip 96. As shown in FIG. 1B , the lip 96 protrudes from the front of the cartridge 90. As shown in FIG. 7 , the locking tab 52 includes a protrusion 58 that contacts the lip 96 of the removable cartridge 90. For example, the protrusion 58 of the locking tab 52 is configured to contact the bottom of the lip 96 of the cartridge 90 when the manifold 2 is in the closed position. The contact between the protrusion 58 and the lip 96 of the cartridge 90 is configured to prevent the lever 40 from moving (e.g., being lifted upward) from the closed position.

[0038] 7 , in the closed position, protrusion 58 hooks locking tab 52 and lever 40 onto lip 96 of cartridge 90, preventing actuation / lifting of lever 40. When an external force F1 is applied to locking tab 52 (e.g., by a technician, an automated arm, etc.), locking tab 52 is moved / pressed in direction D3 such that protrusion 58 no longer contacts lip 96 of removable cartridge 90 (i.e., protrusion 58 no longer hooks onto lip 96 of cartridge 90). Because moved / pressed protrusion 58 is no longer hooked onto cartridge lip 96, locking tab 52 no longer restricts movement of lever 40 and allows lever 40 to move (e.g., be lifted upward). 7, when lever 40 is actuated / returned to the closed position (e.g., lowered to its closed position), actuation of lever 40 to the closed position applies a force to locking tab 52, causing locking tab 52 to move in direction D3 and permitting protrusion 58 to move past lip 96 of cartridge 90. As lever 40 moves to its closed position, spring 54 pushes protrusion 58 back into position to contact the bottom of lip 96 of cartridge 90 and engage locking tab 52 with lip 96 of cartridge 90.

[0039] FIG. 8 is a side view of another embodiment of a first plate 110 for a manifold of a connection assembly. For example, the first plate 110 may be used in an embodiment of a manifold of a connection assembly similar to the first plate 10 in the manifold 2 of the connection assembly 1 of FIGS. 1A-7. The first plate 110 may have similar features to the first plate 10 of FIGS. 1A-7, except for the location / shape of the second longitudinal slot 124 in the first plate 110 (the second longitudinal slot in the second side wall of the first plate 110 is hidden in FIG. 8). As shown in FIG. 8, the second longitudinal slot 124 in the first plate 110 may be shaped such that the second end 126 of the second longitudinal slot 124 is not offset from the first longitudinal slot 120.

[0040] 9 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a coupling assembly 201. The coupling assembly 201 includes a manifold 202. A removable cartridge 290 is disposed within the manifold 202. The coupling assembly 201 has a configuration similar to that of the coupling assembly 201 of FIG. 1A, except for the locking mechanism 250 for the lever 240. It should be understood that the coupling assembly 201 and its manifold 202 (and its components) may be modified as described herein in other embodiments.

[0041] FIG. 10 is a top view of the linkage assembly 201 of FIG. 9 , according to one embodiment. The linkage assembly 201 includes a locking tab 252 and a spring 254. The locking tab 252 and the spring 254 form a locking mechanism 250 for the lever 240. The locking tab 252 is movably coupled to the lever 240. For example, the locking tab 252 is configured to be rotatably coupled to the handle 242 of the lever 240 such that the locking tab 252 is rotatable relative to the handle 242. For example, a shaft 257 extends through both the handle 242 of the lever 240 and the locking tab 252, and the locking tab 252 is configured to rotate about the shaft 257 (e.g., the locking tab 252 having an axis of rotation formed by the shaft 257). The end of the shaft 257 may be shaped to prevent removal of the shaft 257 from the locking tab 252 and / or the lever 240.

[0042] FIG. 11 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly 201 depicted in FIG. 10 , according to one embodiment. The cartridge 290 can have similar features to the cartridge 90 shown in FIGS. 1A-2B and described above. For example, similar to the description of the cartridge 90, the cartridge 290 includes an outwardly protruding lip 296. The lip 296 protrudes from the front of the cartridge 290. As shown in FIG. 11 , the locking tab 252 includes a protrusion 258 that contacts the lip 296 of the removable cartridge 290. For example, the protrusion 258 of the locking tab 252 is configured to contact the bottom of the lip 296 of the cartridge 290 when the manifold 202 is in its closed position. The contact between the protrusion 258 and the lip 296 of the cartridge 90 is configured to prevent the lever 240 from moving (e.g., being lifted upward) from the closed position.

[0043] The spring 254 biases the locking tab 252 (e.g., in a direction opposite to direction D3). The spring 254 urges the locking tab 252 in a first direction (e.g., urges the locking tab 252 in a direction opposite to direction D3, away from the first side 244A of the lever). When the locking tab 252 is rotatably coupled to the lever 240, the bias / pressure of the spring 254 against the locking tab 252 biases the locking tab 252 in a first rotational direction (e.g., a clockwise direction in FIG. 11 ). The locking tab 252 is configured to prevent the lever 240 from moving the manifold 202 from the closed position (as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 ) without applying an external force F2 to the locking tab 252. Spring 254 is configured to prevent locking tab 252 from moving (eg, rotating) unless an external force F2 opposite to the spring's biasing direction (eg, in direction D3) is applied to locking tab 252.

[0044] 11 , in the closed position, the protrusion 258 hooks the locking tab 252 and the lever 240 onto the lip 296 of the cartridge 290, preventing the lever 240 from being actuated / lifted. The bias of the spring 254 presses the locking tab 252 against the lip 296 of the cartridge 290. When an external force F2 is applied to the locking tab 252 (e.g., by a technician, an automated arm, etc.), the locking tab 252 is moved / rotated in a second direction (e.g., a second rotational direction, counterclockwise in FIG. 11 ) so that the protrusion 258 no longer contacts the lip 296 of the cartridge 290 (i.e., the protrusion 258 is no longer hooked onto the lip 296 of the cartridge 290). Because the moved protrusion 258 is no longer hooked onto the lip 296 of the cartridge, the locking tab 252 no longer restricts the movement of the lever 240 and allows the lever 240 to move (e.g., be lifted upward). 10 , when lever 240 is actuated / returned to the closed position (e.g., lowered to its closed position), actuation of lever 240 to the closed position applies a force to locking tab 252, causing locking tab 252 to rotate in a second rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise in FIG. 11 ) and permitting protrusion 258 to move past lip 296 of cartridge 290. As lever 240 moves to its closed position, spring 254 pushes protrusion 258 back into position to contact the bottom of lip 296 of cartridge 290 and engage locking tab 252 with lip 296 of cartridge 290.

[0045] Aspects:

[0046] Any of the aspects 1 to 10 can be combined with any of the aspects 11 to 20.

[0047] Aspect 1. A coupling assembly comprising: a manifold including: a first plate including a first longitudinal slot and a second longitudinal slot extending perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to one another; a second plate including side walls and a flange extending from the side walls, the flange configured to support a removable cartridge, the first plate being disposed between the side walls of the second plate; a lever pivotally coupled to the first and second plates, the lever configured to move the second plate between a first position and a second position relative to the first plate, the lever including a side; a first shaft extending through the first longitudinal slot in the first plate, one of the side walls of the second plate and one of the sides of the lever; and a second shaft extending through the second longitudinal slot in the first plate and one of the sides of the lever.

[0048] Aspect 2. A coupling assembly as described in aspect 1, wherein in a first position, the first shaft is positioned at a first end of the first longitudinal slot and the second shaft is positioned at a first end of the second longitudinal slot, and in a second position, the first shaft is positioned at a second end of the first longitudinal slot and the second shaft is positioned at a second end of the second longitudinal slot.

[0049] Embodiment 3. A coupling assembly as described in any of embodiments 1 and 2, further comprising a locking tab movably coupled to the lever, the locking tab being positioned such that in the second position, a protrusion on the locking tab is positioned below and in contact with a lip of a removable cartridge positioned within the manifold.

[0050] Embodiment 4. The linkage assembly of embodiment 3, wherein the locking tab is configured to prevent movement of the lever from the second position without application of an external force to the locking tab.

[0051] Embodiment 5. A coupling assembly according to any of embodiments 3 and 4, further comprising a spring biasing the locking tab in a first direction, the spring configured to prevent the lever from moving from the second position without applying an external force to the locking tab in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0052] Embodiment 6. A connection assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the second plate includes an end plate extending between and connecting the side walls of the second plate, each side wall and end plate being disposed on a different side of the first plate.

[0053] Embodiment 7. A connection assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, further comprising a mounting plate for mounting the connection assembly, the mounting plate being fixedly attached to either the first plate or the second plate.

[0054] Embodiment 8. The linkage assembly of any of embodiments 1-7, wherein the first longitudinal slot is a vertical slot and the second longitudinal slot is a horizontal slot.

[0055] Embodiment 9. A connection assembly according to any of embodiments 1-8, further comprising ports fixedly coupled to the first plate for passing fluid through the removable cartridge, the ports extending through the top wall of the first plate, the plurality of ports configured to fluidly couple to the removable cartridge in a second position for supplying fluid through the removable cartridge.

[0056] Embodiment 10. The linkage assembly of any of embodiments 1-9, wherein each side of the lever is disposed between the first plate and the second plate.

[0057] Aspect 11. A coupling assembly, comprising: a first plate, the first plate being a manifold, including a first longitudinal slot extending in a first direction and a second longitudinal slot extending in a second direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the first direction, the second longitudinal slot having first and second ends offset from the first longitudinal slot in the first direction; and a second plate including a sidewall and a flange extending from the sidewall, the flange configured to support a removable cartridge, the first plate being A linkage assembly including: a second plate disposed between the side walls of the two plates; a lever pivotally coupled to the first plate and the second plate, the lever configured to move the second plate between a first position and a second position relative to the first plate, the lever including a side; a manifold including a first longitudinal slot in the first plate, a first shaft extending through one of the side walls of the second plate and one of the sides of the lever; and a second shaft extending through a second longitudinal slot in the first plate and one of the sides of the lever.

[0058] Aspect 12. A coupling assembly as described in aspect 11, wherein, in a first position, the first shaft is positioned at a first end of the first longitudinal slot and the second shaft is positioned at a first end of the second longitudinal slot, and in a second position, the first shaft is positioned at a second end of the first longitudinal slot and the second shaft is positioned at a second end of the second longitudinal slot.

[0059] Aspect 13. The linkage assembly of aspect 12, wherein in the first position, the angle between the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal slot and the vector extending from the axis of the first shaft to the axis of the second shaft is greater than 0 degrees, and in the second position, the angle between the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal slot and the vector extending from the axis of the first shaft to the axis of the second shaft is less than 0 degrees.

[0060] Embodiment 14. A coupling assembly according to any of embodiments 11 and 12, wherein the first shaft is configured such that actuation from the first position to the second position causes the first shaft to move in a first direction within the first longitudinal slot, and the second shaft is configured such that actuation from the first position to the second position causes the second shaft to move in a second direction within the second longitudinal slot.

[0061] Embodiment 15. The coupling assembly of any of embodiments 11-14, further comprising a locking tab movably coupled to the lever, the locking tab positioned such that in the second position, a protrusion on the locking tab is positioned below and in contact with a lip of a removable cartridge positioned within the manifold.

[0062] Embodiment 16. The linkage assembly of embodiment 15, wherein the locking tab is configured to prevent the lever from moving from the second position without application of an external force to the locking tab.

[0063] Embodiment 17. A coupling assembly according to any of embodiments 15 and 16, further comprising a spring biasing the locking tab in a first direction, the spring configured to prevent the lever from moving from the second position without applying an external force to the locking tab in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0064] Embodiment 18. The linkage assembly of any one of embodiments 11-17, further comprising a mounting plate for mounting the linkage assembly, the mounting plate being fixedly attached to the first plate.

[0065] Embodiment 19. The linkage assembly of any of embodiments 11-18, wherein the first longitudinal slot is a vertical slot and the second longitudinal slot is a horizontal slot.

[0066] Embodiment 20. A connection assembly according to any one of embodiments 11 to 19, wherein the second plate includes an end plate extending between and connecting the side walls of the second plate, each side wall and end plate being positioned on a different side of the first plate.

[0067] The examples disclosed in this application are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims, rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are intended to be embraced therein.

Claims

1. 1. A coupling assembly comprising: A manifold comprising: a first plate including a first longitudinal slot and a second longitudinal slot extending perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to one another; a second plate including side walls and a flange extending from the side walls, the flange configured to support a removable cartridge, the first plate being disposed between the side walls of the second plate; a lever pivotally coupled to the first plate and the second plate, the lever including a side configured to move the second plate relative to the first plate between a first position and a second position; a first shaft extending through a first longitudinal slot in the first plate, one of the side walls of the second plate, and one of the sides of the lever; a second shaft extending through a second longitudinal slot in the first plate and through one of the sides of the lever; A coupling assembly comprising a manifold including:

2. In the first position, the first shaft is disposed at a first end of the first longitudinal slot and the second shaft is disposed at a first end of the second longitudinal slot; 2. The coupling assembly of claim 1, wherein in the second position, the first shaft is disposed at the second end of the first longitudinal slot and the second shaft is disposed at the second end of the second longitudinal slot.

3. 10. The coupling assembly of claim 1, further comprising a locking tab movably coupled to the lever, the locking tab positioned such that in the second position, a projection of the locking tab is positioned below and in contact with a lip of a removable cartridge disposed within the manifold.

4. 4. The coupling assembly of claim 3, wherein the locking tab is configured to prevent movement of the lever from the second position without application of an external force to the locking tab.

5. 4. The coupling assembly of claim 3, further comprising a spring biasing the locking tab in a first direction, the spring configured to prevent movement of the lever from the second position without application of an external force to the locking tab in a direction opposite the first direction.

6. 2. The coupling assembly of claim 1, wherein the second plate includes an end plate extending between and connecting side walls of the second plate, each side wall and end plate being located on a different side of the first plate.

7. 10. The linkage assembly of claim 1, further comprising a mounting plate for mounting the linkage assembly, the mounting plate being fixedly attached to one of the first plate and the second plate.

8. The linkage assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first longitudinal slot is a vertical slot and the second longitudinal slot is a horizontal slot.

9. 10. The connection assembly of claim 1, further comprising a port fixedly connected to the first plate for passing fluid through the removable cartridge, the port extending through the top wall of the first plate, the plurality of ports configured to fluidly connect to the removable cartridge in the second position for supplying fluid through the removable cartridge.

10. 2. The coupling assembly of claim 1, wherein each side of the lever is disposed between a first plate and a second plate.

11. 1. A coupling assembly comprising: A manifold comprising: a first plate including a first longitudinal slot extending in a first direction and a second longitudinal slot extending in a second direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the first direction, the second longitudinal slot having first and second ends offset from the first longitudinal slot in the first direction; a second plate including side walls and a flange extending from the side walls, the flange configured to support a removable cartridge, the first plate being disposed between the side walls of the second plate; a lever pivotally coupled to the first plate and the second plate, the lever configured to move the second plate relative to the first plate between a first position and a second position, the lever including a side portion; a first shaft extending through a first longitudinal slot in the first plate, one of the side walls of the second plate, and one of the sides of the lever; a second shaft extending through a second longitudinal slot in the first plate and through one of the sides of the lever; A coupling assembly comprising a manifold including:

12. In the first position, the first shaft is disposed at a first end of the first longitudinal slot and the second shaft is disposed at a first end of the second longitudinal slot; 12. The coupling assembly of claim 11, wherein in the second position, the first shaft is disposed at the second end of the first longitudinal slot and the second shaft is disposed at the second end of the second longitudinal slot.

13. In the first position, an angle between a longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal slot and a vector extending from the axis of the first shaft to the axis of the second shaft is greater than 0 degrees; 13. The coupling assembly of claim 12, wherein in the second position, an angle between a longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal slot and a vector extending from the axis of the first shaft to the axis of the second shaft is less than 0 degrees.

14. The first shaft is configured such that actuation from the first position to the second position moves the first shaft in a first direction within the first longitudinal slot; 13. The coupling assembly of claim 12, wherein actuation of the second shaft from the first position to the second position causes the second shaft to move in the second direction within the second longitudinal slot.

15. 12. The coupling assembly of claim 11, further comprising a locking tab movably coupled to the lever, the locking tab positioned such that in the second position, a projection of the locking tab is positioned below and in contact with a lip of a removable cartridge disposed within the manifold.

16. 16. The coupling assembly of claim 15, wherein the locking tab is configured to prevent movement of the lever from the second position without application of an external force to the locking tab.

17. 16. The coupling assembly of claim 15, further comprising a spring biasing the locking tab in a first direction, the spring configured to prevent movement of the lever from the second position without application of an external force to the locking tab in a direction opposite the first direction.

18. 12. The linkage assembly of claim 11, further comprising a mounting plate for mounting the linkage assembly, the mounting plate fixedly attached to the first plate.

19. 12. The coupling assembly of claim 11, wherein the first longitudinal slot is a vertical slot and the second longitudinal slot is a horizontal slot.

20. 12. The coupling assembly of claim 11, wherein the second plate includes an end plate extending between and connecting the side walls of the second plate, each side wall and end plate being located on a different side of the first plate.

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