Fluid connector system

Abstract

A fluid connector system includes first and second valve assemblies that are integrally connectable to form a fluid path therethrough, and when the valve assemblies are separated from each other, they can resist the fluid flow through the connector system, the first valve assembly including a post that forms a fluid passage, and the second valve assembly including a valve plug configured to be positioned in a hole and block the fluid passage, so that when the valve assemblies are separated, the slit in the valve plug resists the fluid flow therethrough, and when the valve assemblies are integrally connected, the post extends through a compressible valve, and the engagement of a protrusion of the valve plug with respect to the post resists the fluid flow between the post and the protrusion.

Description

Technical Field

[0005] ,

[0004] , ,

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to medical fluid connectors, and more particularly to a fluid connector system having a valve assembly that can be integrally connected to form a fluid path.

Background Art

[0002] Medical connection devices are widely used in fluid delivery systems such as systems used in intravenous (IV) fluid lines, blood access, hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, enteral nutrition, drug vial access, and other procedures.

[0003] In some examples, a medical connection device can become inadvertently detached or disconnected. For example, the medical tubing of an IV set connected to a catheter can become detached when an unintentional or unexpected force acts on the catheter that exceeds the design limitations of the catheter fixation method. When the patient moves within the bed or turns over, when the tubing or another part of the intravenous set catches on a part of the bed such as a railing, or when the patient has a panic attack, becomes confused, or becomes restless to such an extent that the medical tubing is inadvertently or intentionally pulled away from the patient or the medical equipment to which the tubing is connected, an unintentional or unexpected force can be applied to the tubing and / or catheter.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to at least some embodiments, it is disclosed herein that the unintentional detachment or disconnection of a medical connection device such as a medical fluid line can lead to harm to the patient or caregiver, such as the patient not receiving medication, an increased risk of infection to the patient, and exposure of the caregiver to harmful medications.

[0005] Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure provide a fluid connector system having a first valve assembly, the first valve assembly having a housing having a first end, a second end opposite to the first end, and an inner surface forming a cavity extending through the second end toward the first end of the housing; a post (columnar portion) having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, the distal end portion of the post extending into the cavity in the direction from the first end of the housing toward the second end of the housing; a fluid passage extending through the first end of the housing and the post; and a compressible valve disposed within the cavity, the compressible valve having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, the proximal end portion having an elastic member having an inner surface forming a recess, and the distal end portion having a head having a slit extending through the head toward the recess; the fluid connector system further comprises a second valve assembly, the second valve assembly having a first end, opposite to the first end The valve comprises a body having a second end, an inner surface forming a hole extending through the second end toward the first end of the body, and a fluid passage extending through the first end of the body to the hole, and a valve plug disposed within the hole, the valve plug having a first end, a second end, and a slit extending through the first and second ends of the valve plug, wherein when the first and second valve assemblies are separated from each other, the compressible valve is in a first position with the distal end of the head aligned with the second end of the housing and the distal end portion of the post positioned in the recess, and when the first and second valve assemblies are connected integrally, the second end of the body is positioned in the cavity of the housing, and as a result the compressible valve is in a second position with the head biased toward the first end of the housing and the distal end portion of the post extending through the slit in the head of the compressible valve and further through the slit in the valve plug, thereby fluidly connecting the fluid passage of the first valve assembly to the fluid passage of the second valve assembly.

[0006] In some examples, the present disclosure provides a method for providing a fluid connector system, the method comprising: providing a first valve assembly having a housing forming a cavity having a post therein, and a compressible valve extending around the post; providing a second valve assembly having a body forming a hole having a valve plug therein; inserting the second end of the body into the cavity of the housing such that the head of the compressible valve is biased toward the first end of the housing; the distal end portion of the post extending through a slit in the head of the compressible valve and further through a slit in the valve plug so as to fluidly connect the fluid passage of the first valve assembly and the fluid passage of the second valve assembly; a projection of the housing positioned between the wall of the body and the first end of the body, and the engagement of the projection with the wall resisting the retraction of the second valve assembly from the first valve assembly, the method comprising advancing the second end of the body into the cavity of the housing.

[0007] This disclosure provides a valve plug for a fluid connector system, the valve plug having a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends of the valve plug; an inner surface forming a recess extending through the first end of the valve plug to the bottom surface between the first and second ends of the valve plug; a slit extending through the second end and bottom surface of the valve plug; and a first portion of the inner surface forming a ridge extending into the recess toward the longitudinal axis and a second portion of the inner surface forming an inclined wall, the ridge having a first engaging surface extending radially inward from the first end of the valve plug toward the longitudinal axis to the apex of the ridge, and a second engaging surface extending radially outward from the apex toward the longitudinal axis, and the inclined wall extending from the second engaging surface to the bottom surface.

[0008] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a fluid connector system has a first valve assembly, the first valve assembly having a housing having a first end, a second end opposite to the first, and an inner surface forming a cavity extending through the second end toward the first end; a post having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, the distal end portion of the post extending within the cavity in a direction from the first end of the housing toward the second end of the housing; and a fluid passage extending through the first end of the housing and the post; the fluid connector system further has a second valve assembly, the second valve assembly having a body having a first end, a second end opposite to the first end, an inner surface forming a hole extending through the second end toward the first end, and a fluid passage extending through the first end toward the hole; and within the hole A valve plug is positioned on a post, the valve plug having a first end, a second end, and an inner surface that forms a recess extending from the first end of the valve plug to the bottom surface between the first and second ends of the valve plug, a slit extending through the second end of the valve plug and the bottom surface, and a first portion of the inner surface that forms a raised portion extending toward the recess toward the longitudinal axis of the valve plug. When the first and second valve assemblies are separated from each other, the opposing inner surfaces of the valve plug forming the slit engage with each other to resist fluid flow through the valve plug. When the first and second valve assemblies are connected together, the distal end portion of the post extends through the slit and raised portion of the valve plug, so that the fluid passage of the first valve assembly is fluidly connected to the fluid passage of the second valve assembly, and the raised portion engages with the post to resist fluid movement between the post and the raised portion.

[0009] Therefore, this application addresses several operational challenges faced by conventional fluid connection devices and provides numerous improvements that enable users to improve safety and effectiveness while making fluid connections easier and more accurate.

[0010] Additional features and advantages of the subject art are described below, and may be partially evident from this description or recognized through the implementation of the subject art. These advantages of the subject art are realized and achieved by the structure specifically indicated in this description, its embodiments, and the accompanying drawings.

[0011] It will be understood that both the above overview and the following detailed explanation are illustrative and descriptive, and are intended to provide a further explanation of the technology of this subject.

[0012] Various features of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The embodiments shown are intended to illustrate the present invention and are not intended to limit it. The drawings include the following figures. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This figure shows a fluid connector system in use, with an IV set connected to a patient, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view showing a fluid connector system according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] This is a perspective view showing the fluid connector system of Figure 2 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] This is a perspective view showing the fluid connector system of Figure 2 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] These are cross-sectional views showing the fluid connector system of Figures 3A and 3B according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional view showing the fluid connector system of Figure 2 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a fluid connector system according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view showing another embodiment of a fluid connector system according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] This is a perspective view showing the fluid connector system of Figure 7 according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 8B] A perspective view showing a fluid connector system of FIG. 7 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] A cross-sectional view showing a fluid connector system of FIGS. 8A and 8B according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] A cross-sectional view showing a fluid connector system of FIG. 7 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] A perspective view showing another example of a valve plug according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] A top view showing the valve plug of FIG. 11 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] A bottom view showing the valve plug of FIG. 11 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] A cross-sectional view showing the valve plug of FIG. 12 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] A diagram showing the force distribution of the valve plug of FIG. 11 during use according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to enable a complete understanding of the technology of the present subject matter. It should be understood that the technology of the present subject matter may be practiced without some of these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and techniques are not shown in detail so as not to obscure the technology of the present subject matter.

[0015] Furthermore, while this description sets forth specific details of various embodiments, it should be recognized that this description is merely exemplary and should in no way be considered limiting. Additionally, while specific embodiments of the present disclosure may be disclosed or shown in the context of an IV set, these embodiments are contemplated to be used in other fluid conveyance systems as well. Moreover, various uses of these embodiments and modifications thereof that would occur to those skilled in the art are also subsumed within the general concepts described herein.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the present application discloses various features and advantages of a fluid connector system. The fluid connector system can achieve efficient and safe maintenance management of fluid connection devices, such as connection devices used to transfer medical fluids towards or away from a patient. The fluid connector system can maintain the fluid path by resisting unintentional cutting when tensile or pulling forces are applied to the fluid connector system, such as when the patient moves or when the medical tubing is pulled away from the patient.

[0017] The fluid connector system can also prevent injury to the patient or caregiver by enabling cutting or separation between multiple parts of the connector system when the tensile or pulling force exceeds a threshold. The fluid connector system can also prevent injury to the patient or caregiver by blocking the fluid path when cutting or separation occurs between multiple parts of the connector system. Further, the fluid connector system can achieve efficient and safe re - establishment of the fluid path by enabling reassembly of multiple parts of the system after cutting or separation has occurred.

[0018] Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1 shows an example of a fluid connector system in use, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The connector system 100 is coupled to the tubing of an IV set used to direct fluid to patient 10. The IV set can include a drug bag 12, a drip chamber 14, tubing 16, and an IV catheter 18.

[0019] The connector system 100 fluidly connects the tubing 16 to the IV catheter 18. While the connector system 100 is shown connected along the fluid pathway of the IV set between the drug bag 12 and the patient 10, it should be understood that the connector system 100 can also be connected in other fluid pathways, such as between the patient and the IV pump or between the patient and the dialysis machine. The connector system 100 can also be connected along other parts of the fluid pathway. For example, the connector system 100 can be connected along the proximal part of the fluid pathway, such as between the tubing 16 and the drug bag 12 or other infusion therapy devices.

[0020] The connector system 100 includes a first valve assembly 110 and a second valve assembly 210, as shown in Figure 2. The first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 can be connected integrally by inserting a portion of the second valve assembly 210 into the first valve assembly 110. When the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 are connected integrally, a fluid path is formed through the connector system 100.

[0021] When either the first valve assembly 110 or the second valve assembly 210 is pulled away from each other, such as when the tensile force or tension applied to the connector system 100 exceeds a threshold, the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 can separate from each other. When the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 separate from each other as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, each of the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 can resist the fluid flow through it. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, each of the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 can resist the fluid flow by blocking the fluid passage through their respective assemblies.

[0022] The first valve assembly 110 includes a housing 112 having an internal cavity and a compressible valve 114 positioned within the cavity. When the first valve assembly 110 is not coupled to a second valve assembly 210 or other opposing connector, the compressible valve 114 is in a first position, where the fluid passage through the first valve assembly 110 is blocked by the compressible valve 114 to resist the fluid flow through the fluid passage of the first valve assembly 110.

[0023] When the first valve assembly 110 is connected to the second valve assembly 210, the compressible valve 114 is moved to a second position, where the fluid passage through the first valve assembly 110 is opened to reduce resistance to the fluid flow through the fluid passage of the first valve assembly 110.

[0024] The second valve assembly 210 includes a body 212 having an internal bore and a valve plug 214 positioned within the bore 220. When the first valve assembly 110 is not connected to the second valve assembly 210, the fluid passage through the second valve assembly 210 is blocked by the valve plug 214.

[0025] When the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 are connected together, a portion of the first valve assembly 110 moves or biases the valve plug 214 to fluidly connect the fluid passage through the first valve assembly 110 to the fluid passage through the second valve assembly 210.

[0026] Cross-sectional views of the connector system 100 are shown in Figures 4 and 5. The first valve assembly 110 includes a housing 112 having a first end 116 and a second end 118. The inner surface of the housing 112 forms a cavity 119 that extends from the second end 118 toward the first end 116 of the housing.

[0027] The first valve assembly 110 further includes a post 120 that extends within the cavity and forms at least a portion of the fluid passage through the first valve assembly 110. The post includes a proximal end portion 122 and a distal end portion 124, where the distal end portion 124 of the post extends within the cavity from a first end 116 of the housing toward a second end 118 of the housing. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the proximal end portion 122 of the post is connected to the first end 116 of the housing, so that the fluid passage 126 of the first valve assembly 110 extends through the first end 116 of the housing and the post 120.

[0028] The post 120 includes an inner surface that forms a fluid passage 126 extending through the proximal end portion 122 and the distal end portion 124 of the post. At the distal end portion 124 of the post, the fluid passage 126 extends through an opening located at the distal end 127 of the post. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the opening for the fluid passage is located spaced apart from the distal end 127 of the post.

[0029] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the post 120 may be configured as a needle extending within the cavity and forming at least a portion of the fluid passage through the first valve assembly 110. The post 120 may be formed integrally with the housing 112 or another part of the first valve assembly 110, or the post 120 may be connected to the housing 112 or another part of the first valve assembly 110. In some embodiments, the post 120 is formed from a material comprising either a polymer or / or a metal.

[0030] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the housing 112 defines a boss 128 extending from a first end 116 of the housing away from a second end 118 of the housing. The boss 128 may include a portion of a fluid passage 126 of a first valve assembly 110. The cross-sectional width of the fluid passage 126 extending through the boss 128 may be configured as a bond pocket to allow the end of a pipe to be positioned within or inserted into the fluid passage 28. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the cross-sectional width of the fluid passage 126 extending through the boss 128 is approximately equal to or greater than the cross-sectional width of the pipe. In some embodiments, the pipe may be connected to the first valve assembly 110 by either utilizing an interference fit and / or by creating a joint between the first valve assembly 110 and the pipe.

[0031] The compressible valve 114 is located within the cavity and is configured to resist the fluid flow through the fluid passage 126 when it is in a first position. The fluid flow through the fluid passage 126 is resisted by a portion of the compressible valve 114 located between the distal end 127 of the post and the second end 118 of the housing when the compressible valve 114 is in the first position.

[0032] The compressible valve 114 includes a proximal end portion 132 and a distal end portion 134. The distal end portion 132 has an elastic member having an inner surface that forms a recess 136. The distal end portion 134 has a head 138 that defines the distal end 140 of the compressible valve 114. The head 138 includes a slit 139 that extends through the head 138 to the recess 136.

[0033] The portion of the compressible valve 114 forming the elastic member is shown in cross-section as a tubular structure having an accordion-shaped wall, but the elastic member can be formed as any structure that can bias or guide the head 138 toward the second end 118 of the housing. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the elastic member can be formed by a spring or arm positioned between the head 138 and either the first end 116 or the second end 118 of the housing.

[0034] When the compressible valve 114 is in the first position, the distal end 140 of the compressible valve 114 is aligned with the second end 118 of the housing. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, when the compressible valve 114 is in the first position, a common plane intersects the distal end 140 of the compressible valve 114 and the second end 118 of the housing.

[0035] To resist the fluid flow through the fluid passage 126, the first valve assembly 110 is further configured such that the distal end portion 124 of the post engages with the head 138, thereby blocking the fluid passage 126 of the post. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the most distal end of the post 120 is positioned within the slit 139 of the head. The head 138 may include a cavity or concave inner surface extending from the recess 136 toward the distal end 140 of the compressible valve 114. When the compressible valve 114 is in the first position, the head 138 engages with the opening of the fluid passage through the post to resist the fluid flow therethrough.

[0036] When the compressible valve 114 is in a first position, the head 138 of the compressible valve can further engage with a projection 144 of the housing. The projection 114 extends in one direction from the inner surface of the housing 112 into the cavity. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection 114 is located at a second end 118 of the housing and extends around the outer circumference of the inner surface, so that when the compressible valve 114 moves toward the first position, for example when the head 138 moves toward the second end 118 of the housing, the head 138 can engage with the projection 144.

[0037] During use, as the head 138 moves toward the second end 118 of the housing, the engagement of the head 138 with the projection 144 can resist the movement of the head 138 in the direction from the first end 116 toward the second end 118 of the housing. The engagement of the head 138 with the projection 144 can further form a seal between the head 138 and the housing 112.

[0038] The first valve assembly 110 is configured to connect with the second valve assembly 210 by inserting a portion of the second valve assembly 210 through the second end 118 of the housing 112 of the first valve assembly 110. In this way, the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 can be moved toward each other to fluidly connect them.

[0039] Figure 4 further shows a cross-sectional view of the second valve assembly 210 separated and spaced apart from the first valve assembly 110. The second valve assembly 210 includes a body 212 having a first end 216 and a second end 218. The inner surface of the body 212 forms a hole 220 that extends through the second end 218 toward the first end 216 of the body.

[0040] The body 212 further includes a fluid passage 226 that extends through a first end 216 of the body to a hole 220. A valve plug 214 is positioned in the hole 220 and is configured to block the fluid passage 226 when the second valve assembly 210 is not connected to the first valve assembly 110.

[0041] The valve plug 214 includes a first end 236, a second end 238, and a slit 240 extending through the first end 236 and the second end 238 of the valve plug. The second end 238 of the valve plug is aligned with the second end 218 of the body. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a common plane intersects the second end 238 of the valve plug and the second end 218 of the body.

[0042] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second end of the body 212 extends radially inward toward the cavity. The radially inward-extending portion of the body 212 can engage with the valve plug 214 and can resist the movement of the valve plug 214 toward the hole 220.

[0043] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first end 216 of the body defines a male luer 242 structure extending away from the second end 218, forming at least a portion of the fluid passage 226. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first end 116 and the first end 216 of either the first valve assembly 110 or the second valve assembly 210 may include a bond pocket, a female luer, and / or a male luer.

[0044] The body 212 forms a wall 244 configured to engage with a portion of the first valve assembly 110 when the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 are integrally connected. The wall 244 may be formed by a portion of the body 212 extending away from the outer surface in a direction that is lateral to the longitudinal axis A2 extending between the first end 216 and the second end 218 of the body. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the wall 244 may be formed by a portion of the outer surface of the body 212 that is convex or concave with respect to adjacent portions of the outer surface of the body 212.

[0045] The first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 can be joined together by inserting the second end 218 of the body for the second valve assembly 210 through an opening into the cavity at the second end 218 of the housing for the first valve assembly 110, as shown in Figure 5.

[0046] As the body 212 is inserted into the cavity and advanced toward the first end 116 of the housing, the second end 218 of the body and / or the second end 238 of the valve plug engage with the distal end 140 of the compressible valve. As the second valve assembly 210 is advanced toward the first end 116 of the housing, the elastic member formed by the proximal end portion 132 of the compressible valve is compressed, causing the head to move toward the first end 116. The movement of the head 138 toward the first end 116 of the housing causes the distal end portion 124 of the post to move through or pass through the slit 139 in the head and the slit 240 in the valve plug.

[0047] The body 212 is advanced toward the first end 116 of the housing until the projection 144 of the housing moves over and passes the wall 244 of the body, so that the projection 144 is positioned between the wall 244 and the first end 216 of the body when the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 are connected together.

[0048] The distance between the wall 244 and the second end 218 of the body is configured to resist separation of the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 while maintaining the fluid path through the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210. By resisting separation in this way and maintaining the fluid path, the wall 244 is spaced apart from the second end 218 of the body by a distance D1, where the distance D2 is approximately equal to or greater than the sum of the lengths L1 of the slit 139 and L2 of the slit 240.

[0049] When the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 are connected together, the opening passing through the distal end 127 of the post is positioned between the valve plug 214 and the first end 216 of the body, and as a result, the fluid passage 126 of the first valve assembly 110 is fluidly connected to the fluid passage 226 of the second valve assembly 210.

[0050] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, such as the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the opening 141 for the fluid passage is located spaced apart from the distal end 127 of the post. The opening 141 forms a portion of the fluid passage 126 that extends in a direction lateral to the longitudinal axis A2 formed by the fluid passage 126. For example, an opening 141 at the distal end portion 124 of the post can form a portion of the fluid passage 126 that extends radially outward in a direction away from the longitudinal axis A2.

[0051] The opening may be spaced apart from the distal end 127 of the post and may be aligned with the longitudinal axis A2 or form part of a fluid passage 126 extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A2. In some examples, the distal end 127 of the post has an outer surface that tapers to form a cross-sectional width that decreases in the direction from the proximal end portion 122 of the post to the distal end 127, and the opening extends through this tapered outer surface.

[0052] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the valve plug 214 may include an inner surface that forms a recess 241 intersecting the slit 240. When the first valve assembly 110 and the second valve assembly 210 are integrally connected, the post of the first valve assembly 110 can move through the slit 240 and the recess 241.

[0053] The recess extends into the first end 236 of the valve plug in a direction toward the second end 238 of the valve plug. The recess 241 may further include a raised portion extending from the inner surface into the recess in a direction toward the longitudinal axis A2. The raised portion may be configured to engage with the post 120 of the first valve assembly 110 to form a seal between the raised portion of the valve plug 214 and the post 120. When the post 120 is positioned to pass through the valve plug 214, the raised portion can resist the movement of fluid between the valve plug 214 and the post 120 that would otherwise attempt to exit the hole 220.

[0054] Referring to Figure 7, an embodiment of the connector system 400 is shown, in which a portion of the first valve assembly 410 is received within the sleeve 550 of the second valve assembly 510 when the first valve assembly 410 and the second valve assembly 510 are connected together. Features of the connector system 400 that are similar to those described with reference to other embodiments herein are not repeated herein for the sake of clarity and brevity.

[0055] In Figures 8A and 8B, the connector system 400 is shown with the first valve assembly 410 cut or separated from the second valve assembly 510. The first valve assembly 410 includes a projection 460 that extends away from the outer surface of the housing 412. When the first valve assembly 410 and the second valve assembly 510 are connected together, the projection 460 is inserted into the space between the inner surface of the sleeve 550 and the outer surface of the body 212.

[0056] Cross-sectional views of the connector system 100 are shown in Figures 9 and 10. The first valve assembly 410 includes a housing 412 having a first end 416 and a second end 418. The inner surface of the housing 412 forms a cavity that extends from the second end 418 toward the first end 416 of the housing.

[0057] The first valve assembly 410 further includes a post 420 extending within the cavity, forming at least a portion of the fluid passage through the first valve assembly 410. The post 420 includes a proximal end portion 422 and a distal end portion 424, where the distal end portion 424 of the post extends within the cavity from the first end 416 toward the second end 418 of the housing.

[0058] The post 420 includes an inner surface that forms a fluid passage 426 extending through the proximal end portion 422 and the distal end portion 424 of the post. At the distal end portion 424 of the post, the fluid passage 426 extends through an opening 421 spaced apart from the distal end portion 427 of the post. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the opening 421 extends through a portion of the post having an outer surface that tapers to form a cross-sectional width that decreases away from the proximal end portion 422.

[0059] A compressible valve 414 is positioned within the cavity and configured to block the fluid passage 426 when in a first position. The compressible valve 414 includes a proximal end portion 432 and a distal end portion 434. Similar to the compressible valve 114 disclosed with reference to Figures 4 and 5, the proximal end portion 432 has an elastic member, and the distal end portion 434 has a head 438 having a slit that extends through the head 438 to a recess in the elastic member.

[0060] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the head 438 has an inner surface that forms a portion of a recess extending from a proximal end portion 432 toward a distal end portion 434 of the compressible valve. The recess along the head 438 may be configured such that the head engages with a post to block the opening 421 when the compressible valve is in a first position.

[0061] The recessed portion along the head 438 is formed by an inner surface having a cross-sectional width substantially equal to the cross-sectional width of the outer surface of the distal end portion 424 of the post. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the recessed portion along the head 438 may have a cross-sectional width that tapers to form a width that decreases in the direction from the proximal end portion 432 toward the distal end 440 of the head 438.

[0062] To engage with the post, the first portion 450 of the recess may have a cross-sectional width W1 that is approximately equal to the cross-sectional width of the outer surface of the post located between the proximal end portion 432 and the opening 421. The second portion 452 of the recess, located between the first portion 450 of the recess and the distal end 440 of the head, may have a cross-sectional width W2 that is approximately equal to the cross-sectional width of the outer surface of the post located between the opening 421 and the distal end 427 of the post.

[0063] When the compressible valve 414 is in the first position, the head 438 is positioned such that the distal end portion 424 of the post is located within the recess of the head in order to resist the fluid flow through the passage 426 and the opening 421 of the post.

[0064] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, when the compressible valve 414 is in a first position, the inner surface of the head along the first portion 450 of the recess engages with a portion of the post between the proximal end portion 432 and the opening 421, and the inner surface of the head along the second portion 452 of the recess engages with a portion of the post between the opening 421 and the distal end 427 of the post.

[0065] When the compressible valve 414 is in the first position, the head 438 of the compressible valve can further engage with a ledge 425 of the housing. The ledge 425 terminates in a direction from the inner surface of the housing 412 toward the cavity. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ledge 425 is formed by a portion of the inner surface of the housing having a cross-sectional width that tapers toward a second end 418 of the housing from a first end 416 toward a second end 418 of the housing.

[0066] As the compressible valve 414 moves toward the first position, the outer surface of the head 438 can engage with the shelf portion 425. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the outer surface of the head 438 defines a tapered cross-sectional width of the head such that the cross-sectional width decreases toward the distal end 440 of the head.

[0067] The housing 412 further includes a projection 460 configured to engage with the second valve assembly 510 when the first valve assembly 410 and the second valve assembly 510 are integrally connected. The projection 460 may be formed by a portion of the housing 412 extending away from the outer surface in a direction that is lateral to the longitudinal axis A1 extending between the first end 416 and the second end 418 of the housing. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection 460 may be formed by a portion of the outer surface of the housing 412 that is convex or concave relative to adjacent portions of the outer surface of the housing 412.

[0068] The projection 460 is located at the second end 418 of the housing, and the shelf 425 is spaced apart from the projection 460 along the longitudinal axis A1. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the distal end 427 of the post is located longitudinally between the shelf 425 and the projection 460.

[0069] The projection 460 is configured to engage with the second valve assembly 510 to resist unintended separation of the first valve assembly 410 and the second valve assembly 510 from each other. The second valve assembly 510 may include a body 512 having an internal bore and a valve plug 514 positioned within the bore 520. When the first valve assembly 410 is not connected to the second valve assembly 510, the valve plug 514 blocks the fluid passage through the second valve assembly 510.

[0070] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the valve plug 514 includes a groove 515 extending into the outer surface between a first end and a second end of the valve plug. The groove 515 may extend around the circumference of the valve plug in a direction toward the longitudinal axis A2 of the second valve assembly 510. In some embodiments, the groove 515 may allow the valve plug 514 to bend or be biased when the post 420 is moved through the valve plug 514.

[0071] To prevent the first valve assembly 410 and the second valve assembly 510 from unintentionally separating from each other, the second valve assembly 510 includes a sleeve 550. The sleeve extends along the outer surface of the body 512 in a direction toward the second end 518 of the body, from the first end 516. In some embodiments, the sleeve 550 extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A2 that extends between the first end 516 and the second end 518 of the body.

[0072] The sleeve 550 is spaced apart from the body 512 to allow a portion of the first valve assembly 410 to be inserted between them. The space between the sleeve 550 and the body 512 is formed between the inner surface of the sleeve 550 and the outer surface of the body 512.

[0073] When a portion of the first valve assembly 410 is positioned between the sleeve 550 and the body 512, the engagement of the sleeve 550 and the housing 412 with respect to each other can resist unintended separation of the first valve assembly 410 and the second valve assembly 510.

[0074] A portion of the sleeve 550 that engages with the housing 412 may include a wall 544. The wall 544 extends away from the inner surface of the sleeve in a direction toward the outer surface of the body 512. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the distal end of the wall is spaced a distance D3 from the outer surface of the body 512. If the distance D3 is less than the thickness T1 of the distal end of the housing 412, the sleeve may be curved or biased away from the outer surface of the body 512 when the second end 418 of the housing 412 is inserted between the sleeve 550 and the body 512.

[0075] Figure 10 shows cross-sectional views of the first valve assembly 410 and the second valve assembly 510, which are integrally connected. When the body 512 is inserted into the cavity of the housing 412 and advanced toward the first end 416 of the housing, either the second end 518 of the body and / or the second end 538 of the valve plug engages with the distal end 440 of the compressible valve 414.

[0076] As the body 512 and housing 412 are moved toward each other, the second end 418 of the housing moves into the space between the sleeve 550 and the outer surface of the body 512. In this case, the body 512 and housing 412 are moved further toward each other until the projection 460 is positioned between the wall 544 and the first end 516 of the body, and as a result the engagement of the projection 460 with respect to the wall 544 resists unintended separation of the first valve assembly 410 and the second valve assembly 510.

[0077] As the body 512 is inserted into the cavity 412 of the housing and advanced toward the first end 416 of the housing, the fluid passage 426 of the housing is fluidly connected to the fluid passage 526 of the body when the body 512 is advanced into the housing 412 by the distance by which the opening 421 passing through the distal end portion of the post is positioned between the valve plug 514 and the first end 516 of the body.

[0078] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the distal end 427 of the post is positioned longitudinally between the shelf portion 425 and the projection 460, so that the first valve assembly 410 and the second valve assembly 510 are integrally connected, and an opening 421 passing through the distal end portion of the post is positioned between the valve plug 514 and the first end portion 516 of the body.

[0079] When the first valve assembly 410 and the second valve assembly 510 are connected together, the fluid path of the connector system 400 is formed by the fluid passage 426 of the first valve assembly 410 and the fluid passage 526 of the second valve assembly 510. When the first valve assembly 410 and the second valve assembly 510 are disconnected or separated from each other, the compressible valve 414 moves to an unrestrained position, as a result the head 438 blocks or resists the fluid flow through the post and the valve plug 514 resists the fluid flow through the fluid passage 526.

[0080] Embodiments of valve plugs 615 for connector systems are shown in Figures 11 to 15. Valve plugs 615 include structures that seal or restrict fluid paths through the valve plug when small and large pressures act on the valve. Large pressures may act on the valve when posts 120, 420 of a fluid coupling assembly are inserted through the valve plug 615 and pressure is directed towards the valve plug by fluid from the posts or connector system. To prevent the formation of unintended paths between posts 120, 420 and the valve plug 615 that could cause fluid leakage during this time, the structures of the valve plug 615 provide substantially uniform sealing pressure to posts 120, 420 of the fluid coupling assembly.

[0081] The valve plug 615 includes a first end 636, a second end 638, and a slit 640 extending from the second end 638 toward the first end 636 of the valve plug. The slit 640 is formed by the inner surface of the valve plug 615 and forms a path through at least a portion of the valve plug 615. The slit 640 can allow a post for a valve assembly to be inserted through it, and can close the path when no post is inserted through the valve plug 615.

[0082] For example, when the valve plug 615 is disconnected, such as when the posts 120 and 420 of the fluid coupling assembly do not extend into the valve plug, the inner surfaces of the valve plug 615 forming the slit 640 engage with each other, closing or blocking the path through the slit. For example, when the valve plug 615 is connected, such as when the posts 120 and 420 of the fluid coupling assembly extend into the valve plug, at least a portion of the inner surface of the valve plug 615 forming the slit 640 is moved away from each other by the insertion of the posts between them, and these portions of the inner surface of the valve plug 615 forming the slit 640 engage with the posts, resisting the movement of fluid between the posts and the valve plug 615.

[0083] In some embodiments, the second end 638 of the valve plug includes a recessed or concave surface 639, as shown in Figures 11, 12, and 14, which extends from the second end 638 toward the first end of the valve plug. The concave surface 639 and the slit 640 are aligned with respect to each other, so that the slit 640 is positioned approximately in the center of the concave surface 639.

[0084] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, another portion of the inner surface of the valve plug 615 can form a recess 641 that extends through the first end 636 of the valve plug to the bottom surface 643 between the first end 636 and the second end 638 of the valve plug. The slit 640 extends through the bottom surface 643, thereby creating a path that passes through the slit 460 and the recess 641 and further through the entirety of the first end 636 and the second end 638 of the valve plug.

[0085] Furthermore, the inner surface of the valve plug 615 forms a raised portion 646 that extends radially inward toward the longitudinal axis A6 defined between the first end 636 and the second end 638 of the valve plug. The raised portion 646 includes a first engaging surface 648 that extends radially inward from the first end 636 of the valve plug toward the longitudinal axis A6 to the apex 650 of the raised portion. A second engaging surface 652 of the raised portion extends radially outward from the apex 650 toward the bottom surface 643 of the recess away from the longitudinal axis A6.

[0086] Between the raised portion 646 and the bottom surface 643, the inner surface of the valve plug forms an inclined wall 654. The inclined wall 654 has a length that extends from the first end of the inclined wall at the second engaging surface 652 of the raised portion to the second end of the inclined wall at the bottom surface 643 of the recess.

[0087] At least a portion of the length of the inclined wall 654 is oriented to extend away from the longitudinal axis A6. The inclined wall 654 forms a straight conical surface between the second engaging surface 652 and the base surface 643. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the entire length of the inclined wall 654 forms a straight conical surface extending away from the longitudinal axis A6. In some embodiments, a portion of the length of the inclined wall 654 may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis A6 and / or away from the longitudinal axis A6. The present disclosure also envisions embodiments in which the entire length or a portion of the length of the inclined wall 654 forms either a concave surface extending away from the longitudinal axis A6 or a convex surface extending toward the longitudinal axis A6.

[0088] The raised portion 646 is configured to engage with a post for a valve assembly that is inserted into a recess 641 of the valve plug. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, at least the apex 650 of the raised portion can engage with the post, creating a seal between the post and the valve plug 615, which resists the movement of fluid between them.

[0089] The inclined wall 654 has a circumferential portion that extends around the longitudinal axis A6 or surrounds the longitudinal axis A6. The circumferential portion of the inclined wall 654 is configured to extend over the entire longitudinal axis of the valve plug 615, thereby forming an annular shape around the longitudinal axis A6. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the inclined wall 654 is discontinuous along its circumferential portion. In some embodiments, the discontinuity of the inclined wall 654 may be formed by any of channels, grooves, ridges, and / or depressions formed on the inclined wall 654.

[0090] The inner surface of the valve plug 615 defines the width of a recess 641 that is lateral to the longitudinal axis A6, and this width varies between the first end 636 and the bottom surface 643 of the valve plug. The recess has a first width WR1 at the apex 650 of the raised portion, and a second width WR1 at the first end of the inclined wall 654 adjacent to the second engaging surface 652. The inner surface of the valve plug 615 is formed such that, as a result, the minimum width of the recess 641 is the first width WR1 at the apex 650 of the raised portion, and the width of the rest of the recess is greater than the first width WR1.

[0091] The width of the recess 641, which is lateral to the longitudinal axis A6, expands and contracts between the first end 636 of the valve plug and the bottom surface 643. This width expands along the first engagement surface 648 from the first end 636 of the valve plug to the apex 650 of the raised portion. The width of the recess contracts along the second engagement surface 652 from the apex 650 of the raised portion to the inclined wall 654. This width expands along the inclined wall 654 toward the bottom surface 643.

[0092] The recess 641 extends into the valve plug from the first end 636 of the valve plug to the bottom surface for a total distance DR, where the total distance has a first portion DR-1 and a second portion DR-2. The raised portion 646 extends along the first portion DR-1 of the recess's distance, and the inclined wall 654 extends along the second portion DR-2 of the recess's distance. The second portion DR-2 of the recess's distance is greater than the first portion DR-1 of the recess's distance. In some examples of this disclosure, the total distance DR from the first end 636 of the valve plug to the bottom surface 643 is less than the distance DS from the second end 638 of the valve plug to the bottom surface 643.

[0093] The valve plug 615 provides a fluid path that is sealed when the valve plug is disconnected, for example, when the posts 120 and 420 of the fluid coupling assembly do not extend into the valve plug, and provides a substantially uniform sealing pressure when the valve plug is connected, for example, when the posts 120 and 420 of the fluid coupling assembly extend into the valve plug. The uniform sealing pressure provided by the valve plug 615 is shown in Figure 15, which shows the magnitude of the pressure directed towards the posts 120 and 420 of the fluid coupling assembly by the slit 640 and the raised portion 646, where the posts 120 and 420 are omitted in Figure 15 for clarity.

[0094] The pressure directed by the raised portion 646 towards the posts 120 and 420 of the fluid coupling assembly is uniformly distributed around the entire periphery of the raised portion 646, thereby resisting fluid movement or leakage between the posts 120 and 420 and the raised portion 646. The pressure P1 acting on the posts 120 and 420 by the raised portion 646 is uniformly distributed around the periphery of the posts 120 and 420. The pressure acting by the raised portion is maximum at the apex 650 and decreases away from the apex 650 along the first engagement surface 648 and the second engagement surface 652.

[0095] The pressure P2 acting on posts 120 and 420 by the slit 640 is smaller at the lateral end portion 662 of the slit 640 than at the central portion 664 of the slit 640. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the distance from the apex 650 to the bottom surface 643 of the recess is greater than the distance from the first end 636 of the valve plug to the apex 650, which enables the pressure P2 acting on posts 120 and 420 by the slit 640 to be maximized along the second engaging surface 652 of the raised portion.

[0096] When the posts 120, 420 of the fluid coupling assembly are inserted into the valve plug, a portion of the valve plug forming the slit 640 can be moved into or deformed into the recess, for example, as shown in Figure 15. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the central portion 664 of the slit is deformed into the recess 641, and at least a portion of the bottom surface 643 is moved into a portion of the recess along the inclined wall 654, which is identified in Figure 14 as a second portion DR-2 of the recess's distance.

[0097] When the posts 120, 420 of the fluid coupling assembly are withdrawn from the valve plug 615 or otherwise removed, the valve plug is in a disconnected state, in which the inner surfaces forming the slit 640 engage with each other, closing the fluid path through the valve plug 615 and resisting the movement of fluid between them.

[0098] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the valve plug 615 can resist the movement of fluid through the slit 640 in the disconnected state when the fluid pressure is between approximately 6.9 kPa (1 PSI) and approximately 827.4 kPa (120 PSI). In some embodiments, the valve plug 615 can resist the movement of fluid through the slit 640 in the disconnected state when the fluid pressure is less than or equal to approximately 413.7 kPa (60 PSI). In some embodiments of this disclosure, the valve plug 615 can resist the movement or leakage of fluid between the posts 120, 420 and the raised portion 646 in the connected state when the fluid pressure is between approximately 6.9 kPa (1 PSI) and approximately 3309 kPa (480 PSI). In some embodiments, the valve plug 615 can resist the movement or leakage of fluid between the posts 120, 420 and the raised portion 646 when the fluid pressure is less than or equal to approximately 2206 kPa (320 PSI).

[0099] While this disclosure discloses a valve plug 615 as a single, uniform component, the disclosure also intends embodiments in which the valve plug 615 is formed by two distinct components, where it will be understood that the first component forms the first end 636, the raised portion 646, and the inclined wall 654, and the second component forms the slit 640 and the second end 638. The first and second components may be assembled together or joined together to form the valve plug 615. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the first and second components may be arranged within valve assemblies 210, 410 such that the first and second components are spaced apart so that there is a certain distance between them.

[0100] Examples of the subject as an item The technology of this subject matter is presented, for example, according to the various embodiments described below. Various examples of embodiments of the technology of this subject matter are described as numbered sections (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These sections are provided as examples and do not limit the technology of this subject matter. Note that any of the subordinate sections may be combined in any combination, for example, into separate independent sections such as section 1 or section 5. Other sections may be presented in the same manner.

[0101] (Section 1) Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure provide a fluid connector system having a first valve assembly, the first valve assembly comprising a housing having a first end, a second end opposite to the first end, and an inner surface forming a cavity extending through the second end toward the first end of the housing; a post having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, the distal end portion of the post extending within the cavity in a direction from the first end of the housing toward the second end of the housing; a fluid passage extending through the first end of the housing and the post; and a compressible valve disposed within the cavity, the compressible valve having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, the proximal end portion having an elastic member having an inner surface forming a recess, and the distal end portion having a head having a slit extending through the head toward the recess; the fluid connector system further comprises a second valve assembly, the second valve assembly comprising a first end, and a second end opposite to the first end A valve has a body having an inner surface that forms a hole extending from the end of the body, through the second end toward the first end of the body, and a fluid passage extending from the first end of the body toward the hole, and a valve plug disposed in the hole, wherein the valve plug has a first end, a second end, and a slit extending through the first and second ends of the valve plug, and when the first and second valve assemblies are separated from each other, the compressible valve is in a first position with the distal end of the head aligned with the second end of the housing and the distal end portion of the post positioned in the recess, and when the first and second valve assemblies are connected together, the second end of the body is positioned in the cavity of the housing, and as a result the compressible valve is in a second position with the head biased toward the first end of the housing and the distal end portion of the post extending through the slit in the head of the compressible valve and further through the slit in the valve plug, and as a result the fluid passage of the first valve assembly is fluidly connected to the fluid passage of the second valve assembly.

[0102] (Section 2) A fluid connector system according to item 1, wherein the housing of the first valve assembly has a projection extending in the direction from the inner surface of the housing toward the cavity.

[0103] (Section 3) A fluid connector system according to item 2, wherein the projection is located proximal to the second end of the housing.

[0104] (Section 4) The fluid connector system of item 2, wherein when the compressible valve is in a first position, the head of the compressible valve engages with the projection.

[0105] (Section 5) The fluid connector system of item 2, wherein the outer surface of the body of the second valve assembly has a wall extending away from the outer surface in a direction that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end of the body.

[0106] (Section 6) The fluid connector system of item 5, wherein when the first and second valve assemblies are integrally connected, the projection of the first valve assembly is positioned between the wall and the first end of the body.

[0107] (Section 7) A fluid connector system according to item 1, wherein the fluid passage of the first valve assembly has an opening that passes through the distal end of the post.

[0108] (Section 8) A fluid connector system according to item 1, wherein the fluid passage of the first valve assembly has an opening spaced apart from the distal end of the post.

[0109] (Section 9) A fluid connector system according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, wherein a first end of a housing has a bond pocket extending into the first end of the housing in a direction toward a second end of the housing, and a fluid passage of a first valve assembly extends through the bond pocket.

[0110] (Section 10) A fluid connector system according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the second end of the body extends radially inward toward the cavity, and the second end of the valve plug is aligned with the second end of the body.

[0111] (Section 11) A fluid connector system according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, wherein a first end of a body has a male luer extending away from a second end of the body, and a fluid passage of a second valve assembly extends through the male luer.

[0112] (Section 12) A fluid connector system according to any one of items 1 to 11, wherein either the first end of the housing or the first end of the body has a bond pocket, a female luer, and / or a male luer.

[0113] (Section 13) A fluid connector system according to any one of items 1 to 12, wherein the inner surface of the housing has a shelf portion, and as a result, the cross-sectional width of the inner surface of the housing decreases in the direction from the first end toward the second end of the housing.

[0114] (Section 14) A fluid connector system according to item 13, wherein the housing has a projection extending from the outer surface of the housing in a direction away from the cavity, and the shelf is spaced apart from the projection along a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end of the housing.

[0115] (Section 15) The fluid connector system of item 13, wherein when the compressible valve is in a first position, the head of the compressible valve engages with the shelf.

[0116] (Section 16) A fluid connector system according to item 14, wherein the second valve assembly has a sleeve extending toward the second end of the body along a longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends of the body, the inner surface of the sleeve being spaced apart from the outer surface of the body.

[0117] (Section 17) A fluid connector system according to item 16, wherein the wall extends from the inner surface of the sleeve toward the outer surface of the body.

[0118] (Section 18) The fluid connector system of item 17, wherein when the first and second valve assemblies are integrally connected, the projection of the first valve assembly is positioned between the wall and the first end of the body.

[0119] (Section 19) A fluid connector system according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 18, wherein when the first and second valve assemblies are connected integrally, a fluid can flow from the first valve assembly to the second valve assembly or from the second valve assembly to the first valve assembly.

[0120] (Section 20) A method for providing a fluid connector system, comprising: providing a first valve assembly having a housing forming a cavity having a post therein, and a compressible valve extending around the post; providing a second valve assembly having a body forming a hole having a valve plug therein; inserting the second end of the body into the cavity of the housing such that the head of the compressible valve is biased toward the first end of the housing; the distal end portion of the post extending through a slit in the head of the compressible valve and further through a slit in the valve plug so as to fluidly connect the fluid passage of the first valve assembly and the fluid passage of the second valve assembly; a projection of the housing positioned between the wall of the body and the first end of the body, and the engagement of the projection with the wall resisting the retraction of the second valve assembly from the first valve assembly, wherein the second end of the body is advanced into the cavity of the housing.

[0121] (Section 21) The method of paragraph 20 further comprises rotating either the first valve assembly or the second valve assembly relative to the other of the first valve assembly and the second valve assembly.

[0122] (Section 22) Valve plug for fluid connector systems: The valve plug has a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends of the valve plug; an inner surface forming a recess extending through the first end of the valve plug to the bottom surface between the first and second ends of the valve plug; a slit extending through the second end and bottom surface of the valve plug; and a first portion of the inner surface forming a bulge extending into the recess toward the longitudinal axis, and a second portion of the inner surface forming an inclined wall; the bulge has a first engaging surface extending radially inward from the first end of the valve plug toward the longitudinal axis to the apex of the bulge, and a second engaging surface extending radially outward from the apex toward the longitudinal axis; and the inclined wall extends from the second engaging surface to the bottom surface.

[0123] (Section 23) The valve plug of item 33, wherein the inclined wall forms a straight conical surface between the second engaging surface and the bottom surface.

[0124] (Section 24) A valve plug according to item 23, wherein the conical surface of the inclined wall extends around the longitudinal axis of the valve plug.

[0125] (Section 25) A valve plug according to item 23, wherein the conical surface of the inclined wall extends over the entire length of the longitudinal axis of the valve plug.

[0126] (Section 26) A valve plug according to any one of items 22 to 25, wherein the raised portion and the inclined wall form an annular shape extending around the longitudinal axis of the valve plug.

[0127] (Section 27) A valve plug according to any one of paragraphs 22 to 26, wherein the cross-sectional width of a recess oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the valve plug decreases along a first engaging surface from the first end to the apex and increases along a second engaging surface from the apex to the inclined wall.

[0128] (Section 28) The valve plug according to item 27, wherein the cross-sectional width of the recess expands along the inclined wall to the bottom surface of the valve plug.

[0129] (Section 29) A valve plug according to any one of items 22 to 28, wherein the cross-sectional width of the recess at the apex is smaller than the cross-sectional width of the recess along the inclined wall.

[0130] (Section 30) A valve plug according to any one of paragraphs 22 to 29, wherein the second end of the valve plug has a concave surface extending into the valve plug, and the slit extends through the concave surface.

[0131] (Section 31) A valve plug according to any one of paragraphs 22 to 30, wherein the distance from the first end of the valve plug to the bottom surface of the recess is less than the distance from the bottom surface of the recess to the second end of the valve plug.

[0132] (Section 32) A fluid connector system comprising: a first valve assembly having: a housing having a first end, a second end opposite to the first, and an inner surface forming a cavity extending through the second end toward the first end; a post having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, the distal end portion of the post extending within the cavity in a direction from the first end of the housing toward the second end of the housing; and a fluid passage extending through the first end of the housing and the post; and a second valve assembly having: a body having a first end, a second end opposite to the first end, an inner surface forming a hole extending through the second end toward the first end, and a fluid passage extending through the first end to the hole; and a valve plug disposed in the hole, the valve plug having the first end A second valve assembly has a valve plug having a second end, and an inner surface that forms a recess extending through the first end of the valve plug to the bottom surface between the first and second ends of the valve plug, a slit extending through the second end and bottom surface of the valve plug, and a first portion of the inner surface that forms a raised portion extending toward the recess toward the longitudinal axis of the valve plug. When the first and second valve assemblies are separated from each other, the opposing inner surfaces of the valve plug forming the slit engage with each other to resist the fluid flow through the valve plug. When the first and second valve assemblies are connected together, the distal end portion of the post extends through the slit and raised portion of the valve plug, so that the fluid passage of the first valve assembly is fluidly connected to the fluid passage of the second valve assembly, and the raised portion engages with the post to resist the movement of fluid between the post and the raised portion.

[0133] (Section 33) A fluid connector system according to item 32, wherein a second portion of the inner surface of the valve plug forms an inclined wall having a conical surface extending between a raised portion and a bottom surface.

[0134] (Section 34) A fluid connector system according to item 33, wherein the conical surface of the inclined wall extends around the longitudinal axis of the valve plug.

[0135] (Section 35) A fluid connector system according to item 33, wherein the conical surface of the inclined wall extends over the entire length of the longitudinal axis of the valve plug.

[0136] (Section 36) A fluid connector system according to item 33, wherein the cross-sectional width of a recess oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis decreases along a first engaging surface of the valve plug extending from a first end of the valve plug to the apex of a protrusion, and increases along a second engaging surface of the valve plug extending from the apex to an inclined wall.

[0137] (Section 37) A fluid connector system according to item 36, wherein the cross-sectional width of the recess expands along the inclined wall to the bottom surface of the valve plug.

[0138] (Section 38) A fluid connector system according to item 33, wherein the raised portion and the inclined wall form an annular shape extending around the longitudinal axis of the valve plug.

[0139] (Section 39) The fluid connector system of item 33, wherein the cross-sectional width of the recess at the apex of the protrusion is smaller than the cross-sectional width of the recess along the inclined wall.

[0140] (Section 40) A fluid connector system according to any one of paragraphs 32 to 39, wherein the second end of the valve plug has a concave surface extending into the valve plug, and the slit extends through the concave surface.

[0141] (Section 41) A fluid connector system according to any one of paragraphs 32 to 40, wherein when the first and second valve assemblies are connected integrally, the compressible valve of the first valve assembly engages with the second end of the valve plug.

[0142] (Further points to note) In some embodiments, any of the terms in this specification may depend on any one of the independent terms or any one of the dependent terms. In one embodiment, any of the terms (e.g., dependent or independent terms) may be combined with any one or more other terms (e.g., dependent or independent terms). In one embodiment, a claim may include some or all of the terms (e.g., steps, actions, means, or components) that are included in a term, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one embodiment, a claim may include some or all of the terms that are included in one or more terms, sentences, phrases, or paragraphs. In one embodiment, some of the terms in each term, sentence, phrase, or paragraph may be omitted. In one embodiment, additional terms or elements may be added to a term, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one embodiment, the subject art may be implemented without using some of the components, elements, functions, or actions described herein. In one embodiment, the subject art may be implemented using additional components, elements, functions, or actions.

[0143] This disclosure is provided to enable those skilled in the art to implement the various embodiments described herein. This disclosure provides various examples of the subject art, and the subject art is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may also be applicable to other embodiments.

[0144] Referencing a singular element is intended to mean "one or more," not "only," unless otherwise specified. Unless otherwise specified, the term "several" means one or more. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) also include feminine or neuter pronouns (e.g., her or its), and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, where present, are for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

[0145] The term “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example or illustration.” Any embodiment or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily construed to be preferable or advantageous to other embodiments or designs. In one embodiment, various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0146] Phrases such as “Aspect” do not implicitly mean that this aspect is essential to the subject art or that this aspect applies to all configurations of the subject art. Disclosure relating to one aspect may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. One aspect may provide one or more examples. The phrase “such aspect” can mean one or more aspects, and vice versa. Phrases such as “Example” do not implicitly mean that this example is essential to the subject art or that this example applies to all configurations of the subject art. Disclosure relating to one example may apply to all examples or one or more examples. One example may provide one or more examples. The phrase “such example” can mean one or more examples, and vice versa. Phrases such as “Configuration” do not implicitly mean that this configuration is essential to the subject art or that this configuration applies to all configurations of the subject art. Disclosure relating to one configuration may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. One configuration may provide one or more examples. The phrase "such a configuration" can refer to one or more configurations, and vice versa.

[0147] In one embodiment, unless otherwise specified, all measurements, values, grades, locations, magnitudes, sizes, and other specifications described herein, including in the following claims, are approximate and not precise. In one embodiment, they are intended to be within a reasonable range that is consistent with the relevant function or with the conventions of the relevant technical field.

[0148] In one aspect, terms such as "to be linked" can mean that things are linked directly. In another aspect, terms such as "to be linked" can mean that things are linked indirectly.

[0149] As used in this disclosure, terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” and “back” should be understood to mean any coordinate system, not the usual gravitational coordinate system. Therefore, the top, bottom, front, and back surfaces may extend upward, downward, obliquely, or horizontally in the gravitational coordinate system.

[0150] Various items may be arranged and configured in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the subject art (for example, they may be arranged and configured in different orders or divided in different ways). All structural or functional equivalents to elements of various forms, which are known to or will become known to those skilled in the art as described through this disclosure, are expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to be included in the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be made available to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is expressly stated in the claims. Claim elements shall not be construed under Section 112, paragraph 6 of the U.S. Patent Act unless they are expressly described using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of method claims, “steps for.” Furthermore, to the extent that terms such as “include” or “have” are used, these terms are intended to be as inclusive as “comprise” when adopted as a substitute in the claims.

[0151] The Title of the Invention, Background Art, Summary, Brief Description of the Drawings, and Abstract of this Disclosure are incorporated into this Disclosure as descriptive examples of the Disclosure and not as limiting descriptions. They are presented with the understanding that they are not to be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, it will be found that the Detailed Description provides descriptive examples and that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of simplifying the Disclosure. The method of this Disclosure is not to be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires features other than those explicitly stated in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the subject matter of the Invention is less than all the features of a single disclosed configuration or operation. The following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, where each claim exists in itself as individually claimed subject matter.

[0152] The claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but are intended to be given the entire scope corresponding to the claims described herein and to encompass all legal equivalents. However, no claim is intended to encompass subject matter that does not satisfy the requirements of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the U.S. Patent Act, and no claim should be construed as failing to satisfy the requirements of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the U.S. Patent Act.

Claims

1. A valve plug for a fluid connector system, A first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end of the valve plug, An inner surface that forms a recess extending from the first end of the valve plug to the bottom surface between the first end and the second end of the valve plug, A slit extending through the second end and the bottom surface of the valve plug, A first portion of the inner surface that forms a raised portion extending into the recess in the direction of the longitudinal axis, and a second portion of the inner surface that forms an inclined wall. It has, The valve plug wherein the raised portion has a first engaging surface extending radially inward from the first end of the valve plug toward the longitudinal axis to the apex of the raised portion, and a second engaging surface extending radially outward from the apex toward the longitudinal axis, and the inclined wall extends from the second engaging surface to the bottom surface.

2. The valve plug according to claim 1, wherein the inclined wall forms a straight conical surface between the second engaging surface and the bottom surface.

3. The valve plug according to claim 2, wherein the conical surface of the inclined wall extends around the longitudinal axis of the valve plug.

4. The valve plug according to claim 2, wherein the conical surface of the inclined wall extends over the entire length of the valve plug around the longitudinal axis.

5. The valve plug according to claim 1, wherein the raised portion and the inclined wall form an annular shape extending around the longitudinal axis of the valve plug.

6. The valve plug according to claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional width of the recess, which is lateral to the longitudinal axis, decreases along the first engaging surface from the first end of the valve plug to the apex, and increases along the second engaging surface from the apex to the inclined wall.

7. The valve plug according to claim 6, wherein the cross-sectional width of the recess expands along the inclined wall to the bottom surface of the valve plug.

8. The valve plug according to claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional width of the recess at the apex is smaller than the cross-sectional width of the recess along the inclined wall.

9. The valve plug according to claim 1, wherein the second end of the valve plug has a concave surface that extends into the valve plug, and the slit extends through the concave surface.

10. The valve plug according to claim 1, wherein the distance from the first end of the valve plug to the bottom surface of the recess is smaller than the distance from the bottom surface of the recess to the second end of the valve plug.

11. A fluid connector system, The first valve assembly, A housing having a first end, a second end opposite the first, and an inner surface forming a cavity extending through the second end toward the first end, A post having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, wherein the distal end portion of the post extends within the cavity in a direction toward the second end of the housing from the first end of the housing, A fluid passage extending through the first end of the housing and the post A first valve assembly having, The second valve assembly, A body having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, an inner surface forming a hole extending through the second end toward the first end, and a fluid passage extending through the first end to the hole, A valve plug disposed in the hole, the valve plug having a first end, a second end, an inner surface forming a recess extending through the first end of the valve plug to the bottom surface between the first and second ends of the valve plug, a slit extending through the second end of the valve plug and the bottom surface, and a first portion of the inner surface forming a raised portion extending toward the longitudinal axis of the valve plug into the recess, and A second valve assembly having It has, A fluid connector system comprising: when the first and second valve assemblies are separated from each other, the opposing inner surfaces of the valve plug forming the slit engage with each other to resist fluid flow through the valve plug; when the first and second valve assemblies are connected together, the distal end portion of the post extends through the slit and the raised portion of the valve plug, thereby fluidly connecting the fluid passage of the first valve assembly to the fluid passage of the second valve assembly, and the raised portion engages with the post to resist fluid movement between the post and the raised portion.

12. The fluid connector system according to claim 11, wherein the second portion of the inner surface of the valve plug forms an inclined wall having a conical surface extending between the raised portion and the bottom surface.

13. The fluid connector system according to claim 12, wherein the conical surface of the inclined wall extends around the longitudinal axis of the valve plug.

14. The fluid connector system according to claim 12, wherein the conical surface of the inclined wall extends over the entire length of the longitudinal axis of the valve plug.

15. The fluid connector system according to claim 12, wherein the cross-sectional width of the recess, which is lateral to the longitudinal axis, decreases along a first engaging surface of the valve plug extending from the first end of the valve plug to the apex of the raised portion, and increases along a second engaging surface of the valve plug extending from the apex to the inclined wall.

16. The fluid connector system according to claim 15, wherein the cross-sectional width of the recess expands along the inclined wall to the bottom surface of the valve plug.

17. The fluid connector system according to claim 12, wherein the raised portion and the inclined wall form an annular shape extending around the longitudinal axis of the valve plug.

18. The fluid connector system according to claim 12, wherein the cross-sectional width of the recess at the apex of the raised portion is smaller than the cross-sectional width of the recess along the inclined wall.

19. The fluid connector system according to claim 11, wherein the second end of the valve plug has a concave surface extending into the valve plug, and the slit extends through the concave surface.

20. The fluid connector system according to claim 11, wherein when the first and second valve assemblies are connected together, the compressible valve of the first valve assembly engages with the second end of the valve plug.

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