Multi-stage connector disconnection prevention device

Abstract

The coupler includes a first connector comprising: a first outer piece having a first channel extending longitudinally within it; a first inner piece at least partially disposed within the first outer piece such that the first channel is disposed within it; and a first seal disposed within the first inner piece, at least partially disposed between the first channel and the first inner piece. The first inner piece is configured to move axially relative to the first outer piece, moving from a retracted position to a partially extended position. The first channel, including a first occlusion hole, forms a first fluid passage through the first connector when the first inner piece is in the retracted position. In the extended position, the first occlusion hole is closed by the first seal, thereby blocking the first fluid passage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 455,809, filed Mar. 30, 2023, entitled "MULTI-STAGE CONNECTOR DISLODGEMENT PREVENTION DEVICE", the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to connectors, and more particularly to connector joints.

Background Art

[0003] Medical care often involves the infusion of a medical fluid (e.g., saline or a drug) to a patient using an intravenous (IV) catheter, which is generally connected to a fluid source such as an IV bag through a flexible tubing and connector configuration commonly referred to as an "IV set". Often, the tubing or catheter is connected or secured to each other to enable fluid communication between various parts of the tubing or catheter.

[0004] In some applications, such tubing or catheter may become dislodged by being improperly secured and / or may become dislodged when the joint is subjected to a force greater than the force for which the joint was designed to withstand.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure are directed toward a coupler, comprising a first connector, which includes a first outer piece having a first channel extending longitudinally therein; a first inner piece at least partially disposed within the first outer piece such that the first channel is disposed therein; and a first seal disposed within the first inner piece, which at least partially is disposed between the first channel and the first inner piece, wherein the first inner piece is configured to move axially relative to the first outer piece from a retracted position to a partially extended position, the first channel includes a first occlusion hole, the first channel and the first occlusion hole forming a first fluid passage through the first connector when the first inner piece is in the retracted position. In the extended position, the first occlusion hole is closed by the first sealant, thereby blocking the first fluid passage, and the first inner piece moves to the partially extended position when the pull-out force exceeds a first predetermined threshold.

[0006] In some embodiments, the coupler further comprises a second connector, a second outer piece having a second channel extending longitudinally in the middle; a second inner piece at least partially disposed within the second outer piece such that the second channel is disposed within it; and a second seal disposed within the second inner piece, at least partially disposed between the second channel and the second inner piece, wherein the second inner piece is configured to move axially relative to the second outer piece from a retracted position to a partially extended position, the second channel includes a second closure hole, and the second channel and the second closure hole form a second fluid passage through the second connector when the second inner piece is in the retracted position. At the point where it extends partway, the second occlusion hole is closed by the second sealant, thereby blocking the second fluid passage, and the second inner piece moves to the partway extended position when the pull-out force exceeds the first predetermined threshold.

[0007] In some embodiments, the coupler further includes a coupling element for connecting a first connector to a second connector, configured to fluidly communicate a first fluid passage with a second fluid passage when the first connector is coupled to the second connector. The coupling element is configured to break into two or more parts when the pull-out force exceeds a second predetermined threshold, the second predetermined threshold being greater than the first predetermined threshold.

[0008] In some embodiments, when a first connector is connected to a second connector via a connecting element, a central axis extends through the first connector, the connecting element, and the second connector.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first connector is configured to remain connected to the connecting element and the second connector when the pulling force does not exceed a first predetermined threshold force.

[0010] In some embodiments, the coupler has a first configuration in which a first connector is connected to a second connector via a connecting element such that a first fluid passage is in fluid communication with a second fluid passage. The coupler also has a second configuration in which the first connector is connected to a second connector, with the first inner piece partially extended and the second inner piece partially extended, in which case the first fluid passage is blocked and the second fluid passage is blocked. The coupler has a third configuration in which the connecting element is broken, resulting in the first connector being disconnected from the second connector.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first inner piece includes a first connecting portion, which is configured to transition from a partially extended position to a fully extended position, where the fully extended position is a position where the first connecting portion is located further from the first closing hole than when the first inner piece is in the partially extended position. The first inner piece includes one or more locking tabs, which are configured to prevent the first inner piece from retracting when the first inner piece is in the fully extended position.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first inner piece moves from a partially extended position to a fully extended position in response to the pull-out force exceeding a second predetermined threshold, where the second predetermined threshold is greater than the first predetermined threshold.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first outer piece includes a first internal space, and the first inner piece is biased to retract into the first internal space by a vacuum created within the first internal space.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first outer piece includes a first pipe portion configured to connect to a part of the pipe, and the first inner piece includes a first connecting portion configured to connect to a connecting element, the first pipe portion being in fluid communication with the first connecting portion through a first channel and a first closure hole when the first inner piece is in a retracted position.

[0015] In some embodiments, the length of the first inner piece is greater than the length of the first outer piece, and the maximum diameter of the first outer piece is greater than the maximum diameter of the first inner piece.

[0016] In some embodiments, the coupler further includes a locking ring fixed to a first outer piece, which is configured to prevent the first inner piece from being pulled out from the first outer piece.

[0017] In some embodiments, the coupler further includes a biasing element disposed within the internal space of a first outer piece and having a compressed state and an expanded state, configured to bias the first inner piece to a retracted position, wherein the biasing element transitions from an expanded state to a compressed state in response to a pull-out force exceeding a first predetermined threshold.

[0018] In some embodiments, the pull-out force is a force applied to the first connector along its central axis, which extends at least along the length of the first connector.

[0019] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure include a first connector comprising: a first outer piece having a first channel extending longitudinally therein; a first inner piece at least partially disposed within the first outer piece such that the first channel is disposed therein; and a first seal disposed within the first inner piece, at least partially disposed between the first channel and the first inner piece, wherein the first inner piece is configured to move axially relative to the first outer piece from a retracted position to a partially extended position, the first channel includes a first occlusion hole, the first channel and the first occlusion hole form a first fluid passage through the first connector when the first inner piece is in the retracted position, the first occlusion hole is closed by the first seal when the partially extended position, thereby blocking the first fluid passage, and the first inner piece is retracted A coupler is directed to include a first connector which moves to a partially extended position in response to a pull force exceeding a first predetermined threshold, and a second connector which includes a second outer piece having a second channel extending longitudinally inside, a second inner piece which is at least partially disposed within the second outer piece such that the second channel is disposed inside, and a second seal disposed within the second inner piece, such that at least part of the second seal is disposed between the second channel and the second inner piece, wherein the second inner piece is configured to move axially relative to the second outer piece to move from a retracted position to a partially extended position, the second channel includes a second closure hole, the second channel and the second closure hole forming a second fluid passage through the second connector when the second inner piece is in the retracted position. At a partially extended position, the second occlusion hole is closed by the second seal, thereby blocking the second fluid passage, and the second inner piece moves to the partially extended position in response to the pull-out force exceeding a first predetermined threshold. The coupler further includes a coupling element for connecting a first connector to a second connector, configured to fluidly communicate the first fluid passage with the second fluid passage when the first connector is connected to the second connector.

[0020] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure include a first connector comprising: a first outer piece having a first channel extending longitudinally therein; a first inner piece at least partially disposed within the first outer piece such that the first channel is disposed therein; and a first seal disposed within the first inner piece, the first seal at least partially disposed between the first channel and the first inner piece, wherein the first inner piece moves axially relative to the first outer piece from a retracted position through a partially extended position to a fully extended position. The system is configured to transition to a position in which the first channel includes a first closure hole substantially perpendicular to the first channel, and the first channel and the first closure hole form a first fluid passage through the first connector when the first inner piece is in the retracted position, and in the partially extended position the first closure hole is closed by the first seal, thereby closing the first fluid passage, and the first inner piece transitions to the partially extended position in response to the pull-out force exceeding a first predetermined threshold, and the first inner piece transitions to the partially extended position in response to the pull-out force exceeding a second predetermined threshold A first connector that transitions from a partially extended position to a fully extended position as it exceeds a certain limit; a second connector comprising a second outer piece having a second longitudinally extending channel inside, a second inner piece at least partially disposed within the second outer piece such that the second channel is disposed inside, and a second seal disposed within the second inner piece, the second seal at least partially disposed between the second channel and the second inner piece, wherein the second inner piece moves axially relative to the second outer piece. The second channel is configured to move from a retracted position through a partially extended position to a fully extended position, the second channel includes a second closure hole substantially perpendicular to the second channel, the second channel and the second closure hole form a second fluid passage through the second connector when the second inner piece is in the retracted position, the second closure hole is closed by the second seal when the partially extended position is partially extended, the second fluid passage is closed as a result, and the second inner piece moves to the partially extended position when the pull-out force exceeds a first predetermined threshold,A coupler is directed to include a second connector, the first inner piece of which transitions from a partially extended position to a fully extended position in response to a pull-out force exceeding a second predetermined threshold, and a connecting element for connecting the first connector to the second connector, configured to fluidly communicate the first fluid passage with the second fluid passage when the first connector is connected to the second connector. The connecting element is configured to break into two or more parts in response to a pull-out force exceeding a second predetermined threshold, the second predetermined threshold being greater than the first predetermined threshold. The pull-out force is a force applied to the first connector along its central axis, the central axis extending at least along the length of the first connector, the second connector, and the connecting element.

[0021] Various configurations of the subject art will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure, but it will be understood that these configurations are presented and described as examples. As will be recognized, other different configurations of the subject art are possible without any departure from the scope of the subject art, and some of their details can be modified in various other ways. Therefore, the summary, drawings, and detailed description should be considered as illustrative and not limiting in nature.

[0022] The accompanying drawings, incorporated into and forming part of this specification, which are introduced for further understanding, illustrate the embodiments disclosed and serve to illustrate the principles of the disclosed embodiments in conjunction with this description. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0023] [Figure 1] This is a system diagram showing a coupler assembly in use according to various aspects of this disclosure. [Figure 2A] This is a side perspective view of the coupler assembly shown in Figure 1 in the first configuration according to various aspects of this disclosure. [Figure 2B] This is a side perspective view of the coupler assembly in Figure 1, which is in a second configuration according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 2C] A side perspective view of the coupler assembly of FIG. 1 in a third configuration according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] A front perspective view of the connector of the coupler assembly of FIG. 1, where the connector is in a first configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] A front perspective view of the connector of FIG. 3A, where the connector is in a second configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] An exploded view of the connector of FIG. 3A according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] A cross-sectional view of the connector of FIG. 4A according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] A cross-sectional view of the connector of FIG. 3A, where the connector is in a first configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] A cross-sectional view of the connector of FIG. 3A, where the connector is in a second configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] A cross-sectional view of the connector of FIG. 3A, where the connector is in a third configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] A graph of force and displacement of the coupler assembly of FIG. 1 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] A system diagram showing the coupler assembly of the second embodiment in use according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] A cross-sectional view of the connector of FIG. 7A, where the connector is in a first configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 7C] A front perspective view of the connector of FIG. 7A, where the connector is in a second configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 7D] A cross-sectional view of the connector of FIG. 7A, where the connector is in a third configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] A cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the connector of the coupler assembly of FIG. 1, where the connector is in a first configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B]This is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the connector of the coupler assembly of Figure 1, in which the connector is in a second configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] This is a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the connector of the coupler assembly of Figure 1, in which the connector is in the first configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] This is a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the connector of the coupler assembly of Figure 1, in which the connector is in a second configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] The disclosed coupler assembly includes at least two connectors (e.g., a first connector and a second connector) and a connecting tube. The two connectors are identical to each other, and the connecting tube connects one connector to the other. The connectors are configured to connect to the other connector via the connecting tube. The coupler assembly may have a first configuration, a second configuration, and a third configuration. In the first configuration, the connectors are connected to the other connector via the connecting tube to allow fluid to flow from the connector through the connecting tube to the other connector, forming a fluid passage between the connectors through the connecting tube. In the second configuration, the connectors are connected to the other connector, the fluid passage is blocked, and the flow of fluid from the connector through the connecting tube to the other connector is prevented. In the third configuration, the fluid passage is still blocked, and the connecting tube becomes damaged, broken, or otherwise unusable, resulting in the connector being discoupled from the other connector.

[0025] The coupler assembly may be configured to connect a first portion of a pipe to a second portion of the pipe. For example, the first portion of the pipe may be connected to a first connector, and the second portion of the pipe may be connected to a second connector. The first portion of the pipe and / or the second portion of the pipe may also be connected to a patient or a fluid source. In some embodiments, the coupler assembly allows fluid to flow from the first portion of the pipe to the second portion of the pipe. For example, the first connector may be connected to the second connector such that a fluid passage is formed through the first and second connectors via a connecting tube, allowing fluid to flow from the first portion of the pipe through a first connector and a connecting tube to the second connector and then to the second portion of the pipe.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first and second connectors provide a unidirectional fluid flow. For example, if the first connector is connected to the second connector via a connecting tube, the fluid may flow from the first connector to the second connector but not from the second connector to the first connector. In some embodiments, when the first connector is disconnected from the second connector (for example, due to the connecting tube breaking or becoming unusable), the fluid flow from the first connector to the second connector stops, thereby preventing leakage when the first connector is disconnected from the second connector. In some embodiments, when the first connector is disconnected from the second connector, the first connector is sterilized (for example, by a sterile cloth or sterilization device) or replaced with a new sterile connector to prevent infection or contamination that may occur if the first connector is reused without sterilization. In some embodiments, if the connecting tube breaks and as a result the first connector is disconnected from the second connector, the connecting tube is replaced and the first connector is reconnected to the second connector via the replaced connecting tube.

[0027] In some embodiments, the fluid passage from the first connector through the connecting tube to the second connector is blocked in response to an uplift force applied to the first or second connector. When the uplift force exceeds a first predetermined threshold, the fluid passage through the first and / or second connector is blocked, and the connecting tube remains open. When the uplift force exceeds a second predetermined threshold, the fluid passage remains blocked, and the connecting tube ruptures. In some embodiments, the second predetermined threshold is greater than the first predetermined threshold.

[0028] In some embodiments, when the connecting tube breaks, the first connector is disconnected from the second connector based on a force exceeding a second predetermined threshold force. When a force exceeding a second predetermined threshold force, such as a pull-out force, is applied to the first connector, the first connector may be disconnected from the second connector by the breakage of the connecting tube. The pull-out force may be a force that occurs along the longitudinal axis of the first connector, the second connector, and / or the connecting tube. In some embodiments, the pull-out force is generated by strongly pulling or pulling a first portion of the tubing connected to the first connector. Alternatively, the pull-out force applied to the first connector may be generated by strongly pulling or pulling the second connector and / or a second portion of the tubing connected to the second connector.

[0029] In some embodiments, the first connector is configured to reconnect to the second connector when the first connector is disconnected from the second connector. For example, the first connector may be configured to allow reconnection to the second connector after a disconnection event, such as replacement of the connecting tube, if the first connector is disconnected from the second connector (e.g., by a disconnection event).

[0030] The detailed descriptions below are intended to describe various configurations of the subject art and not to represent the only configurations in which the subject art can be implemented. The detailed descriptions include specific details for the purpose of providing a complete understanding of the subject art. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject art can be implemented without these specific details. In some cases, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagrams to avoid ambiguity of the concepts of the subject art. For ease of understanding, similar components are denoted by the same element reference numeral. Reference numerals may be accompanied by subscripts to indicate specific examples of common elements, and the same reference numeral without a subscript is used generically.

[0031] The following description is directed toward connecting medical connectors for administering medical fluids using the disclosed couplers, but it should be understood that this description is merely an example of use and does not limit the scope of the claims. Various embodiments of the disclosed couplers can be used in any application where it is desirable to ensure the connection of various pipes and connectors.

[0032] The disclosed coupler assembly overcomes several challenges found with some conventional couplers. One challenge with some conventional couplers is that some may not be properly secured. Furthermore, some conventional couplers may be designed to release or detach in response to relatively small pull-out forces during use. For example, some conventional couplers may detach in response to pull-out forces when a patient turns over in bed, when a patient presses the tube or line against the bed rail, when a patient is moved to another bed, when a pediatric patient tampers with it, and / or when an adult patient with impaired orientation pulls out their own line. In fact, at the 2017 annual meeting of the Association for Vascular Access (AVA), a 10% detachment rate per 1,000 patients with peripheral IV catheters was reported, which translates to approximately 33 million detachments per year in the United States alone. The use of some conventional couplers is undesirable because accidental or unintentional detachment of tubing, catheters, or connectors can interrupt the administration of medical fluids.

[0033] Accordingly, it is advantageous to provide couplers and coupler / connector assemblies as described herein that enable improved fixation of connectors or fasteners. The couplers and coupler / connector assemblies disclosed herein are constructed as described herein to enable secure retention of a first connector while allowing disconnection after a disconnection event.

[0034] Referring to Figures 1 to 4B, the first connector 102 may be structurally identical to the second connector 102'. The first connector 102 may be used interchangeably with the second connector 102' when describing the coupler assembly 100 as described herein. The second connector 102' may include all the elements of the first connector 102. As used herein, the elements of the second connector 102' corresponding to the first connector 102 include a ''. For example, opening 110 refers to the opening of the first connector 102, and opening 110' refers to the corresponding identical opening of the second connector 102'.

[0035] Figure 1 is a system diagram showing a coupler assembly in use according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2A is a side perspective view of the coupler assembly of Figure 1 in a first configuration according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2B is a side perspective view of the coupler assembly of Figure 1 in a second configuration according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2C is a side perspective view of the coupler assembly of Figure 1 in a third configuration according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

[0036] Referring to Figures 1 to 2C, the coupler assembly 100 allows fluid, such as medical fluid, to flow from a fluid source 500 to a patient end 600 by releasably connecting one part of a pipe or line to another part of the pipe or line in fluid communication. The coupler assembly 100 may include a first connector 102, a connecting element 150, and a second connector 102'. In some embodiments, the second connector 102' is identical to the first connector 102.

[0037] The first connector 102 may be configured to connect to the second connector 102' via a connecting element 150. In some embodiments, the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 102' are unidirectional connectors. In the illustrated examples, a portion of the tubing can be terminated using connectors / valves such as the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 102'. In some embodiments, fluid from a fluid source 500 flows through a coupler assembly 100 to a patient end 600. A cannula or needle may be inserted into the patient at the patient end 600, allowing medical fluid to flow from the fluid source 500 through the coupler assembly 100 into the patient at the patient end 600. In some embodiments, the flow of fluid from the fluid source 500 to the patient end 600 is interrupted or blocked depending on the force applied to the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 102'. In some embodiments, the flow from the fluid source 500 to the patient end 600 is interrupted or blocked by the disconnection of the first connector 102' from the second connector 102' due to breakage.

[0038] In some embodiments, the coupler assembly 100 includes a central axis AA, and a first connector 102, a connecting element 150, and a second connector 102' are connected in series along the central axis AA. The first connector 102, the connecting element 150, and the second connector 102' may allow for connection and / or disconnection of pipe material to enable selective fluid communication between them. The central axis AA may extend longitudinally along the length of the first connector 102, the connecting element 150, and the second connector 102'.

[0039] The coupler assembly 100 may have a first configuration (Figure 2A), a second configuration (Figure 2B), and a third configuration (Figure 2C). In the first configuration, the first connector 102 is connected to the second connector 102' via a connecting element 150, forming a fluid passage from the first connector 102 through the connecting element 150 to the second connector 102'. In the second configuration, the first connector 102 is connected to the second connector 102' via the connecting element 150, and a portion of the first connector 102 (e.g., an inner piece 107) and a portion of the second connector 102' (e.g., an inner piece 107') are in an extended position that interrupts or blocks the fluid passage, preventing the fluid from flowing from the first connector 102 through the connecting element 150 to the second connector 102'. In some embodiments, the coupler assembly 100 transitions from a first configuration to a second configuration when the pull-out force exceeds a first predetermined threshold. The pull-out force can be applied to the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 102'. In a third configuration, the first connector 102 is discoupled from the second connector 102' by the coupling element 150 breaking in response to a pull-out force exceeding a second predetermined threshold. In the third configuration, portions of the first connector 102 and the second connector 102' remain in their extended positions, and the fluid passages remain interrupted or blocked, preventing fluid from flowing from the first connector 102 to the second connector 102'.

[0040] In some embodiments, the coupler assembly 100 transitions from a first configuration to a second configuration depending on the pull-out force applied to the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 102'. If the pull-out force exceeds a first predetermined threshold but not a second predetermined threshold, the coupler assembly 100 is in the second configuration. As the pull-out force increases, the coupler assembly 100 transitions from the second configuration to a third configuration. For example, if the pull-out force exceeds a second predetermined threshold, the connecting element 150 may break, resulting in the first connector 102 being disconnected from the second connector 102'. In some embodiments, when the coupler assembly 100 transitions from the second configuration to the third configuration, a portion of the first connector 102 and a portion of the second connector 102' remain in an extended position, and the fluid passage remains blocked or interrupted.

[0041] Referring to Figures 2A to 2C, the coupler assembly 100 can transition from a first configuration to a second configuration, and from a second configuration to a third configuration. In the first configuration (Figure 2A), the first connector 102 is connected to a connecting element 150, and the connecting element 150 is connected to a second connector 102'. In the first configuration, a fluid passage is formed between the first connector 102 and the second connector 102' via the connecting element 150. When the coupler assembly transitions from the first configuration to the second configuration (Figure 2B) depending on whether the pull-out force exceeds a first predetermined threshold but is less than a second predetermined threshold, a portion of the first connector 102 and a portion of the second connector 102' move from their initial positions to extended positions. As a result, the fluid passage between the first connector 102 and the second connector 102' is interrupted or blocked. When the pulling force, or separation force, increases and exceeds a second predetermined threshold, the connecting element 150 breaks (for example, into connecting element portion 150a and connecting element portion 150b), and as a result, the first connector 102 is released from the second connector 102', and the coupler assembly 100 can transition to a third configuration. In the third configuration, the fluid passage remains blocked because parts of the first connector 102 and parts of the second connector 102' are in extended positions, thereby preventing fluid leakage from the connecting element 150.

[0042] Figure 3A is a front perspective view of the connector of the coupler assembly of Figure 1, in which the connector is in the first configuration, according to various embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 3B is a front perspective view of the connector of Figure 3A, in which the connector is in the second configuration, according to various embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 4A is an exploded view of the connector of Figure 3A, according to various embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Figure 4A, according to various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0043] As discussed above, the first connector 102 may be identical to the second connector 102' and may be interchangeable. The connecting element 150 can connect the first connector 102 to the second connector 102'. In some embodiments, the first end 151 of the connecting element 150 is connected to the second end 103 of the first connector 102, and the second end 153 of the connecting element 150 is connected to the second end 103' of the second connector 102', thereby connecting the first connector 102 to the second connector 102'. The connecting element 150 may be substantially hollow so that the first connector 102 can communicate fluidly with the second connector 102'. For example, fluid can flow from a fluid source 500 through the fluid passage of the first connector 102, through the connecting element 150, through the second connector 102', and to the patient end 600.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first connector 102 is connected to a first portion of a pipe so that the first portion of the pipe can be connected to and / or disconnected from a second connector 102' via a connecting element 150. The first connector 102 may include a first end 101 and a second end 103. The first end 101 may be connected to a pipe (e.g., a first portion of the pipe), and the second end 103 may be configured to connect to the connecting element 150. For example, the second end 103 of the first connector 102 may be configured to connect to the first end 151 of the connecting element 150. In some embodiments, the second end 153 of the connecting element 150 is configured to connect to the second end 103' of the second connector 102'. In some embodiments, a portion of the pipe can be connected to or engaged with the first end 101 of the first connector 102. The first connector 102 may be in fluid communication with the pipe material via the first end 101 so that the fluid can pass through the first connector 102.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first end 101 may have a flat surface so that a clinician can easily clean and disinfect the first end 101. The first end 101 may be fluidly connected to the second end 103. The first end 101 and the second end 103 may be arranged along the longitudinal length of the first connector 102. For example, the first end 101 and the second end 103 may be arranged along the central axis AA. The first end 101 and / or the second end 103 may include openings or channels to allow the first end 101 and / or the second end 103 to fluidly communicate with one or more elements (e.g., pipes, connectors, valves, collars, fittings, etc.). For example, the first end 101 may be connected to a tube, and the second end 103 may include an opening 106 to allow fluid communication through the first connector 102 and fluid flow out of the first connector 102. The opening 106 may be configured to communicate fluidly with a connecting element 150, which communicates fluidly with the opening 106' of the second connector 102', allowing fluid to flow from the first connector 102 to the second connector 102'.

[0046] In some embodiments, the first connector 102 is configured to connect to the second connector 102' via a connecting element 150 such that fluid flows into the first connector 102, through the connecting element 150, and out of the second connector 102'. For example, the first connector 102 may include an opening (e.g., opening 110) configured to receive fluid, and the second connector 102' may include an opening (e.g., opening 110') configured to allow fluid to exit the second connector 102'. In some embodiments, the first connector 102 is connected to the second connector 102', and the coupler assembly 100 is in the first configuration such that the opening 110 of the first connector 102 is in fluid communication with the opening 110' of the second connector 102'.

[0047] In some embodiments, fluid can exit from or flow through the first connector 102 through a second end 103 located opposite the first end 101. The fluid passage through the first connector 102 may have a linear fluid passage to facilitate flushing and reduce the risk of hemolysis. Optionally, the first connector 102 may include features (e.g., raised features, gripping features) located on its outer surface to allow clinicians to handle or manipulate the first connector 102 more easily. Some embodiments of the first connector 102 may provide a connector that fits with connectors in other parts of the fluid delivery system. The first connector 102 may be substantially cylindrical in shape.

[0048] In some embodiments, the connecting element 150 is configured to break when the coupler assembly 100 transitions to a third configuration (for example, when the inner piece 107 is fully extended, as described below). The connecting element 150 may be configured to break if the pull-out force exceeds a second predetermined threshold force. In some embodiments, the coupler assembly 100 has a greater overall length in the second configuration compared to when the coupler assembly 100 is in the first configuration. When the coupler assembly 100 is in the third configuration, the connecting element 150 may break. For example, if the pull-out force on the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 102' exceeds a second predetermined threshold, the connecting element 150 may break into two or more parts (for example, connecting element parts 150a and 150b), resulting in the need to replace the coupler assembly 100. The fracture of the connecting element 150 prevents patient injury resulting from excessive pulling or tensile force, which would increase the pull-out force on the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 102'. For example, if the connecting element 150 does not fracture, excessive pulling or tensile force by the patient would result in a greater pull-out force (e.g., a force exceeding a second predetermined threshold) being applied to the coupler assembly 100. This could result in injury or pain to the patient as a result of the coupler assembly 100 being connected to the patient via a catheter or needle, as well as damage to the tubing or other devices connected to the patient.

[0049] Referring to Figures 3A and 3B, the first connector 102 includes an outer piece 105 and an inner piece 107. The outer piece 105 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the inner piece 107. In some embodiments, the inner piece 107 has an initial or retracted position (Figure 3A), a partially extended position, and a fully extended position (Figure 3B). In the initial position, most of the inner piece 107 is positioned within the outer piece 105, and the inner piece 107 cannot move axially toward the first end 101. The inner piece 107 may be in the partially extended position when it is no longer in the initial position but has not yet reached the fully extended position. As described in detail below, when the inner piece 107 is in a partially extended position and / or fully extended position, the overall length of the first connector 102 is longer and the second end 103 is further away from the first end 101 compared to when the inner piece 107 is in its initial position. In other words, the distance between the opening 110 and the opening 106 is greater when the inner piece 107 is in a partially or fully extended position compared to when the inner piece 107 is in its initial position. The inner piece 107 can move from the initial position through a partially extended position to a fully extended position depending on the pull-out force. In some embodiments, the inner piece 107 moves from the initial position to a partially extended position when the pull-out force is greater than a first predetermined threshold, and moves from the partially extended position to a fully extended position when the pull-out force is greater than a second predetermined threshold.

[0050] In some embodiments, the first connector 102 has an overall length of approximately 5.08 centimeters (2 inches) when the inner piece 107 is in its initial position. The first connector 102 may have an overall length of 1.27 centimeters (0.5 inches) to 15.24 centimeters (6 inches), 2.54 centimeters (1 inch) to 10.16 centimeters (4 inches), or 3.81 centimeters (1.5 inches) to 7.62 centimeters (3 inches) when the inner piece 107 is in its initial position. In some embodiments, the inner piece 107 is configured to extend to a greater extent than 1.27 centimeters (0.5 inches). For example, the length of the first connector 102 may increase to a greater extent than 1.27 centimeters (0.5 inches) when the inner piece 107 moves from its initial position to a fully extended position. The first connector 102 can be as large as 0.254 cm (0.1 inch) to 12.7 cm (5 inch), 1.27 cm (0.5 inch) to 7.62 cm (3 inch), or 2.54 cm (1 inch) to 6.35 cm (2.5 inch).

[0051] In some embodiments, the outer piece 105 includes a tubular portion 104 and a body 108. The tubular portion 104 may be positioned close to the first end 101 and may include an opening 110. The tubular portion 104 may be configured to connect to a portion of a tubing, such as a portion of a tubing connected to a fluid source 500. The tubular portion 104 may be substantially cylindrical. In some embodiments, the tubular portion 104 has a constant maximum diameter. In some embodiments, the tubular portion 104 is configured to connect to a fluid source 500 via a portion of a first tubing, and the tubular portion 104' is configured to connect to a patient end 600 via a portion of a second tubing. The tubular portion 104 may be in fluid communication with an extension portion 114.

[0052] The main body 108 can be connected to the tubular section 104. In some embodiments, the main body 108 and the tubular section 104 form a single structure. Alternatively, the main body 108 can be fixedly or detachably connected to the main body 108. The main body 108 can be positioned closer to the second end 103 compared to the tubular section 104. The main body 108 may include an opening 111 configured to receive a valve or plug 116. In some embodiments, the opening 111 is configured to allow access to the interior of the outer section 105 in order to create a vacuum in the internal space 123 of the outer section 105. The plug 116 may be configured to seal the opening 111 once a vacuum is created in the internal space 123. The vacuum created in the internal space 123 of the outer section 105 can bias the inner section 107 to its initial position. For example, by having a vacuum inside the outer piece 105 and the inner piece 107 being at least partially disposed inside the outer piece 105, the inner piece 107 can be biased to take an initial position due to the vacuum. Depending on whether the pulling force exceeds a first predetermined threshold, the inner piece 107 can move to a partially extended position or a fully extended position and extend away from the outer piece 105. In some embodiments, the first predetermined threshold is greater than the opposing force produced by the vacuum. In some embodiments, the body 108 includes an opening 129 configured to receive the inner piece 107. For example, the inner piece 107 may be configured to extend outward from the opening 129 and retract into the opening 129.

[0053] The first connector 102 may include an inner piece 107. The inner piece 107 may be configured to enter into and extend out of the outer piece 105 through an opening 129. The inner piece 107 may have an initial position, a partially extended position, and a fully extended position. The inner piece 107 may be biased to take the initial position by a vacuum created within the outer piece 105. In some embodiments, the inner piece 107 includes a second end 103. The second end 103 may be closer to the first end 101 when the inner piece 107 is in the initial position compared to when the inner piece 107 is in the partially or fully extended position.

[0054] The inner piece 107 may include an extension portion 114 and a connecting portion 113. The connecting portion 113 may be connected to the extension portion 114. In some embodiments, the extension portion 114 and the connecting portion 113 form a single structure. The extension portion 114 may be configured to move axially along the central axis AA to enter and exit the outer piece 105. For example, when the inner piece 107 is in its initial position, most of the extension portion 114 may be located within the outer piece 105.

[0055] The connecting portion 113 may be located close to the second end 103 and may include an opening 106. The connecting portion 113 may include a channel 117 which may be in fluid communication with the opening 106. The opening 106 may be in fluid communication with the opening 110. The connecting portion 113 may have a constant maximum diameter. In some embodiments, the maximum diameter of the connecting portion 113 is substantially the same as the maximum diameter of the pipe portion 104. In some embodiments, the inner piece 107 includes a tapered portion 115 located between the extension portion 114 and the connecting portion 113. The maximum diameter of the tapered portion 115 may decrease from the area close to the extension portion 114 to the area close to the connecting portion 113. In some embodiments, most of the extension portion 114 has a constant maximum diameter. The tapered portion of the extension portion 114 may decrease in diameter as it approaches the connecting portion 113. In some embodiments, the tapered portion tapers from the maximum diameter of the extension portion 114 to the maximum diameter of the connecting portion 113.

[0056] In some embodiments, the outer piece 105 includes a locking ring 112. The locking ring 112 may be configured to secure the inner piece 107 within the outer piece 105 (e.g., the body 108). For example, the locking ring 112 may prevent the inner piece 107 from being removed from the outer piece 105 and / or extending completely outside the outer piece 105. In some embodiments, the locking ring 112 is fixedly connected to the body 108. For example, the locking ring 112 may be connected to the body 108 via ultrasonic welding, adhesive, magnets, fasteners, or other connecting elements. In some embodiments, when the inner piece 107 is in a fully extended position, the portion of the inner piece 107 adjacent to the opening 121 (e.g., the apex) abuts against the locking ring 112, thereby preventing the inner piece 107 from extending further out of the outer piece 105.

[0057] Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Figure 3A, in which the connector has a first configuration, according to various embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Figure 3A, in which the connector has a second configuration, according to various embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 5C is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Figure 3A, in which the connector has a third configuration, according to various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0058] Referring to Figures 4A to 5C, the coupler assembly 100 may include a sealant 120. The sealant 120 may include a top portion 127. The top portion 127 may be closer to the first end 101 than other portions of the sealant 120. In some embodiments, the sealant 120 is received by an opening 121 and is disposed within an inner piece 107. The portion of the sealant 120 close to the top portion 127 may receive the portion of the inner piece 107 close to the opening 121 such that a portion of the inner piece 107 is disposed within a portion of the top portion 127. In some embodiments, the top portion 127 abuts against and / or is close to the opening 121. The sealant 120 may be a rubber sealant disposed within an outer piece 105, configured to be disposed within an inner piece 107. In some embodiments, the sealant 120 is configured to move axially relative to the outer piece 105. For example, the sealant 120 may be disposed within the outer piece 105 and can be received by the opening 121 of the inner piece 107. In other words, the sealant 120 may be disposed within the inner piece 107, and the inner piece 107 may be disposed within the outer piece 105. The opening 121 may be located on the opposite side of the opening 106. In some embodiments, the inner piece 107 extends from the opening 121 to the opening 106. The sealant 120 may be configured to extend inward and outward from the outer piece 105 together with the inner piece 107. For example, the sealant 120 and the inner piece 107 may move axially relative to the outer piece 105. In some embodiments, since the sealant 120 is disposed within the inner piece 107, movement of the inner piece (e.g., axial movement) results in movement of the sealant 120.

[0059] In some embodiments, the outer piece 105 includes a channel 122 and an internal space 123. The internal space 123 may be the space between the channel 122 and the inner surface of the outer piece 105. The channel 122 may be in fluid communication with the opening 110. For example, fluid entering the opening 110 through a portion of tubing (e.g., tubing portion 104) connected to the first connector 102 can flow into the opening and pass through the channel 122. The channel 122 may have a proximal end 128 and a distal end 125. The proximal end 128 may be closer to the first end 101 than the distal end 125. The distal end 125 may have a pointed geometry to allow for a smoother flow of fluid exiting the channel 122. For example, the distal end 125 may be substantially triangular in shape to allow for a smoother flow of fluid exiting the distal end 125.

[0060] The inner piece 107 may include one or more locking tabs 119. The locking tabs 119 may be located outside the inner piece 107. For example, the locking tabs 119 may extend from the extension portion 114. In some embodiments, the locking tabs 119 extend upward toward the opening 121. The locking tabs 119 may be configured to prevent axial movement of the inner piece 107 toward the first end 101 when the inner piece 107 is in a fully extended position. For example, when the inner piece 107 is in a fully extended position, the locking tabs 119 may be located outside the outer piece 105. When the inner piece 107 is in an initial position or partially extended, the locking tabs 119 may be located inside the outer piece 105, allowing the inner piece 107 to move axially relative to the outer piece 105. When the inner piece 107 moves to its fully extended position, the locking tab 119 is no longer positioned within the outer piece 105. When the inner piece 107 is in its fully extended position, the locking tab 119 abuts against the locking ring 112, preventing axial movement of the inner piece 107 toward the first end 101 of the first connector 102. In some embodiments, the locking tab 119 is configured to compress so that the inner piece 107 can retract into the outer piece 105 and move from its fully extended position back to its initial position.

[0061] In some embodiments, the inner piece 107 is configured to extend inward and outward within the internal space 123. For example, when the inner piece 107 is in its initial position, most of the inner piece 107 is located within the internal space 123. In some embodiments, the sealant 120 is located within the inner piece 107 so that at least most of the sealant 120 and the inner piece 107 are located within the internal space 123, since the sealant 120 is located at least partially within the inner piece 107. The inner piece 107 and the sealant 120 are configured to move axially within the internal space 123 relative to the outer piece 105. In some embodiments, when the inner piece 107 is in its initial position, the channel 122 is located within the sealant 120, which is located within the inner piece 107 located within the body 108 of the outer piece 105, as shown in Figure 5A. The sealing body 120 and the inner piece 107 are configured to move axially relative to the main body 108, the channel 122, and the internal space 123.

[0062] The channel 122 may include a closure hole 124. The closure hole 124 may be located close to the distal end 125. In some embodiments, the closure hole 124 is lateral to the channel 122. For example, the channel 122 may be longitudinally located within the outer piece 105, and the closure hole 124 may be substantially perpendicular to the channel 122. The closure hole 124 allows fluid to flow out of the channel. In some embodiments, when the inner piece 107 is in its initial position, the distal end 125 and the closure hole 124 are located within the tapered portion 115. The inner piece 107 may be biased to take its initial position by the vacuum created within the internal space 123. For example, as shown in Figure 5A, when the inner piece 107 is in its initial position, fluid can flow through the channel 122, out of the closure hole 124, through the channel 117 of the connecting portion 113, and out of the opening 106. The occlusion hole 124 may remain open to allow fluid to flow out of the occlusion hole 124 through the channel 122. The channel 122 may be configured to guide the fluid flowing from the occlusion hole 124 through the opening 106.

[0063] The inner piece 107 can move from its initial position (Figure 5A) to a partially extended position (Figure 5B) depending on the pull-out force applied to the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 102'. In some embodiments, the inner piece 107 moves from its initial position to a partially extended position depending on whether the pull-out force exceeds a first predetermined threshold but is less than a second predetermined threshold. When the pull-out force is removed, the vacuum in the internal space 123 causes the inner piece 107 (and the sealant 120) to move back to its initial position.

[0064] At the point where it extends partway, as shown in Figure 5B, the sealant 120 and the inner piece 107 can move axially relative to the outer piece 105 such that the top portion 127 of the sealant 120 and the opening 121 of the inner piece 107 move away from the first end 101 toward the distal end 125 of the channel 122. At the point where it extends partway, the top portion 127 and the opening 121 are positioned between the first end 101 and the distal end 125 of the outer piece 105.

[0065] At the point where it extends partway (Figure 5B), the seal 120 and the inner piece 107 move axially away from the first end 101 toward the distal end 125 of the channel 122. As a result of the axial movement of the seal 120 and the inner piece 107 toward the distal end 125, the occlusion hole 124 is positioned within the seal 120. For example, as the inner piece 107 extends outward from the outer piece 105, the seal 120 moves toward the distal end 125, and as a result the seal 120 closes or blocks the occlusion hole 124. The closure or blockage of the occlusion hole 124 prevents the flow of fluid out of the channel 122, and thus prevents the flow of fluid out of the first connector 102. In other words, the closure or blockage of the occlusion hole 124 interrupts or blocks the fluid passage through the first connector 102.

[0066] Closing the occlusion hole 124 can interrupt the fluid flow through the first connector 102, which may trigger an alarm by a device that manages or controls the fluid flow. For example, the fluid source 500 may be connected to a device (e.g., a pump) for controlling the fluid flow from the fluid source 500 through the coupler assembly 100 to the patient end 600. If the fluid passage through the coupler assembly 100 is blocked or interrupted, the device may be able to issue an alarm that allows healthcare workers to assist the patient in unblocking the fluid passage. For example, the inner piece 107 may move from its initial position, where the fluid passage is formed and fluid flows from the fluid source 500 through the coupler assembly 100 to the patient end 600, to a partially extended position in response to a pull-out force that exceeds a first defined threshold but does not exceed a second predetermined threshold. The pull-out force may be generated by the patient pulling or strongly pulling on the tubes connected to the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 102'. If the pull-out force exceeds a first predetermined threshold but does not exceed a second predetermined threshold, resulting in the inner piece 107 being partially extended and the occlusion hole 124 being closed, the fluid passage is blocked.

[0067] The inner piece 107 can move from a partially extended position (Figure 5B) to its initial position (Figure 5A) in response to the pull-out force being reduced to below a first predetermined threshold and / or the pull-out force stopping. For example, a patient can strongly pull or tug the tubing connected to the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 102'. The pull-out force resulting from the strong pull or tug can be greater than the first predetermined threshold but less than the second predetermined threshold. By pulling or tuging strongly, the inner piece 107 can be moved from its initial position to a partially extended position, thereby closing the occlusion hole 124 and blocking the fluid passage. Medical professionals assist the patient in stopping pulling or tugging forcefully, thereby reducing or eliminating the pulling force, which in turn causes the inner piece 107 to move from its partially extended position (Figure 5B) to its initial position (Figure 5A) due to the resulting vacuum within the internal space 123.

[0068] The inner piece 107 can move from a partially extended position (Figure 5B) to a fully extended position (Figure 5C) depending on whether the pull-out force meets or exceeds a second predetermined threshold. In the fully extended position, the opening 121 is positioned close to the locking ring 112 and the closing hole 124. Once the inner piece 107 is in the fully extended position, the locking tab 119 can prevent it from moving axially relative to the outer piece 105 and returning to the partially extended or initial position. In the fully extended position, the locking tab 119 prevents axial movement of the inner piece 107 toward the first end 101, and the locking ring 112 prevents axial movement of the inner piece 107 toward the first end 101.

[0069] In its initial position or partially extended position, the locking tab 119 can be compressed radially inward. When the inner piece 107 is fully extended, the locking tab 119 can no longer be compressed, and it can contact the locking ring 112, preventing axial movement of the inner piece 107 toward the first end 101.

[0070] In some embodiments, when the pull-out force meets a second predetermined threshold, the inner piece 107 is fully extended and remains in this fully extended position by the locking tab 119. The fluid passage through the first connector 102 remains blocked because the closure hole 124 is closed by the sealant 120. In some embodiments, the connecting element 150 breaks as a result of the pull-out force exceeding the second predetermined threshold. For example, since the inner piece 107 is in the fully extended position when the pull-out force meets the second predetermined threshold, any increase in the pull-out force (e.g., a force exceeding the second predetermined threshold) will cause the connecting element 150 to break. In some embodiments, when the connecting element 150 breaks, a portion of the connecting element 150 (e.g., portion 150a) remains with the first connector 102, and a portion of the connecting element 150 (e.g., portion 150b) remains with the second connector 102'. If the connecting element 150 breaks, the fluid passages in the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 102' are blocked before the connecting element 150 breaks, thus preventing any fluid leakage.

[0071] In some embodiments, the connecting element 150 is configured to deform when the pull-out force exceeds a second predetermined threshold. For example, the connecting element 150 may deform as the pull-out force increases beyond the second predetermined threshold. The connecting element 150 continues to deform and may then break as the pull-out force increases further beyond the second predetermined threshold.

[0072] In some embodiments, when the inner piece 107 is in its initial position, the coupler assembly 100 is in a first configuration. Furthermore, when the inner piece 107 is in a partially extended position, the coupler assembly 100 is in a second configuration. When the inner piece 107 is fully extended and the connecting element 150 breaks, the coupler assembly 100 is in a third configuration. In some embodiments, the coupler assembly 100 is configured to transition from a second configuration (e.g., when the inner piece 107 is partially extended) back to a first configuration (e.g., when the inner piece 107 is in its initial position). For example, to allow the inner piece 107 to retract into the outer piece and transition from a partially extended position to its initial position, resulting in the coupler assembly 100 transitioning from a second configuration to a first configuration, the pull-out force can be reduced to below a first predetermined threshold or eliminated. However, the coupler assembly 100 may be prevented from transitioning from a third configuration (for example, with the inner piece 107 fully extended) to a second configuration (for example, with the inner piece 107 partially extended). For example, the transition of the coupler assembly from the third configuration to the second configuration may be prevented by the breakage of the locking tab 119 and the connecting element 150.

[0073] In some embodiments, when the coupler assembly 100 is in a third configuration, a healthcare worker can replace the coupler assembly 100 with a new coupler assembly 100. The new coupler assembly 100 may be in a first configuration such that the fluid passage between the fluid source 500 and the patient end 600 is restored. In some embodiments, when the coupler assembly 100 is in a third configuration, the user or healthcare worker compresses the locking tab 119 to retract the inner piece 107 into the outer piece 105 and return it to its initial position. The user or healthcare worker can then replace the broken connecting element 150 with a new connecting element 150 and use this new connecting element 150 to reconnect the first connector 102 to the second connector 102' so that the coupler assembly 100 returns to the first configuration.

[0074] Figure 6 is a graph of the force and displacement of the coupler assembly of Figure 1 in various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0075] Referring to Figure 6, the relationship in the displacement of the first connector 102 or the second connector 102' is shown. At point 602, no force (e.g., pull-out force) is applied to the first connector 102, and therefore there is no displacement of the first connector 102 (e.g., an increase in length), the fluid passage formed within the first connector 102 from opening 110 to opening 106 is open, and fluid is able to flow through the first connector 102. The vacuum within the outer piece 105 prevents the inner piece 107 from extending away from the first end 101 when no force is applied.

[0076] As the force increases towards point 604, the inner piece 107 approaches a partially extended position, causing some displacement in the first connector 102. However, the vacuum within the outer piece 105 prevents the inner piece 107 from extending further and completely closing the sealing body 120 and the inner piece 107 to the closure hole 124. As the force approaches point 604, partial closure or complete closure of the closure hole 124 may occur, but the fluid passage within the first connector 102 remains open, allowing fluid to flow out through the opening 106. At point 604 (e.g., a first predetermined threshold), the inner piece 107 is partially extended, and the closure hole 124 is closed. When a force (e.g., pull-out force) applied to the first connector 102 reaches or exceeds point 604 (e.g., a first predetermined threshold), but before reaching point 606 (e.g., a second predetermined threshold), the closure hole 124 is completely closed by the sealant 120 and the inner piece 107, thereby blocking the fluid passage within the first connector 102.

[0077] Even if the force exceeds point 604, before reaching point 606, the locking tab 119 may not be engaged with and in contact with the locking ring 112, so the inner piece 107 may still be configured to retract and return into the outer piece 105. At point 606 (for example, a second predetermined threshold), the fluid passage in the first connector 102 is blocked, and the inner piece 107 is in its fully extended position. At point 606, the locking tab 119 engages, preventing the inner piece 107 from retracting into the outer piece 105. Furthermore, at point 606, the first connector 102 is at its larger overall length.

[0078] When the force exceeds point 606, the inner piece 107 can no longer stretch, and as a result, the connecting element 150 stretches and displaces. At point 608, where the force exceeds a second predetermined threshold, the connecting element 150 breaks, and the coupler assembly 100 needs to be replaced. In some embodiments, the connecting element 150 is configured to deform before breaking. For example, between points 606 and 608, the connecting element 150 may deform as the force increases. At point 608, the connecting element 150 breaks, and therefore the coupler assembly 100 may need to be replaced to allow fluid to flow from the fluid source 500 to the patient end 600.

[0079] In some embodiments, the first predetermined threshold force is about 1.8 kilograms (4 pounds (lb)). The first predetermined threshold force may range from about 0.45 kg (1 lb) to about 3.6 kg (8 lb), about 1.36 kg (3 lb) to about 3.18 kg (7 lb), about 1.8 kg (4 lb) to about 2.7 kg (6 lb), or greater than about 3.6 kg (8 lb). In some embodiments, the second predetermined threshold force is about 2.7 kg (6 lb) or greater. The second predetermined threshold force may range from about 2.7 kg (6 lb) to about 22.7 kg (50 lb), about 4.5 kg (10 lb) to about 18 kg (40 lb), about 6.8 kg (15 lb) to about 11.34 kg (25 lb), or greater than about 2.7 kg (6 lb). In some embodiments, the first predetermined threshold force is smaller than the second predetermined threshold force. For example, the second predetermined threshold force may be 2.7 kg (6 lb), and the first predetermined threshold force may be between 0.45 kg (1 lb) and 2.27 kg (5 lb).

[0080] The first predetermined force and the second predetermined force may vary depending on the material and / or dimensions used for the first connector 102, the second connector 102', and / or the connecting element 150. For example, the greater the strength of the connecting element 150, the greater the second predetermined threshold force required to cause the connecting element 150 to break. For example, if the connecting element 150 is made from a high-strength material, the second predetermined threshold force may be higher than if the connecting element 150 is made from a lower-strength flexible material. Furthermore, the longer the length of the connecting element 150, the greater the second predetermined threshold force may be compared to a connecting element 150 of a shorter length.

[0081] In practice, a patient may have a needle / catheter inserted into their skin, and the needle / catheter may be connected to the first connector 102 or the second connector 102'. The patient may walk away from the infusion pump or accidentally pull on the fluid line connected to the first connector 102 or the second connector 102', with a force greater than 1.8 kg (4 lb) but less than 2.7 kg (6 lb), causing the first connector 102 or the second connector 102' to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration, effectively closing the fluid passage within the first connector 102 or the second connector 102' as described herein. If the patient walks further or strongly pulls and tugs the fluid line leading to the first connector 102 or the second connector 102' with a force exceeding 2.7 kg (6 lb), the first connector 102 or the second connector 102' may transition from the second configuration to the third configuration, resulting in the breakage of the connecting element 150 as described herein, requiring replacement of the coupler assembly 100.

[0082] In some embodiments, when the connecting element 150 breaks, the user or medical professional removes the first connector 102 and the second connector 102' and inserts a new coupler assembly 100 into the fluid line. In some embodiments, when the connecting element 150 breaks, the user or medical professional retracts the inner pieces 107 and / or 107' into the outer pieces 105 and / or 105', respectively, to move the first connector 102 and / or the second connector 102' from the third configuration to the first configuration. The user or medical professional can replace the connecting element 150 and use the replaced connecting element 150 to connect the first connector 102 to the second connector 102'. The user or medical professional can further sterilize the first connector 102 and the second connector 102'.

[0083] Figure 7A is a system diagram showing a coupler assembly of a second embodiment in use according to various aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 7B is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Figure 7A, with the connector in a first configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 7C is a front perspective view of the connector of Figure 7A, with the connector in a second configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 7D is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Figure 7A, with the connector in a third configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0084] Referring to Figures 7A to 7D, a second exemplary embodiment is shown. The coupler assembly 200 may be similar to the coupler assembly 100 discussed herein, but includes only the first connector 202. The first connector 202 may be similar to the first connector 102 and the second connector 102' discussed herein, but does not include a locking tab. The coupler assembly 200 may not include the second connector 102' or the connecting element 150. For example, the tubular portion 204 may be connected to the fluid source 500 via the first portion of the tubular material, and the connecting portion 213 may be connected to the patient end 600 via the second portion of the tubular material. In some embodiments, the absence of the second connector 102' or the connecting element 150 in the coupler assembly 200 results in the coupler assembly 200 not breaking even when subjected to a pull-out force exceeding a second predetermined threshold force.

[0085] In some embodiments, the first connector 202 does not include the locking tab 119 present in the first connector 102. The absence of the locking tab 119 in the first connector 202 allows the inner piece 207 to retract into the outer piece 205 when it is in its fully extended position (Figure 7C). In some embodiments, the first connector 202 is configured to move to a fully extended position, thereby closing the occlusion hole 224 by the sealant 220 and the inner piece 207 when the pull-out force exceeds a second predetermined threshold. When the pull-out force reaches or exceeds the second predetermined threshold, there are no connecting elements 150 to break, and therefore the coupler assembly 200 does not break. In some embodiments, the coupler assembly 200 is connected to a device (e.g., a pump or other medical device) such that the device generates an alarm when the occlusion hole 224 is blocked and the fluid passage in the first connector 202 is interrupted. The alarm generation is configured to alert healthcare workers to reduce or eliminate the pull-out force generated in the first connector 202.

[0086] Figure 8A is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the connector of the coupler assembly of Figure 1, in which the connector is in a first configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the connector of the coupler assembly of Figure 1, in which the connector is in a second configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0087] Referring to Figures 8A and 8B, a third exemplary embodiment is shown. The first connector 302 may be similar to the first connector 102 and the second connector 102' discussed herein, but the extension portion 314 is longer than the extension portion 114. In some embodiments, the extension portion 314 being longer than the extension portion 114 results in the inner piece 307 being longer than the inner piece 107. Furthermore, the extension portion 314 being longer than the extension portion 114 results in the distal end 325 and the closure hole 324 being further away from the first end portion 301 compared to the distal end 125 and the closure hole 124. In some embodiments, the extension portion 314 being longer than the extension portion allows for a larger buffer area before the closure or closure of the closure hole 324.

[0088] Figure 9A is a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the connector of the coupler assembly of Figure 1, in which the connector is in the first configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 9B is a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the connector of the coupler assembly of Figure 1, in which the connector is in the second configuration, according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0089] Referring to Figures 9A and 9B, a fourth exemplary embodiment is shown. The first connector 402 may be similar to the first connector 102 and the second connector 102' discussed herein, but the first connector 402 may include a biasing element 425. The biasing element 425 may be disposed within the internal space 423 of the outer piece 405. In some embodiments, the biasing element 425 is configured to bias the inner piece 407 to an initial position. For example, compared to the first connector 102 and the second connector 102' which use a vacuum to bias the inner piece 107 to an initial position, the first connector 402 uses a biasing element 425 to bias the inner piece 407 to an initial position.

[0090] The biasing element 425 may be a spring configured to compress in response to a pull-out force. The biasing element 425 may have a compressed state and an extended state. The biasing element 425 may be in an extended state in its natural state and can be compressed in response to a force (e.g., a pull-out force). For example, a pull-out force applied to the first connector 402 may cause the inner piece 407 to move from an initial position to a partially extended position or to a fully extended position. As the inner piece 407 moves to the partially extended position or to a fully extended position, the biasing element 425 may move from an extended state to a compressed state. In some embodiments, the biasing element 425 is disposed between the top edge 427 of the seal 420 and the locking ring 412, so that as the inner piece 407 and the seal 420 move axially away from the first end 401 relative to the outer piece 405, the top edge 427 compresses the biasing element 425. When the pulling force is reduced or removed, the biasing element 425 returns to its expanded state, retracting the inner piece 407 into the outer piece 405. In some embodiments, the first connector 402 includes a vent 416 instead of the plug 116 of the first connector 102. For example, the vent 416 may allow air to move in and out of the outer piece 405 due to the compression and expansion of the biasing element 425.

[0091] The disclosures described herein include at least the following provisions:

[0092] Clause 1: A first connector comprising: a first outer piece having a first channel extending longitudinally therein; a first inner piece at least partially disposed within the first outer piece such that the first channel is disposed therein; and a first seal disposed within the first inner piece, the first seal at least partially disposed between the first channel and the first inner piece, wherein the first inner piece moves axially relative to the first outer piece from a retracted position to an intermediate position A coupler comprising a first connector, configured to move to an extended position, wherein the first channel includes a first occlusion hole, and the first channel and the first occlusion hole form a first fluid passage through the first connector when the first inner piece is in the retracted position, and in the extended position the first occlusion hole is closed by the first seal, thereby blocking the first fluid passage, and the first inner piece moves to an extended position in response to a first predetermined threshold.

[0093] Clause 2: A second connector comprising: a second outer piece having a second channel extending longitudinally therein; a second inner piece at least partially disposed within the second outer piece such that the second channel is disposed therein; and a second seal disposed within the second inner piece, the second seal at least partially disposed between the second channel and the second inner piece, wherein the second inner piece moves axially relative to the second outer piece from a retracted position to a partially extended position. The coupler according to Clause 1, further comprising a second connector, configured to transition to a second channel, the second channel including a second closure hole, the second channel and the second closure hole forming a second fluid passage through the second connector when the second inner piece is in a retracted position, wherein in the partially extended position the second closure hole is closed by the second seal, thereby blocking the second fluid passage, and the second inner piece transitions to the partially extended position in response to a first predetermined threshold force.

[0094] Clause 3: The coupler according to Clause 2, further comprising a coupling element for connecting a first connector to a second connector, configured to fluidly communicate a first fluid passage with a second fluid passage when the first connector is coupled to the second connector.

[0095] Clause 4: The coupler described in Clause 3, wherein the connecting element is configured to break into two or more parts when the pull-out force exceeds a second predetermined threshold.

[0096] Clause 5: A coupler as described in Clause 4, where the second predetermined threshold is greater than the first predetermined threshold.

[0097] Clause 6: The coupler according to Clause 3, wherein a central axis extends through the first connector, the connecting element, and the second connector, when the first connector is connected to the second connector via a connecting element.

[0098] Clause 7: The coupler described in Clause 3, wherein the first connector is configured to remain connected to the connecting element and the second connector when the pull-out force does not exceed a first predetermined threshold force.

[0099] Clause 8: The coupler according to Clause 3, having a first configuration in which a first connector is connected to a second connector via a connecting element such that a first fluid passage is in fluid communication with a second fluid passage.

[0100] Clause 9: The coupler according to Clause 3, having a second configuration in which the first connector is connected to the second connector, the first inner piece is in a partially extended position and the second inner piece is in a partially extended position, in which case the first fluid passage is blocked and the second fluid passage is blocked.

[0101] Clause 10: The coupler according to Clause 3, having a third configuration in which the connecting element is broken, resulting in the first connector being disconnected from the second connector.

[0102] Clause 11: The coupler according to Clause 1, wherein the first inner piece includes a first connecting portion, the first inner piece being configured to transition from a partially extended position to a fully extended position, the fully extended position being a position in which the first connecting portion is located further from the first closing hole than when the first inner piece is in the partially extended position.

[0103] Clause 12: The coupler according to Clause 11, wherein the first inner piece includes one or more locking tabs, the one or more locking tabs being configured to prevent the first inner piece from retracting when the first inner piece is in a fully extended position.

[0104] Clause 13: The coupler described in Clause 11, wherein the first inner piece moves from a partially extended position to a fully extended position in response to a pull-out force exceeding a second predetermined threshold, the second predetermined threshold being greater than the first predetermined threshold.

[0105] Clause 14: The coupler according to Clause 1, wherein the first outer piece includes a first internal space, and the first inner piece is biased to retract into the first internal space by a vacuum created within the first internal space.

[0106] Clause 15: The coupler according to Clause 1, wherein the first outer piece includes a first pipe portion configured to connect to a part of the pipe, and the first inner piece includes a first connecting portion configured to connect to a connecting element, the first pipe portion being in fluid communication with the first connecting portion through a first channel and a first closure hole when the first inner piece is in a retracted position.

[0107] Clause 16: The coupler described in Clause 1, wherein the length of the first inner piece is greater than the length of the first outer piece.

[0108] Clause 17: The coupler according to Clause 1, wherein the maximum diameter of the first outer piece is greater than the maximum diameter of the first inner piece.

[0109] Clause 18: The coupler according to Clause 1, further comprising a locking ring fixed to a first outer piece, configured to prevent the first inner piece from being pulled out from the first outer piece.

[0110] Clause 19: The coupler according to Clause 1, further comprising a biasing element disposed within the internal space of a first outer piece and having a compressed state and an expanded state, configured to bias the first inner piece to a retracted position, wherein the biasing element transitions from an expanded state to a compressed state in response to a first predetermined threshold force.

[0111] Clause 20: The coupler described in Clause 1, wherein the pull-out force is a force applied to the first connector along the central axis of the first connector, and the central axis extends at least along the length of the first connector.

[0112] Clause 21: A first connector comprising a first outer piece having a first channel extending longitudinally therein, a first inner piece at least partially disposed within the first outer piece such that the first channel is disposed therein, and a first seal disposed within the first inner piece, the first seal at least partially disposed between the first channel and the first inner piece, wherein the first inner piece is configured to move axially relative to the first outer piece from a retracted position to a partially extended position. A first connector comprising a first channel including a first closure hole, the first channel and the first closure hole forming a first fluid passage through the first connector when the first inner piece is in a retracted position, the first closure hole being closed by the first seal when it is partially extended, thereby blocking the first fluid passage, and the first inner piece moving to the partially extended position in response to the pull-out force exceeding a first predetermined threshold, and a second connector comprising a second outer piece having a second channel extending longitudinally within it, the second channel The second inner piece is disposed within the second outer piece such that a second channel is disposed inside it, and the second sealing body is disposed within the second inner piece such that at least a portion of it is disposed between the second channel and the second inner piece, wherein the second inner piece is configured to move axially relative to the second outer piece from a retracted position to a partially extended position, and the second channel includes a second closure hole, the second channel and the second closure hole when the second inner piece is in the retracted position A coupler comprising: a second connector which forms a second fluid passage through a second connector, the second closure hole being closed by a second seal at a point where it extends partway, thereby blocking the second fluid passage, and the second inner piece moving to the point where it extends partway in response to a first predetermined threshold force; and a connecting element for connecting a first connector to a second connector, configured to allow fluid communication between the first fluid passage and the second fluid passage when the first connector is connected to the second connector.

[0113] Clause 22: A first connector comprising a first outer piece having a first channel extending longitudinally within it, a first inner piece at least partially disposed within the first outer piece such that the first channel is disposed within it, and a first seal disposed within the first inner piece, the first seal at least partially disposed between the first channel and the first inner piece, wherein the first inner piece moves axially relative to the first outer piece, moving from a retracted position through a partially extended position to a fully extended position. The device is configured such that the first channel includes a first closure hole substantially perpendicular to the first channel, and the first channel and the first closure hole form a first fluid passage through the first connector when the first inner piece is in a retracted position, and when it is partially extended the first closure hole is closed by the first seal, thereby blocking the first fluid passage, and the first inner piece moves to the partially extended position in response to the pull-out force exceeding a first predetermined threshold, and the first inner piece moves to the partially extended position in response to the pull-out force exceeding a second predetermined threshold The first connector transitions accordingly from a partially extended position to a fully extended position, and the second connector includes a second outer piece having a second channel extending longitudinally within it, a second inner piece at least partially disposed within the second outer piece such that the second channel is disposed within it, and a second sealing body disposed within the second inner piece, the second sealing body at least partially disposed between the second channel and the second inner piece, wherein the second inner piece moves axially relative to the second outer piece, It is configured to transition from a retracted position to a partially extended position and then to a fully extended position, the second channel includes a second closure hole substantially perpendicular to the second channel, the second channel and the second closure hole form a second fluid passage through the second connector when the second inner piece is in the retracted position, the second closure hole is closed by the second seal when it is in the partially extended position, thereby blocking the second fluid passage, and the second inner piece transitions to the partially extended position when the pull-out force exceeds a first predetermined threshold,A coupler comprising: a second connector, the first inner piece of which transitions from a partially extended position to a fully extended position in response to a pull-out force exceeding a second predetermined threshold; and a connecting element for connecting the first connector to the second connector, configured to fluidly communicate a first fluid passage with a second fluid passage when the first connector is connected to the second connector, wherein the connecting element is configured to break into two or more parts in response to a pull-out force exceeding a second predetermined threshold, the second predetermined threshold being greater than the first predetermined threshold, the pull-out force being a force applied to the first connector along its central axis, the central axis extending at least along the length of the first connector, the second connector, and the connecting element.

[0114] This disclosure is provided so that any person skilled in the art can implement the various embodiments described herein. This disclosure provides various examples of the subject art, but the subject art is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art, and the comprehensive principles set forth herein may be applied to other embodiments.

[0115] References to singular elements are not intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly stated so, but rather "one or more." Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the term "several" refers to one or more. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter pronouns (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, where present, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

[0116] The term “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example or illustration.” Any embodiment or design described herein as “exemplary” should not necessarily be construed as being preferable or advantageous to other embodiments or designs. In one embodiment, various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0117] The terms "aspects" and similar phrases do not imply that such aspects are essential to the subject art, nor that such aspects are compatible with all configurations of the subject art. Disclosures relating to aspects may be compatible with all configurations, or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. Terms such as "aspects" may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. The terms such as "embodiment" do not imply that such an embodiment is essential to the subject art, or that such an embodiment applies to all configurations of the subject art. Disclosures relating to embodiments may be compatible with all embodiments, or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. Terms such as "embodiment" may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. The terms such as "configuration" and similar phrases do not imply that such configurations are essential to the subject art, nor that such configurations are compatible with all configurations of the subject art. Disclosures relating to configurations may be compatible with all configurations, or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. Terms such as "composition" can refer to one or more compositions, and vice versa.

[0118] In one embodiment, unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, locations, sizes, dimensions, and other specifications specified herein, including those in the subsequent claims, are approximate and not exact. In one embodiment, they are intended to have a reasonable range that is consistent with the function to which they relate and with what is common in the art to which they relate.

[0119] In one aspect, the term "to be linked" can refer to being directly linked. In another aspect, the term "to be linked" can refer to being indirectly linked.

[0120] When used in this disclosure, terms such as “up,” “down,” “front,” and “rear” should be understood to refer to an arbitrary reference frame, rather than a normal gravity-based reference frame. In this case, the top, bottom, front, and rear surfaces may extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravity-based reference frame.

[0121] Various configurations of different things are possible without any deviation from the scope of the subject art (for example, they can be arranged in different orders or divided in different ways). All structural and functional equivalents of the various aspects of the elements described throughout this disclosure, which are known to those skilled in the art or will become known in the future, are expressly incorporated by reference herein and are intended to be included in the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein, whether such disclosure is expressly included in the claims or not, is intended to be open to the public. No element of any claim should be construed under Section 112, paragraph 6 of the U.S. Patent Act unless it is explicitly described using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, the phrase “steps for.” Furthermore, to the extent that terms such as “include” and “have” are used, such terms are intended to be inclusive, as is the case with “comprise” when the term “comprise” is used as a transitional clause in a claim.

[0122] The “Title of the Invention,” “Background Art,” “Summary of the Invention,” “Brief Description of the Drawings,” and “Abstract” of this Disclosure are incorporated herein by reference, but are provided not as restrictive statements, but as exemplary examples of the Disclosure. This Disclosure is filed with the understanding that they are not used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, it is understood that in the “Modes for Carrying Out the Invention,” the description provides exemplary examples, and various features are grouped together for the purpose of rationalizing the Disclosure in various embodiments. This method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than are explicitly described in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the subsequent claims, the subject matter of the invention consists of less than all features of the single configuration or operation disclosed. The following claims are incorporated herein by reference in the “Modes for Carrying Out the Invention,” and each claim stands on its own as the claimed subject matter.

[0123] The claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but are intended to be of the full scope corresponding to the language claims and to encompass all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, no claim is intended to encompass, nor should they be interpreted as, subject matter that does not meet the requirements of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the U.S. Patent Act.

Claims

1. A first connector comprising: a first outer piece having a first channel extending longitudinally therein; a first inner piece at least partially disposed within the first outer piece such that the first channel is disposed therein; and a first seal disposed within the first inner piece, at least partially disposed between the first channel and the first inner piece, wherein the first inner piece is configured to move axially relative to the first outer piece from a retracted position to a partially extended position, the first channel includes a first closure hole, and the first channel and the first closure hole form a first fluid passage through the first connector when the first inner piece is in the retracted position, At the extended position, the first occlusion hole is closed by the first sealant, thereby blocking the first fluid passage, and the first inner piece moves to the partially extended position when the pull-out force exceeds a first predetermined threshold. Kapla.

2. A second connector comprising: a second outer piece having a second channel extending longitudinally therein; a second inner piece at least partially disposed within the second outer piece such that the second channel is disposed therein; and a second sealing body disposed within the second inner piece, at least partially disposed between the second channel and the second inner piece, wherein the second inner piece is configured to move axially relative to the second outer piece from a retracted position to a partially extended position, the second channel includes a second closure hole, and the second channel and the second closure hole form a second fluid passage through the second connector when the second inner piece is in the retracted position, At the aforementioned partially extended position, the second occlusion hole is closed by the second sealant, thereby blocking the second fluid passage, and the second inner piece moves to the partially extended position when the pull-out force exceeds the first predetermined threshold. The coupler according to claim 1.

3. A connecting element for connecting the first connector to the second connector, wherein when the first connector is connected to the second connector, the first fluid passage is configured to be in fluid communication with the second fluid passage. The coupler according to claim 2, further comprising the following:

4. The coupler according to claim 3, wherein the connecting element is configured to break into two or more parts when the pull-out force exceeds a second predetermined threshold.

5. The coupler according to claim 4, wherein the second predetermined threshold is greater than the first predetermined threshold.

6. The coupler according to claim 3, wherein, when the first connector is connected to the second connector via the connecting element, a central axis extends through the first connector, the connecting element, and the second connector.

7. The coupler according to claim 3, wherein the first connector is configured to remain connected to the connecting element and the second connector when the pulling force does not exceed a first predetermined threshold force.

8. The coupler according to claim 3, wherein the coupler has a first configuration, in which the first configuration the first connector is connected to the second connector via the connecting element such that the first fluid passage is in fluid communication with the second fluid passage.

9. The coupler according to claim 3, wherein the coupler has a second configuration, in which the first connector is connected to the second connector, the first inner piece is in a position that extends partway, and the second inner piece is in a position that extends partway, and in this case the first fluid passage is blocked and the second fluid passage is blocked.

10. The coupler according to claim 3, wherein the coupler has a third configuration, in which the connecting element is broken, and as a result the first connector is disconnected from the second connector.

11. The coupler according to claim 1, wherein the first inner piece includes a first connecting portion, and the first inner piece is configured to transition from a partially extended position to a fully extended position, the fully extended position being a position in which the first connecting portion is located further from the first closing hole than when the first inner piece is in the partially extended position.

12. The coupler according to claim 11, wherein the first inner piece includes one or more locking tabs, the one or more locking tabs are configured to prevent the first inner piece from retracting when the first inner piece is in the fully extended position.

13. The coupler according to claim 11, wherein the first inner piece moves from the partially extended position to the fully extended position in response to the pull-out force exceeding a second predetermined threshold, and the second predetermined threshold is greater than the first predetermined threshold.

14. The coupler according to claim 1, wherein the first outer piece includes a first internal space, and the first inner piece is biased to retract into the first internal space by a vacuum generated in the first internal space.

15. The coupler according to claim 1, wherein the first outer piece includes a first pipe portion configured to connect to a part of a pipe, and the first inner piece includes a first connecting portion configured to connect to a connecting element, and the first pipe portion is in fluid communication with the first connecting portion through the first channel and the first closure hole when the first inner piece is in the retracted position.

16. A locking ring fixed to the first outer piece, configured to prevent the first inner piece from being pulled out from the first outer piece. The coupler according to claim 1, further comprising the following:

17. The present invention further comprises a biasing element disposed within the internal space of the first outer piece and having a compressed state and an expanded state, and configured to bias the first inner piece to the retracted position, wherein the biasing element transitions from the expanded state to the compressed state in response to the pull-out force exceeding a first predetermined threshold. The coupler according to claim 1.

18. The coupler according to claim 1, wherein the pull-out force is a force applied to the first connector along the central axis of the first connector, and the central axis extends at least along the length of the first connector.

19. A first connector comprising: a first outer piece having a first channel extending longitudinally therein; a first inner piece at least partially disposed within the first outer piece such that the first channel is disposed therein; and a first seal disposed within the first inner piece, the first seal at least partially disposed between the first channel and the first inner piece, wherein the first inner piece moves axially relative to the first outer piece from a retracted position to a partially extended position. The first connector is configured to transition to the first channel, the first channel including a first closure hole, the first channel and the first closure hole forming a first fluid passage through the first connector when the first inner piece is in the retracted position, the first closure hole being closed by the first seal when the partway extended position is closed, thereby blocking the first fluid passage, and the first inner piece transitions to the partway extended position when the pull-out force exceeds a first predetermined threshold, A second connector comprising: a second outer piece having a second channel extending longitudinally within it; a second inner piece at least partially disposed within the second outer piece such that the second channel is disposed within it; and a second sealing body disposed within the second inner piece, the second sealing body at least partially disposed between the second channel and the second inner piece, wherein the second inner piece moves axially relative to the second outer piece from a retracted position to a partially extended position. The second connector is configured to move, the second channel including a second closure hole, the second channel and the second closure hole forming a second fluid passage through the second connector when the second inner piece is in the retracted position, the second closure hole being closed by the second seal when the partway extended position is closed, thereby blocking the second fluid passage, and the second inner piece moving to the partway extended position when the pull-out force exceeds the first predetermined threshold, A connecting element for connecting the first connector to the second connector, wherein the connecting element is configured to create fluid communication between the first fluid passage and the second fluid passage when the first connector is connected to the second connector, A coupler equipped with this feature.

20. A first connector comprising: a first outer piece having a first channel extending longitudinally within it; a first inner piece having at least a portion disposed within the first outer piece such that the first channel is disposed within it; and a first seal disposed within the first inner piece, the first seal having at least a portion disposed between the first channel and the first inner piece, wherein the first inner piece is configured to move axially relative to the first outer piece, moving from a retracted position through a partially extended position to a fully extended position, and the first channel is relative to the first channel A first connector comprising a substantially vertical first closure hole, wherein the first channel and the first closure hole form a first fluid passage through the first connector when the first inner piece is in the retracted position, the first closure hole is closed by the first seal when the partially extended position, thereby blocking the first fluid passage, the first inner piece moves to the partially extended position in response to the pull-out force exceeding a first predetermined threshold, and the first inner piece moves from the partially extended position to the fully extended position in response to the pull-out force exceeding a second predetermined threshold, A second connector comprising: a second outer piece having a second channel extending longitudinally within it; a second inner piece having at least a portion disposed within the second outer piece such that the second channel is disposed within it; and a second sealing body disposed within the second inner piece, the second sealing body having at least a portion disposed between the second channel and the second inner piece, wherein the second inner piece is configured to move axially relative to the second outer piece, moving from a retracted position through a partially extended position to a fully extended position, and the second channel is actual relative to the second channel. A second connector comprising a qualitatively vertical second closure hole, wherein the second channel and the second closure hole form a second fluid passage through the second connector when the second inner piece is in the retracted position, the second closure hole is closed by the second seal when the partially extended position, thereby blocking the second fluid passage, the second inner piece moves to the partially extended position in response to the pull-out force exceeding the first predetermined threshold, and the first inner piece moves from the partially extended position to the fully extended position in response to the pull-out force exceeding the second predetermined threshold, A connecting element for connecting the first connector to the second connector, wherein the connecting element is configured to cause fluid communication between the first fluid passage and the second fluid passage when the first connector is connected to the second connector, The connecting element is configured to break into two or more parts when the pull-out force exceeds a second predetermined threshold, and the second predetermined threshold is greater than the first predetermined threshold. The pull-out force is a force applied to the first connector along the central axis of the first connector, the central axis extending along at least the length of the first connector, the second connector, and the connecting element. Kapla.

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