Telescopic tube extension set

Abstract

A telescopic tube extension set is disclosed, the telescopic tube extension set comprising a sleeve and a tube, which can move longitudinally and expand relative to each other while maintaining the openness of the fluid path through the telescopic tube extension set, when the tube and the sleeve move toward each other to form a first configuration, and when they move toward each other to form a second configuration. Here, the tube is located within the tube lumen of the sleeve, and the fluid path can extend through either the fluid passage of the tube or the tube lumen of the sleeve.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of Patent Provisional Application No. 63 / 492,897, entitled "TELESCOPIC TUBING EXTENSION SET", filed on March 29, 2023, under 35 U.S.C. § 119, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Background Art

[0002] The present invention generally relates to medical fluid connectors, and more specifically to a telescopic tube extension set comprising a sleeve and a tube that are relatively movable with respect to each other.

[0003] Medical connections are widely used in fluid supply systems associated with intravenous (IV) infusion lines, blood access, hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, enteral nutrition, drug vial access, and other procedures.

[0004] In some cases, medical connections may unintentionally disconnect or be severed. For example, the medical tubing of an IV set connected to a catheter may disconnect if an unintended or unexpected force is applied to a part of the IV set, such as the catheter or tubing, and that force exceeds the design limits of the catheter fixation method or other parts of the IV set. When a patient moves or turns in bed, or when the tubing or other parts of the IV set catch on a part of the bed (e.g., a railing), or when the patient is confused, disoriented, or restless and moving around, an unintended or unexpected force may be applied to the tubing and / or catheter, causing the medical tubing to be unintentionally or intentionally pulled away from the patient or from a medical device connected to the tubing.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to at least some embodiments disclosed herein, it is recognized that unintentional disconnection or severance of medical connections, such as medical tubing, can result in harm to patients by depriving them of medication, increasing the likelihood of infection in patients, or harming patients and caregivers by exposure to harmful medications.

[0006] Accordingly, an aspect of the disclosure of the present invention provides an expandable tube extension set comprising a sleeve, the sleeve having a first end, a second end, and an inner surface forming a tube lumen extending through the first and second ends of the sleeve, the second end of the sleeve having a locking mechanism configured to connect with a tube coupler, the first end of the sleeve having a seal and a tube, the tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and an inner surface forming a fluid passage extending through the proximal and distal ends, a collar extending radially outward from the outer surface of the tube, and a distal end formed by the outer surface of the tube, the distal end being defined such that its cross-sectional width decreases in the direction from the collar toward the distal end of the tube. Here, the distal end of the tube is located within the tube lumen of the sleeve so that the seal engages with the tube and the tube is longitudinally movable relative to the sleeve.

[0007] The disclosure of the present invention may also provide a telescopic tube extension set system, the telescopic tube extension set system comprising a tube coupler and a telescopic tube extension set, the tube coupler having an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface forming a fluid channel extending through the tube coupler, the telescopic tube extension set comprising a sleeve, a tube, and a seal, the sleeve comprising a first end that engages with the seal, a second end having a tube lumen that extends through the first and second ends of the sleeve and a locking mechanism configured to connect with the tube coupler, the tube having a distal end that is positioned within the tube lumen and configured to be detachably connected with the fluid channel of the tube coupler, an inner surface that forms a fluid passage, and an outer surface that engages with the seal. Here, in a first direction of the telescopic tube extension set, the locking mechanism resists separation of the sleeve from the tube coupler by engaging with the tube coupler, and the distal end of the tube is positioned within the fluid channel of the tube coupler to form a fluid path between the fluid channel of the tube coupler and the fluid passage of the tube. In the second direction of the telescopic tube extension set, the distal end of the tube is pulled out of the tube coupler and positioned between the first and second ends of the sleeve as the tube moves longitudinally away from the tube coupler, thereby forming a fluid path between the fluid channel of the tube coupler, the tube lumen of the sleeve, and the fluid passage of the tube.

[0008] The disclosure of the present invention may provide a method for providing an expandable tube extension set, the method comprising: providing a sleeve having an inner surface that forms a tube lumen between a first end and a second end of the sleeve; positioning a tube within the tube lumen of the sleeve such that the tube is movable longitudinally within the tube lumen in a first direction, the first direction being in which the distal end of the tube moves toward the second end of the sleeve, and a second direction, the second direction being in which the distal end of the tube moves toward the second end of the sleeve; and further, positioning a seal between the sleeve and the tube to restrict the movement of fluid between the outer surface of the tube and the inner surface of the sleeve.

[0009] Accordingly, this application addresses several operational challenges that have occurred in conventional fluid connections, allows users to more easily provide fluid pathways, and further provides numerous improvements that enhance safety and effectiveness in maintaining fluid pathways and fluid supply. In some embodiments, the disclosure of the present invention makes it possible to provide a telescopic tube extension set that can resist separation or damage to fluid pathways by allowing a portion of the structure forming the fluid pathway to be extended in the longitudinal direction.

[0010] Additional features and advantages of this technology are described in detail below, some of which are evident from the description or can be understood through the implementation of this technology. The advantages of this technology are realized and achieved by the structures specifically shown in the description and embodiments, as well as by the accompanying drawings.

[0011] The general description and the detailed description below are both illustrative and explanatory, and should be understood as being intended to provide further explanation of the technology in question.

[0012] Various features of the illustrated embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The illustrated embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the present invention. The drawings include the following figures. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This is a diagram of a retractable tube extension set used with an IV set connected to a patient, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a first perspective view of a retractable tube extension set connected to a catheter, relating to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view from a second direction of the retractable tube extension set shown in Figure 2, according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 4] This is an exploded perspective view of a telescopic tube extension set according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional view of the telescopic tube extension set shown in Figure 4, relating to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a detailed cross-sectional view of a telescopic tube extension set according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] The detailed description below in this specification provides many specific details to ensure a full understanding of the technique. It should be understood that the technique can be implemented even without some of these specific details. Furthermore, in some cases, well-known structures and techniques may not be described in detail to avoid obscuring the technique.

[0015] Furthermore, while this description provides specific details of various embodiments, it should be understood that this description is merely illustrative and should not be interpreted restrictively in any way. In addition, even if a particular embodiment of the disclosure of the present invention is disclosed or shown in the context of Set IV, it is assumed that this embodiment can be used in other fluid conveying systems. Moreover, various uses and modifications thereof of such embodiments, which may be obvious to those skilled in the art, are also encompassed within the general concepts described herein.

[0016] According to several embodiments, the present application discloses various features and advantages of telescopic tube extension sets. Telescopic tube extension sets enable the efficient and safe maintenance of fluid pathways, such as fluid pathways used to transport medical fluids toward or away from a patient. Telescopic tube extension sets can maintain the structural integrity and sterility of fluid pathways by resisting unintended breakage when tensile or tension is applied to the telescopic tube extension set or other devices forming the fluid pathway, such as when the patient moves or the medical tube is pulled away from the patient.

[0017] Telescopic tube extension sets can also prevent harm to patients or caregivers by preventing accidental severance of fluid pathways, thereby preventing patients from being deprived of medications or patients or others from being exposed to medications. Furthermore, by avoiding accidental severance of fluid pathways, telescopic tube extension sets can reduce the effort and costs associated with fluid transfer.

[0018] The telescopic tube extension set includes sleeves and tubes that are movable longitudinally relative to each other, thereby providing a telescopic function that can increase the length of the fluid path through the telescopic tube extension set by allowing the tubes to move through a portion of the sleeve's length.

[0019] At least a portion of the tube's length is positioned within the sleeve, so that when the cross-sectional profile of the telescopic tube extension set is viewed in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the telescopic tube extension set, the tube is positioned concentrically within the sleeve.

[0020] The tube positioned within the sleeve forms a fluid path when the telescopic tube extension set is in a first orientation, in a second orientation, and when the telescopic tube extension set is moving between the first and second orientations.

[0021] An example of a retractable tube extension set in a first orientation according to an aspect of the disclosure of the present invention is shown in Figure 1. The retractable tube extension set is connected to the tubing of an IV set used to supply fluid to a patient 10. The IV set may include a drug bag 12, a drip chamber 14, tubing 16, and an IV catheter 18.

[0022] The telescopic tube extension set 100 fluidly connects the tube 16 to the IV catheter 18. The telescopic tube extension set 100 is shown connected along the fluid path of the IV set between the drug bag 12 and the patient 10, but it should be understood that the telescopic tube extension set 100 may be connected within other fluid paths. For example, the telescopic tube extension set 100 may be connected between the patient and an IV pump, or between the patient and a dialysis device, etc. The telescopic tube extension set 100 may also be connected along other parts of the fluid path. For example, the telescopic tube extension set 100 may be connected along the proximal portion of the fluid path so as to be connected between the tube 16 and the drug bag 12 or other fluid treatment devices. Further, the telescopic tube extension set 100 may also be connected along other fluid paths, such as a part of the path of an enteral nutrition tube.

[0023] The telescopic tube extension set 100 can form all or part of the fluid path. In one aspect, the tube of the telescopic tube extension set 100 may extend from the fluid source to the sleeve. However, the disclosure of the present invention contemplates that the tube of the telescopic tube extension set may be connected to other tubes or other fluid devices using connectors. FIG. 1 shows an example of a connector 20 for connecting the tube of the telescopic tube extension set to the tube of the IV set.

[0024] The telescopic tube extension set 100 can move between a first orientation and a second orientation. FIG. 2 shows the telescopic tube extension set 100 in the first orientation, and FIG. 3 shows the telescopic tube extension set 100 in the second orientation. The telescopic tube extension set 100 is shown connected to the IV catheter 18, but it should be understood that the telescopic tube extension set 100 may be connected to other parts of the IV set, other fluid transfer devices, or a tube coupler 19 that can be connected between the telescopic tube extension set 100 and other devices, such as the IV catheter 18, etc.

[0025] The telescopic tube extension set 100 includes a sleeve 102 and a tube 200 disposed within the sleeve 102. The sleeve 102 and the tube 200 are movable longitudinally relative to each other, thereby enabling the telescopic tube extension set 100 to move between a first and a second orientation.

[0026] The sleeve 102 is illustrated as being constructed of a transparent material in order to show the position of the tube 200 relative to the sleeve 102. However, the disclosure of the present invention contemplates that either the sleeve 102 and / or the tube 200 may be constructed of a transparent or an opaque material.

[0027] In the first orientation, the tube 200 extends through an opening at a first end 104 of the sleeve and along a tube lumen 106 formed by the inner surface of the sleeve. The distal end 202 of the tube is connected to a tube coupler 19, and a second end 108 of the sleeve is also connected to the tube coupler 19.

[0028] In the first orientation of the telescopic tube extension set 100, the fluid path extends through a fluid passage formed by the tube coupler 19 and the inner surface of the tube 200.

[0029] The distal end 202 of the tube and the second end 108 of the sleeve are connected to the tube coupler 19. The second end 108 of the sleeve includes a locking mechanism configured to resist separation of the sleeve 102 therefrom.

[0030] The distal end 202 of the tube is also connected to the tube coupler 19 and is configured to allow the distal end 202 of the tube to separate or be pulled therefrom when a force exceeds a threshold value.

[0031] When the force applied to the telescopic tube extension set 100 exceeds a threshold, the telescopic tube extension set 100 may move from a first orientation to a second orientation. The force may be applied to either the sleeve 102 and / or the tube 200. The force may be in any direction that pulls the sleeve 102 and the tube 200 apart from each other. For example, the force that moves the telescopic tube extension set 100 from a first orientation to a second orientation may be caused by the tube 200 being pulled in a direction D1 away from the first end 104 of the sleeve, or by the sleeve 102 being pulled in a direction D2 away from the tube 200.

[0032] In some embodiments of the disclosure of the present invention, the threshold force that can cause the tube 200 to detach or be pulled out of the tube coupler 19 may be in the range of approximately 1 pound to approximately 10 pounds, or the threshold force may be in the range of approximately 3 pounds to approximately 7 pounds. In some embodiments, the telescopic tube extension set 100 is configured such that the tube 200 detaches or is pulled out of the tube coupler 19 when the force exceeds approximately 5 pounds.

[0033] When the force applied to the telescopic tube extension set 100 exceeds a threshold, the telescopic tube extension set 100 moves in a second direction, and as shown in Figure 3, the tube 200 moves longitudinally within the sleeve 102 in a direction away from the second end 108 of the sleeve.

[0034] The tube 200 can move along the longitudinal axis A1 defined between the first and second ends 104, 108 of the sleeve. In the second orientation, the tube 200 can move away from the second end 108 of the sleeve by a distance shorter than the length of the sleeve 102, so that the distal end 202 of the tube remains located within the tube lumen 106 of the sleeve.

[0035] In some embodiments of the disclosure of the present invention, the length of the sleeve 102 is defined between the first and second ends 104,108 of the sleeve and may range from approximately 1 inch to approximately 8 inches, or from approximately 2 inches to approximately 6 inches. In some embodiments, the length of the sleeve 102 is approximately 4 inches.

[0036] In the second orientation of the telescopic tube extension set 100, the fluid path P1 extends through a fluid passage formed by the tube coupler 19, the tube lumen 106 of the sleeve, and the inner surface of the tube 200.

[0037] In the first and second orientations of the telescopic tube extension set 100, the sleeve 102 is connected to the tube coupler 19 by a locking mechanism 110 at the second end 108 of the sleeve. The locking mechanism 110 is configured to allow connection and disconnection between the second end 108 of the sleeve and the tube coupler 19 when connection or disconnection is intended. However, the locking mechanism 110 resists unintentional separation or disconnection of the sleeve 102 from the tube coupler 19, such as when force is applied to the telescopic tube extension set 100 or when the telescopic tube extension set 100 moves from the first orientation to the second orientation.

[0038] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the locking mechanism 110 may be formed at the second end 108 of the sleeve by any structure or feature configured to resist the sleeve 102 from unintentionally separating from the tube coupler 19. In one embodiment of the disclosure of the present invention, the locking mechanism is configured to resist the sleeve 102 from separating from the tube coupler 19 before the tube 200 separates from the tube coupler 19. In one embodiment of the disclosure of the present invention, the locking mechanism is configured to resist the sleeve 102 from separating from the tube coupler 19 until a separating force greater than a threshold force for moving the telescopic tube extension set 100 from a first orientation to a second orientation is applied to the sleeve.

[0039] The threshold separation force for the connection between the sleeve 102 and the tube coupler 19 is defined against longitudinal forces. Therefore, when a rotational force is applied to the sleeve 102 or the tube coupler 19, it may be possible to unscrew or separate the sleeve 102 from the tube coupler 19 with a rotational force smaller than the threshold separation force for the connection between the sleeve 102 and the tube coupler 19.

[0040] The locking mechanism 110 may be formed as a thread extending radially inward from the inner surface 112 of the sleeve and configured to connect with the mating thread of the tube coupler 19. The locking mechanism 110 may also be configured as either a tab extending from the sleeve 102 or a groove extending within the sleeve 102 and configured to engage with other parts of the tube coupler 19 or with the tab or groove. If the locking mechanism is a thread or a tab and groove, the connection between the sleeve 102 and the tube coupler 19 may be achieved by a rotation of less than 180 degrees between the sleeve 102 and the tube coupler 19.

[0041] The disclosure of the present invention also considers embodiments in which the locking mechanism is other structures or functions, such as mating or snapping between the sleeve 102 and the tube coupler 19. In some embodiments of the disclosure of the present invention, the locking mechanism is formed by the inner surface 112 at the second end of the sleeve having a cross-sectional width substantially equal to the cross-sectional width formed by the outer surface 21 of the tube coupler 19.

[0042] When the sleeve 102 is connected to the tube coupler 19, the inner surface of the sleeve engages with the outer surface 21 of the tube coupler. In the first orientation of the telescopic tube extension set 100, the locking mechanism 110 of the sleeve is connected to the tube coupler 19, and the distal end 202 of the tube is positioned within the fluid channel 22 formed by the inner surface 24 of the tube coupler.

[0043] To position the distal end 202 of the tube within the fluid channel 22 of the tube coupler and to form a fluid seal between them, the distal end 204 of the tube may have a tapered outer surface 206.

[0044] A tapered surface along the distal end of the tube 200 can be formed by reducing the cross-sectional width such that the outer surface of the tube tapers toward the distal end 202. In some embodiments of the telescopic tube extension set 100, the tapered distal end of the tube can form a male Luer taper configured to be received within and engage with a female Luer taper formed by the inner surface 24 of the tube coupler.

[0045] The distal end of the tube 200 may include a collar 208 configured to resist or restrict the longitudinal movement of the tube 200 relative to the sleeve 102 when the telescopic tube extension set 100 moves in a second orientation.

[0046] The collar 208 can resist or restrict the longitudinal movement of the tube 200 by engaging with a portion of the sleeve 102 or another portion of the telescopic tube extension set 100 as the tube 200 moves proximal toward the first end 104 of the sleeve.

[0047] Referring to Figure 6, the collar 208 is formed as a projection or wall extending radially outward from the outer surface 206 of the tube in a direction away from the longitudinal axis A2 of the fluid passage 210.

[0048] The collar 208 has a length that extends along the periphery of the tube 200. The length of the collar 208 is equal to or greater than the circumference of the tube 200, and as a result, the collar 208 extends along the entire circumference of the tube 200. However, in some embodiments, the collar 208 extends along only a portion of the periphery of the tube 200. In some embodiments of the disclosure of the present invention, the collar 208 is discontinuous along the periphery of the tube 200, and / or the collar 208 forms a plurality of discontinuous projections or walls extending from the outer surface 206 of the tube.

[0049] To resist or restrict the longitudinal movement of the tube 200 relative to the sleeve 102, the outer surface of the collar 208 defines a width W1 that is greater than the width W2 defined by the outer surface of the tube 200 adjacent to the collar 208 and less than the width W3 defined by the inner surface 112 of the sleeve. When the tube 200 is pulled longitudinally in a proximal direction toward the first end 104 of the sleeve, the collar 208 may engage with a portion of the sleeve 102 or another portion of the telescopic tube extension set 100.

[0050] Referring to Figure 6, a partial cross-sectional view of the tube 200 and sleeve 102 is shown when the telescopic tube extension set 100 is in the second orientation. The distal end 204 of the tube is withdrawn from the fluid channel 22 of the fluid coupler, and the tube 200 is pulled longitudinally back toward the first end 104 of the sleeve.

[0051] Further proximal pull of the tube 200 is resisted when the collar 208 engages with the seal 240 positioned between the sleeve 102 and the tube 200. The seal 240 is located at or adjacent to the first end 104 of the sleeve, allowing the tube 200 to move along the length of the tube between the seal 240 and the second end 108 of the sleeve.

[0052] The seal 240 is also configured to resist the movement of fluid between the sleeve 102 and the tube 200. When the telescopic tube extension set 100 is in the second orientation, the seal 240 can resist the movement of fluid between the sleeve 102 and the tube 200 if a portion of the fluid path P1 extends through the tube lumen 106 of the sleeve.

[0053] To resist the movement of fluid between the sleeve 102 and the tube 200, the seal 240 has an inner surface that forms an opening through the seal 240 and an outer surface configured to engage with the tube 200 and further configured to engage with the sleeve 102. In some embodiments of the disclosure of the present invention, the seal 240 is at least partially positioned within a groove or step formed by the sleeve 102 so as to resist the movement of the seal 240 when either the tube 200 or the sleeve 102 moves relative to each other.

[0054] To restrict the tube 200 from moving longitudinally toward the first end 104 of the sleeve, a portion of the sleeve extends into the tube lumen 106 of the sleeve and is configured to engage with the collar 208.

[0055] To resist the movement of fluid between the sleeve 102 and the tube 200, and / or to restrict the longitudinal movement of the tube 200 toward the first end 104 of the sleeve, the opening of the seal 240 has a cross-sectional width W4 that is greater than the width W2 defined by the outer surface of the tube 200 and less than the width W1 defined by the collar 208.

[0056] The seal 240 may be an O-ring, another ring or toroidal seal, or other material configured to resist fluid movement. The disclosure of the present invention also considers that in some embodiments the sleeve 102 may have a groove or channel extending along the inner surface 112 of the sleeve, which is configured to accommodate a collar or projection of the tube 200.

[0057] In some embodiments, the sleeve may have a tube stop mechanism separate from the seal 240. In some embodiments, the tube stop mechanism may be formed by a step or ridge extending toward the tube 200 and configured to engage by the collar 208, and the seal 240 may be positioned between the tube stop mechanism and the first end 104 of the sleeve. It should also be understood that the disclosure of the present invention considers other embodiments comprising a tube stop mechanism and a seal between the sleeve 102 and the tube 200. In some examples of the disclosure of the present invention, the seal may be positioned between the sleeve 102 and the tube 200 so that the seal moves with the tube 200.

[0058] The expandable tube extension set 100 is characterized by providing a fluid path having a first length in a first configuration and a fluid path having a second length in a second configuration, where the second length is greater than the first length. Therefore, if the tube 200, other parts of the expandable tube extension set 100, or other devices forming the fluid path are pulled to an extent that exceeds the threshold force separating the tube 200 from the tube coupler 19, the tube 200 can move longitudinally within the sleeve, increasing the length of the fluid path. By increasing the length of the fluid path in the second orientation, the expandable tube extension set 100 resists damage or separation of any part of the expandable tube extension set 100 or set IV that forms the fluid path. As a result, the expandable tube extension set 100 can maintain the structural integrity and sterility of the fluid path.

[0059] The telescopic tube extension set 100 is also configured so that the tube 200 and sleeve 102 can move toward each other, allowing movement from a second configuration to a first configuration. After the telescopic tube extension set 100 has moved to the second configuration, if the tube 200 is pulled, for example, the tube 200 can be moved toward the tube coupler 19 in the longitudinal direction until the distal end 202 of the tube is positioned within the fluid channel 22.

[0060] When the telescopic tube extension set 100 moves between a first orientation and a second orientation, the structural integrity and sterility of the fluid path are maintained. By maintaining the structural integrity and sterility of the fluid path, the telescopic tube extension set 100 can reduce the labor and costs associated with fluid transfer. Examples by subject technology clauses

[0061] This technology is illustrated according to various embodiments, for example, as described below. These various embodiments of the technology are, for convenience, numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided as examples and do not limit the technology. Any of the dependent clauses may be combined in any combination and placed in their respective independent clauses, for example, Clause 1 or Clause 5. Note that other clauses may be presented in a similar manner.

[0062] Clause 1. A retractable tube extension set including a sleeve and a tube, A sleeve comprising a first end, a second end, and an inner surface forming a tube lumen extending through the first and second ends of the sleeve, wherein the second end of the sleeve includes a locking mechanism configured to connect with a tube coupler, and the first end of the sleeve includes a seal; a tube comprising a tube comprising a proximal end, a distal end, an inner surface forming a fluid passage extending through the proximal and distal ends, a collar portion extending radially outward from the outer surface of the tube, and a distal end formed by the outer surface of the tube such that the cross-sectional width decreases in the direction toward the distal end of the tube from the collar portion; the seal engages with the tube when the distal end of the tube is positioned within the tube lumen of the sleeve, and the tube is longitudinally movable relative to the sleeve.

[0063] Clause 2. The telescopic tube extension set according to Clause 1, wherein the locking mechanism includes a screw that extends radially inward from the inner surface of the sleeve and is configured to engage with the screw of the tube coupler.

[0064] Clause 3. A telescopic tube extension set according to Clause 1 or 2, wherein the outer surface of the collar defines a first cross-sectional width and the inner surface of the seal forms an opening having a second cross-sectional width, the first cross-sectional width being greater than the second cross-sectional width.

[0065] Clause 4. The telescopic tube extension set described in Clause 3, wherein the inner surface of the sleeve defines a third cross-sectional width, and the third cross-sectional width is greater than the first cross-sectional width.

[0066] Clause 5. A telescopic tube extension set as described in any of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the seal engages with the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the tube, resisting the movement of fluid between them.

[0067] Clause 6. A retractable tube extension set as described in any of Clauses 1-5, wherein the seal is an O-ring.

[0068] Clause 7. A telescopic tube extension set according to any one of Clauses 1 to 6, wherein the distal end forms a male Luer taper configured to be received within a female Luer taper of a tube coupler and to form a Luer slip between them.

[0069] Clause 8. A retractable tube extension set according to any of Clauses 1-7, wherein the sleeve has a first length from the seal to the second end, and the tube has a second length from the proximal end to the collar, and the first length is less than the second length.

[0070] Clause 9. A telescopic tube extension set system including a tube coupler and a telescopic tube extension set, wherein the tube coupler has an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface of which forms a fluid channel extending through the tube coupler, and the telescopic tube extension set includes a sleeve, a tube and a seal, wherein the sleeve has a first end that engages with the seal, a second end having a locking mechanism configured to connect with the tube coupler, and a tube lumen extending through the first end and the second end of the sleeve, and the tube has a distal end positioned within the tube lumen and configured to be detachably connected to the fluid channel of the tube coupler, an inner surface that forms a fluid passage, and an outer surface that engages with the seal A retractable tube extension set system comprising a tube, wherein in a first direction of the retractable tube extension set, a locking mechanism engages with the tube coupler to resist the sleeve from separating from the tube coupler, and the distal end of the tube is positioned within the fluid channel of the tube coupler, thereby forming a fluid path between the fluid channel of the tube coupler and the fluid passage of the tube; and in a second direction of the retractable tube extension set, the tube moves longitudinally away from the tube coupler, thereby pulling the distal end of the tube out of the tube coupler and positioning between the first and second ends of the sleeve, thereby forming a fluid path between the fluid channel of the tube coupler, the tube lumen of the sleeve, and the fluid passage of the tube.

[0071] Clause 10. The telescopic tube extension set as described in Clause 9, the tube includes a collar extending radially outward from the outer surface of the tube.

[0072] Clause 11. The telescopic tube extension set as described in Clause 10, wherein the sleeve has a first length from the seal to the second end, and the tube has a second length from the collar to the proximal end of the tube, and the first length is less than the second length.

[0073] Clause 12. When the collar engages with the seal, the seal resists movement of the tube away from the tube coupler, as described in Clause 10.

[0074] Clause 13. The telescopic tube extension set according to Clause 10, wherein the outer surface of the collar defines a first cross-sectional width and the inner surface of the seal forms an opening having a second cross-sectional width, the first cross-sectional width being greater than the second cross-sectional width.

[0075] Clause 14. The telescopic tube extension set described in Clause 13, wherein the inner surface of the sleeve defines a third cross-sectional width, and the third cross-sectional width is greater than the first cross-sectional width.

[0076] Clause 15. A telescopic tube extension set according to any of Clauses 9 to 14, wherein a Luer slip is formed between the outer surface of the tube and the inner surface of the tube coupler.

[0077] Clause 16. A telescopic tube extension set according to any of Clauses 9 to 15, wherein a Luer lock is formed between the sleeve locking mechanism and the tube coupler.

[0078] Clause 17. A telescopic tube extension set as described in any of Clauses 9 to 16, wherein the locking mechanism includes a screw that extends radially inward from the inner surface of the sleeve and is configured to engage with the mating screw of the tube coupler.

[0079] Clause 18. A method for providing an expandable tube extension set, comprising the steps of: providing a sleeve having an inner surface that forms a tube lumen between a first end and a second end of the sleeve; positioning a tube within the tube lumen of the sleeve so that the tube is longitudinally movable within the tube lumen in a first direction in which the distal end of the tube moves toward the second end of the sleeve and in a second direction in which the distal end of the tube moves toward away from the second end of the sleeve; and positioning a seal between the sleeve and the tube to restrict the movement of fluid between the outer surface of the tube and the inner surface of the sleeve.

[0080] Clause 19. A method for providing an expandable tube extension set as described in Clause 18, comprising arranging a seal between a sleeve and a tube, inserting the seal into the tube lumen of the sleeve so that the opening through the seal is coaxial with the tube lumen, inserting the tube through the opening of the seal so that the seal engages with the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the tube.

[0081] Clause 20. A method for providing an expandable tube extension set according to Clause 18 or 19, wherein positioning the tube within the tube lumen of the sleeve includes orienting the tube such that a collar extending radially outward from the outer surface of the tube is positioned between the seal and the second end of the sleeve. Other considerations

[0082] In some embodiments, any provision of this specification may be dependent on any independent provision or any dependent provision. In one embodiment, any provision (e.g., a dependent provision or an independent provision) may be combined with any one or more other provisions (e.g., dependent provisions or independent provisions). In one embodiment, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., process, operation, means or component) contained in a provision, sentence, phrase or paragraph. In one embodiment, a claim may include some or all of the words contained in one or more provisions, sentences, phrases or paragraphs. In one embodiment, some of the words contained in each provision, sentence, phrase or paragraph may be deleted. In one embodiment, additional words or elements may be added to a provision, sentence, phrase or paragraph. In one embodiment, the technology of the present invention may be carried out without using some of the components, elements, functions or operations described herein. In one embodiment, the technology of the present invention may be carried out using additional components, elements, functions or operations.

[0083] The present invention is provided so that those skilled in the art can carry out the various embodiments described herein. The present invention provides various examples of the art of the present invention, but the art of the present invention is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can also be applied to other embodiments.

[0084] Unless otherwise specified, references to singular elements mean "one or more," not "the only one." Unless otherwise specified, the term "several" refers to "one or more." Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter forms (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, where present, are for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

[0085] The term "exemplary" is used to mean "useful as an example or illustration." An embodiment or design described as "exemplary" in this specification should not necessarily be construed as preferable or advantageous to other embodiments or designs. In one embodiment, various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0086] For example, the phrase “aspect” does not mean that this aspect is essential to the technology of the present invention or that this aspect applies to all configurations of the technology of the present invention. Disclosures relating to “aspect” may apply to all configurations or to one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. For example, the phrase “aspect” may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. For example, the phrase “embodiment” does not mean that this embodiment is essential to the technology of the present invention or that this embodiment applies to all configurations. Disclosures relating to “embodiment” may apply to all embodiments or to one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. The phrase “embodiment” may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. The phrase “configuration” also does not mean that this configuration is essential to the technology of the present invention or that this configuration applies to all configurations. Disclosures relating to “configuration” may apply to all configurations or to one or more configurations. A configuration can provide one or more examples. For example, the phrase "configuration" can refer to one or more configurations, and vice versa.

[0087] In one embodiment, unless otherwise specified, all measurements, numerical values, ratings, locations, sizes, dimensions, and other specifications described herein (including the following claims) are approximate values, not exact values. They are intended to be within a range that is consistent with the function in which they relate and is customary in the art.

[0088] In one embodiment, terms such as "coupled" may mean that the elements are directly joined together. In another embodiment, terms such as "coupled" may mean that the elements are indirectly joined together.

[0089] In this specification, when terms such as "top," "bottom," "front," and "rear" are used, they should be understood to refer to any reference frame, not the usual gravity reference frame. Therefore, the top, bottom, front, and rear may extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally within the gravity reference frame.

[0090] Various elements may be arranged in different ways (e.g., in different orders or divided in different ways) without departing from the scope of the art of the present invention. All structural and functional equivalents of elements in various forms described throughout this specification, which are known to those skilled in the art or which will become known in the future, are expressly incorporated by means of this specification and intended to be included in the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein, whether expressly or not, is intended to be made public. Elements of a claim should not be construed under Section 112, paragraph 6 of the U.S. Patent Act unless an element is expressly described in the phrase “means for” or, in a method claim, in the phrase “step for.” Furthermore, terms such as “include” and “have” are intended to have a comprehensive meaning, similar to how “comprise” is interpreted when used as a transition word in a claim.

[0091] The title, background, summary of the invention, brief description of the drawings, and abstract of this invention are incorporated herein and provided exemplarily, and not as limiting descriptions. They are submitted under the understanding that they are not intended to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the detailed description, it will be found that the descriptions are illustrative, and various features are grouped into various embodiments for the purpose of simplifying the disclosure. This method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires features beyond those explicitly stated in each claim. Rather, as the following claims demonstrate, the subject matter of the invention lies in fewer features than all the features of a single configuration or operation disclosed. The following claims are incorporated herein and provided that each claim exists independently as a separate claim.

[0092] The claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but are given full scope consistent with the language of the claims and to encompass all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, no claim is intended, nor should it be construed, to encompass subject matter that does not meet the requirements of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the U.S. Patent Act.

Claims

1. This is a retractable tube extension set, A sleeve having a first end, a second end, and an inner surface forming a tube lumen extending through the first and second ends of the sleeve, the second end of the sleeve comprising a locking mechanism configured to connect with a tube coupler, and the first end of the sleeve comprising a seal, A tube having a proximal end, a distal end, an inner surface forming a fluid passage extending through the proximal end and the distal end, a collar portion extending radially outward from the outer surface of the tube, and a distal end formed by the outer surface of the tube that defines the cross-sectional width of the tube decreasing in the direction toward the distal end of the tube from the collar portion. Equipped with, A retractable tube extension set, wherein the distal end of the tube is positioned within the tube lumen of the sleeve such that the seal engages with the tube and the tube is longitudinally movable relative to the sleeve.

2. The telescopic tube extension set according to claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a screw that extends radially inward from the inner surface of the sleeve and is configured to engage with the screw of the tube coupler.

3. The expandable tube extension set according to claim 1, wherein the outer surface of the collar portion defines a first cross-sectional width, and the inner surface of the seal forms an opening having a second cross-sectional width, and the first cross-sectional width is greater than the second cross-sectional width.

4. The expandable tube extension set according to claim 3, wherein the inner surface of the sleeve defines a third cross-sectional width, and the third cross-sectional width is greater than the first cross-sectional width.

5. The telescopic tube extension set according to claim 1, wherein the seal engages with the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the tube to resist the movement of fluid between the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the tube.

6. The aforementioned seal is an O-ring, as described in claim 1, for the expandable tube extension set.

7. The telescopic tube extension set according to claim 1, wherein the distal end forms a male Luer taper, and the male Luer taper is received within the female Luer taper of the tube coupler, so as to form a Luer slip between the male Luer taper and the female Luer taper.

8. The telescopic tube extension set according to claim 1, wherein the sleeve includes a first length from the seal to the second end, and the tube includes a second length from the proximal end to the collar portion, the first length being shorter than the second length.

9. A telescopic tube extension set system, A tube coupler having an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the inner surface forms a fluid channel extending through the tube coupler, A retractable tube extension set comprising a sleeve, a tube, and a seal, wherein the sleeve has a first end that engages with the seal, a second end having a locking mechanism configured to connect with the tube coupler, and a tube lumen extending through the first and second ends of the sleeve, and the tube has a distal end positioned within the tube lumen and configured to be detachably connected to the fluid channel of the tube coupler, an inner surface forming a fluid passage, and an outer surface that engages with the seal, and Equipped with, In the first direction of the telescopic tube extension set, the locking mechanism engages with the tube coupler to resist separation of the sleeve from the tube coupler, and the distal end of the tube is positioned within the fluid channel of the tube coupler to form a fluid path between the fluid channel of the tube coupler and the fluid passage of the tube. In a second direction of the telescopic tube extension set, the tube moves longitudinally away from the tube coupler, and as a result, the distal end of the tube is withdrawn from the tube coupler and positioned between the first end and the second end of the sleeve to form a fluid path between the fluid channel of the tube coupler, the tube lumen of the sleeve, and the fluid passage of the tube, in a telescopic tube extension set system.

10. The telescopic tube extension set according to claim 9, wherein the tube comprises a collar portion extending radially outward from the outer surface of the tube.

11. The telescopic tube extension set according to claim 10, wherein the sleeve includes a first length from the seal to the second end, and the tube includes a second length from the collar portion to the proximal end of the tube, the first length being shorter than the second length.

12. The telescopic tube extension set according to claim 10, wherein when the collar portion engages with the seal, the seal resists the movement of the tube away from the tube coupler.

13. The expandable tube extension set according to claim 10, wherein the outer surface of the collar portion defines a first cross-sectional width, and the inner surface of the seal forms an opening having a second cross-sectional width, and the first cross-sectional width is greater than the second cross-sectional width.

14. The expandable tube extension set according to claim 13, wherein the inner surface of the sleeve defines a third cross-sectional width, and the third cross-sectional width is greater than the first cross-sectional width.

15. The telescopic tube extension set according to claim 9, wherein a lure slip is formed between the outer surface of the tube and the inner surface of the tube coupler.

16. The telescopic tube extension set according to claim 9, wherein a Luer lock is formed between the locking mechanism of the sleeve and the tube coupler.

17. The telescopic tube extension set according to claim 9, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a screw that extends radially inward from the inner surface of the sleeve and is configured to engage with the fitting screw of the tube coupler.

18. A method for providing a retractable tube extension set, A step of providing a sleeve, wherein the sleeve has an inner surface that forms a tube lumen between a first end and a second end of the sleeve, A step of positioning a tube within the tube lumen of the sleeve, wherein the tube is consequently movable longitudinally within the tube lumen in a first direction such that the distal end of the tube moves toward the second end of the sleeve, and in a second direction such that the distal end of the tube moves away from the second end of the sleeve. The steps include positioning a seal between the sleeve and the tube in order to suppress the movement of fluid between the outer surface of the tube and the inner surface of the sleeve, and A method that includes this.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the step of positioning the seal between the sleeve and the tube includes the steps of inserting the seal into the tube lumen of the sleeve such that the opening through the seal is coaxial with the tube lumen, and inserting the tube through the opening of the seal such that the seal engages with the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the tube.

20. The method according to claim 18, wherein the step of positioning the tube within the tube lumen of the sleeve includes oriented the tube such that a collar portion extending radially outward from the outer surface of the tube is positioned between the seal and the second end of the sleeve.

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