Genderless sterile connector

Abstract

Disclosed herein is an embodiment of a connector system for opening together pipes, thereby including a first coupler comprising a first coupler passage located therein and a first coupler elastically deformable valve operable to seal the first coupler passage from the external environment. The connector system further includes a second coupler comprising a second coupler passage located therein and a second coupler elastically deformable valve operable to seal the second coupler passage from the external environment. The first and second couplers may be substantially the same, and therefore the coupler may be genderless, in contrast to a connector system comprising male and female couplers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This International Patent Cooperation Treaty patent application is a continuation of U.S. non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 18 / 645,975, filed Apr. 25, 2024, which claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 63 / 461,638, filed Apr. 25, 2023, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0002] A broad object of certain embodiments of the present invention may be to provide a connector system for releasably connecting together tubes, such as medical tubes, and a method of making and using such a connector system, whereby the connector system includes a first connector including a first connector passage disposed therein and a first connector elastically deformable valve operable to seal the first connector passage from the external environment. The connector system further includes a second connector including a second connector passage disposed therein and a second connector elastically deformable valve operable to seal the second connector passage from the external environment.

[0003] The first and second connectors may be substantially the same, and thus the connectors may be genderless, in contrast to a connector system including male and female connectors.

[0004] The connector system may further include a first connector valve operable to block fluid flow through the first connector passage and a second connector valve operable to block fluid flow through the second connector passage. When in their default valve closed positions, a closed fluid flow path condition is provided, thus preventing fluid flow through the connector system.

[0005] The connector system may further include a first coupler drive, operable to force a first coupler valve toward an open position, providing a first coupler passage open state that allows fluid to flow through the first coupler passage, and a second coupler drive, operable to force a second coupler valve toward an open position, providing a second coupler passage open state that allows fluid to flow through the second coupler passage. When those passages are open, an open fluid flow path state can be provided, which allows fluid to flow through the connector system.

[0006] Naturally, further objects of the present invention are disclosed throughout the rest of this specification, the drawings, and the claims as a whole. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1A] Figure 1A is a side view of a specific embodiment of the connector system.

[0008] [Figure 1B] Figure 1B is an end view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 1A.

[0009] [Figure 1C] Figure 1C is a cross-sectional view of the connector system shown in Figure 1B.

[0010] [Figure 2A] Figure 2A is a side view of a specific embodiment of the connector system.

[0011] [Figure 2B] Figure 2B is an end view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 2A.

[0012] [Figure 2C] Figure 2C is a cross-sectional view of the connector system shown in Figure 2B.

[0013] [Figure 3A] Figure 3A is a side view of a particular embodiment of a connector system.

[0014] [Figure 3B] Figure 3B is an end view of a particular embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 3A.

[0015] [Figure 3C] Figure 3C is a cross-sectional view of the connector system shown in Figure 3B.

[0016] [Figure 4A] Figure 4A is a side view of a particular embodiment of a connector system.

[0017] [Figure 4B] Figure 4B is an end view of a particular embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 4A.

[0018] [Figure 4C] Figure 4C is a cross-sectional view of the connector system shown in Figure 4B.

[0019] [Figure 5A] Figure 5A is an exploded perspective view of a particular embodiment of one of two substantially identical couplers of the connector system shown in Figures 1A - 4C.

[0020] [Figure 5B] Figure 5B is an exploded side view of a particular embodiment of the coupler shown in Figure 5A.

[0021] [Figure 6A] Figure 6A is an exploded perspective view of a particular embodiment of the conduit, valve, and sleeve of one of two substantially identical couplers of the connector system shown in Figures 1A - 4C.

[0022] [Figure 6B]Figure 6B is an exploded side view of a specific embodiment of the conduit, valve, and sleeve shown in Figure 6A.

[0023] [Figure 7A] Figure 7A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of the connector system, in which the first and second couplers are arranged in an adjacent axial relationship but are not releasably connected, and therefore the first and second couplers are in a discoupled state.

[0024] [Figure 7B] Figure 7B is a top view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 7A.

[0025] [Figure 7C] Figure 7C is a side view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 7A.

[0026] [Figure 7D] Figure 7D is a bottom view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 7A.

[0027] [Figure 7E] Figure 7E is an end view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 7A.

[0028] [Figure 8A] Figure 8A is a perspective view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figures 7A-7E, thereby connecting the first and second couplers in a detachable manner to achieve a coupler connection state.

[0029] [Figure 8B] Figure 8B is a top view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 8A.

[0030] [Figure 8C] Figure 8C is a side view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 8A.

[0031] [Figure 8D] Figure 8D is a bottom view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 8A.

[0032] [Figure 8E] Figure 8E is an end view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 8A.

[0033] [Figure 9A] Figure 9A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of the connector system shown in Figures 8A-8E, in which the first passage of the first coupler is sealably engaged with the second passage of the second coupler, providing a passage connection state, and the first and second passages are blocked by separate valves, resulting in a closed fluid flow path state.

[0034] [Figure 9B] Figure 9B is a top view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 9A.

[0035] [Figure 9C] Figure 9C is a side view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 9A.

[0036] [Figure 9D] Figure 9D is a bottom view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 9A.

[0037] [Figure 9E] Figure 9E is an end view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 9A.

[0038] [Figure 10A] Figure 10A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of the connector system shown in Figures 9A-9E, thereby providing an open fluid flow path state in which the first and second passages are not blocked and fluid can flow through the connector system.

[0039] [Figure 10B] Figure 10B is a top view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 10A.

[0040] [Figure 10C] Figure 10C is a side view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 10A.

[0041] [Figure 10D] Figure 10D is a bottom view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 10A.

[0042] [Figure 10E] Figure 10E is an end view of a specific embodiment of the connector system shown in Figure 10A.

[0043] [Figure 11A] Figure 11A is a cross-sectional view of the connector system shown in Figure 7E.

[0044] [Figure 11B] Figure 11B is a cross-sectional view of the connector system shown in Figure 8E.

[0045] [Figure 11C] Figure 11C is a cross-sectional view of the connector system shown in Figure 9E.

[0046] [Figure 11D] Figure 11D is a cross-sectional view of the connector system shown in Figure 10E.

[0047] [Figure 12A] Figure 12A is an exploded perspective view of one particular embodiment of one of two substantially identical couplers of the connector system shown in Figures 7A-11D.

[0048] [Figure 12B] Figure 12B is an exploded side view of a specific embodiment of the coupler shown in Figure 12A.

[0049] [Figure 13A] Figure 13A is an exploded perspective view of a particular embodiment of the conduit, valve, and sleeve of one of two substantially identical couplers of the connector system shown in Figures 7A-11D.

[0050] [Figure 13B] Figure 13B is an exploded side view of a specific embodiment of the conduit, valve, and sleeve shown in Figure 13A.

[0051] [Figure 14] Figure 14 is an exploded perspective view of a particular embodiment of a connector system, showing the release elements and their corresponding catch and catch-receiving elements. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0052] Disclosed herein is a connector system (1) for releasably connecting tubes, such as medical tubing, used in a biomedical environment. Advantageously, the connector system (1) can be connected relatively easily and reliably, and further, can be intentionally disconnected relatively easily. In addition, the connector system (1) can be repeatedly connected and disconnected. Furthermore, with respect to certain embodiments, the connector system (1) may be reusable, as opposed to single-use. The connector system (1) may also be configured such that a sterile or sterile environment within it can be preserved, which, understandably, benefits a repeatedly connectable / disconnectable and / or reusable device. Furthermore, the connector system (1) may comprise two separate couplings (2)(3) that connect together to provide the connector system (1), thereby, significantly, the couplings (2)(3) may be substantially the same or have the same structure, and therefore the couplings (2)(3) may be genderless, as opposed to a connector system (1) comprising male and female couplings. In addition, as a result of the substantially identical or identical structure of the couplers (2) and (3), the connector system (1) can be adapted to bidirectional flow.

[0053] The connector system (1) of the present invention includes a first coupler (2) having a first coupler passage (4) disposed therein, and a second coupler (3) having a second coupler passage (5) disposed therein, thereby the first and second couplers (2)(3) may have substantially the same structure and / or components as described above. Depending on the releasable axial (or longitudinal) coupling of the first and second couplers (2)(3) (or in other words, depending on the connection of the first and second couplers (2)(3)), the first and second coupler passages (4)(5) may be arranged in fluid communication to provide a fluid flow path (6) through the connector system (1) between the first coupler (2) and the second coupler (3).

[0054] For the purposes of the present invention, the axial or longitudinal direction can be considered parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector system (7) and / or the longitudinal axis of the first coupler (8) and / or the longitudinal axis of the second coupler (9).

[0055] For the purposes of the present invention, two directional references relating to the joint (10) between the first coupler (2) and the second coupler (3) when connected together to provide a connector system (1) may be used, where the inward direction (11) means toward the joint (10) and the outward direction (12) means toward the joint (10).

[0056] Coupler connection status Referring primarily to Figures 1A-1C, 7A-7E, and 11A, which illustrate the coupler disconnected state (13), and Figures 2A-2C, 8A-8E, and 11B, which illustrate the coupler connected state (14), the first coupler (2) may include a first coupler housing (15) that houses the first coupler passage (4). The first coupler housing (15), which may be an annular first coupler housing (15), may have a first coupler housing internal space (16) defined by a first coupler housing internal surface (17) extending between a first end (18) and a second end (19) of the first coupler housing, thereby allowing the first coupler passage (4) to be located within the first coupler housing internal space (16). The first end (18) of the first coupling housing may include a fluid inlet / outlet (20A) that is in fluid communication with the first coupling passage (4), thereby allowing the fluid inlet / outlet (20A) to be coupled to tubing via a return (21) or the like that which is coupled to the first end (18) of the first coupling housing or integrated with the first end (18) of the first coupling housing. Thus, the tubing can be reliably coupled to the first coupling housing (15) (and correspondingly to the first coupling (2)) and the first coupling passage (4) located therein by engaging with the return (21), for example, via frictional engagement centered on the return (21).

[0057] Since the first and second couplers (2)(3) can have substantially the same structure, the second coupler (3) may include a second coupler housing (22) that houses the second coupler passage (5). The second coupler housing (22), which may be an annular second coupler housing (22), may have a second coupler housing internal space (23) defined by a second coupler housing internal surface (24) extending between a first end (25) and a second end (26) of the second coupler housing, thereby allowing the second coupler passage (5) to be located within the second coupler housing internal space (23). The first end (25) of the second coupling housing may include a fluid outlet / inlet (20B) that is in fluid communication with the second coupling passage (5), thereby allowing the fluid outlet / inlet (20B) to be coupled to tubing via a return (21) or the like that is coupled to the first end (25) of the second coupling housing or integrated with the first end (25) of the second coupling housing. Thus, the tubing can be reliably coupled to the second coupling housing (22) (and correspondingly to the second coupling (3)) and the second coupling passage (5) located therein by engaging with the return (21), for example, via frictional engagement centered on the return (21).

[0058] The first coupler housing (15) is releasably connected to the second coupler housing (22) via axial movement in an inward direction (11), and a coupler connection state (14) can be achieved in which the first and second couplers (2)(3) are interconnected, providing a connector system (1). Specifically, the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings can be interconnected and configured to connect the first coupler housing (15) (and correspondingly the first coupler (2)) to the second coupler housing (22) (and correspondingly the second coupler (3)). In particular embodiments, in contrast to housing ends that may terminate in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the corresponding coupler, the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings may include at least a portion that terminate in a plane that may be at an angle to the individual first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9). In an illustrative and non-limiting embodiment as shown in the figure, the angle (α) between the plane of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their individual first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be about 25°.

[0059] With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be less than about 90°. With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be less than about 80°. With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be less than about 70°. With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be less than about 60°. With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be less than about 50°. With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be less than about 40°. With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be less than about 30°.

[0060] With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be about 20° to about 80°. With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be about 20° to about 70°. With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be about 20° to about 60°. With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be about 20° to about 50°. With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be about 20° to about 40°. With respect to a particular embodiment, the angle (α) between the planes of the second ends (19)(26) of the first and second coupler housings and their respective first or second coupler longitudinal axes (8)(9) may be about 20° to about 30°.

[0061] As a result, depending on the achievement of the coupler connection state (14), the joint (10) between the second end (19) of the first coupler housing and the second end (26) of the second coupler housing may be at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis (7) of the connector system, which may also allow the first and second couplers (2)(3) to be nested with each other, thus enabling a space-saving configuration.

[0062] With respect to the releasable axial connection of the first and second coupler housings (15)(22), the first coupler (2) may include a first coupler catch (27) that is movably coupled to the first coupler housing (15), and correspondingly, a second coupler catch receiving element (28) may be coupled to the second coupler housing (22) (e.g., via coupling to a second coupler elastically deformable valve seat (69)). Depending on the connection of the first and second coupler housings (15)(22), the first coupler catch (27) may releasably engage with the second coupler catch receiving element (28) to fix the axial position of the first coupler housing (15) relative to the second coupler housing (22), thereby achieving a coupler connection state (14).

[0063] For the purposes of the present invention, the term “catch” means a restraint that, in accordance with its engagement with the catch receiving elements (28)(30), can function to partially or completely restrain the advance of an associated component, such as a first or second coupling housing (15)(22).

[0064] For the purposes of the present invention, the term “catch receiving element” means a restraining element that, in response to engagement with the catches (27)(29), can function to partially or completely restrain the advance of an associated component such as a first or second coupling housing (15)(22).

[0065] In this illustrative embodiment, the first coupler catch (27) may be configured as a projection, and the second coupler catch receiving element (28) may be configured as a recess that receives the projection to engage with it and can fix the axial position of the first coupler housing (15) in relation to the second coupler housing (22), thereby achieving a coupler connection state (14).

[0066] Since the first and second couplers (2)(3) can have substantially the same structure, with respect to the releasable axial connection of the first and second coupler housings (15)(22), the second coupler (3) may include a second coupler catch (29) that is movably coupled to the second coupler housing (22), and correspondingly, the first coupler catch receiving element (30) may be coupled to the first coupler housing (15) (via coupling to the first coupler elastically deformable valve seat (50), etc.). Depending on the connection of the first and second coupler housings (15)(22), the second coupler catch (29) may releasably engage with the first coupler catch receiving element (30) to fix the axial position of the second coupler housing (22) relative to the first coupler housing (15), thereby achieving a coupler connection state (14).

[0067] In this illustrative embodiment, the second coupler catch (29) may be configured as a projection, and the first coupler catch receiving element (30) may be configured as a recess that receives the projection to engage with it and can fix the axial position of the second coupler housing (22) relative to the first coupler housing (15), thereby achieving a coupler connection state (14).

[0068] In a particular embodiment, the connector system (1) may be configured to provide a connection mark in accordance with the normal releaseable axial coupling of the first and second coupler housings (15)(22) to achieve a coupler connection state (14), thereby the connection mark may be a visible mark, an audible mark, a tactile mark, or equivalent, or a combination thereof. In an illustrative embodiment, the connection mark may be an audible click indicating the normal releaseable axial coupling of the first and second coupler housings (15)(22) to achieve a coupler connection state (14). In a particular embodiment, the audible click may be generated by the engagement of the catch (27)(29) with the catch receiving elements (28)(30). Next, the connector system (1) comprises two couplers (2)(3) having substantially the same structure, so the connector system (1) may include two catches (27)(29), which engage with two separate catch receiving elements (28)(30) and correspondingly produce two audible clicks.

[0069] Referring primarily to Figure 14, in order to disconnect the first and second coupler housings (15)(22), the first coupler (2) may include a first coupler release element (31) movably coupled to the first coupler housing (15), thereby allowing the advance of the first coupler release element (31), such as axial advance along or across the outer surface (32) of the first coupler housing, to disengage the first coupler catch (27) from the second coupler catch receiving element (28), thereby disconnecting the first and second coupler housings (15)(22).

[0070] In a particular embodiment, the first coupler release element (31) can be configured as a cam, and the first coupler catch (27) can function as a follower, thereby allowing the first coupler release element (31) to convert the input motion into the reciprocating motion of the first coupler catch (27).

[0071] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "cam" means a movable element within a mechanical joint, thereby the cam may have an irregular periphery and may be useful in converting motion, for example, converting motion in a first direction to motion in a second direction.

[0072] For the purposes of this invention, the term "follower" means a movable element within a mechanical coupling, thereby the movement of the follower being brought about by the movement of the cam.

[0073] The first coupler release element (31) can be biased by the first coupler release element biasing member (33), which biases the first coupler release element (31) and, in turn, biases the first coupler catch (27) toward a releasable engagement with the second coupler catch receiving element (28), fixing the axial position of the first coupler housing (15) relative to the second coupler housing (22), thereby achieving the coupler connection state (14).

[0074] Again, referring primarily to Figure 14, although this is merely an illustrative embodiment, the first coupler release element biasing member (33) can be configured as an elastic member (34) such as a leaf spring, and when the elastic member (34) is positioned in a non-flexible state which can be the default biased state, the first coupler release element (31) biases the first coupler catch (27) toward a detachable engagement with the second coupler catch receiving element (28), fixing the axial position of the first coupler housing (15) relative to the second coupler housing (22), thereby achieving the coupler connection state (14). In response to forced pushing motion caused by the advance of the first coupling release element (31), the elastic member (34) is bent, allowing the first coupling catch (27) to engage with and disengage from the second coupling catch receiving element (28), thereby disconnecting the first and second coupling housings (15) and (22).

[0075] With respect to a particular embodiment, the first coupler release element (31) may be identical to or similar to the release element disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,173,046 (which is incorporated herein by reference as a whole).

[0076] With respect to a particular embodiment, the first coupler release element (31) may be identical to, or similar to, the catch release disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2023 / 0003324 (which is incorporated herein by reference as a whole).

[0077] Since the first and second couplers (2)(3) can have substantially the same structure, again, primarily referring to Figure 14, in order to disconnect the first and second coupler housings (15)(22), the second coupler (3) may include a second coupler release element (35) that is movably coupled to the second coupler housing (22), thereby allowing the second coupler release element (35) to move along or across the outer surface (36) of the second coupler housing, disengaging the second coupler catch (29) from the first coupler catch receiving element (30), and disconnecting the first and second coupler housings (15)(22).

[0078] In a particular embodiment, the second coupler release element (35) can be configured as a cam, and the second coupler catch (29) can function as a follower, thereby allowing the second coupler release element (35) to convert the input motion into the reciprocating motion of the second coupler catch (29).

[0079] The second coupler release element (35) can be biased by the second coupler release element biasing member (37), which biases the second coupler release element (35) and, in turn, biases the second coupler catch (29) toward a releasable engagement with the first coupler catch receiving element (30), fixing the axial position of the second coupler housing (22) relative to the first coupler housing (15), thereby achieving the coupler connected state (14).

[0080] Again, referring primarily to Figure 14, although this is merely an illustrative embodiment, the second coupler release element biasing member (37) can be configured as an elastic member (34) such as a leaf spring, and when the elastic member (34) is positioned in a non-flexible state which can be the default biased state, the second coupler release element (35) biases the second coupler catch (29) toward a detachable engagement with the first coupler catch receiving element (30), fixing the axial position of the second coupler housing (22) relative to the first coupler housing (15), thereby achieving the coupler connection state (14). In response to forced pushing motion caused by the movement of the second coupling release element (35), the elastic member (34) is bent, allowing the second coupling catch (29) to engage with and disengage from the first coupling catch receiving element (30), thereby disconnecting the first and second coupling housings (15) and (22).

[0081] With respect to a particular embodiment, the second coupler release element (35) may be identical to or similar to the release element disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,173,046 (which is incorporated herein by reference as a whole).

[0082] With respect to a particular embodiment, the second coupler release element (35) may be identical to, or similar to, the catch release disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2023 / 0003324 (which is incorporated herein by reference as a whole).

[0083] Passage connection status Referring primarily to Figures 2A-2C, 8A-8E, and 11B, which illustrate the coupler connection state (14), and Figures 3A-3C, 9A-9E, and 11C, which illustrate the passage connection state (38), the first coupler (2) may include a first coupler conduit (39) located within the internal space (16) of the first coupler housing, thereby including an annular first coupler conduit inner surface (40) that defines at least a portion of the first coupler passage (4) through which fluid can flow. Importantly, the first coupler passage (4) may be a sterile or sterilized environment, or an environment free from contaminants such as microorganisms, body fluids, bodily excrement, or body tissue. The first coupling conduit (39) can extend between the first end (41) and the second end (42) of the first coupling conduit, thereby allowing the second end (42) of the first coupling conduit to provide a first coupling conduit engagement end (43), which sealably engages with an axially adjacent second coupling conduit engagement end (44), fluidly connecting the first and second coupling passages (4)(5), and thus providing a passage connection state (38) and a fluid flow path (6) through the connector system (1).

[0084] Referring primarily to Figures 5A, 5B, 12A, and 12B, the first coupler (2) may further include a first coupler elastically deformable valve (45) which is configured to be deformable to achieve (i) a default first coupler elastically deformable valve closed configuration (46) and (ii) an open configuration (47) of the first coupler elastically deformable valve. Due to its elasticity, the first coupler elastically deformable valve (45) can return to its default shape after deformation, which can contribute to the reusability of the connector system (1).

[0085] The first coupler elastic deformable valve (45) can be positioned in the internal space (16) of the first coupler housing in a separated relationship, axially aligned with the first coupler conduit (39), and in particular, axially aligned with the engagement end (43) of the first coupler conduit. Specifically, the first coupler elastic deformable valve (45) can be coupled to the first coupler housing (15) via the periphery (48) of the first coupler elastic deformable valve, etc., in close proximity to or relative to the second end (19) of the first coupler housing. In a particular embodiment, the first coupler elastically deformable valve (45) may include a flange (49) adjacent to its periphery, or the first coupler elastically deformable valve (45) may be bounded by a flanged periphery, thereby allowing the flange (49) to facilitate coupling of the first coupler elastically deformable valve (45) to the first coupler housing (15). In a particular embodiment, the first coupler elastically deformable valve (45) may be seated against the first coupler housing (15) by a first coupler elastically deformable valve seat (50), such as against the second end (19) of the first coupler housing. In a particular embodiment, the first coupler elastically deformable valve (45) is sandwiched between the first coupler housing (15), such as the second end (19) of the first coupler housing, and the first coupler elastically deformable valve seat (50), allowing the first coupler elastically deformable valve (45) to be fixedly coupled to the first coupler housing (15).

[0086] The first coupler elastic deformable valve (45) may include an inner surface (51) of the first coupler elastic deformable valve oriented toward the internal space (16) of the first coupler housing and the first end (18) of the first coupler housing, and an opposing outer surface (52) of the first coupler elastic deformable valve oriented toward the external environment (53), thereby, when in the closed configuration (46), the first coupler elastic deformable valve (45) may function to seal the portion of the internal space (16) of the first coupler housing where the first coupler conduit (39) resides from the external environment (53), thereby preserving the sterile environment therein, in particular the sterile environment within the first coupler passage (4).

[0087] Following the achievement of the coupler connection state (14), the first coupler conduit (39) may be movable (i) within the internal space (16) of the first coupler housing and (ii) axially relative to the first coupler housing (15). In particular, the first coupler conduit (39) may be movable axially between the first coupler conduit retracted position (54) and the first coupler conduit extended position (55). In the first coupler conduit retracted position (54), the first coupler conduit (39) is located in a sterile environment within the internal space (16) of the first coupler housing, which is bounded by the first coupler elastically deformable valve (45) in the first coupler elastically deformable valve closure configuration (46), and can be isolated from contaminants in the external environment (53).

[0088] More specifically, following the achievement of the coupling connection state (14), in response to the application of an axial force to the first coupling conduit (39) in an inward direction (11) toward the first coupling elastic deformable valve (45), the engaging end (43) of the first coupling conduit engages with the first coupling elastic deformable valve (45), deforms it (changes its shape), passes through it, and thus (i) in the first coupling elastic deformable valve open configuration (47), the first coupling elastic deformable valve (45) (ii) The first coupler conduit (39) can be positioned at the extension position (55) of the first coupler conduit, the engaging end (43) of the first coupler conduit extending through the first coupler elastically deformable valve (45) and sealingly engaging with the axially adjacent second coupler conduit engaging end (44), thereby fluidly connecting the first and second coupler passages (4)(5), and thus providing a passage connection state (38) and a fluid flow path (6) through the connector system (1).

[0089] In a particular embodiment, the movable first coupling sleeve (56) (i) radially surrounds the first coupling conduit (39), and (ii) when the first coupling sleeve (56) is biased and positioned in its default first coupling sleeve extended position (57) by a first coupling sleeve biasing member (58), such as a spring, in an uncompressed state (59), it extends axially beyond the first coupling conduit engagement end (43), thereby further preserving the sterile environment surrounding the first coupling conduit (39), and in particular preserving the sterile environment within the first coupling passage (4). In response to the application of an axial force to the first coupling conduit (39) in the inward direction (11), the first coupling housing (15) engages with the first coupling sleeve (56), forcibly pushing the first coupling sleeve (56) toward the first coupling sleeve retracted position (60) in the outward direction (12), and correspondingly compressing the first coupling sleeve biasing member (58). When the first coupler sleeve is in the retracted position (60), the first coupler sleeve (56) no longer extends beyond the first coupler conduit engagement end (43), thus allowing the first coupler conduit engagement end (43) to extend beyond the first coupler sleeve (56) and engage sealably with the axially adjacent second coupler conduit engagement end (44), thereby fluidly connecting the first and second coupler passages (4)(5) and thus providing a passage connection state (38) and a fluid flow path (6) through the connector system (1).

[0090] Since the first and second couplers (2)(3) can have substantially the same structure, again, referring mainly to Figures 2A-2C, 8A-8E, and 11B illustrating the coupler connection state (14) and Figures 3A-3C, 9A-9E, and 11C illustrating the passage connection state (38), the second coupler (3) may include a second coupler conduit (61) located within the internal space (23) of the second coupler housing, thereby including an annular second coupler conduit inner surface (62) that defines at least a portion of the second coupler passage (5) through which fluid can flow. Importantly, the second coupler passage (5) may be a sterile or sterilized environment, or an environment free from contaminants such as microorganisms, body fluids, bodily excrement, or body tissue. The second coupling conduit (61) can extend between the first end (63) and the second end (64) of the second coupling conduit, thereby the second end (64) of the second coupling conduit can provide a second coupling conduit engagement end (44), which can sealably engage with the axially adjacent first coupling conduit engagement end (43), fluidly connecting the first and second coupling passages (4)(5), and thus providing a passage connection state (38) and a fluid flow path (6) through the connector system (1).

[0091] Referring primarily to Figures 5A, 5B, 12A, and 12B, the second coupler (3) may further include a second coupler elastically deformable valve (65) which is configured to be deformable to achieve (i) a default second coupler elastically deformable valve closed configuration (66) and (ii) a second coupler elastically deformable valve open configuration (67). Due to its elasticity, the second coupler elastically deformable valve (65) can return to its default shape after deformation, which can contribute to the reusability of the connector system (1).

[0092] The second coupler elastic deformable valve (65) can be positioned in the internal space (23) of the second coupler housing in a separated relationship, axially aligned with the second coupler conduit (61), and in particular, axially aligned with the engaging end (44) of the second coupler conduit. Specifically, the second coupler elastic deformable valve (65) can be coupled to the second coupler housing (22) via the periphery (68) of the second coupler elastic deformable valve, etc., in close proximity to or relative to the second end (26) of the second coupler housing. In particular embodiments, the second coupler elastically deformable valve (65) may include a flange (49) adjacent to its periphery, or the second coupler elastically deformable valve (65) may be bounded by a flanged periphery, thereby allowing the flange (49) to facilitate coupling of the second coupler elastically deformable valve (65) to the second coupler housing (22). In particular embodiments, the second coupler elastically deformable valve (65) may be seated against the second coupler housing (22), for example, against the second end (26) of the second coupler housing, by the second coupler elastically deformable valve seat (69). In a particular embodiment, the second coupler elastically deformable valve (65) is sandwiched between the second coupler housing (22), such as the second end (26) of the second coupler housing, and the second coupler elastically deformable valve seat (69), allowing the second coupler elastically deformable valve (65) to be fixedly coupled to the second coupler housing (22).

[0093] The second coupler elastic deformable valve (65) may include an inner surface (70) of the second coupler elastic deformable valve oriented toward the internal space (23) of the second coupler housing and the first end (25) of the second coupler housing, and an opposing outer surface (71) of the second coupler elastic deformable valve oriented toward the external environment (53), thereby, when in the closed configuration (66), the second coupler elastic deformable valve (65) may function to seal the portion of the internal space (23) of the second coupler housing where the second coupler conduit (61) resides from the external environment (53), thereby preserving the sterile environment therein, in particular the sterile environment within the second coupler passage (5).

[0094] Following the achievement of the coupler connection state (14), the second coupler conduit (61) may be movable (i) within the internal space (23) of the second coupler housing and (ii) axially relative to the second coupler housing (22). In particular, the second coupler conduit (61) may be movable axially between the second coupler conduit retracted position (72) and the second coupler conduit extended position (73). In the second coupler conduit retracted position (72), the second coupler conduit (61) is located in a sterile environment within the internal space (23) of the second coupler housing, which is bounded by the second coupler elastically deformable valve (65) in the second coupler elastically deformable valve closure configuration (66), and can be isolated from contaminants in the external environment (53).

[0095] More specifically, following the achievement of the coupling connection state (14), in response to the application of an axial force to the second coupling conduit (61) in an inward direction (11) toward the second coupling elastic deformable valve (65), the engaging end (44) of the second coupling conduit engages with the second coupling elastic deformable valve (65), deforms it (changes its shape), passes through it, and thus (i) in the second coupling elastic deformable valve open configuration (67), the second coupling elastic deformable valve (65) (ii) The second coupler conduit (61) can be positioned at the second coupler conduit extension position (73), the second coupler conduit engagement end (44) extending through the second coupler elastically deformable valve (65) and sealably engaging with the axially adjacent first coupler conduit engagement end (43), thereby fluidly connecting the first and second coupler passages (4)(5), and thus providing a passage connection state (38) and a fluid flow path (6) through the connector system (1).

[0096] In a particular embodiment, the movable second coupling sleeve (74) (i) radially surrounds the second coupling conduit (61), and (ii) when the second coupling sleeve (74) is biased and positioned in its default second coupling sleeve extended position (75) by a second coupling sleeve biasing member (76), such as a spring, in an uncompressed state (59), it extends axially beyond the second coupling conduit engagement end (44), thereby further preserving the sterile environment surrounding the second coupling conduit (61), and in particular preserving the sterile environment within the second coupling passage (5). In response to the application of an axial force to the second coupling conduit (61) in the inward direction (11), the second coupling housing (22) engages with the second coupling sleeve (74), forcibly pushing the second coupling sleeve (74) toward the second coupling sleeve retracted position (77) in the outward direction (12), and correspondingly compressing the second coupling sleeve biasing member (76). When the second coupler sleeve is in the retracted position (77), the second coupler sleeve (74) no longer extends beyond the second coupler conduit engagement end (44), thus allowing the second coupler conduit engagement end (44) to extend beyond the second coupler sleeve (74) and engage sealably with the axially adjacent first coupler conduit engagement end (43), thereby fluidly connecting the first and second coupler passages (4)(5) and thus providing a passage connection state (38) and a fluid flow path (6) through the connector system (1).

[0097] With respect to a particular embodiment, the first and second coupling conduit engagement ends (43) (44) may each include a fluid-tight seal (78), such as an annular seal, which can facilitate a sealable engagement between them.

[0098] As detailed above, the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves (45)(65) can be configured to (i) seal the environment from contaminants and the like, and (ii) allow for axial release via the application of axial force, and therefore any valve suitable for such purposes may be useful in this connector system (1).

[0099] In particular embodiments, the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves (45)(65) can be formed from an elastomer material such as silicone, rubber, or equivalent. In one illustrative example, the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves (45)(65) can be formed from medical-grade silicone.

[0100] With respect to a particular embodiment, the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves (45) and (65) may each be integrated, integral component, meaning that the sealing function may be an integral part of an integral elastomer component, in contrast to a valve which needs to engage with a valve seat to form a seal.

[0101] Although this is merely an illustrative example, the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves (45) and (65) can each be configured as duckbill valves.

[0102] With respect to a particular embodiment, the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves (45)(65) can each be configured as a cross-slit valve (79) which may have a larger flow capacity than a duckbill valve. In an illustrative embodiment, the cross-slit valve (79) may have a cylindrical shape with a valve function region including a first slit (80) and a second slit (81) arranged in a cross shape. Subsequently, the cross-slit valve (79) may have four flaps (e.g., a valve with four flaps) or four pinions (e.g., a valve with four pinions) extending from a central point. Of course, the cross-slit valve (79) useful in the present invention is not limited to two slits and / or four flaps, and may have any number of slits and / or flaps depending on the embodiment.

[0103] In the elastically deformable valve closing configuration (46)(66), the flaps or points can be adjacent to each other and form a fluid-tight seal between them. In response to the application of an axial force, the cross-slit valve (79) can be deformed such that the flaps or points are pushed away, for example, by the conduit engagement ends (43)(44), which then pass through and position the conduits (39)(61) at the conduit extension positions (55)(73). With respect to a particular embodiment, the cross-slit valve (79) may be dome-shaped, thereby the inner surface (82) of the cross-slit valve may be concave and the outer surface (83) of the cross-slit valve may be convex.

[0104] Once (i) the first coupling elastic deformable valve (45) is positioned in the first coupling elastic deformable valve open configuration (47) as a result of axial movement of the first coupling conduit (39) in the inward direction (11), and the first coupling conduit (39) is positioned in the first coupling conduit extended position (55), and (ii) the second coupling elastic deformable valve (65) is positioned in the second coupling elastic deformable valve open configuration (67) as a result of axial movement of the second coupling conduit (61) in the inward direction (11), and the second coupling conduit (61) is positioned in the second coupling conduit extended position (73) Then, the first coupling conduit engagement end (43) engages sealably with the axially adjacent second coupling conduit engagement end (44), fluidly connecting the first and second coupling passages (4)(5), and thus providing a passage connection state (38) and a fluid flow path (6) through the connector system (1), the axial positions of the first coupling conduit (39) (and correspondingly the first coupling passage (4)) and the second coupling conduit (61) (and correspondingly the second coupling passage (5)) are fixed, thereby locking the first and second coupling passages (4)(5) together.

[0105] For this purpose, the first coupler (2) may include a first locking assembly (84) of the first coupler that can lock the first coupler conduit (39) at the first coupler conduit extension position (55) and, accordingly, lock the first coupler conduit engagement end (43) in an axially adjacent relationship with respect to the second coupler conduit engagement end (44). With respect to a particular embodiment, the first locking assembly (84) of the first coupler may include a rotatable first locking ring (85) of the first coupler having a catch receiving element such as a slot that can receive a corresponding catch such as a tooth, which is coupled to the first coupler housing (15). Depending on the simultaneous axial movement of the first coupler conduit (39) and the first locking ring (85) of the first coupler relative to the first coupler housing (15) in an inward direction (11) to achieve a passage connection state (38), the tooth can be received in the slot. Next, the first locking ring (85) of the first coupler can be rotated in a first direction to rotate the slot relative to the teeth, thereby allowing the teeth to engage with a stop adjacent to the slot as they rotate. This engagement prevents the first coupler conduit (39) and the first locking ring (85) of the first coupler from moving axially relative to the first coupler housing (15) in the outward direction (12), and thus can prevent the first coupler conduit (39) from returning to the first coupler conduit retracted position (54). With regard to disengagement, the first locking ring (85) of the first coupler can be rotated in a second direction which may be opposite to the first direction to rotate the slot relative to the teeth, thereby disengaging the teeth from the stop adjacent to the slot.

[0106] Since the first and second couplers (2)(3) can have substantially the same structure, the second coupler (3) may include a first locking assembly (89) of the second coupler that can lock the second coupler conduit (61) at the second coupler conduit extension position (73), and accordingly lock the second coupler conduit engagement end (44) in an axially adjacent relationship with respect to the first coupler conduit engagement end (43). With respect to a particular embodiment, the first locking assembly (89) of the second coupler may include a rotatable first locking ring (90) of the second coupler that is coupled to the second coupler housing (22) and has catch receiving elements such as slots that can receive a corresponding catch such as teeth. As the second coupling conduit (61) and the first locking ring (90) of the second coupling are moved axially relative to the second coupling housing (22) in an inward direction (11) to achieve a passage connection state (38), the teeth can be received into the slot. Subsequently, the first locking ring (90) of the second coupling can be rotated in a first direction, causing the slot to rotate relative to the teeth, thereby allowing the teeth to engage with a stopper adjacent to the slot as the rotation progresses. This engagement prevents the second coupling conduit (61) and the first locking ring (90) of the second coupling from moving axially relative to the second coupling housing (22) in an outward direction (12), and therefore can prevent the second coupling conduit (61) from returning to the second coupling conduit retracted position (72). Regarding disengagement, the first locking ring (90) of the second coupling is rotated in a second direction which may be opposite to the first direction, thereby rotating the slot relative to the tooth and disengaging the tooth from the stop adjacent to the slot.

[0107] Open fluid flow path state When the first coupling conduit engagement end (43) is sealedly engaged with the axially adjacent second coupling conduit engagement end (44), and the first and second coupling passages (4)(5) are fluidly connected, the fluid is intentionally prevented from flowing through the first and second coupling passages (4)(5) and thus through the fluid flow path (6) and through the connector system (1), which may result in a closed fluid flow path state (91) (as shown in Figures 1A-3C, 7A-9E, 11A, 11B, and 11C).

[0108] Referring primarily to Figures 3A-3C, 9A-9E, and 11C, which illustrate the passage connection state (38) and the closed fluid flow path state (91), and Figures 4A-4E, 5D, 10A-10E, and 11D, which illustrate the open fluid flow path state (92), the first coupler (2) may include a movable (axially movable, etc.) first coupler valve (93) that is operable to block the fluid flow through the first coupler conduit (39) and, correspondingly, through the first coupler passage (4). In a particular embodiment, the first coupling valve (93) is movable within the first coupling valve seat (94) and can sealably close the first coupling port (95) which is in fluid communication with the first coupling passage (4), thereby providing a first coupling passage closed state (96) in which fluid can flow through the first coupling port (95) and, accordingly, be blocked through the first coupling passage (4).

[0109] The first coupling valve (93) can be biased by a first coupling valve biasing member (97) which biases the first coupling valve (93) toward a default first coupling valve closed position (98) in which the first coupling port (95) can be sealed by engagement with the sealing surface (99), providing a first coupling passage closed state (96).

[0110] As an illustrative embodiment, the first coupling valve (93) may include an annular inner surface (100) of the first coupling valve that defines at least a portion of the first coupling passage (4) through which fluid can flow, and using this configuration, the first coupling conduit (39) and the first coupling valve (93) together can provide the first coupling passage (4).

[0111] In addition, the first coupling valve (93) may include a first coupling port (95) that is in fluid communication with the first coupling passage (4). In a particular embodiment, the first coupling port (95) is radially arranged within the first coupling valve (93) and can communicate between the inner surface (100) and the outer surface (101) of the first coupling valve. In a particular embodiment, the first coupling port (95) may be configured as a plurality of first coupling ports (95) radially arranged within the first coupling valve (93) in a circumferentially spaced relationship. In a particular embodiment, the first coupling port (95) may be located close to the second end (102) of the first coupling valve.

[0112] The first coupling valve seat (94) can be retractably positioned around the first coupling valve (93), and can move longitudinally within the first coupling valve seat (94) via sliding or the like. In particular embodiments, the first coupling valve (93) and the first coupling valve seat (94) can be arranged coaxially or concentrically.

[0113] By using this configuration, the inner surface (103) of the first coupling valve seat can provide a sealing surface (99), which is positioned adjacent to the outer surface (101) of the first coupling valve and placed on the first coupling port (95), thereby engaging with the first coupling port (95) in a sealable manner, and providing a first coupling valve closed position (98) and a first coupling passage closed state (96) in which fluid flows through the first coupling port (95) and is accordingly blocked through the first coupling passage (4). A fluid-tight seal can exist between the inner surface (103) of the first coupling valve seat and the outer surface (101) of the first coupling valve, in close proximity to the first coupling port (95). In a particular embodiment, one or more O-rings (104) can be coupled to the outer surface (101) of the first coupling valve, thereby, when placed on top of the inner surface (103) of the first coupling valve seat, the O-rings (104) can function to provide a fluid-tight seal between the inner surface (103) of the first coupling valve seat and the outer surface (101) in close proximity to the first coupling port (95).

[0114] As described above, the first coupling valve (93) can be biased by a first coupling valve biasing member (97) which biases the first coupling valve (93) toward the default first coupling valve closed position (98) and provides a first coupling passage closed state (96). In an illustrative embodiment, the first coupling valve biasing member (97) can be configured as an elastic compressible member (105) such as a spring (106) (e.g., a coil spring or a revolving spring), however, the first coupling valve biasing member (97) is not limited to this particular configuration.

[0115] In a particular embodiment having a first coupling valve biasing member (97) configured as a coil spring or revolving spring (106), the spring (106) is positioned around a portion of the first coupling valve (93) (or around a portion of the outer surface (101) of the first coupling valve) and can completely enclose that portion of the first coupling valve (93) so that the spring (106) and the first coupling valve (93) can be positioned coaxially or concentrically.

[0116] In contrast to conventional "rapid release" couplers, the first coupler valve biasing member (97) is positioned around the first coupler valve (93), so that when the passage connection state (38) is achieved, the first coupler valve biasing member (97) is positioned outside or on the outside of the first coupler passage (4), and accordingly outside or on the outside of the fluid flow path (6). As a result, the fluid flowing through the connector system (1) via the fluid flow path (6) does not come into contact with the valve biasing member (97), which can be advantageous for several reasons, including the elimination of potential substrates for biofilm growth in the fluid flow path (6) and / or the elimination of physical obstructions to fluid flow in the fluid flow path (6).

[0117] The spring (106) can abut against opposing spring seating surfaces (107) and (108). For example, the first end (109) of the spring can abut against the first seating surface (107) of the spring, which extends outward from the outer surface (101) of the first coupling valve, and the opposing second end (110) of the spring can abut against the second seating surface (108) of the spring, which is provided by a support member (111) that is adjacent to the first end (112) of the first coupling valve and axially aligned with the first coupling valve (93).

[0118] When in an uncompressed state (59), which may be the default biased state, the spring (106) can bias the first coupling valve (93) toward a first coupling valve closed position (98) in which the first coupling port (95) can be sealed and closed by the sealing surface (99) of the first coupling valve seat (94), thereby providing a first coupling passage closed state (96).

[0119] The first coupling valve (93) can be moved by a first drive unit (113) of the first coupling, which can be movably coupled to the first coupling housing (15), thereby the first drive unit (113) of the first coupling engages with the first coupling valve (93) and applies an axial force to the first coupling valve (93) in an outward direction (12), and accordingly drives the first coupling valve (93) to advance in an outward direction (12) and compress the first coupling valve biasing member (97). Next, the first coupling valve (93) moves axially toward the first coupling valve open position (114) such that the first coupling port (95) can be engaged with and disengaged from the sealing surface (99) of the first coupling valve seat (94) so ​​as to move away from the first coupling port (95) within the first coupling valve seat (94), and thus can provide a first coupling passage open state (115) which allows fluid to flow through the first coupling port (95) and, accordingly, through the first coupling passage (4). Since the first coupling valve (93) may include a first seating surface (107) of a spring, movement of the first coupling valve (93) in the outward direction (12) corresponds to compressing the first coupling valve biasing member (97) toward its compressed state.

[0120] In a particular embodiment, the first drive unit (113) of the first coupler may be a component of the first coupler (2). In a particular embodiment, to ensure that when the first and second couplers (2)(3) are disconnected, the first coupler valve (93) is positioned in the default first coupler valve closed position (98), and correspondingly, the first coupler passage (4) is positioned in the default first coupler passage closed position (96), the movement of the first drive unit (113) of the first coupler may be actuated by a second drive unit (116) of the second coupler, which is a component of the second coupler (3) and can be movably coupled to the second coupler housing (22). Subsequently, the first drive unit (113) of the first coupler may only be actuated when the first and second couplers (2)(3) are connected.

[0121] With respect to a particular embodiment, the second drive unit (116) of the second coupler can be actuated by a second drive unit actuator (117) of the second coupler, which may be a component of the second coupler (3). The second drive unit actuator (117) of the second coupler can forcibly push the second drive unit (116) of the second coupler to move in an inward direction (11). The second drive unit (116) of the second coupler engages with the first drive unit (113) of the first coupler and can apply an axial force to the first drive unit (113) of the first coupler in an outward direction (12), and correspondingly the first drive unit (113) of the first coupler can force the first coupler valve (93) to move axially toward the first coupler valve open position (114) which positions the first coupler passage (4) in the first coupler passage open state (115) away from the first coupler port (95) within the first coupler valve seat (94), and can enable the fluid flow path (6) to have an open fluid flow path state (92) which allows fluid to flow through the connector system (1).

[0122] In a particular embodiment, the first drive unit (113) of the first coupler may include at least one arm (118) which is driven outward (12) by the operation of the second drive unit (116) of the second coupler, engages with the first coupler valve (93), drives the first coupler valve (93) to advance outward (12), and can position the first coupler passage (4) in the first coupler passage open state (115). In a particular embodiment, the first drive unit (113) of the first coupler may include a plurality of arms (118) arranged in a circumferentially spaced relationship, thereby the arms (118) can be connected together by an annular element (119).

[0123] In a particular embodiment, the second drive unit (116) of the second coupler may include at least one arm (118) which, by the actuation of the second drive unit actuator (117) of the second coupler, is driven in an inward direction (11) to engage with the first drive unit (113) of the first coupler, drives the first drive unit (113) of the first coupler to move outward (12) and can position the first coupler passage (4) in an open state (115) of the first coupler passage. In a particular embodiment, the second drive unit (116) of the second coupler may include a plurality of arms (118) arranged in a circumferentially spaced-apart relationship, thereby the arms (118) may be connected together by an annular element (119).

[0124] Since the first and second couplers (2)(3) can have substantially the same structure, again, referring mainly to Figures 3A-3C, 9A-9E, and 11C illustrating the passage connection state (38) and the closed fluid flow path state (91), and Figures 4A-4C, 10A-10E, and 11D illustrating the open fluid flow path state (92), the second coupler (3) may include a movable (axially movable, etc.) second coupler valve (120) that is operable to block the fluid flow through the second coupler conduit (61) and, correspondingly, through the second coupler passage (5). In a particular embodiment, the second coupling valve (120) is movable within the second coupling valve seat (121) and can sealably close the second coupling port (122) which is in fluid communication with the second coupling passage (5), thereby providing a second coupling passage closed state (123) in which fluid can flow through the second coupling port (122) and, accordingly, through the second coupling passage (5).

[0125] The second coupling valve (120) can be biased by a second coupling valve biasing member (124) which biases the second coupling valve (120) toward a default second coupling valve closed position (125) in which the second coupling port (122) can be sealed by engagement with the sealing surface (99), providing a second coupling passage closed state (123).

[0126] As a first illustrative embodiment, the second coupling valve (120) may include an annular inner surface (126) of the second coupling valve that defines at least a portion of the second coupling passage (5) through which fluid can flow, and using this configuration, the second coupling conduit (61) and the second coupling valve (120) together can provide the second coupling passage (5).

[0127] In addition, the second coupling valve (120) may include a second coupling port (122) that is in fluid communication with the second coupling passage (5). In a particular embodiment, the second coupling port (122) is radially arranged within the second coupling valve (120) and can communicate between the inner surface (127) and the outer surface (127) of the second coupling valve. In a particular embodiment, the second coupling port (122) may be configured as a plurality of second coupling ports (122) radially arranged within the second coupling valve (120) in a circumferentially spaced relationship. In a particular embodiment, the second coupling port (122) may be located close to the second end (128) of the second coupling valve.

[0128] The second coupling valve seat (121) can be arranged to extend and retract around the second coupling valve (120), and it can move longitudinally within the second coupling valve seat (121) via sliding or the like. With respect to a particular embodiment, the second coupling valve (120) and the second coupling valve seat (121) can be arranged coaxially or concentrically.

[0129] By using this configuration, the inner surface (129) of the second coupling valve seat can provide a sealing surface (99), which is positioned adjacent to the outer surface (127) of the second coupling valve and placed on the second coupling port (122), thereby engaging sealably with the second coupling port (122), and providing a closed position (125) of the second coupling valve and a closed state (123) of the second coupling passage, in which fluid flows through the second coupling port (122) and is accordingly blocked through the second coupling passage (5). A fluid-tight seal can exist between the inner surface (129) of the second coupling valve seat and the outer surface (127) of the second coupling valve, in close proximity to the second coupling port (122). In a particular embodiment, one or more O-rings (104) can be coupled to the outer surface (127) of the second coupling valve, thereby functioning to provide a fluid-tight seal between the inner surface (129) of the second coupling valve seat and the outer surface (127) when placed on top of the inner surface (129) of the second coupling valve seat, in close proximity to the second coupling port (122).

[0130] As described above, the second coupling valve (120) can be biased by a second coupling valve biasing member (124) which biases the second coupling valve (120) toward the default second coupling valve closed position (125) and provides a second coupling passage closed state (123). In an illustrative embodiment, the second coupling valve biasing member (124) can be configured as an elastic compressible member (105) such as a spring (e.g., a coil spring or a revolving spring), however, the second coupling valve biasing member (124) is not limited to this particular configuration.

[0131] In a particular embodiment having a second coupling valve biasing member (124) configured as a coil spring or revolving spring (106), the spring (106) is positioned around a portion of the second coupling valve (120) (or around a portion of the outer surface (127) of the second coupling valve) and can completely enclose that portion of the second coupling valve (120) so that the spring (106) and the second coupling valve (120) can be positioned coaxially or concentrically.

[0132] In contrast to conventional "rapid release" couplers, the second coupler valve biasing member (124) is positioned around the second coupler valve (120), so that the second coupler valve biasing member (124) is correspondingly positioned outside or on the side of the second coupler passage (5) and, accordingly, outside or on the side of the fluid flow path (6) when the passage connection state (38) is achieved. As a result, the fluid flowing through the connector system (1) via the fluid flow path (6) does not come into contact with the valve biasing member (124), which can be advantageous for several reasons, including the elimination of potential substrates for biofilm growth in the fluid flow path (6) and / or the elimination of physical obstructions to fluid flow in the fluid flow path (6).

[0133] The spring (106) can abut against opposing spring seating surfaces (107) and (108). For example, the first end (109) of the spring can abut against the first seating surface (107) of the spring, which extends outward from the outer surface (127) of the second coupling valve, and the opposing second end (110) of the spring can abut against the second seating surface (108) of the spring, which is provided by a support member (111) that is adjacent to the first end (130) of the second coupling valve and axially aligned with the second coupling valve (120).

[0134] When in an uncompressed state (59), which may be the default biased state, the spring (106) can bias the second coupling valve (120) toward a second coupling valve closed position (125) such that the second coupling port (122) can be sealed and closed by the sealing surface (99) of the second coupling valve seat (121), thereby providing a second coupling passage closed state (123).

[0135] The second coupling valve (120) can be moved by a first drive unit (131) of the second coupling, which can be movably coupled to the second coupling housing (22), thereby the first drive unit (131) of the second coupling engages with the second coupling valve (120) and applies an axial force to the second coupling valve (120) in an outward direction (12), and accordingly drives the second coupling valve (120) to advance in an outward direction (12) and compress the second coupling valve biasing member (124). Next, the second coupling valve (120) moves axially toward a second coupling valve open position (132) such that the second coupling port (122) can be engaged with and disengaged from the sealing surface (99) of the second coupling valve seat (121) so as to move away from the second coupling port (122) within the second coupling valve seat (121), and thus can provide a second coupling passage open state (133) which allows fluid to flow through the second coupling port (122) and, accordingly, through the second coupling passage (5). Since the second coupling valve (120) may include a first seating surface (107) of a spring, movement of the second coupling valve (120) in the outward direction (12) corresponds to compressing the second coupling valve biasing member (124) toward its compressed state.

[0136] In a particular embodiment, the first drive unit (131) of the second coupler may be a component of the second coupler (3). In a particular embodiment, to ensure that when the first and second couplers (2)(3) are disconnected, the second coupler valve (120) is positioned in the default second coupler valve closed position (125), and correspondingly, the second coupler passage (5) is positioned in the default second coupler passage closed position (123), the movement of the first drive unit (131) of the second coupler may be actuated by the second drive unit (134) of the first coupler, which is a component of the first coupler (2) and can be movably coupled to the first coupler housing (15). Subsequently, the first drive unit (131) of the second coupler may only be actuated when the first and second couplers (2)(3) are connected.

[0137] With respect to a particular embodiment, the second drive unit (134) of the first coupler can be actuated by a second drive unit actuator (135) of the first coupler, which may be a component of the first coupler (2). The second drive unit actuator (135) of the first coupler can forcibly push the second drive unit (134) of the first coupler to move in an inward direction (11). The second drive unit (134) of the first coupler engages with the first drive unit (131) of the second coupler and can apply an axial force to the first drive unit (131) of the second coupler in an outward direction (12). Correspondingly, the first drive unit (131) of the second coupler can force the second coupler valve (120) to move axially within the second coupler valve seat (121) toward the second coupler valve open position (132), which positions the second coupler passage (5) in the second coupler passage open state (133) away from the second coupler port (122), thereby enabling the fluid flow path (6) to have an open fluid flow path state (92), which allows fluid to flow through the connector system (1).

[0138] In a particular embodiment, the first drive unit (131) of the second coupler may include at least one arm (118) which is driven outward (12) by the operation of the second drive unit (134) of the first coupler, engages with the second coupler valve (120), drives the second coupler valve (120) to advance outward (12), and can position the second coupler passage (5) in the open state (133) of the second coupler passage. In a particular embodiment, the first drive unit (131) of the second coupler may include a plurality of arms (118) arranged in a circumferentially spaced-apart relationship, thereby the arms (118) can be connected together by an annular element (119).

[0139] In a particular embodiment, the second drive unit (134) of the first coupler may include at least one arm (118) which is driven inward (11) by the actuation of the second drive unit actuator (135) of the first coupler, engages with the first drive unit (131) of the second coupler, drives the first drive unit (131) of the second coupler to move outward (12), and can position the second coupler passage (5) in the second coupler passage open state (133). In a particular embodiment, the second drive unit (116) of the second coupler may include a plurality of arms (118) arranged in a circumferentially spaced relationship, thereby the arms (118) can be connected together by an annular element (119).

[0140] Once the open fluid flow path state (92) is established, the first coupling valve open position (114) (and correspondingly, the first coupling passage open state (115)) and the second coupling valve open position (132) (and correspondingly, the second coupling passage open state (133)) are fixed, thereby locking the open fluid flow path state (92).

[0141] For this purpose, the first coupler (2) may include a second locking assembly (136) of the first coupler that can lock the first coupler valve (93) in the first coupler valve open position (114), thereby the second locking assembly (136) of the first coupler being structurally identical to, or structurally similar to, the first locking assembly (84) of the first coupler as detailed above, and therefore may include a rotatable second locking ring (137) of the first coupler.

[0142] Since the first and second couplers (2)(3) can have substantially the same structure, the second coupler (3) may include a second locking assembly (138) of the second coupler which can lock the second coupler valve (120) in the second coupler valve open position (132), thereby the second locking assembly (138) of the second coupler is structurally identical to or structurally similar to the first locking assembly (89) of the second coupler as detailed above, and therefore may include a rotatable second locking ring (139) of the second coupler.

[0143] With respect to a particular embodiment, the second locking rings (137)(139) of the first and second couplers can provide the second drive actuators (135)(117) of the individual first and second couplers, or in other words, the second drive actuators (135)(117) of the first and second couplers can provide the second locking rings (137)(139) of the individual first and second couplers, meaning that one component can provide both functions.

[0144] In a particular embodiment, the first coupler (2) may include an additional locking mechanism for maintaining the coupler connection state (14) during an open fluid flow path state (92), for example, an arm (118) of the first drive unit (113) of the first coupler may engage with the first coupler catch (27) when it is received in the first coupler catch receiving element (30), thereby fixing the axial position of the first coupler housing (15) in relation to the second coupler housing (22). In an illustrative embodiment, the first coupler catch (27) may be configured as an annular projection (140) having an axial opening (141) through the annular projection (140), thereby allowing the arm (118) to pass axially through the opening (141) and engage the annular projection (140) in the first coupler catch receiving element (30).

[0145] Since the first and second couplers (2)(3) can have substantially the same structure, with respect to a particular embodiment, the second coupler (3) may include an additional locking mechanism for maintaining the coupler connection state (14) during an open fluid flow path state (92), for example, the arm (118) of the first drive unit (131) of the second coupler may lock and engage with the second coupler catch (29) when it is received in the second coupler catch receiving element (28), thereby fixing the axial position of the second coupler housing (22) relative to the first coupler housing (15). Although this is merely an illustrative embodiment, the second coupling catch (29) can be configured as an annular projection (140) having an axial opening (141) through the annular projection (140), thereby allowing the arm (118) to pass axially through the opening (141) and engage the annular projection (140) within the second coupling catch receiving element (28).

[0146] A method for fabricating a particular embodiment of a connector system (1) for releasably connecting pipes may include providing and assembling the component parts detailed above and in the claims.

[0147] The components of the connector system (1) can be formed from one or more of a large and diverse range of materials capable of providing a functional connector system (1). In non-limiting embodiments, the materials may include or consist of rubber, rubber-like materials, plastics, plastic-like materials, acrylics, polyamides, polyesters, polypropylenes, polyethylenes, polyvinyl chloride-based materials, silicone-based materials, or equivalents, or combinations thereof. Additional, non-limiting examples may include thermoplastic materials such as polymer materials or resins, e.g., acrylic, nylon, polybenzimidazole, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene, polysulfone, or equivalents, or combinations thereof; thermosetting materials such as polyester fiberglass, polyurethane, rubber, polyoxybenzylmethylene glycol anhydride, urea-formaldehyde foam, melamine resin, epoxy resin, polyimide, cyanate ester, polycyanurate, polyester resin, or equivalents, or combinations thereof; and elastomers such as natural polyisoprene, synthetic polyisoprene, polybutadiene, chloroprene rubber, butyl rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, nitrile rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, epichlorohydrin rubber, polyacrylic rubber, silicone rubber, fluorosilicone rubber, fluoroelastomer, perfluoroelastomer, polyether block amide, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or equivalents, or combinations thereof.

[0148] With respect to a particular embodiment, one or more components of the connector system (1) may be formed from an antimicrobial material.

[0149] With respect to a particular embodiment, one or more components of the connector system (1) may be formed entirely from a non-metallic material.

[0150] In addition, the components of the connector system (1) can be produced as a single unit from one of a wide variety of processes, such as press molding, injection molding, processing, machining, printing, additive printing, or equivalent, or a combination thereof, depending on the application, or they can be assembled into components of the connector system (1) from multiple parts.

[0151] With respect to a particular embodiment, one or more components of the connector system (1) may be disposable, reusable, or reusable, depending on the application.

[0152] A method of using a particular embodiment of the connector system (1) for releasably connecting pipes may include, as detailed above, acquiring the first and second couplers (2)(3) and releasably connecting the first and second couplers (2)(3) by means of forced pushing in an axially inward direction (11), etc., to achieve a coupler connection state (14). The method may further include forcibly pushing the first coupler conduit (39) in an axially inward direction (11) through the first coupler elastic deformable valve (45) and forcibly pushing the second coupler conduit (61) in an axially inward direction (11) through the second coupler elastic deformable valve (45), enabling the first and second coupler conduit engagement ends (43)(44) to engage sealably. The method may further include forcibly pushing a first coupler valve (93) in an axial outward direction (12) toward a first coupler valve open position (114) to provide a first coupler passage open state (115) that allows fluid to flow through a first coupler passage (4), and forcibly pushing a second coupler valve (120) in an axial outward direction (12) toward a second coupler valve open position (132) to provide a second coupler passage open state (133) that allows fluid to flow through a second coupler passage (5), wherein the first and second coupler passage open states (115) (133) provide an open fluid flow path state (92) that allows fluid to flow through the connector system (1).

[0153] This method may further include disconnecting the first and second couplers (2)(3).

[0154] This method may further include repeatedly connecting and disconnecting the first and second couplers (2)(3).

[0155] This method may further include repeatedly using or reusing the first and second couplers (2)(3).

[0156] With respect to a particular embodiment, the method of using a particular embodiment of the connector system (1) for releasably connecting a pipe may include a minimum number of steps, in contrast to other connectable / disconnectable devices. In a first embodiment, there may be fewer than five steps for connecting the connector system (1). In a second embodiment, there may be four or fewer steps for connecting the connector system (1). As a third embodiment, the four steps for connecting the connector system (1) are as follows: (a) forcibly push one or both of the first and second couplers (2)(3) in an axially inward direction (11) to achieve a coupler connection state (14); while almost simultaneously, forcibly push the first and second coupler conduits (39)(61) in an axially inward direction (11) through the corresponding first and second coupler elastic deformable valves (45)(65) to seally engage the first and second coupler conduit engagement ends (43)(44), fluidly connect the first and second coupler passages (4)(5), and provide a passage connection state (38). (b) locking the first and second coupling passages (4)(5) together via the first locking assemblies (84)(89); (c) forcibly pushing the first and second coupling valves (93)(120) axially outward (12) toward the open positions (114)(132) of the first and second coupling valves, providing an open fluid flow path state (92) that allows fluid to flow through the connector system (1); and (d) locking the open fluid flow path state (92) via the second locking assemblies (136)(138). With respect to a particular embodiment, there may be only four things for connecting the connector system (1).

[0157] Accordingly, this connector system (1) can be disconnected in (i) fewer than 5 steps, (ii) 4 or fewer steps, (iii) 4 steps, or (iv) 4 steps only, by reversing the above connection steps, etc.

[0158] As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic concepts of the present invention may be embodied in various ways. The present invention includes a number of various embodiments of connector systems and methods for manufacturing and using such connector systems, including in the best mode.

[0159] Accordingly, any particular embodiments or elements of the Invention disclosed in the Description or shown in any figures or tables accompanying this Application are not intended to be limiting, but rather to illustrate the many different embodiments generally encompassed by the Invention, or equivalents encompassed with respect to any particular element thereof. In addition, a specific description of a single embodiment or element of the Invention may not explicitly describe all possible embodiments or elements, and many alternatives are implicitly disclosed in the Description and Figures.

[0160] It should be understood that each element of the apparatus or each step of the method may be described by the terminology of the apparatus or method. Such terminology may be substituted when it is desired to express the implicitly broad scope enjoyed by the invention. It should be understood that, in one embodiment, all steps of the method may be disclosed as an action, means for taking that action, or an element causing that action. Similarly, each element of the apparatus may be disclosed as a physical element or an action facilitated by that physical element. In one embodiment, the disclosure of “connector” should be understood to include the disclosure of the act of “connecting,” whether or not it is explicitly discussed, and conversely, if the disclosure of the act of “connecting” is factually present, such disclosure should be understood to include the disclosure of “connector” and even “means for connecting.” Such alternative terminology for each element or step is understood to be explicitly included in the description.

[0161] In addition, with respect to each term used, it should be understood that the definitions in general dictionaries, such as those found in Random House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 2nd Edition, are included in the explanation of each term, provided that their use in this application does not contradict such interpretations, and that each definition is incorporated herein by reference.

[0162] All numerical values ​​in this specification, whether expressly indicated or not, are assumed to be modified by the term “approximately.” For the purposes of the present invention, a range may be expressed “approximately” from one specific value to “approximately” another specific value. When such a range is expressed, an alternative embodiment includes from one specific value to the other specific value. An enumeration of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numerical values ​​that fall within that range. A numerical range of 1 to 5 includes, for example, the numerical values ​​1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, etc. It should be further understood that each endpoint of a range is significant both in relation to and independently of the other endpoints. When a value is expressed as an approximation by the use of the antecedent “approximately,” it should be understood that a specific value forms an alternative embodiment. The term “approximately” generally refers to a range of numerical values ​​that a person skilled in the art would consider equivalent to, or having the same function or result as, the enumerated numerical values. Similarly, the antecedent “substantially” means that a particular element will have a set of configurations such that a person skilled in the art would consider them to have the same function or result. When a particular element is represented as an approximation by the use of the antecedent “substantially,” it should be understood that the particular element forms another embodiment.

[0163] Furthermore, for the purposes of the present invention, the terms "a" or "an" entities refer to one or more of those entities, unless otherwise specified. Accordingly, the terms "a" or "an," "one or more," and "at least one" can be used synonymously herein.

[0164] Furthermore, for the purposes of the present invention, the term "combined" or its derivatives may mean, depending on the embodiment, to be indirectly combined, combined, directly combined, connected, directly connected, or integrated.

[0165] Accordingly, it should be understood that the applicant requests at least i) each of the connector systems disclosed and described herein, ii) related methods disclosed and described herein, iii) similar, equivalent, and even implied variations of each of these devices and methods, iv) alternative embodiments thereof performing each of the functions shown, disclosed or described herein, v) alternative designs and methods thereof performing each of the functions, as shown in such a way that it is implied to perform what is disclosed and described herein, vi) each feature, component, and step shown as a distinct and independent invention, vii) uses enhanced by the various systems or components disclosed herein, viiii) resulting products produced by such systems or components, ix) methods and apparatus as substantially described above and with reference to any of the accompanying examples herein, and x) various combinations and arrangements of each of the aforementioned elements disclosed herein.

[0166] The Background Art section of this patent application provides, where applicable, a description of the field of activity to which the invention relates. This section may also incorporate or include paraphrases of the subject matter of certain U.S. patents, patent applications, publications, or claimed inventions that are useful in relating information, issues, or concerns about the state of the art in which the invention is taken up. Any U.S. patents, patent applications, publications, descriptions, or other information cited or incorporated herein is not intended to be construed, understood, or deemed to be prior art relating to the invention.

[0167] The claims described herein, where applicable, are incorporated herein by reference as part of this description of the invention, and the applicant expressly reserves the right to use all or any part of such incorporated content of a claim as additional description supporting any or all of any elements or components of the claim or any of its elements or components, and the applicant may, as needed, move any part or all of such incorporated content of a claim or any of its elements or components from the description to the claim (or vice versa), and expressly reserves the right to define the matter for which protection is sought by this application or any subsequent application or continuation, division or continuation-in-part application, or to obtain any benefit of any national or treaty patent law, rule or regulation, reduction of fees equivalent thereto, or to comply therewith, and such incorporated content by reference shall survive throughout the entire pendency of this application, including any subsequent continuation, division or continuation-in-part application or any reissue or extension thereof.

[0168] In addition, the claims described herein are intended, where applicable, to further illustrate the allocation and boundaries of a limited number of preferred embodiments of the Invention and are not to be understood as the most broad embodiments of the Invention or a complete enumeration of claimed embodiments of the Invention. The applicant does not waive any right to develop any further claims based on the above description as part of any continuation, division, or continuation application or similar application.

Claims

1. A connector system for releasably connecting pipes, The first coupler, A first coupling conduit having a first coupling passage, A first coupling elastic deformable valve axially aligned with the first coupling conduit, wherein the first coupling elastic deformable valve is deformable between a default first coupling elastic deformable valve closed configuration and a first coupling elastic deformable valve open configuration. Equipped with, In the first coupling elastic deformable valve closing configuration, the first coupling elastic deformable valve seals the first coupling passage from the external environment. The first coupling elastic deformable valve is deformable by a first coupling conduit engaging end through which the first coupling elastic deformable valve passes and is configured to position the first coupling elastic deformable valve in the first coupling elastic deformable valve open configuration, A second coupler which is substantially the same as the first coupler, The second coupling elastic deformable valve is deformable by a second coupling conduit engaging end through which the second coupling elastic deformable valve passes and is configured to position the second coupling elastic deformable valve in the second coupling elastic deformable valve open configuration. Equipped with, A connector system in which the first coupling conduit engaging end, extending through the first coupling elastic deformable valve, sealably engages with the axially adjacent second coupling conduit engaging end, extending through the second coupling elastic deformable valve, thereby fluidly connecting the first coupling passage to the second coupling passage and providing a passage connection state.

2. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein the first coupler is configured to couple with a first set of pipes, and the second coupler is configured to couple with a second set of pipes and to fluidly connect the first and second sets of pipes.

3. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein the first coupler is configured to connect to a first medical tubing, and the second coupler is configured to connect to a second medical tubing and to fluidly connect the first and second medical tubing.

4. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein the first and second couplers are configured for relatively easy and reliable connection and relatively easy intentional disconnection.

5. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein the sterile or sterile environment within the first and second couplings is preserved.

6. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein the sterile or sterile environment within the first and second coupling passages is preserved.

7. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein the first and second couplers have substantially the same structure.

8. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein the first and second couplers are genderless.

9. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein the passage connection state is provided according to the releasable axial coupling of the first and second couplers.

10. A first coupler housing having an internal space for the first coupler housing in which the first coupler conduit is arranged, A second coupler housing having an internal space for the second coupler housing in which the second coupler conduit is arranged, The connector system according to claim 1, further comprising:

11. The first coupler housing comprises a first end of the first coupler housing opposite to a second end of the first coupler housing, The second coupler housing comprises a second end of the second coupler housing and a first end of the second coupler housing opposite to the second end of the second coupler housing. The connector system according to claim 10.

12. The second end of the first coupler housing comprises at least a portion that terminates in a plane that is at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the first coupler, The second end of the second coupler housing comprises at least a portion that terminates in a plane that is at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the second coupler. The connector system according to claim 11.

13. The portion terminating in the plane that is at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the first coupler comprises the majority of the second end of the first coupler housing, The portion terminating in the plane that is at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the second coupler comprises the majority of the second end of the second coupler housing, The connector system according to claim 12.

14. The connector system according to claim 13, wherein, depending on the achievement of the coupling state, the joint between the second end of the first coupling housing and the second end of the second coupling housing is at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the connector system.

15. The device further comprises a first coupler catch coupled to the first coupler housing and a second coupler catch receiving element coupled to the second coupler housing. The connector system according to claim 10, wherein, in accordance with the connection of the first and second coupling housings, the first coupling catch releasably engages with the second coupling catch receiving element, fixing the axial position of the first coupling housing relative to the second coupling housing and achieving a coupling connection state.

16. The present invention further comprises a second coupler catch coupled to the second coupler housing and a first coupler catch receiving element coupled to the first coupler housing, The connector system according to claim 15, wherein, in accordance with the connection of the second and first coupling housings, the second coupling catch releasably engages with the first coupling catch receiving element, fixing the axial position of the second coupling housing relative to the first coupling housing, and achieving the coupling connection state.

17. The connector system according to claim 16, wherein connection marks are provided in accordance with the successful coupling of the first and second couplers to achieve the coupler connection state.

18. The connector system according to claim 17, wherein the connection mark is selected from the group consisting of a visible mark, an audible mark, a tactile mark, and a combination thereof.

19. The connector system according to claim 17, wherein the connection mark is an audible mark.

20. The connector system according to claim 19, wherein the audible mark is provided with an audible click sound.

21. The connector system according to claim 20, wherein the audible mark comprises two audible clicks.

22. The connector system according to claim 16, further comprising a first coupler release element configured to engage and disengage the first coupler catch from the second coupler catch receiving element, thereby disconnecting the first and second coupler housings.

23. The connector system according to claim 22, further comprising a second coupler release element configured to engage and disengage the second coupler catch from the first coupler catch receiving element, thereby disconnecting the second and first coupler housings.

24. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves is configured to return to its default shape after deformation due to their elasticity.

25. The first coupling elastically deformable valve is positioned axially aligned with the engagement end of the first coupling conduit, The second coupling elastically deformable valve is positioned to be axially aligned with the second coupling conduit engagement end. The connector system according to claim 1.

26. The first coupling elastic deformable valve is coupled to the first coupling housing in close proximity to the second end of the first coupling housing, The second coupling elastically deformable valve is coupled to the second coupling housing in close proximity to the second end of the second coupling housing. The connector system according to claim 11.

27. The first coupling elastic deformable valve is coupled to the first coupling housing via the periphery of the first coupling elastic deformable valve. The second coupling elastic deformable valve is coupled to the second coupling housing via the periphery of the second coupling elastic deformable valve. The connector system according to claim 11.

28. The first coupling conduit is axially movable between a default first coupling conduit retracted position and a first coupling conduit extended position. In the retracted position of the first coupling conduit, the first coupling conduit is located within a sterile environment in the internal space of the first coupling housing, which is bounded by the first coupling elastically deformable valve in the first coupling elastically deformable valve closure configuration. In the retracted position of the first coupling conduit, the first coupling conduit is correspondingly isolated from contaminants in the external environment. The second coupling conduit is axially movable between the default second coupling conduit retracted position and the second coupling conduit extended position. In the retracted position of the second coupling conduit, the second coupling conduit is located within a sterile environment in the internal space of the second coupling housing, which is bounded by the second coupling elastically deformable valve in the second coupling elastically deformable valve closure configuration. In the retracted position of the second coupling conduit, the second coupling conduit is correspondingly isolated from contaminants in the external environment. The connector system according to claim 1.

29. A movable first coupling sleeve, the movable first coupling sleeve radially surrounds the first coupling conduit, and when the first coupling sleeve is biased and positioned in its default first coupling sleeve extending position, the movable first coupling sleeve extends axially beyond the engagement end of the first coupling conduit. A movable second coupling sleeve, the movable second coupling sleeve radially surrounds the second coupling conduit, and when the second coupling sleeve is biased and positioned in its default second coupling sleeve extending position, the movable second coupling sleeve extends axially beyond the engagement end of the second coupling conduit. The connector system according to claim 1, further comprising:

30. In the retracted position of the first coupling sleeve, the engagement end of the first coupling conduit extends axially beyond the first coupling sleeve. In the retracted position of the second coupling sleeve, the engagement end of the second coupling conduit extends axially beyond the second coupling sleeve. The connector system according to claim 29.

31. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second coupling conduit engagement ends is provided with a fluid-tight seal.

32. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves is configured for axial opening via the application of an axial force.

33. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves is formed from an elastomer material.

34. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves is formed from medical-grade silicone.

35. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves is a built-in integrated component.

36. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves is configured as a duckbill valve.

37. The connector system according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second coupling elastic deformable valves is configured as a cross-slit valve.

38. The aforementioned cross-slit valve is equipped with a plurality of flaps extending from a central point, Adjacent flaps form a fluid-tight seal between them. The connector system according to claim 37, wherein, in response to the application of an axial force, the flap is pushed away to open the cross-slit valve.

39. A first locking assembly of a first coupler, the first locking assembly of the first coupler is configured to lock the sealably engaged first and second coupler conduit engagement ends, which fluidly connect the first and second coupler passages to provide the passage connection state, A first locking assembly of a second coupler, wherein the first locking assembly of the second coupler is configured to lock the sealably engaged ends of the second and first coupler conduits, which fluidly connect the second and first coupler passages, in order to provide the passage connection state. The connector system according to claim 1, further comprising:

40. The first locking assembly of the first coupler comprises a rotatable first locking ring of the first coupler configured to lock in response to rotation in a first direction and to unlock in response to rotation in a second direction. The connector system according to claim 39, wherein the first locking assembly of the second coupler comprises a rotatable first locking ring of the second coupler configured to lock in response to rotation in the first direction and to unlock in response to rotation in the second direction.

41. A first coupling valve, which is operable to block fluid flow through the first coupling passage when in the default first coupling valve closed position, A second coupling valve, which is operable to block fluid flow through the second coupling passage when in the default closed position, and Furthermore, The connector system according to claim 1, wherein the first and second coupling valve closed positions provide a closed fluid flow path state.

42. The first coupling valve is movable within the first coupling valve seat and sealably closes the first coupling port which is in fluid communication with the first coupling passage, providing a closed state of the first coupling passage. The second coupling valve is movable within the second coupling valve seat and sealably closes the second coupling port, which is in fluid communication with the second coupling passage, thereby providing a closed state of the second coupling passage. The connector system according to claim 41.

43. A first coupling valve biasing member, the first coupling valve biasing member biases the first coupling valve toward the first coupling valve closed position in which the first coupling port is sealedly closed, in order to provide the first coupling passage closed state, A second coupling valve biasing member, the second coupling valve biasing member biases the second coupling valve toward the second coupling valve closed position in which the second coupling port is sealedly closed, in order to provide the second coupling passage closed state. The connector system according to claim 42, further comprising:

44. The connector system according to claim 43, wherein each of the first and second coupling valve biasing members is configured as an elastically compressible member.

45. The first coupling valve biasing member is positioned outside or on the outside of the first coupling passage. The connector system according to claim 43, wherein the second coupling valve biasing member is located outside or on the outside of the second coupling passage.

46. The connector system according to claim 45, wherein each of the first and second coupling valve biasing members is positioned outside or on the outside of the fluid flow path when the passage connection state is achieved.

47. The connector system according to claim 46, wherein the fluid flowing through the fluid flow path does not come into contact with the first and second coupling valve biasing members.

48. A first coupling drive device, the first coupling drive device being operable to forcibly push a first coupling valve toward a first coupling valve open position that provides a first coupling passage open state that allows a fluid to flow through the first coupling passage, A second coupling drive device, wherein the second coupling drive device is operable to forcibly push the second coupling valve toward a second coupling valve open position that provides a second coupling passage open state that allows fluid to flow through the second coupling passage, and Furthermore, The connector system according to claim 41, wherein the first and second coupling passage open states provide an open fluid flow path state that allows fluid to flow through the connector system.

49. The first coupler drive device drives the first coupler valve to move in an outward direction away from the first coupler port, thereby providing the first coupler passage open. The second coupling drive device drives the second coupling valve to move in the outward direction away from the second coupling port, thereby providing the second coupling passage open. The connector system according to claim 48.

50. A first drive device for a first coupler, wherein the first drive device for the first coupler is operable to forcibly push the first coupler valve toward a first coupler valve open position that provides a first coupler passage open state that allows fluid to flow through the first coupler passage, A first drive unit for a second coupler, wherein the first drive unit for the second coupler is operable to forcibly push the second coupler valve toward a second coupler valve open position that provides a second coupler passage open state that allows fluid to flow through the second coupler passage. Furthermore, The connector system according to claim 41, wherein the first and second coupling passage open states provide an open fluid flow path state that allows fluid to flow through the connector system.

51. The first drive unit of the first coupler drives the first coupler valve to move in an outward direction away from the first coupler port, thereby providing the first coupler passage open. The first drive unit of the second coupler drives the second coupler valve so that it moves in the outward direction away from the second coupler port, thereby providing the second coupler passage open. The connector system according to claim 50.

52. The first drive device of the first coupler is a component of the first coupler, The first drive device of the second coupler is a component of the second coupler. The connector system according to claim 51.

53. The first drive unit of the first coupler is actuated by the second drive unit of the second coupler, which is a component of the second coupler. The first drive unit of the second coupler is operated by the second drive unit of the first coupler, which is a component of the first coupler. The connector system according to claim 52.

54. The second drive unit of the second coupler is actuated by the second drive unit actuator of the second coupler, which is a component of the second coupler. The second drive unit of the first coupler is actuated by the second drive unit actuator of the first coupler, which is a component of the first coupler. The connector system according to claim 53.

55. The second drive actuator of the second coupler forces the second drive of the second coupler to move inward, which in turn drives the first drive of the first coupler outward, which in turn drives the first coupler valve away from the first coupler port, providing the first coupler passage open. The second drive actuator of the first coupler forces the second drive of the first coupler to move in the inward direction, which in turn drives the first drive of the second coupler in the outward direction, which in turn drives the second coupler valve away from the second coupler port, providing the second coupler passage open. The connector system according to claim 54.

56. A second locking assembly of the first coupler, configured to lock the first coupler valve in the open position of the first coupler valve, A second locking assembly of the second coupler, configured to lock the second coupler valve in the open position of the second coupler valve, and The connector system according to claim 48, further comprising:

57. The connector system according to claim 56, wherein the locking of the first coupling valve in the open position of the first coupling valve and the second coupling valve in the open position of the second coupling valve locks the open fluid flow path state that allows fluid to flow through the connector system.

58. The second locking assembly of the first coupler comprises a rotatable second locking ring of the first coupler, configured to lock in response to rotation in a first direction and to unlock in response to rotation in a second direction. The second locking assembly of the second coupling comprises a rotatable second locking ring of the second coupling, configured to lock in response to rotation in the first direction and to unlock in response to rotation in the second direction. The connector system according to claim 56.

59. The second locking ring of the first coupler provides a second drive actuator for the first coupler. The second locking ring of the second coupler provides the second drive actuator of the second coupler. The connector system according to claim 58.

60. The second drive actuator of the first coupler provides the second locking ring of the first coupler. The second drive actuator of the second coupler provides the second locking ring of the second coupler. The connector system according to claim 58.

61. A method for fabricating a connector system for releasably connecting pipes, To provide a first coupler, the first coupler is A first coupling conduit having a first coupling passage, A first coupling elastic deformable valve axially aligned with the first coupling conduit, wherein the first coupling elastic deformable valve is deformable between a default first coupling elastic deformable valve closed configuration and a first coupling elastic deformable valve open configuration. Equipped with, In the first coupling elastic deformable valve closing configuration, the first coupling elastic deformable valve seals the first coupling passage from the external environment. The first coupling elastic deformable valve is deformable by a first coupling conduit engaging end that passes through it and is configured to position the first coupling elastic deformable valve in the first coupling elastic deformable valve open configuration, To provide a second coupler which is substantially the same as the first coupler, The second coupling elastic deformable valve is deformable by a second coupling conduit engaging end through which the second coupling elastic deformable valve passes and is configured to position the second coupling elastic deformable valve in an open configuration. Includes, A method comprising: a first coupling conduit engagement end extending through the first coupling elastic deformable valve sealingly engaging with an axially adjacent second coupling conduit engagement end extending through the second coupling elastic deformable valve, thereby fluidly connecting the first coupling passage to the second coupling passage and providing a passage connection state.

62. The first coupling conduit is arranged within the internal space of the first coupling housing of the first coupling housing, The second coupling conduit is arranged within the internal space of the second coupling housing of the second coupling housing. The method according to claim 61, further comprising:

63. The invention further includes coupling a first coupler catch to the first coupler housing and coupling a second coupler catch receiving element to the second coupler housing, The method according to claim 62, wherein, in accordance with the connection of the first and second coupling housings, the first coupling catch releasably engages with the second coupling catch receiving element, fixing the axial position of the first coupling housing relative to the second coupling housing, and achieving a coupling connection state.

64. The present invention further includes coupling a second coupler catch to the second coupler housing and coupling a first coupler catch receiving element to the first coupler housing, The method according to claim 63, wherein, in accordance with the connection of the second and first coupling housings, the second coupling catch releasably engages with the first coupling catch receiving element, fixing the axial position of the second coupling housing relative to the first coupling housing, and achieving the coupling connection state.

65. The method according to claim 64, further comprising providing a first coupler release element configured to engage and disengage the first coupler catch from the second coupler catch receiving element, thereby disconnecting the first and second coupler housings.

66. The method according to claim 65, further comprising providing a second coupler release element configured to engage and disengage the second coupler catch from the first coupler catch receiving element, thereby disconnecting the second and first coupler housings.

67. The first coupling conduit is radially enclosed using a movable first coupling sleeve, which, when the first coupling sleeve is biased and positioned in its default first coupling sleeve extending position, extends axially beyond the engagement end of the first coupling conduit. The second coupling conduit is radially enclosed by a movable second coupling sleeve, which, when the second coupling sleeve is biased and positioned in its default second coupling sleeve extension position, extends axially beyond the engagement end of the second coupling conduit. The method according to claim 61, further comprising:

68. To provide a first locking assembly for a first coupler, wherein the first locking assembly for the first coupler is configured to lock the sealably engaged first and second coupler conduit engagement ends, which fluidly connect the first and second coupler passages, in order to provide the passage connection state. To provide a first locking assembly for a second coupler, the first locking assembly for the second coupler is configured to lock the sealably engaged ends of the second and first coupler conduits, which fluidly connect the second and first coupler passages, in order to provide the passage connection state. The method according to claim 61, further comprising:

69. To provide a first coupling valve, wherein the first coupling valve is operable to shut off fluid flow through the first coupling passage when in the default first coupling valve closed position, To provide a second coupling valve, wherein the second coupling valve is operable to block fluid flow through the second coupling passage when in the default second coupling valve closed position. It further includes, The method according to claim 61, wherein the first and second coupling valve closed positions provide a closed fluid flow path state.

70. Using the first coupling valve biasing member, the first coupling valve is biased toward the first coupling valve closed position in which the first coupling port is sealedly closed, in order to provide the first coupling passage closed state. The second coupling valve biasing member is used to bias the second coupling valve toward the second coupling valve closed position in which the second coupling port is sealedly closed, in order to provide the second coupling passage closed state. The method according to claim 69, further comprising:

71. To provide a first coupling drive device, wherein the first coupling drive device is operable to forcibly push the first coupling valve toward a first coupling valve open position that provides a first coupling passage open state that allows fluid to flow through the first coupling passage, To provide a second coupling drive device, wherein the second coupling drive device is operable to forcibly push the second coupling valve toward a second coupling valve open position, which provides a second coupling passage open state that allows fluid to flow through the second coupling passage. It further includes, The method according to claim 69, wherein the first and second coupling passage open states provide an open fluid flow path state that allows fluid to flow through the connector system.

72. To provide a first drive device for a first coupler, wherein the first drive device for the first coupler is operable to forcibly push the first coupler valve toward a first coupler valve open position, which provides a first coupler passage open state that allows fluid to flow through the first coupler passage. To provide a first drive device for a second coupler, wherein the first drive device for the second coupler is operable to forcibly push the second coupler valve toward a second coupler valve open position, which provides a second coupler passage open state that allows fluid to flow through the second coupler passage. It further includes, The method according to claim 69, wherein the first and second coupling passage open states provide an open fluid flow path state that allows fluid to flow through the connector system.

73. To provide a second locking assembly for a first coupler configured to lock the first coupler valve in the open position of the first coupler valve, To provide a second locking assembly for a second coupler, configured to lock the second coupler valve in the open position of the second coupler valve. The method according to claim 71, further comprising:

74. A method of using a connector system to connect pipes in a releasable manner, To obtain a first coupler, the first coupler is A first coupling conduit having a first coupling passage, A first coupling elastic deformable valve axially aligned with the first coupling conduit, wherein the first coupling elastic deformable valve is deformable between a default first coupling elastic deformable valve closed configuration and a first coupling elastic deformable valve open configuration. Equipped with, In the first coupling elastic deformable valve closing configuration, the first coupling elastic deformable valve seals the first coupling passage from the external environment. The first coupling elastic deformable valve is deformable by a first coupling conduit engaging end that passes through it and is configured to position the first coupling elastic deformable valve in the first coupling elastic deformable valve open configuration, To obtain a second coupler which is substantially the same as the first coupler, The second coupling elastic deformable valve is deformable by a second coupling conduit engaging end through which the second coupling elastic deformable valve passes and is configured to position the second coupling elastic deformable valve in an open configuration. Includes, A method comprising: a first coupling conduit engagement end extending through the first coupling elastic deformable valve sealingly engaging with an axially adjacent second coupling conduit engagement end extending through the second coupling elastic deformable valve, thereby fluidly connecting the first coupling passage to the second coupling passage and providing a passage connection state.

75. The method according to claim 74, further comprising connecting the first and second couplers in a releasable manner in order to achieve a coupler connection state.

76. The method according to claim 75, further comprising connecting the first and second couplers in a releasable manner by forcibly pushing one or both of the first and second couplers in an inward direction in the axial direction in order to achieve the coupler connection state.

77. The first coupling conduit is forcibly pushed inward in the axial direction through the first coupling elastic deformable valve, The second coupling conduit is forcibly pushed inward in the axial direction through the second coupling elastic deformable valve, and is sealedly engaged with the engagement ends of the first and second coupling conduits. The method according to claim 76, further comprising:

78. To provide a first coupling passage open state that forcibly pushes the first coupling valve outward in the axial direction toward the first coupling valve open position, thereby enabling fluid to flow through the first coupling passage, The second coupling valve is forcibly pushed outward in the axial direction toward the second coupling valve open position, thereby providing a second coupling passage open state that allows the fluid to flow through the second coupling passage. The method according to claim 77, further comprising:

79. The method according to claim 78, wherein the first and second coupling passage open states provide an open fluid flow path state that allows the fluid to flow through the connector system.

80. The method according to claim 74, further comprising locking first and second couplers that are axially connected in a releasable manner.

81. The method according to claim 74, further comprising locking first and second coupling housings that are axially connected in a releasable manner.

82. The method according to claim 74, further comprising locking first and second coupling housings, which are releasably connected in the axial direction via a catch and a catch receiving element.

83. The method according to claim 77, further comprising locking the first and second coupling passages together via a first locking assembly.

84. The method according to claim 79, further comprising locking the first coupling valve in the open position of the first coupling valve and the second coupling valve in the open position of the second coupling valve via a second locking assembly.

85. The method according to claim 84, further comprising locking the first coupling passage in the open state of the first coupling passage and the second coupling passage in the open state of the second coupling passage via the second locking assembly.

86. The method according to claim 85, further comprising locking the open fluid flow path state via the second locking assembly.

87. The method according to claim 79, further comprising disconnecting the first and second couplers.

88. The method according to claim 79, further comprising repeatedly connecting and disconnecting the first and second couplers.

89. The method according to claim 79, further comprising repeatedly using or reusing the first and second couplers.

90. The method according to claim 74, wherein the sterile or sterile environment within the connector system is maintained during use.

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