Connector coupling assembly with removable and replaceable integrated luer connector

Abstract

A connector assembly comprising a body portion defining a cavity and a luer portion extending within the cavity, a base connector at least partially positioned within the cavity of the body portion, a terminal connector slidably connected to the body portion, and a compressible valve member fitted into the cavity of the base connector. The terminal connector includes first and second arms that are hinged or rotatably connected to each other. The valve member may have an internal chamber and a slit extending from the terminal portion of the valve member into the internal chamber. When the terminal connector is connected to the mating connector, the valve member is compressed, the slit opens, and as a result, a fluid path extending from the inlet port through the internal chamber to the outlet port of the luer portion is opened, thereby enabling fluid communication between the base connector and the mating connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , ,

[0005] , ,

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 502,264, filed May 15, 2023, entitled "CONNECTOR COUPLING ASSEMBLY WITH REMOVABLE AND REPLACEABLE INTEGRATED LUER CONNECTOR", the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to connectors, particularly to connector couplings.

Background Art

[0003] Medical procedures often involve the infusion of medical fluids (e.g., saline or pharmaceutical solutions) into a patient using an intravenous (IV) catheter that is typically connected through a configuration of flexible tubing and fittings to a source of fluid, such as an IV bag. Often, the tubing or catheter is connected or secured to enable fluid communication between various portions of the tubing or catheter.

[0004] In some applications, such tubing or catheter may become detached due to improper fixation and / or when subjected to forces greater than those for which the connection is designed to withstand.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] This disclosure relates in at least some embodiments to a body portion having an inner surface defining a cavity ending at an open end of the body portion, and a luer portion extending through the open end in the cavity, a base connector having an inner surface defining an inlet port and a cavity of the base connector, and a terminal connector slidably connected to the body portion, being hinged or rotatably connected to the body, and having (i) an outer surface of the terminal connector and (ii) a terminal connector defining a cavity ending at an open end of the terminal connector The present invention provides a connector assembly comprising a terminal connector having first and second arms defining the inner surface of a terminal, and a compressible valve member to be attached to the cavity of a base connector, the compressible valve member having an internal chamber and a slit extending from the terminal portion of the compressible valve member into the internal chamber, wherein when the terminal connector is connected to a mating connector, the compressible valve member is compressed, the slit is opened, and as a result, a fluid path extending from the inlet port through the internal chamber to the outlet port of the luer portion is opened, thereby enabling fluid communication between the base connector and the mating connector.

[0006] In some embodiments, the Disclosure relates to a body portion having an inner surface defining a cavity ending at an open end of the body portion, and a luer portion extending through the open end in the cavity; a base connector at least partially disposed in the cavity of the body portion and having an inner surface defining an inlet port and a cavity of a base connector, wherein a fluid path extends from the inlet port through the luer portion to an outlet port of the luer portion; a terminal connector slidably connected to the body portion and configured to connect to a mating connector; and a compressible valve member attached to the cavity of the base connector, comprising an internal chamber and the terminal portion of the compressible valve member A connector assembly is provided comprising a compressible valve member having a slit extending into an internal chamber, and a post connected to the compressible valve member and extending longitudinally in a fluid path from the compressible valve member toward the outlet port of the Luer portion, wherein when the end connector is connected to the mating connector, the post is displaced away from the outlet port of the Luer portion to compress the compressible valve member, open the slit, and allow fluid to flow through the fluid path and into the mating connector via the outlet port, and when the force applied to the base connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, a spring member expands and applies force to the post, displacing the post toward the outlet port of the Luer portion and sealing the outlet port.

[0007] Various configurations of the subject art will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure, and it will be understood that various configurations of the subject art are shown and described as examples. As will be recognized, other different configurations of the subject art are possible, and some of its details can be modified in various other ways without all departing from the scope of the subject art. Accordingly, the summary, drawings and detailed description are to be considered illustrative and not restrictive in nature.

[0008] The accompanying drawings are included for further understanding and are incorporated into this specification and constitute part thereof, but serve to illustrate the embodiments disclosed and to illustrate the principles of the embodiments disclosed together with the description thereof. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of an extension set, including a connector assembly, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly connected to a mating pinless connector according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a partial perspective view of the connector assembly shown in Figure 2, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This diagram shows the operation of a connector assembly separated from a mating pinless connector by a rotary release of the end connector of the connector assembly when the connector assembly is subjected to a force in the proximal direction exceeding a predetermined threshold, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional operating diagram of a proximal connector of a connector assembly separated from the connector assembly for disinfection, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view of the base connector of a connector assembly connected to the remaining part of a connector assembly after disinfection, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This is an elevation view of a detachable connector assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in Figure 7, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This is a detailed view of the connector assembly shown in Figure 8, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional view of an arm of a connector assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view of the arm in Figure 10, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The disclosed connector assembly comprises a body portion having an inner surface defining a cavity ending at the open end of the body portion, and including a plurality of wing portions; a proximal connector at least partially positioned in the cavity and configured to connect to a medical fluid source; and a terminal connector slidably connected to the body portion via the plurality of wing portions and configured to connect to a mating needleless connector. The inner surface of the body portion may include a plurality of recessed notches therein. In some embodiments, the plurality of wing portions may extend from the outer surface of the proximal connector to the outer surface of the terminal connector. The body portion may further include a luer portion extending through the open end of the body portion in the cavity.

[0011] The base connector may have an inner surface defining an inlet port and a cavity within the base connector. The fluid path may extend from the inlet port through the Luer portion to the outlet port of the Luer portion. The base connector may further include a compressible valve member mounted therein. The compressible valve member may have an inner chamber and a slit extending from the end portion of the compressible valve member into the inner chamber. A post may extend longitudinally in the fluid path from the end portion of the compressible valve member toward the outlet port of the Luer portion. The end portion of the post may extend into the Luer portion. The end connector may include first and second arms that are rotatably connected to each other or hinged and define the outer surface of the end connector. Each of the first and second arms may include at least one stopper extending radially outward from the outer surface of the end connector for fitting into a corresponding notch among a plurality of notches in the body portion.

[0012] When the force applied to the proximal connector exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., a high pull-out force), the retainers of the first and second arms disengage from the notches in the main body, allowing the terminal connector to move terminally relative to the proximal connector, and rotating the first and second arms radially outward to separate the terminal connector from the mating connector. When the retainers disengage from the notches, the compressed valve member expands like a spring, and in turn can move the post terminally. While the compressible valve member is described in this disclosure as having features configured to move the post, it should be understood that this disclosure also envisions embodiments in which a spring member or other biasing device is used to move or bias the post. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the spring member can be used in conjunction with the valve to provide features for enabling or blocking fluid flow and for moving or biasing the post.

[0013] As the post moves toward the terminal, projections on the arms of the post apply terminal forces to the corresponding first and second arms of the terminal connector, thereby moving or shifting the terminal connector toward the terminal. In particular, as the compressible valve member expands, each of the wings may slide along the respective slots of the first and second arms, allowing the terminal connector to move toward the terminal relative to the proximal connector. As the compressible valve member continues to expand, the inclined surfaces of each slot may push against the inclined portions of the wings, causing the first and second arms of the terminal connector to rotate radially outward and widen the opening at the open end of the terminal connector. As the compressible valve member continues to expand toward the terminal, it may continue to exert force on the post, causing the post to move or otherwise displace its closed end toward the outlet port of the luer portion, thereby sealing the outlet port.

[0014] As the first and second arms continue to rotate radially outward, the mating connector can then be released and completely separated from the terminal connector. In this state, the outlet port of the Luer portion is sealed by the sealing of the closed end of the post, thereby closing the fluid path and, advantageously, preventing the entry of microorganisms into the fluid path. Further advantageously, the sealed outlet port can prevent medical fluid, such as IV fluid, from further leaking or otherwise flowing out of the fluid path through the outlet port of the Luer portion when the mating connector is detached. The first and second arms are advantageously designed to release the mating needleless connector when a tensile force exceeding a threshold tensile force is applied. In this way, both the connector assembly (e.g., a valve from Texium, but not limited to) and the mating connector (e.g., a valve from Smartsite, but not limited to) can automatically close upon separation, thereby preventing leakage or outflow of medical fluid in the event of accidental detachment due to a higher pull-out force exceeding a predetermined threshold force. The proximal connector is detachably connected to the remainder of the connector assembly (i.e., the body portion and the terminal connector assembly), which may advantageously allow for disinfection or other sterilization of the luer portion of the proximal connector. The remainder of the connector assembly (i.e., the body portion and the terminal connector assembly) can then be discarded and replaced with a new sterile body portion and terminal connector assembly. The mating connector can also be disinfected or other sterilized before being reattached to the connector assembly if it has been detached or separated from it.

[0015] After disinfection, the mating connector can then be reconnected to a new sterile connector assembly. When the mating connector is reconnected to the terminal connector, the luer portion of the body may advance into the mating connector, and the upper surface of the mating connector may apply force to push the multiple arms of the post toward the proximal end, thereby displacing the closed end of the post away from the outlet port of the luer portion of the body, and compressing the compressible valve member so that the slit of the valve member opens. In the open slit position, the closed end of the post is displaced away from the outlet port of the luer portion, thereby opening the slit and reopening the fluid path, allowing medical fluid to flow through the outlet port of the luer portion into the mating connector via the lumen and passage of the post. Thus, administration of IV fluid from the fluid line to the catheter via the new sterile connector assembly can be resumed.

[0016] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when subjected to lower pull-out forces, for example, below a predetermined proximal threshold (pull-out) force, the connector assembly may be advantageously configured to retain the mating connector within the terminal connector, as a result the fluid path remains open, allowing medical fluids, such as IV fluids, to be delivered from the fluid line into the catheter for administration to the patient.

[0017] The connector assemblies of the various embodiments described herein are advantageous over conventional couplers and associated infusion systems where an extraction force exceeding a predetermined threshold results in actual catheter detachment or separation. They prevent catheter detachment, potentially resulting bleeding, drug leakage, and excessive alarms warning the clinician of detachment by detaching or otherwise separating from the mating connector.

[0018] The detailed description that follows is intended as an explanation of various configurations of the present technology and is not intended to present the limited configurations in which the present technology may be implemented. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the present technology. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present technology may be implemented without these specific details. In some examples, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the present technology. Similar components are denoted by the same element numbers for ease of understanding. Reference numerals are generally referred to by the same numbers without subscripts, but may be subscripted to represent separate examples of common elements.

[0019] The following description is directed to the connection of a medical tubing fitting for the administration of a medical fluid using the disclosed connector assembly, but it is to be understood that this description is merely an example of usage and does not limit the scope of the claims. The various aspects of the disclosed coupler may be used in any application where it is desirable to secure the connection of various tubes and tubing fittings.

[0020] The disclosed connector assembly overcomes several problems found with certain conventional couplers utilized during PIVC blood draws. One problem associated with certain conventional couplers is that a certain conventional coupler can be inappropriately secured. Further in use, a certain conventional coupler can be designed to release or disengage in response to a relatively small pull force. For example, a certain conventional coupler can release in response to the pull force received when a patient rolls over in bed, when a patient catches tubing or a line on the bed railing, when a patient is moved to a different bed, when a pediatric patient plays with it, and / or when a confused adult patient pulls out their own line. In fact, at the 2017 Association for Vascular Access (AVA) Annual Conference, a 10% dropout rate was reported for 1,000 patients with peripheral IV catheters, resulting in approximately 33 million dropouts per year in the United States alone. The use of a certain conventional coupler is undesirable because accidental or unintentional disengagement of tubing, a catheter, or a fitting can interfere with the administration of a medical fluid.

[0021] Accordingly, it is advantageous according to the present disclosure to provide a connector assembly as described herein that enables improved fixation of a fitting or a connector. The disclosed connector assembly is constructed as described herein to enable secure retention of the connector while enabling intentional removal of the connector as required.

[0022] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an extension set including a connector assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the extension set 200 may include a tubing 217 configured to connect to a medical fluid (e.g., IV fluid) source (not shown). As depicted, the extension set 200 may further include a detachable connector assembly 201 for selectively delivering medical fluid to a catheter assembly 221A via a mating connector 202 (e.g., a needleless connector). The extension set 200 may further include a mating Luer 203 (e.g., a male Luer connector) for connecting the connector assembly 201 to the tubing 217. As will be described in more detail below, a fluid path 238 may be defined at least partially from the lumen of the tubing 217 through the lumen of the mating Luer 203, the connector assembly 201 and the mating connector 202. The medical fluid may then be delivered to the catheter 221B of the catheter assembly 221A via the fluid path 238.

[0023] Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly connected to a mating pinless connector according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3 illustrates a partial perspective view of the connector assembly of Figure 2 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3 with continued reference to Figure 1, the connector assembly 201 may include a body portion 205, a proximal connector 214 at least partially positioned on the body portion 205, and a terminal connector 212 slidably connected to the body portion 205. The body portion 205 may have an inner surface defining a cavity 208 ending at an open end 262 of the body portion 205, and a luer portion 227 extending through the open end 262 of the body portion 205 in the cavity 208. The inner surface of the body portion 205 may include a plurality of recessed notches 282 therein. In some embodiments, the body portion 205 may include a plurality of wing portions 210. In some embodiments, a plurality of wing portions 210 may extend from the outer surface of the proximal connector 214 to the outer surface 215 of the terminal connector 212. As will be described in more detail below with respect to the operation of the connector assembly 201, the terminal connector 212 may be slidably connected to the proximal connector 214 via the plurality of wing portions 210. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of wing portions 210 may have a terminal portion that forms a proximal end 260 and an open end 262. Each of the wing portions 210 may have an inner surface 264 including a first linear portion 266 extending from the open end 262 toward the proximal end, an inclined portion 252 extending radially outward toward the proximal end from the first linear portion 266, and a second linear portion 270 extending from the inclined portion 252 toward the proximal end.

[0024] In some embodiments, the base connector 214 may be at least partially located in the cavity 208 of the main body portion 205. The base connector 214 may define an inlet port 206 and may have an inner surface 219 defining the cavity 216 of the base connector 214. A compressible valve member 218 may be attached to the cavity 216 of the base connector 214. The compressible valve member 218 may include an internal chamber 276 and a slit 274 extending from the end portion of the compressible valve member 218 into the internal chamber 276. For example, in some embodiments, the compressible valve member 218 may be a split-partition type compressible valve member.

[0025] In some embodiments, the fluid path 238 may extend from the inlet port 206 through the luer portion 227 to the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227. The post 220 may be positioned on the luer portion 227 that extends longitudinally in the fluid path 238 from the base portion of the compressible valve member 218 toward the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227. In some embodiments, the post 220 may define a lumen 228 and may have an open end 244, an opposing closed end 246, and a passage 248 through the side wall between the open end 244 and the closed end 246. In some embodiments, the post 220 may include a seal 226 on the outer surface of the closed end 246 to prevent fluid flow through the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227. As described, the post 220 may have a plurality of arms 222 extending from the post 220 along the outside of the luer portion 227 toward the outlet port 242. The post 220 further includes a pair of projections 224 (as illustrated in Figure 4), one of which projections 224 may extend radially outward from the respective outer surfaces of each arm 222 of the post 140.

[0026] According to various embodiments, the terminal connector 212 may have first and second arms 211 and 213 (illustrated in Figure 4) that are rotatable relative to each other. For example, in some embodiments, the first and second arms 211 and 213 may each include a pair of hinge portions having connecting holes. The hinge portions of the first and second arms 211 and 213 and their respective connecting holes may be coaxially aligned so that a pivot pin can be inserted into the connecting holes aligned on the opposing sides of the first and second arms 211 and 213. Thus, the pair of hinge portions of the first arm 211 can be rotatably connected to the pair of hinge portions of the second arm 213, thereby rotatably connecting the first and second arms 211 and 213 of the terminal connector 212 relative to each other.

[0027] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ability to rotate the first and second arms 211 and 213 is provided by the body portion 205 having a pivot hole or pivot pin, and the first and second arms 211 and 213 having the other of a pivot hole or pivot pin. The pivot hole can be located on opposing sides of the body 205, and each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 can have a pair of pivot pins configured to be received into the pivot hole.

[0028] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, which show a cross-sectional view and a detailed view thereof of the connector assembly 201 in the AA direction, the main body portion 205 includes a pivot hole 272, and each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 includes a pivot pin 278 configured to be positioned within the pivot hole 272.

[0029] A second arm 213 is shown in Figure 10, showing the inner surface 237 of the end connector 212, the inner surface 237 defining a cavity 243 ending at the open end 225 of the end connector. The second arm 213 includes first and second pivot pins 278, each positioned along the lateral portion of the second arm, such that the second arm 213 is rotatable about an axis extending between the first and second pivot pins 278. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the first and second pivot pins 278 are positioned diametrically opposite each other. The second arm 213 is shown separated for clarity, but it should be understood that this disclosure intends for the first arm 211 to have the same or similar features as the second arm 213.

[0030] A cross-sectional view of the second arm 213 in Figure 10 is shown in Figure 11 along line CC, which illustrates that in some embodiments, the pivot pin 278 may be configured in a partial circular cross-section. The partial circular cross-section is configured such that the first pivot pin 278 of each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 can be inserted into the first pivot hole 272 of the body, and the second pivot pin 278 of each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 can be inserted into the second pivot hole 272 of the body, thereby allowing the first pivot pin 278 of the first and second arms 211 and 213 to be positioned in the space of the first pivot hole 272, and the second pivot pin 278 of the first and second arms 211 and 213 to be positioned in the space of the second pivot hole 272.

[0031] With the pivot pins 278 of the first and second arms 211 and 213 positioned in the pivot holes 272, the partially circular cross-section of each pivot pin 278 having an outer circumference of less than 180 degrees allows each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 to rotate relative to the body portion 205. In some embodiments of this disclosure, each pivot pin has a circular outer circumference extending at an angle AP around the axis of the pivot pin 278. In some embodiments, the angle AP is approximately 10 degrees to approximately 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle AP is approximately 90 degrees to approximately 175 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle AP is approximately 120 degrees to approximately 160 degrees. In the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the angle AP is 158 degrees.

[0032] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the base and end portions of the first and second arms 211 and 213 are configured to move toward and away from the body portion 205 when either the first or second arm 211 and 213 is rotated. To enable the base and end portions of the first and second arms 211 and 213 to move toward and away from the body portion 205, pivot pins are positioned between the base and end portions of the first and second arms 211 and 213. The movement of the base and end portions of the first and second arms 211 and 213 toward and away from the body portion 205 can also be enabled by having chamfers on the lateral surfaces of each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 at their base portions. In another embodiment, when the first and second arms 211 and 213 are connected to the pivot hole, a space is created between the first and second arms 211 and 213, extending from the pivot pin toward the base ends of the first and second arms 211 and 213.

[0033] When the end connector 212 moves in the terminal direction relative to the base connector 214, the first and second arms 211 and 213 rotate, and as a result, the ends of the first and second arms 211 and 213 move radially outward. When the ends of the first and second arms 211 and 213 move radially outward, the mating connector 202 can be separated from the end connector.

[0034] As illustrated, the first and second arms 211 and 213 may define (i) the outer surface 215 of the end connector 212, and (ii) the inner surface 237 of the end connector 212 defining a cavity 243 ending at the open end 225 of the end connector 212. The inner surface 237 of the end connector 212 may have at least one stopper 230 (illustrated in Figure 4) extending radially inward from the inner surface 221. As depicted, when the mating connector 202 is connected to the end connector 212, each projection 224 may abut against the corresponding one of the at least one stopper 230 to prevent unintended expansion of the compressible valve member 218 and terminal movement of the post 220.

[0035] As further described, each of the first and second arms 211 and 213 may include at least one retaining arm 209 extending radially outward from the outer surface 215 of the end connector 212. When the end connector 212 is connected to the mating connector 202, the retaining arms 209 of the first and second arms 211 and 213 engage with a plurality of notches 282, preventing the mating connector 202 from separating from the end connector 212 when the force F applied to the base connector 214 (i.e., force in the base direction) is less than or equal to a predetermined base threshold (pull-out) force.

[0036] In some embodiments, the outer surface 215 defined by the first and second arms 211 and 213 of the end connector 212 may have a slot 250 therein that is at least partially recessed. The slot 250 may have a linear surface 251 extending from the end portion 255 of the slot 250 toward the proximal end, and an inclined surface 254 extending from the linear surface 251 toward the proximal end portion 253 of the slot 250. As described, the inclined portion 252 of each wing 210 may be parallel to the inclined surface 254 of each slot 250, and the first linear portion 266 of each wing 210 may be parallel to the linear surface 251 of each slot 250. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when a force F applied to the proximal connector 214 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the retainer 209 may disengage from the notch 282, causing the end connector 212 to move toward the proximal end relative to the proximal connector 214. When the retaining arm 209 disengages from the notch 282, the inclined surface 254 of the slot 250 pushes the inclined portion 252 of the wing portion 210, causing the first and second arms 211 and 213 to rotate radially outward, widening the open end 225 of the terminal connector 212 and releasing the mating connector 202 (as illustrated in Figure 4).

[0037] In operation, the connector assembly 201 may be connected at its end to a mating or opposing connector 202 and at its base to a mating Luer connector 203. In some embodiments, the mating or opposing connector 202 may be a pinless connector, and the mating Luer connector 203 may be a male Luer connector. For example, as depicted in Figure 2, the mating connector 202 may be inserted into and connected to the open end 225 of the end connector 212, and the mating Luer connector 203 may be inserted into and connected to the inlet port 206 of the base connector 214. In some embodiments, the mating connector 202 may include threads 239 for engaging with complementary threads 175 at the open end 125 of the end connector 212. When the terminal connector 212 is connected to the mating connector 202, at least one retaining element 209 engages with at least one notch 282 to prevent the mating connector 202 from separating from the terminal connector 212 at or below a predetermined threshold (pull-out) force applied to the base connector 214.

[0038] Figure 2 illustrates the connected configuration of the mating connector 202 and end connector 212 of the connector assembly 201 when a force F below a predetermined proximal threshold (pull-out) is applied to the proximal connector 214. For example, the connector assembly 201 may be subjected to a pull-out force in the proximal direction as a result of a patient turning over in bed, a patient catching a pipe or line on the bed railing, a patient being moved to a different bed, a pediatric patient playing with it, and / or a confused adult patient pulling on their own line. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when subjected to a lower pull-out force, for example, a force F less than or equal to a predetermined proximal threshold (pull-out) force, the connector assembly 201 may be configured to hold the mating connector 202 within the end connector 212, as a result the fluid path 238 remains open, allowing a medical fluid, such as an IV fluid, to be administered into the catheter assembly 221A (illustrated in Figure 1) from a fluid line or tubing 217 (which may be fluidly connected to a fluid container, such as an IV bag (not shown)). Particularly as illustrated in Figure 2, when the end connector 212 is connected to the mating connector 202, the closed end 246 of the post 220 (with the attached seal 226) may be displaced away from the outlet port 242 of the Luer portion 227, allowing flow through the Luer portion 227 to pass through the fluid path 238.

[0039] As described, in the connected configuration of the mating connector 202 and the terminal connector 212, the luer portion 227 extends through the upper surface 207 of the mating connector 202 into the mating luer of the mating connector 202, and can displace the flexible valve 204 of the mating connector 202. Therefore, when the mating connector 202 is connected to the terminal connector 212, the mating connector 202 may exert a force pushing the multiple arms 222 of the post 220 in the proximal direction, thereby compressing the compressible valve member 218 in the post 220 in the proximal direction and displacing the closed end 246 of the post 220 away from the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227. Compression opens a slit 274 at the end of the compressible valve member 218, thereby creating fluid communication between the internal chamber 276 of the compressible valve member 218 and the lumen 228 of the post 220, allowing fluid to flow through the fluid path 238 and into the mating connector 202 via the outlet port 242 of the Luer portion 227. For example, as illustrated in Figure 2, multiple arms 222 and the post 220 can be pushed away from the outlet port 242 of the Luer portion 227 by the upper surface 207. In the open position, the closed end 246 of the post 220 is displaced from the outlet port 242 of the Luer portion 227, thereby allowing medical fluid to flow through the passage 248 between the outlet port 242 of the Luer portion 227 and the lumen 228 of the post 220.

[0040] Figure 4 illustrates an operational diagram of a connector assembly 201 separated from a mating connector 202 by the rotational release of the end connector 212 of the connector assembly 201 when the connector assembly 201 is subjected to a proximal force F exceeding a predetermined threshold. According to various embodiments of the disclosure, when subjected to a higher pull-out force, for example a force F exceeding a predetermined proximal threshold, the connector assembly 201 may be configured to release or otherwise separate the mating connector 202 from within the end connector 212, at which point the fluid path 238 may close, preventing medical fluid, such as IV fluid, from entering a fluid line or tubing 217 (which may be fluidly connected to a fluid container, such as an IV bag (not shown)). In some embodiments, the predetermined proximal threshold (pull-out) force may be approximately 5 pounds (lbs). For example, if a patient with catheter 221A inserted into their skin walks away from the infusion pump or accidentally pulls on a fluid line or tube 217 with a force exceeding 5 lbs, the connector assembly 201 may automatically detach or separate from the mating connector 202, effectively closing the fluid pathway 238 connecting the patient and the infusion fluid source, as will be described in more detail below. The connector assembly 201 of the various embodiments described herein is advantageous in preventing catheter 221B detachment, resulting in potential bleeding, drug leakage, and excessive alarms warning the clinician of detachment, by detaching or otherwise separating from the mating connector 202, compared to conventional couplers and associated infusion systems where a pull-out force exceeding a predetermined threshold results in actual catheter detachment or separation.

[0041] In particular, as illustrated in Figure 4, when the force applied to the base connector 214 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the retaining arm 209 disengages from the notch 282, allowing the end connector 212 to move terminally relative to the base connector 214, and enabling the first and second arms 211 and 213 to rotate radially outward, thereby separating the mating connector 202 from the end connector 212, as will be described in more detail below. For example, in the operation when the pull-out force F applied to the base connector 214 in the base direction exceeds a predetermined threshold, the pull-out force F can disengage or otherwise displace the retaining arm 209 of the first and second arms 211 and 213 from the notch 282 of the wing portion 210. When the retaining arm 209 disengages from the notch 282, the compressed valve member 218 expands, and accordingly the post 220 can move terminally. As the post 220 moves toward the terminal, the projections 224 on each of the multiple arms 222 of the post 220 apply a terminal force to the corresponding stopper 230 against which they abut, thereby causing the terminal connector 212 to move or shift toward the terminal. In particular, as illustrated in Figure 4, as the compressible valve member 218 expands, each first linear portion 266 of the wing 210 may slide along the linear surface 251 of the slot 250, allowing the terminal connector 212 to move toward the terminal relative to the proximal connector 214. The terminal connector 212 may continue to move toward the terminal as each of the wings 210 continues to slide along the linear surface 251 of each slot 250 until the inclined surface 254 of each slot 250 contacts and abuts against the inclined portion 252 of each wing 210. As the compressible valve member 218 continues to expand, the inclined surfaces 254 of each slot 250 push against the inclined portions 252 of the blade 210, causing the first and second arms 211 and 213 to rotate radially outward, widening the opening at the open end 225 of the end connector 212. As the compressible valve member 218 continues to expand toward the end, it may continue to exert force on the post 220, causing the post to move or otherwise displace its closed end 246 toward the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227, thereby sealing the outlet port 242.

[0042] As described, as the first and second arms 211 and 213 continue to rotate radially outward, the mating connector 202 can then be released and completely separated from the end connector 212. In this state, the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 is sealed by the seal 226 of the closing end 246 of the post 220, thereby closing the fluid path 238, which is advantageous in preventing the entry of microorganisms into the fluid path 238. Further advantageously, the sealed outlet port 242 may prevent medical fluid, such as IV fluid, from further escaping or otherwise flowing out of the fluid path 238 through the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 when the mating connector 202 is disconnected.

[0043] Therefore, the first and second arms 211 and 213 are advantageously designed to release the mating needleless connector 202 when an extraction force F exceeding a threshold extraction force is applied to the tubing 217 and the proximal connector 214. In this way, both the connector assembly 201 (e.g., a valve from Texium, but not limited to it) and the mating connector 202 (e.g., a valve from SmartSite, but not limited to it) automatically close upon separation, thereby preventing (i) the entry of microorganisms into the fluid pathway 138, and (2) the leakage or spillage of medical fluid in the event of accidental detachment due to an extraction force higher than a predetermined threshold force. The above configuration is advantageous over current catheter detachment devices or couplers, which are generally adhesive-based and may or may not be able to prevent catheter detachment at lower extraction forces. Such current catheter dislodgement devices or couplers cannot prevent catheter dislodgement under higher pull-out forces, but instead may release in response to higher pull-out forces (e.g., more than 5 lbs) experienced when a patient turns over in bed, a patient snags the tube or line on the bed railing, a patient is moved to a different bed, a pediatric patient plays with the catheter, and / or a confused adult patient pulls out their own line.

[0044] Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional operating view of the base connector 214 of the connector assembly 201 separated from the connector assembly 201 for disinfection, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional operating view of the base connector 214 of the connector assembly connected to the remainder of the connector assembly 201 after disinfection, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the first and second arms 211 and 213 of the terminal connector 212 can be returned from the rotated state illustrated in Figure 5 to the unrotated state illustrated in Figure 6 by rotating the first and second arms 211 and 213 back to their original radially inward state before radially outward rotation, by clamping the first and second arms 211 and 213 together or otherwise applying opposing forces to them.

[0045] As illustrated in Figure 5, the base connector 214 can be separated or otherwise detached from the rest of the connector assembly 201. For example, in a connected or assembled configuration of the connector assembly 201, the base connector can be connected to a cavity 208 in the body portion 205. As depicted, the inner surface of the body portion 205 may include a plurality of threads 290, and the outer surface of the base connector 214 may include complementary threads 292 to engage with the threads 290 of the body portion. To separate or otherwise detach the base connector 214 from the rest of the connector assembly 201, the base connector 214 can be loosened or otherwise unscrewed and removed from the cavity 208 in the body portion 205. The separation of the base connector 214 from the remainder of the connector assembly 201 is described herein in relation to screw fastening, but various embodiments are not limited to the above configuration, and the base connector 21 may instead be removably connected to the main body by any other suitable fastening or securing method.

[0046] The aforementioned configuration, in which the proximal connector 214 is removably connected to the rest of the connector assembly, is advantageous in that the luer portion of the proximal connector 214 can be removed from the cavity 208 of the body portion 205 and subsequently disinfected or otherwise sterilized. In some embodiments, the rest of the connector assembly 201 (i.e., the assembly of the body portion 205 and the terminal connector 212) can be discarded and replaced with a new sterile assembly of the body portion 205 and the terminal connector 212 without impeding or otherwise contaminating the fluid pathway 238. As illustrated in Figure 6, the proximal connector 214 can then be attached to or connected to the new sterile assembly of the body portion 205 and the terminal connector 212.

[0047] Similarly, if the mating connector 202 is separated or otherwise detached from the connector assembly 201, it may also be disinfected or otherwise sterilized. The mating connector 202 may then be reconnected to the connector assembly 201, as illustrated in Figure 2. For example, after disinfecting the mating connector 202, it may then be coupled or connected to a new, sterile connector assembly 201. The mating connector 202 may advance toward the luer portion 227 of the end connector 212. As the mating connector 202 advances toward the luer portion 227 of the end connector 212, the luer portion 227 may advance into the interior of the mating connector 202 and compress the valve member 204 of the mating connector 202. As the luer portion 227 advances further into the mating connector 202, the upper surface 207 of the mating connector 202 may exert a force pushing the multiple arms 222 of the post 220 toward the proximal end, thereby compressing the compressible valve member 218, as illustrated in Figure 2, and displacing the closing end 246 of the post 220 away from the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227. For example, as discussed earlier, the multiple arms 222 and post 220 may be pushed away from the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 by the end portions 223 of the arms 222 fitting against the upper surface 207 of the mating connector 202. In the open position, the closing end 246 of the post 220 is displaced away from the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227, thereby reopening the fluid path 238 and allowing medical fluid to flow through the outlet port 242 of the luer portion 227 into the mating connector 202 via the lumen 228 and passage 248 of the post 220. Therefore, administration of IV fluid from the fluid line or tubing 217 to the catheter 221B can be resumed via the new sterile connector assembly 201.

[0048] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when subjected to lower pull-out forces, for example, below a predetermined proximal threshold (pull-out) force, the connector assembly 201 may be configured to hold the mating connector 202 within the terminal connector 212, as a result the fluid path 238 remains open, allowing medical fluids, such as IV fluids, to be administered into the catheter 221B from the fluid line or tubing 217. In particular, when the terminal connector 212 is connected to the mating connector 202, the closed end 246 of the post 220 (with the attached seal 226) may be displaced away from the outlet port 242 of the Luer portion 227, allowing flow through the Luer portion 227 to pass through the fluid path 238.

[0049] This technology is illustrated, for example, by various embodiments described below. Various examples of the subject technology are, for convenience, described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided as examples and do not limit the subject technology. Any of the dependent clauses may be combined in any combination and incorporated into their respective independent clauses, for example, Clause 1 or Clause 5. Other clauses may be presented in a similar manner.

[0050] Clause 1, a body portion having an inner surface defining a cavity ending at the open end of the body portion, and a luer portion extending through the open end in the cavity, a base connector having an inner surface defining an inlet port and a cavity of the base connector, a terminal connector slidably connected to the body portion and / or to the body by hinge or rotatably connected, (i) the outer surface of the terminal connector, and (ii) the inner surface of the terminal connector defining a cavity ending at the open end of the terminal connector A connector assembly comprising a first and second arm defining a surface, a compressible valve member to be fitted into the cavity of a terminal connector and a base connector, the compressible valve member comprising an internal chamber and a slit extending from the terminal portion of the compressible valve member into the internal chamber, wherein when the terminal connector is connected to a mating connector, the compressible valve member is compressed, the slit is opened, and as a result, a fluid path extending from an inlet port through the internal chamber to an outlet port of the luer portion is opened, thereby enabling fluid communication between the base connector and the mating connector.

[0051] Clause 2, the connector assembly according to Clause 1, wherein the inner surface of the main body portion includes a plurality of recessed notches therein, and each of the first and second arms includes at least one stopper extending radially outward from the outer surface of the end connector, and when the end connector is connected to the mating connector, the stoppers of the first and second arms engage with the plurality of notches to prevent separation of the mating connector from the end connector when the force applied to the base connector is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

[0052] Clause 3, the connector assembly according to Clause 2, wherein when the force applied to the base connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the retainers of the first and second arms disengage from a plurality of notches, allowing the end connector to move terminally relative to the base connector, and the first and second arms rotate radially outward to separate the mating connector from the end connector.

[0053] Clause 4, a connector assembly according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, further comprising a post positioned in the Luer portion and extending longitudinally in the fluid path toward the outlet port of the Luer portion from the end portion of a compressible valve member, wherein when the end connector is connected to a mating connector, the closing end of the post is displaced away from the outlet port of the Luer portion to allow flow through the fluid path and into the mating connector via the outlet port.

[0054] Clause 5, the connector assembly according to Clause 4, wherein the post comprises a plurality of arms extending from the post toward the outlet port along the outside of the luer portion, and when the mating connector is connected to the terminal connector, the mating connector applies force to push the plurality of arms toward the proximal end, compressing a compressible valve member and displacing the closed end of the post away from the outlet port of the luer portion.

[0055] Clause 6, the connector assembly as described in Clause 5, wherein when the terminal connector is separated from the mating connector, the closing end of the post seals the outlet port of the Luer portion to prevent fluid from leaving the fluid path through the outlet port of the Luer portion.

[0056] Clause 7, the connector assembly according to Clause 6, wherein when the force applied to the base connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, a compressible valve member expands, applying force to the post and displacing the closing end of the post toward the outlet port of the Luer portion to seal the outlet port.

[0057] Clause 8, a connector assembly according to any one of Clauses 2 to 7, wherein the outer surfaces of each of the first and second arms of the terminal connector have a slot therein which is at least partially recessed, and the slot comprises a straight surface extending from the terminal end of the slot toward the base end, and an inclined surface extending from the straight surface toward the base end of the slot.

[0058] Clause 9, the connector assembly according to Clause 8, comprising a plurality of wing portions that slidably connect an end connector to a base connector, each of which has a base portion and an end portion; and an inner surface including a first linear portion extending from the end portion toward the base portion, an inclined portion extending radially outward from the first linear portion toward the base portion, and a second linear portion extending from the inclined portion toward the base portion.

[0059] Clause 10, the connector assembly according to Clause 9, wherein each of the inclined portions of the multiple wings is parallel to the inclined surfaces of the corresponding slots of the first and second arms of the terminal connector, and the first straight portion is parallel to the straight surface of the slot.

[0060] Clause 11, the connector assembly according to Clause 10, wherein when a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to the proximal connector and the retaining arms of the first and second arms disengage from the multiple notches, the first linear portion slides along the linear surface of the slot, allowing the terminal connector to move terminally relative to the proximal connector.

[0061] Clause 12, the connector assembly according to Clause 11, wherein when a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to the proximal connector, causing the retainers of the first and second arms to disengage from a plurality of notches and move the terminal connector terminally relative to the proximal connector, the inclined surface of the slot pushes the inclined portions of the plurality of wings, causing the first and second arms to rotate radially outward, widening the open end of the terminal connector and releasing the mating connector.

[0062] Clause 13, a body portion having an inner surface defining a cavity ending at an open end of the body portion, and a luer portion extending through the open end in the cavity, a base connector at least partially disposed in the cavity of the body portion and having an inner surface defining an inlet port and a cavity of a base connector, wherein a fluid path extends from the inlet port through the luer portion to an outlet port of the luer portion, a terminal connector slidably connected to the body portion and configured to connect to a mating connector, and a compressible valve member attached to the cavity of the base connector, comprising an internal chamber, and from the end of the compressible valve member to the internal chamber A connector assembly comprising a compressible valve member having a slit extending into a valve, and a post connected to the compressible valve member and extending longitudinally in a fluid path from the compressible valve member toward the outlet port of the Luer portion, wherein when the end connector is connected to the mating connector, the post is displaced away from the outlet port of the Luer portion to compress the compressible valve member, open the slit, and allow fluid to flow through the fluid path and into the mating connector via the outlet port, and when the force applied to the base connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, a spring member expands and applies force to the post, displacing the post toward the outlet port of the Luer portion and sealing the outlet port.

[0063] Clause 14, the connector assembly according to Clause 13, comprising first and second arms rotatably connected to each other and / or to the body, the first and second arms defining (i) the outer surface of the terminal connector and (ii) the inner surface of the terminal connector defining a cavity ending at the open end of the terminal connector.

[0064] Clause 15, the connector assembly according to Clause 14, wherein the inner surface of the main body portion includes a plurality of recessed notches therein, and each of the first and second arms includes at least one return stop extending radially outward from the outer surface of the end connector, and when the end connector is connected to the mating connector, the return stops of the first and second arms engage with the plurality of notches to prevent separation of the mating connector from the end connector when the force applied to the base connector is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

[0065] Clause 16, the connector assembly according to Clause 15, wherein when a force applied to the proximal connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the retainers of the first and second arms disengage from a plurality of notches, allowing the terminal connector to move terminally relative to the proximal connector, and the first and second arms rotate radially outward to separate the terminal connector from the mating connector.

[0066] Clause 17, the connector assembly according to Clause 15, wherein the outer surfaces of each of the first and second arms of the terminal connector each have a slot therein which is at least partially recessed, and the slot comprises a straight surface extending from the terminal end of the slot toward the base end, and an inclined surface extending from the straight surface toward the base end of the slot.

[0067] Clause 18, the connector assembly according to Clause 17, comprising a plurality of wing portions that slidably connect an end connector to a base connector, each of which having a base portion and an end portion; and an inner surface including a first linear portion extending from the end portion toward the base portion, an inclined portion extending radially outward from the first linear portion toward the base portion, and a second linear portion extending from the inclined portion toward the base portion.

[0068] Clause 19, the connector assembly according to Clause 18, wherein each of the inclined portions of the multiple wings is parallel to the inclined surfaces of the corresponding slots of the first and second arms of the terminal connector, and the first straight portion is parallel to the straight surface of the slot.

[0069] Clause 20, the connector assembly according to Clause 19, wherein when a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to the proximal connector and the retaining arms of the first and second arms disengage from the multiple notches, the first linear portion slides along the linear surface of the slot, allowing the terminal connector to move terminally relative to the proximal connector.

[0070] Clause 21, the connector assembly according to Clause 20, wherein when a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to the proximal connector, causing the retainers of the first and second arms to disengage from a plurality of notches and move the terminal connector terminally relative to the proximal connector, the inclined surface of the slot pushes the inclined portions of the plurality of wings, causing the first and second arms to rotate radially outward, widening the open end of the terminal connector and releasing the mating connector.

[0071] Clause 22, a connector assembly according to any one of Clauses 13 to 21, wherein the post comprises a plurality of arms extending from the post toward the outlet port along the outside of the luer portion, and when the mating connector is connected to the terminal connector, the mating connector applies force to push the plurality of arms toward the proximal end, compressing a compressible valve member and displacing the closed end of the post away from the outlet port of the luer portion.

[0072] This disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to implement the various embodiments described herein. While this disclosure provides various examples of the subject art, the subject art is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art, and the comprehensive principles defined herein may be applicable to other embodiments.

[0073] References to singular elements are not intended to mean "only" unless specifically stated so, but rather "one or more." Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term "several" refers to one or more. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter pronouns (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if present, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

[0074] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example or illustration.” No embodiment or design described herein as “exemplary” should necessarily be considered preferable or advantageous to any other embodiment or design. In one embodiment, various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0075] The terms "aspect" and similar phrases do not imply that such aspects are essential to the subject art, nor that such aspects are applicable to all configurations of the subject art. Disclosure relating to a particular aspect may be applicable to all configurations or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. Terms such as "aspect" refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. The terms such as "embodiment" and similar phrases do not imply that such embodiments are essential to the subject art, nor that such embodiments are applicable to all configurations of the subject art. Disclosure relating to a particular embodiment may be applicable to all embodiments or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. Terms such as "embodiment" refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. The terms such as "configuration" do not imply that such configurations are essential to the subject art, nor that such configurations are applicable to all configurations of the subject art. Disclosure relating to a particular configuration may be applicable to all configurations or one or more configurations. A particular configuration may provide one or more examples. Terms such as "composition" can refer to one or more compositions, and vice versa.

[0076] In one embodiment, unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, evaluations, locations, sizes, dimensions and other specifications described herein, including the following claims, are approximate and not exact. In one embodiment, they are intended to have a reasonable range that is consistent with the function to which they relate and with what is customary in the art to which they relate.

[0077] In one embodiment, the term "connected" may refer to being directly connected. In another embodiment, the term "connected" may refer to being indirectly connected.

[0078] As used in this disclosure, terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” and “rear” should be understood to refer to an arbitrary reference frame, not a normal gravity-based reference frame. Therefore, the top, bottom, front, and rear surfaces may extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravity-based reference frame.

[0079] Various matters may be arranged in entirely different ways (for example, in different orders or divided in different methods) without departing from the scope of the subject art. All structural and functional equivalents of elements of various aspects described through this disclosure, which are known to those skilled in the art or will become known later, are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be included in the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be made available to the public, whether such disclosure is expressly stated in the claims or not. No element of any claim should be construed under Section 112, paragraph 6 of the U.S. Patent Act unless that element is expressly described using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, the element is described using the phrase “steps for.” Furthermore, with respect to the use of terms such as “includes,” “has,” etc., such terms are intended to be as comprehensive as “equipment,” as the term “equipment” is construed when used as a transitional clause in a claim.

[0080] The title, background art, summary of the invention, brief description of the drawings, and abstract of this disclosure are incorporated herein by reference and provided as illustrative examples of the disclosure, not as restrictive descriptions. This disclosure is filed with the understanding that they are not used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, it can be seen that in the modes for carrying out the invention, the descriptions provide illustrative examples and various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of simplifying the disclosure. This method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than those explicitly stated in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the subject matter of the invention consists of fewer features than all features of a single disclosed configuration or operation. The following claims stand alone as claimed subject matter and are incorporated herein by reference.

[0081] The claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but rather to be given the full scope consistent with the verbatimized claims and to encompass all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, no claim is intended to encompass, nor should they be construed as, subject matter that does not meet the requirements of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the U.S. Patent Act.

Claims

1. A main body portion having an inner surface that defines a cavity ending at the open end of the main body portion, and a lure portion that extends through the open end within the cavity, A base-end connector, wherein the base-end connector is at least partially disposed in the cavity of the main body portion and has an inner surface that defines an inlet port and defines the cavity of the base-end connector, An end connector that is slidably connected to the main body portion, First and second arms are rotatably connected to the main body portion and define (i) the outer surface of the end connector and (ii) the inner surface of the end connector that defines the cavity ending at the open end of the end connector. A terminal connector equipped with, A compressible valve member to be fitted into the cavity of the base connector, comprising an internal chamber and a slit extending from the end portion of the compressible valve member into the internal chamber. Equipped with, When the terminal connector is connected to the mating connector, the compressible valve member is compressed, the slit is opened, and as a result, a fluid path extending from the inlet port through the internal chamber to the outlet port of the luer portion is opened, thereby establishing fluid communication between the base connector and the mating connector. Connector assembly.

2. The inner surface of the main body portion includes a plurality of recessed notches therein, and each of the first and second arms includes at least one stopper extending radially outward from the outer surface of the end connector, When the terminal connector is connected to the mating connector, the return stoppers of the first and second arms engage with the plurality of notches, and when the force applied to the base connector is below a predetermined threshold, separation of the mating connector from the terminal connector is prevented. The connector assembly according to claim 1.

3. The connector assembly according to claim 2, wherein when the force applied to the base connector exceeds the predetermined threshold, the retainers of the first and second arms disengage from the plurality of notches, allowing the end connector to move toward the end relative to the base connector, and the first and second arms rotate radially outward to separate the mating connector from the end connector.

4. The connector assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a post positioned on the luer portion and extending longitudinally in the fluid path from the end portion of the compressible valve member toward the outlet port of the luer portion, wherein when the end connector is connected to the mating connector, the closing end of the post is displaced away from the outlet port of the luer portion to allow flow through the fluid path and into the mating connector via the outlet port.

5. The connector assembly according to claim 4, wherein the post comprises a plurality of arms extending from the post toward the outlet port along the outside of the luer portion, and when the mating connector is connected to the end connector, the mating connector applies force to push the plurality of arms toward the base end, compressing the compressible valve member and displacing the closed end of the post away from the outlet port of the luer portion.

6. The connector assembly according to claim 5, wherein when the terminal connector is separated from the mating connector, the closing end of the post seals the outlet port of the luer portion to prevent fluid from leaving the fluid path through the outlet port of the luer portion.

7. The connector assembly according to claim 6, wherein when the force applied to the base connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the compressible valve member expands and applies force to the post, displacing the closing end of the post toward the outlet port of the luer portion, thereby sealing the outlet port.

8. The connector assembly according to claim 2, wherein the outer surfaces of the first and second arms of the terminal connector each have a slot that is at least partially recessed therein, and the slot has a linear surface extending from the terminal end of the slot toward the base end, and an inclined surface extending from the linear surface toward the base end of the slot.

9. The connector assembly according to claim 8, wherein the main body comprises a plurality of wing portions that slidably connect the end connector to the base connector, each of which has a base end portion and an end portion; and an inner surface including a first linear portion extending from the end portion toward the base end, an inclined portion extending radially outward from the first linear portion toward the base end, and a second linear portion extending from the inclined portion toward the base end.

10. The connector assembly according to claim 9, wherein the inclined portion of each of the plurality of wing portions is parallel to the inclined surfaces of the slots of the first and second arms of the end connector, and the first straight portion is parallel to the straight surface of the slot.

11. The connector assembly according to claim 10, wherein when a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to the base connector and the return restraints of the first and second arms disengage from the plurality of notches, the first linear portion slides along the linear surface of the slot, allowing the end connector to move toward the end relative to the base connector.

12. The connector assembly according to claim 11, wherein when a force exceeding the predetermined threshold is applied to the base connector, the return retainers of the first and second arms disengage from the plurality of notches, causing the end connector to move toward the end relative to the base connector, the inclined surface of the slot pushes the inclined portion of the plurality of wing portions, causing the first and second arms to rotate radially outward, widening the open end of the end connector and releasing the mating connector.

13. A main body portion having an inner surface that defines a cavity ending at the open end of the main body portion, and a lure portion that extends through the open end within the cavity, A base connector having an inner surface that is at least partially disposed in the cavity of the main body portion and defines an inlet port and defines a cavity of the base connector, wherein a fluid path extends from the inlet port through the luer portion to the outlet port of the luer portion, An end connector slidably connected to the main body portion, and configured to connect to a mating connector, and A compressible valve member to be attached to the cavity of the base connector, comprising an internal chamber and a slit extending from the end portion of the compressible valve member into the internal chamber, and A post connected to the compressible valve member and extending longitudinally in the fluid path from the compressible valve member toward the outlet port of the luer portion Equipped with, When the terminal connector is connected to the mating connector, the post is displaced away from the outlet port of the luer portion, compressing the compressible valve member, opening the slit, and allowing flow through the fluid path and into the mating connector via the outlet port. When the force applied to the base connector exceeds a predetermined threshold, the spring member expands, applying force to the post and displacing the post toward the outlet port of the luer portion, thereby sealing the outlet port. Connector assembly.

14. The connector assembly according to claim 13, wherein the end connector comprises first and second arms rotatably connected to the main body portion, the first and second arms defining (i) the outer surface of the end connector and (ii) the inner surface of the end connector defining a cavity ending at the open end of the end connector.

15. The inner surface of the main body portion includes a plurality of recessed notches therein, and each of the first and second arms includes at least one stopper extending radially outward from the outer surface of the end connector, When the terminal connector is connected to the mating connector, the return stoppers of the first and second arms engage with the plurality of notches, and when the force applied to the base connector is below a predetermined threshold, separation of the mating connector from the terminal connector is prevented. The connector assembly according to claim 14.

16. The connector assembly according to claim 15, wherein when the force applied to the base connector exceeds the predetermined threshold, the retainers of the first and second arms disengage from the plurality of notches, allowing the end connector to move toward the end relative to the base connector, and the first and second arms rotate radially outward to separate the mating connector from the end connector.

17. The connector assembly according to claim 15, wherein the outer surfaces of the first and second arms of the terminal connector each have a slot that is at least partially recessed therein, and the slot has a linear surface extending from the terminal end of the slot toward the base end, and an inclined surface extending from the linear surface toward the base end of the slot.

18. The connector assembly according to claim 17, wherein the main body comprises a plurality of wing portions that slidably connect the end connector to the base connector, each of the plurality of wing portions having a base end portion and an end portion, and an inner surface including a first linear portion extending from the end portion toward the base end, an inclined portion extending radially outward from the first linear portion toward the base end, and a second linear portion extending from the inclined portion toward the base end.

19. The connector assembly according to claim 18, wherein the inclined portion of each of the plurality of wing portions is parallel to the inclined surfaces of the slots of the first and second arms of the end connector, and the first straight portion is parallel to the straight surface of the slot.

20. The connector assembly according to claim 13, wherein the post comprises a plurality of arms extending from the post toward the outlet port along the outside of the luer portion, and when the mating connector is connected to the end connector, the mating connector applies force to push the plurality of arms toward the base end, compressing the compressible valve member and displacing the closed end of the post away from the outlet port of the luer portion.

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