Connector assembly for fluid ports

Abstract

This disclosure relates, in general terms, to port connector assemblies for delivering injectable gases during ophthalmic surgery and procedures. In some embodiments, the connector assembly includes a connector for a surgical console and a corresponding receiver for connecting the connector to the surgical console.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-Reference to Related Applications The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 579,124 filed on August 28, 2023, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Background Art

[0002] During ophthalmic surgical procedures, liquids and / or other fluids such as saline and / or air are often supplied to a patient's eye through one or more supply lines fluidically coupled to a surgical console. To ensure sterility between surgical procedures, a new supply line is coupled to the surgical console for each procedure and then discarded after use.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to an apparatus for ophthalmic procedures, and more particularly to an apparatus for delivering insufflation gas. In some embodiments, a connector for a surgical console is provided. The connector includes a proximal portion having a proximal port configured to be received by the surgical console, and a distal portion having a distal port. The connector also includes a tube extending between the proximal portion and the distal portion, the proximal port is in fluid communication with the distal port via the tube, and the tube has a flow axis extending along and substantially parallel to the direction of flow between the proximal port and the distal port. An annular flange formed along the outer surface of the tube and extending perpendicularly from the outer surface of the tube towards the flow axis partitions the proximal portion from the distal portion. The proximal portion of the connector includes one or more light posts extending from the proximal port. Each of the one or more light posts extends parallel to the flow axis of the tube and is configured to interact with a light pipe of the surgical console when the proximal portion of the connector is connected to the surgical console.

[0004] In another embodiment, a receiver is provided for connecting a connector to a surgical console. The receiver includes a port located at the distal end of the receiver opposite the proximal end of the receiver. The port at the distal end of the receiver is sized and shaped to receive a connector, and the proximal end of the receiver is configured to connect to a surgical console. The receiver also includes a tube extending from the port at the distal end of the receiver through the receiver to the proximal end, and a pair of light pipe openings. The tube has a flow axis that extends along and substantially parallel to the direction of flow through the port and the tube. The light pipe openings are configured to receive an extension of a light pipe through the tube, and the light pipe extends substantially perpendicular to the flow axis of the tube.

[0005] In a further embodiment, a connector assembly for a surgical console is provided. The assembly includes a receiver made to be sized and shaped to be received by a receiver section in the surgical console, and a connector made to be sized and shaped to be inserted into the receiver. The receiver section of the surgical console is in fluid communication with an injectable or vacuum gas. The receiver includes a port located at the distal end of the receiver opposite the proximal end of the receiver. The port at the distal end of the receiver is sized and shaped to receive the connector, and the proximal end of the receiver is configured to connect to the surgical console. The receiver also includes a receiver tube extending from the port at the distal end of the receiver through the receiver to the proximal end. The receiver has a flow axis extending along and substantially parallel to the direction of flow through the port and the receiver tube. The receiver also includes a pair of light pipe openings configured to receive an extension of a light pipe through the receiver tube, the light pipe extending substantially perpendicular to the flow axis of the receiver.

[0006] The connector of the assembly includes a proximal portion having a proximal port configured to be received by a surgical console, and a distal portion having a distal port. The connector also includes a connector tube extending between the proximal and distal portions, the proximal port being in fluid communication with the distal port via the connector tube, and the connector tube having a flow axis extending along and parallel to the direction of flow between the proximal and distal ports. An annular flange formed along the outer surface of the connector tube and extending perpendicularly from the outer surface of the connector tube to the flow axis separates the proximal portion from the distal portion. The proximal portion of the connector includes one or more light posts extending from the proximal port. One or more light posts are configured to prevent extension of the light pipe through the receiver tube when the receiver is received by the surgical console and the proximal portion of the connector is inserted into the receiver and rotated. When the receiver is received by the receiver portion of the surgical console and the connector is coupled with the receiver, the proximal port of the connector is in fluid communication with an injection or vacuum gas source.

[0007] To allow for a more detailed understanding of the above-mentioned features of this disclosure, a more specific description of this disclosure, which has been briefly summarized above, can be obtained by referring to embodiments, some of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be noted that the accompanying drawings show only exemplary embodiments and should not be considered limiting in scope, as other equally valid embodiments may be recognized. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an exemplary surgical console according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 2A-2B] Figures 2A and 2B show perspective views of an exemplary connector assembly, including an exemplary connector and an exemplary receiver, for use with the surgical console of Figure 1, according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 3A-3B] Figures 3A and 3B show perspective views of the connectors shown in Figures 2A and 2B according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 3C] Figure 3C shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the connector shown in Figures 3A and 3B according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 3D] Figure 3D shows an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the connector shown in Figures 3A and 3B, according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 3E-3F] Figures 3E to 3F show end views of the connectors in Figures 3A and 3B according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 4A-4C] Figures 4A to 4C show a perspective view, a front view, and a schematic cross-sectional view, respectively, of the receiver shown in Figures 2A and 2B, according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 5A-5C] Figures 5A to 5C show the connector assembly of Figures 2A and 2B in use according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 6A-6B] Figures 6A and 6B show schematic cross-sectional views of a connector assembly in use, according to a specific embodiment, as seen from the cutting lines 6A-6A and 6B-6B in Figures 5B and 5C, respectively. [Figures 7A-7B] Figures 7A and 7B show perspective cross-sectional views of a connector assembly in use according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 7C] Figure 7C shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a connector assembly in use according to a particular embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] For ease of understanding, the same reference numerals are used to designate identical elements common to the figures whenever possible. It is assumed that elements and features of one embodiment may be usefully incorporated into other embodiments without further detail.

[0010] In the following description, details are provided as examples to facilitate understanding of the disclosed subject matter. However, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the disclosed implementations are illustrative and do not encompass all possible implementations. Therefore, it should be understood that references to the examples described are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Any changes and further modifications to the described apparatus, apparatus, and methods, as well as any further applications of the principles of this disclosure, are fully assumed to be what those skilled in the art in the relevant field would ordinarily conceive. In particular, features, components, and / or steps described in relation to one implementation may be combined with features, components, and / or steps described in relation to other implementations of this disclosure.

[0011] As described herein, the distal end or distal portion of a component refers to the end or part that is more directly closer to the patient's body during use. Conversely, the proximal end or proximal portion of a component refers to the end or part that is further away in a straight line from the patient's body (for example, closer to the surgical console).

[0012] When the word "substantially" is used, it can mean that there may be a variation of up to ±10%, up to 5%, up to 2%, or up to 1% in the value. For example, "substantially parallel" or "substantially perpendicular" means that there may be a variation of ±1 to 5 degrees in the orientation between two objects.

[0013] To ensure patient safety and the efficient execution of a given ophthalmic surgical procedure, fluid supply lines must be properly connected to the surgical console. Otherwise, the flow and pressure of such fluids through the supply lines may be inconsistent and could adversely affect the execution of the procedure. Improper connection of supply lines can also cause them to unintentionally disconnect from the surgical console during the procedure, thereby interrupting the fluid flow from the surgical console and increasing the risk to patient safety. Therefore, what is needed in the art is an improved connector for connecting fluid supply lines to the surgical console.

[0014] This disclosure relates, in general, to port connector assemblies for connecting fluid supply lines used to deliver injectable gases during ophthalmic surgery and procedures. The following description provides connector assemblies for detachably but securely connecting gas supply lines to supply ports of surgical consoles and / or other gas sources. The connector assembly includes a connector configured to couple to the proximal end of a gas supply line and a corresponding receiver configured to operably couple to a surgical console and to accept the connector. In some embodiments, the connector assemblies described facilitate reducing direct handling of the gas supply line itself, as only the connector and receiver need to be engaged / handled by the user when connecting a new gas supply line. This not only helps maintain the sterility and integrity of the gas supply line but also facilitates efficient connection and disconnection of the line from the surgical console before and after each procedure.

[0015] In some embodiments, the described connector assembly not only facilitates secure temporary locking between the connector and the corresponding receiver / port, but also provides an indication on the surgical console when the connector and the corresponding receiver / port are locked. Thus, the connector assembly can help the surgeon ensure that the gas supply line is properly and securely connected before commencing surgery, as well as prevent the connector from unintentionally disengaging from the corresponding receiver / port during surgery.

[0016] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary surgical console 100 that can be used in combination with the connector assemblies described herein. The surgical console 100 is operably coupled physically or wirelessly to any number of user interfaces, including a foot controller 102 and a surgical tool 104 such as a vitrectomy probe or other device. The surgical console 100 provides one or more ports 106 for physically coupling user interfaces to various components of the surgical console 100. For example, the surgical tool 104 may be fluidly coupled to a vacuum source via a supply line 108 connected to port 106 to allow aspiration of the vitreous humor cut from the patient's eye. However, the supply line 108 and port 106 may also represent other types of supply lines and / or ports, respectively, for coupling with the surgical tool 104 as needed during a given surgical procedure.

[0017] Similarly, one or more other ports on the surgical console 100 may be used to connect the fluid infusion system to one or more infusion fluid sources (e.g., an air / gas source, a liquid perfluorocarbon source, a silicone oil infusion (SOI) source, a BSS (equilibrium salt solution) source, etc.) to enable the infusion of fluid into the eye during vitreous removal. As shown in Figure 1, an exemplary fluid infusion system 110 includes an infusion line 112 which is fluidically coupled to a gas supply line 114 and a liquid supply line 116 in a three-way automatic valve assembly 118 that can allow the selective flow of different infusion fluids and / or compositions through the infusion line 112. The gas supply line 114 may be fluidically coupled to a gas source via a port 106 on the surgical console 100. The liquid supply line 116, on the other hand, may be fluidically coupled to a liquid source via a port in a surgical cassette 123 used with the surgical console 100. In other specific embodiments, alternatively, the liquid supply line 116 may be directly coupled to the liquid source and the surgical console 100 via another port 106 on the surgical console 100. Generally, the connection of each supply line to the surgical cassette 123 or surgical console 100 is achieved through the mating of a connector attached to the supply line with a corresponding receiver on the cassette or console. Such connectors and their corresponding receivers may together be referred to herein as a “connector assembly.” As shown in Figure 1, connector 122 is used to connect the gas supply line 114 to the corresponding receiver 124 on port 106 of the surgical console 100.

[0018] During operation, a user may control aspects or mechanisms of the surgical tool 104 and / or the fluid infusion system 110 via actuation of the foot controller 102. For example, the user may depress (e.g., step on) the foot controller 102 to start and / or increase the flow rate of infusion fluid that enters a patient's eye from a fluid source through the fluid infusion system 110. Alternatively, by reducing depression of the foot controller 102 (e.g., lifting the user's foot off), the flow of fluid through the fluid infusion system 110 may be decreased and eventually stopped. Therefore, in certain embodiments, the flow rate of infusion fluid through the fluid infusion system 110 corresponds to an amount of depression of the foot controller 102. In further embodiments, the user can use the foot controller 102 to select between different fluid sources.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the surgical console 100 further includes a display 120 for displaying information to a user (the display may also incorporate a touch screen for receiving user input). Accordingly, the display 120 may display information related to each user interface connected to the surgical console 100. For example, referring to the fluid infusion system 110, during operation thereof, the display 120 may present information related to infusion fluid parameters (e.g., infusion fluid flow rate and intraocular pressure) to the user.

[0020] Figures 2A and 2B illustrate a connector assembly 200 that may be implemented with the surgical console 100 for removably connecting a gas supply line 114 to a gas source. As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the connector assembly 200 generally includes a connector 202 configured to removably couple with a corresponding receiver 204 (hereinafter "receiver 204"). Connector 202 and receiver 204 are examples of connector 122 and receiver 124 shown in Figure 1.

[0021] Generally, the connector 202 is detachably coupled to the receiver 204 at one end and detachably connected to the gas supply line 114 at the other end. The receiver 204 can either be permanently integrated with the surgical console 100 at port 106 to receive the connector 202, or it can be detachably coupled to the surgical console 100 at port 106. As shown in Figure 2A, when the connector 202 is coupled to the receiver 204, the connector assembly 200 provides a fluidly sealed tube for fluidly coupling the gas supply line 114 to port 106. During use, the tube extending through the connector assembly 200 allows for bidirectional flow of gas, such as low-pressure air, between the gas supply line 114 and the gas source connected to the surgical console 100. The connector 202 can also be detached from the receiver 204 to disconnect the gas supply line 114 from the corresponding receiver 204 and thus from port 106 of the surgical console 100, as shown in Figure 2B.

[0022] Referring now to Figures 3A to 3E, Figures 3A and 3B show perspective views of an exemplary connector 202 according to a particular embodiment, Figure 3C shows a cross-sectional view of the connector 202 according to a particular embodiment, Figure 3D shows an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the connector 202 according to a particular embodiment, and Figures 3E to 3F show end views of the connector 202 according to a particular embodiment. Therefore, Figures 3A to 3E are described together in this specification for clarity.

[0023] The connector 202 generally includes a distal section 302 having a distal port 304 located opposite a proximal section 306 having a proximal port 308. The distal port 304 is in fluid communication with the proximal port 308 via a connector tube 310 (shown in Figure 3C) extending through the connector 202. An annular flange 312 having a distal side 313 and a proximal side 315 is positioned between the distal section 302 and the proximal section 306. The annular flange 312 extends radially from the outer surface 317 of the connector tube 310 so as to be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal flow axis of the connector tube 310. That is, the main plane of the annular flange 312 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal flow axis of the connector tube 310. The annular flange 312 generally separates the distal portion 302 of the connector 202 from the proximal portion 306, with the distal side 313 of the annular flange 312 facing the distal portion 302 of the connector 202 and the proximal side 315 facing the proximal portion 306. When the connector 202 is in use, the annular flange 312 may provide protection from user contact with the non-sterile surface of the surgical console 100 when the distal portion 302 is handled and operated to connect the proximal portion 306 of the connector 202 to the port 106 of the surgical console 100 or the receiver 204 located therein. The connector 202 may be made from any material commonly used for such connectors and suitable for an ophthalmic surgical setting. For example, the connector 202 may be formed from thermoplastic polymers and other polymer materials, lightweight aluminum, anodized aluminum, stainless steel and other metal alloys, or other suitable materials.

[0024] As shown in Figure 3A, the distal portion 302 of the connector 202 also includes a first fin 314, a second fin 316, a tubular member 318, and a spiked collar 320. The first and second fins 314, 316 extend from the outer surface of the tubular member 318. The first and second fins 314, 316 also extend from the distal side of the annular flange 312 so that the first and second fins 314, 316 are oriented perpendicular to the main plane of the annular flange 312. During use, the first and second fins 314, 316 allow the user to grasp and manipulate (e.g., rotate / turn) the connector 202 to connect it. The spiked collar 320 is positioned between the distal port 304 and the distal end 321 of the tubular member 318. In some embodiments, the first fin 314, the second fin 316, the tube member 318, and the spiked collar 320 may be formed as a single, integrated component of the connector 202, for example by injection molding. In some embodiments, the first fin 314, the second fin 316, the tube member 318, and the spiked collar 320 may each be separate parts assembled together for the connector 202. In such embodiments, the spiked collar 320 can help hold a tube (e.g., the tube member 318) positioned on the outer surface 319 of the connector tube 310 via friction.

[0025] During use, the spiked collar 320 facilitates the mechanical retention of a flexible tube (e.g., a gas supply line 114) positioned above the distal port 304. For example, the spiked collar 320 may be sized to be larger than the proximal end of the flexible tube of the gas supply line 114, such that the proximal end retracts relative to the spiked collar 320 when stretched over the distal port 304 and the spiked collar 320. The tension from the retraction of the piping relative to the spiked collar 320 then applies a mechanical force to hold the proximal end of the piping of the gas supply line 114 above the distal port 304 and the connector tube 310.

[0026] In other specific embodiments, the distal portion 302 of the connector 202 may not include the spiked collar 320. Instead, an adhesive can be used to connect and seal the gas supply line 114 and the distal port 304 of the connector 202 together. For example, the adhesive can be applied between the inner surface of the piping for the gas supply line 114 and the outer surface 317 of the connector tube 310 to connect the piping over the distal port 304.

[0027] In another embodiment, the connector 202 may be inserted into the distal port 304 to connect the gas supply line 114 and the connector 202 together. For example, the distal port 304 and the connector tube 310 may be configured with a larger inner diameter so that the proximal end of the piping for the gas supply line 114 can be inserted into the distal port 304 and secured along the inner surface of the connector tube 310. In such an embodiment, an adhesive can be used between the outer surface of the piping at the proximal end of the gas supply line 114 and the inner surface of the connector tube 310 to seal and join the piping of the gas supply line 114 and the connector 202 together.

[0028] Referring to Figures 3B and 3D, the proximal portion 306 includes a first locking tab 322 and a second locking tab 324 extending from the proximal side 315 of the annular flange 312. Generally, as will be described in more detail below, the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 allow the connector 202 to mate and lock with the receiver 204 when the two are connected. In certain embodiments, the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 are each formed as angled structures positioned on either side of the connector tube 310, as shown in Figure 3D. The first and second locking tabs 322, 324 may each include a first member 340, the first member 340 connected to the second member 342 at a non-zero angle, thus forming a bend 341, the first member 340 extending toward the connector tube 310, and the second member 342 extending substantially perpendicular to the first member 340. The second member 342 has a lateral thickness that increases along its length, starting from a bend 341 adjacent to the first member 340 and ending at a shelf 344 located furthest from the first member 340. The shelf 344 may generally include a projection extending from the end of the second member 342 opposite the bend 341 toward the outer surface 346 of the second member 342 facing away from the connector tube 310. The second member 342 and the shelf 344 are configured to flex toward the connector tube 310 in response to a force applied to the outer surface 346 of the second member 342.

[0029] As shown in Figure 3B, the proximal portion 306 further includes a first light post 326, a second light post 328, a first aligner 330, a second aligner 332, and a removable O-ring 334 positioned along the outer surface 317 of the connector tube 310. The first and second aligners 330, 332 extend from a ring 338 positioned adjacent to the first and second lock tabs 322, 324 and the annular flange 312. The ring 338 extends from the outer surface 317 of the connector tube 310 and is oriented substantially parallel to the annular flange 312. The first and second aligners 330, 332 are positioned on either side of the ring 338, each extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal flow axis of the connector tube 310, for example, parallel to the X-axis in Figure 3B. The ring 338 is further connected to a collar 337 located proximal to the ring 338 and near the proximal port 308. The ring 338 is connected to the collar 337 by a plurality of support members 339 that extend along the outer surface 317 of the connector tube 310 parallel to the longitudinal flow axis of the connector tube 310.

[0030] The first and second light posts 326, 328 extend from the proximal end 336 of the connector tube 310 in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal flow axis of the connector tube 310. As shown in Figures 3B and 3F, the first and second light posts 326, 328 are located on either side of the proximal port 308, each having an arc shape. As shown in Figures 3B and 3C, the proximal portion 306 includes a channel formed between the collar 337 and the bases of the first and second light posts 326, 328 near the proximal end 336. An O-ring 334 is positioned within the channel, with the collar 337 on one side of the O-ring 334 and the first and second light posts 326, 328 on the other side. As will be discussed in more detail below, the O-ring 334 extends around the outer surface 317 of the connector tube 310 and can be used to create a seal on a portion of the receiver 204 when the connector 202 is inserted into the receiver 204.

[0031] Figures 3E and 3F show end views of connector 202. Referring to Figure 3E, the first and second fins 314 and 316 are positioned on both sides of the distal port 304 and the connector tube 310. As shown in Figures 3B and 3F, the first and second aligners 330 and 332 are aligned with the first and second locking tabs 322 and 324, respectively, which are positioned on the annular flanges 312 on both sides of the connector tube 310. Thus, the first and second aligners 330 and 332 are positioned across the first and second locking tabs 322 and 324, respectively, and as a result, the first and second aligners 330 and 332 are also positioned on both sides of the connector tube 310.

[0032] As will be described in more detail below, the first and second aligners 330, 332 ensure that the connector 202 is properly oriented when it is connected to the receiver 204 by the user. Although the first and second aligners 330, 332 are shown positioned on both sides of the connector tube 310 (for example, 180 degrees opposite each other), the first and second aligners 330 and 332 may also be positioned in alternative arrangements relative to each other. For example, in other particular embodiments, the first and second aligners 330, 332 may extend perpendicular to each other with the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 aligned in correspondence. In further embodiments, the connector 202 may include only one aligner or three or more aligners, and the receiver 204 may similarly be configured to accept its corresponding connector 202. In further embodiments, the connector 202 may also include only one locking tab or three or more locking tabs, and the receiver 204 may similarly be configured to lock the connector 202 and the corresponding receiver 204 together.

[0033] Figures 4A to 4C show perspective and cross-sectional views of an exemplary receiver 204 according to a particular embodiment. The receiver 204 generally includes a housing 400 having a receiver port 404 at its distal end 402 and a base 408 located at its proximal end 403. The receiver port 404 is configured to receive the proximal portion 306 of the connector 202 when the connector 202 is coupled to the receiver 204. The base 408 includes a pair of bores 410 to facilitate mounting and / or integrating the receiver 204 with the surgical console 100 at the port 106. The proximal end 403 of the receiver 204 also includes a supply port 412 extending through the base 408. The receiver 204 may be made from any material commonly used in such receivers and suitable for use with an ophthalmic surgical console. For example, the receiver 204 may be formed from thermoplastic polymers and other polymer materials, lightweight aluminum, anodized aluminum, stainless steel and other metal alloys, or other suitable materials. If the receiver 204 is integrated with a surgical console such as the surgical console 100, the supply port 412 may be in fluid communication with an injection gas source 430 that is integrated with or coupled to the console.

[0034] As shown in Figure 4C, the receiver port 404 also fluidly communicates with the supply port 412 via a receiver tube 416 extending through the chamber 414 and the receiver 204. When the connector 202 is connected to the receiver 204, the connector tube 310 of the connector 202 fluidly communicates with the receiver tube 416 of the receiver 204, thereby enabling a bidirectional flow of gas, such as low-pressure air, between the gas supply line 114 and the injection gas source 430 through the connector 202 and the receiver 204. In other specific embodiments, alternatively or additionally, the supply port 412 integrated with the surgical console 100 may also fluidly communicate with a vacuum source.

[0035] The size and shape of the receiver port 404 of the receiver 204 may be configured to accommodate the proximal portion 306 of the connector 202, including the first and second aligners 330, 332. In other words, the receiver port 404 may have a shape that substantially matches the shape of the proximal portion 306 so that the proximal portion 306 fits into the receiver port 404 of the receiver 204 with a desired tolerance. In some examples, coupling the connector 202 with the receiver 204 also involves aligning one or more mating / engaging features between them. In certain embodiments, the receiver port 404 may include a first aligner notch 418 facing a second aligner notch 420, each sized and shaped to receive the corresponding first and second aligners 330, 332 of the connector 202. Therefore, the receiver port 404 may be sized such that the proximal portion 306 of the connector 202 can be fitted through the receiver port 404 when the first and second aligners 330, 332 of the connector 202 are aligned with the first and second aligner notches 418, 420. Thus, when the connector 202 and receiver 204 are in use, the alignment of the first and second aligners 330, 332 with the first and second aligner notches 418, 420 can also facilitate the proper orientation of the connector 202 when inserting it into the receiver 204.

[0036] The inner surface of the receiver port 404 may also include a first locking projection 422, a second locking projection 424, a first locking notch 423, and a second locking notch 425. The first locking projection 422 is adjacent to the first locking notch 423 and opposite to the second locking projection 424. The second locking notch 425 is adjacent to the second locking projection 424 and opposite to the first locking notch 423. As will be described in more detail below, the first and second locking projections 422, 424 and the first and second locking notches 423, 425 adjacent to them respectively are configured to mate with the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 of the connector 202, respectively, to temporarily lock the connector 202 and the receiver 204 together when connected.

[0037] The housing 400 also includes a first light pipe opening 426 opposite a second light pipe opening 428. The first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 are configured to receive light propagated by the light pipe from the external environment, such as the surgical console 100, through the receiver 204 when the receiver 204 is integrated with the surgical console 100 for port 106. As will be described in more detail below, the first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 allow the surgical console 100 to propagate light through the chamber 414 of the receiver 204 for use in detecting a proper connection between the connector 202 and the receiver 204 during use. The first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 are positioned toward the proximal end of the chamber 414, allowing the light propagating through them to be used to detect when the connector 202 is securely and fully inserted into the receiver 204.

[0038] Figures 5A to 5C show perspective views of the connector assembly 200 depicted in Figures 2A and 2B in use, according to a particular embodiment. Figures 6A and 6B show cross-sectional views of the connector assembly 200 as seen from the cutting lines 6A-6A and 6B-6B of Figures 5B and 5C, respectively. Therefore, Figures 5A to 5C and Figures 6A and 6B are described together in this specification for clarity.

[0039] During operation, the connector 202 connects to the receiver 204 by inserting the proximal portion 306 of the connector 202 into the receiver port 404. As shown in Figure 5A, to assist in the proper orientation of the connector 202 when the proximal portion 306 of the connector 202 is first inserted, the first and second aligners 330, 332 of the connector 202 are aligned with the first and second aligner notches 418, 420 of the receiver port 404, allowing the proximal portion 306 of the connector 202 to be fitted and inserted through the receiver port 404. Once the proximal portion 306 of the connector 202 is positioned within the receiver port 404, the annular flange 312 of the connector 202 is positioned adjacent to the distal end 402 of the receiver 204, as shown in Figure 5B. Once the connector 202 is inserted into the receiver 204, the proximal portion 306, including the proximal port 308 and the first and second light posts 326, 328, extends into the chamber 414. Next, the proximal ends of the first and second light posts 326 and 328 are positioned adjacent to the distal end of the receiver tube 416.

[0040] O-rings 334 adjacent to the first and second light posts 326, 328 are also positioned within the chamber 414 when the connector 202 is inserted into the receiver 204. In certain embodiments, the O-rings 334 include a gasket configured to create a seal within the chamber 414 in the space between the proximal port 308 and the distal end of the receiver tube 416 when the connector tube 310 is positioned within the chamber 414. The first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 may also each consist of an O-ring or other seal for further sealing the chamber 414 of the receiver 204. The seal created by the O-rings 334 and any other O-rings within the chamber 414 can help prevent gas flowing between the connector tube 310 and the receiver tube 416 from leaking out of the chamber 414. The O-rings 334 may be made from any material commonly used for such gaskets to form a seal between connecting components. For example, the O-rings 334 may be made of rubber such as natural rubber, neoprene rubber, or nitrile rubber. A lubricant may also be applied to the O-ring 334 to assist in the formation of the seal and in the insertion and removal of the connector 202 from the receiver 204.

[0041] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 5B and 5C, the connector assembly 200 includes a locking mechanism in which the connector 202 rotates when the proximal portion 306 is inserted into the receiver 204, temporarily locking the connector 202 and the receiver 204 together. When the connector assembly 200 is in such a locked state, the connector assembly 200 then requires the user to intentionally reverse the rotation of the connector 202 to unlock it and detach it from the receiver 204. Thus, the locking mechanism helps maintain the connection between the connector 202 and the receiver 204 during surgical procedures by preventing the connector 202 and the gas supply line 114 connected to it from becoming unintentionally disconnected during the procedure.

[0042] For example, as shown in Figure 6A, when the connector 202 is inserted into the receiver 204 as shown in Figure 5B, the connector assembly 200 is initially in an unlocked state, allowing the connector 202 to be freely translated through the receiver port 404. In such an unlocked state, the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 of the connector 202 are still aligned within the first and second aligner notches 418, 420, due to the initial alignment of the first and second aligners 330, 332 required to insert the connector 202 through the receiver port 404. When the proximal portion 306 of the connector 202 is inserted into the receiver port 404, the connector 202 is rotated (for example, using the first and second fins 314, 316 extending from the distal portion 302) as shown in Figure 5C, thereby transitioning the connector assembly 200 from an unlocked state to a locked state, temporarily locking the connector 202 and the receiver 204 together.

[0043] Referring to Figure 6B, when the connector 202 is rotated, the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 of the connector 202 also rotate and move along the inner surface of the receiver port 404 in accordance with the rotation of the connector 202. In the example shown in Figure 6A, due to the shape of the receiver port 404, the connector 202 is limited to rotating clockwise, moving the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 toward the first and second locking notches 423, 425, respectively.

[0044] As the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 move along the inner surface of the receiver port 404 during insertion, the connector 202 may rotate until each of the second members 342 of the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 contacts the first and second locking projections 422, 424 and engages with the first and second locking notches 423, 425, respectively. The first and second locking projections 422, 424 may be shaped and sized such that when the shelf portions 344 of the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 first contact them during rotation, they initially prevent further movement of the first and second locking tabs 322, 324. However, when the user applies sufficient rotational force, the second members 342 of the first and second locking tabs 322 and 324 can flex as the user presses the shelf portions 344 of the first and second locking tabs 322 and 324 against the first and second locking projections 422 and 424. The combination of the rotational force provided by the user and the flexing of the second members 342 allows the user to move the shelf portion 344 beyond the first and second locking projections 422 and 424 into the first and second locking notches 423 and 425, respectively, thereby locking the connector 202 and receiver 204 together.

[0045] When the connector assembly 200 is in the locked state, the shelf portions 344 of the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 are interlocked within the first and second locking notches 423, 425, respectively. Thus, the first and second locking notches 423, 425 also prevent the first and second locking tabs 322, 324, and therefore the connector 202, from rotating further once the shelf portions 344 of the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 engage with the first and second locking notches 423, 425, as shown in Figure 6B. During operation, the locking mechanism allows the connector assembly 200 to provide tactile feedback to the user when the connector 202 is rotated to the locked state. Specifically, the connector 202 "snaps" when the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 flex and the shelf portion 344 is pushed beyond the first and second locking protrusions 422, 424, causing the shelf portion 344 to contact and engage with the first and second locking notches 423, 425. The tactile feedback therefore serves as an indication to the user that the connector 202 has been successfully locked when connecting the connector 202 to the receiver 204.

[0046] When the shelf portions 344 of the first and second locking tabs 322 and 324 engage with the first and second locking notches 423 and 425, respectively, the first and second locking tabs 322 and 324 flex in correspondence, applying a biasing force to the first and second locking projections 422 and 424 and the outer surface 346 of the second member 342 of the first and second locking tabs 322 and 324. Such a biasing force helps to maintain the engagement between the first and second locking tabs 322 and 324 and the first and second locking notches 423 and 425, respectively, and keeps the connector assembly 200 locked. When locked, the rotation of the connector 202 (for example, the displacement of the first and second aligners 330, 332 away from the first and second aligner notches 418, 420) causes the first and second aligners 330, 332 to also axially align with and / or contact the inner surface of the receiver 204 at its distal end 402. Thus, the misalignment between the first and second aligners 330, 332 and the first and second aligner notches 418, 420 caused by the rotation of the connector 202 (to lock the connector 202) further helps to prevent the connector 202 from unintentionally disengaging from the receiver 204 when locked.

[0047] Correspondingly, the connector 202 can be unlocked from the receiver 204 by rotating the connector 202 in the opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise) with sufficient force to push the shelf portions 344 of the first and second locking tabs 322, 324 beyond the first and second locking protrusions 422, 424. Because it requires sufficient force to overcome the biasing force between the first and second locking protrusions 422, 424 and the second member 342, the likelihood of unintentionally disengaging the connector 202 is reduced, as such force usually needs to be applied intentionally by the user. To return the connector assembly 200 to its unlocked state and pull the connector 202 out of the receiver port 404, the connector 202 can be rotated to realign the first and second aligners 330, 332 with the first and second aligner notches 418, 420, and then the proximal portion 306 can be pulled out of the receiver port 404, thereby disengaging the connector 202 from the receiver 204.

[0048] Figures 7A and 7B show corresponding perspective cross-sectional views of the connector assembly 200 depicted in Figures 5B and 5C according to a particular embodiment. Meanwhile, Figure 7C shows a corresponding side cross-sectional view of the connector assembly 200 depicted in Figures 5C and 7B according to a particular embodiment. Therefore, Figures 7A to 7C are described together in this specification for clarity.

[0049] In some embodiments, the rotation of the connector 202 relative to the receiver 204 allows for detection when the connector assembly 200 is locked. As described above, in some embodiments, the receiver 204 may be integrated with the surgical console 100. In such examples, first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 located on either side of the housing 400 may be connected to a light pipe 700 and a sensor 702, respectively, to propagate light through the chamber 414 between the first and second light pipe openings 426, 428. In certain embodiments, the light pipe 700 comprises a light-emitting diode (LED), an LED light pipe, a laser light source, or other light source, and the sensor 702 comprises their corresponding sensors or detectors. When in use, light from the light pipe 700 may propagate from the first light pipe opening 426 toward the second light pipe opening 428 and the sensor 702 connected thereto.

[0050] When the connector assembly 200 is not locked, the space between the first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 in the chamber 414 is not obstructed, thereby allowing light from the light pipe 700 to propagate through the chamber 414 and be received and / or detected by the sensor 702. When the connector assembly 200 is locked and the first and second light posts 326, 328 are positioned in the chamber 414, the first and second light posts 326, 328 are large enough to block the first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 when the connector 202 is inserted and rotated (for example, to lock the connector 202). By blocking the first and second light pipe openings 426, 428, the propagation of light from the light pipe 700 is obstructed, and such obstruction is detectable by the surgical console 100 via the sensor 702. Therefore, the surgical console 100 can use the detection of light from the light pipe 700 extending through the chamber 414 (and the lack of corresponding detection when the light pipe openings 426, 428 are blocked) as a mechanism to detect when the connector 202 is fully inserted and rotated sufficiently within the receiver 204 to move the connector assembly 200 into a locked state.

[0051] For example, as shown in Figures 5B and 6A, the first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 remain unobstructed by the insertion of the connector 202 into the chamber 414 before the connector 202 is first inserted into the receiver 204 and before the connector 202 is rotated. With the first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 unobstructed, light from the light pipe 700 continues to propagate through the chamber 414, along with its corresponding detection by the surgical console 100 (e.g., continuous reception of light by sensor 702). The surgical console 100 may then use the continuous detection of light from the light pipe 700 as an indicator to determine that the connector 202 is not sufficiently inserted and / or rotated to lock with the receiver 204. Such a determination by the surgical console 100 indicating that the connector 202 and the gas supply line 114 coupled thereto may not be properly connected may prevent the surgical console 100 from initiating the flow of gas from the injection gas source 430. In a particular embodiment, the light pipe 700 and sensor 702 may remain active at all times as long as the surgical console 100 is turned on, and as a result, light from the light pipe 700 continues to propagate between the first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 until the openings 426, 428 are correspondingly blocked by the insertion and rotation of the connector 202.

[0052] As the connector 202 is rotated after being inserted into the receiver port 404, as shown in Figures 5C and 6B, the rotation of the connector 202 then translates the first and second light posts 326, 328 extending from the proximal end 336 of the connector tube 310 within the chamber 414. As shown in Figures 7B and 7C, when the connector 202 is rotated sufficiently so that the connector assembly 200 is locked in the position shown in Figure 5C, the rotation of the connector 202 translates the first and second light posts 326, 328 to a position that blocks and obstructs the propagation of light from the light pipe 700 between the first and second light pipe openings 426, 428, and the corresponding reception of light by the sensor 702.

[0053] If the sensor 702 of the surgical console 100 cannot detect the propagation of light from the light pipe 700, the surgical console 100 may use the lack of light detection by the sensor 702 as an indication that the connector 202 has been inserted and rotated sufficiently to move the connector assembly 200 into a locked state. By utilizing the light from the light pipe 700 and its corresponding detection by the surgical console 100 for indication when the connector 202 is inserted and locked, the surgical console 100 may also provide a corresponding notification to the user. In certain embodiments, the surgical console 100 may provide a visual notification on the display 120 regarding the locked state of the connector 122 to help the surgeon and / or surgical staff ensure that all necessary connectors of the surgical console 100 are properly connected and locked before commencing the procedure.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 may also be configured with O-rings 704 each to help create a seal within the chamber 414. As described above, an O-ring 334 on the connector tube 310 may also be positioned within the chamber 414 when the connector 202 is inserted into the receiver 204. When the connector 202 is rotated and locked, thereby providing an indication to the surgical console 100 by blocking the first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 as described above, the surgical console 100 may inform the user that the connector 202 is properly connected and ready to begin the gas flow from the injection gas source 430. Due to the extension of the first and second light posts 326, 328 within the chamber 414, the connector tube 310 does not come into direct contact with the receiver tube 416. Therefore, when the gas is delivered from the injection gas source 430, it flows from the supply port 412 through the receiver tube 416 and chamber 414 to the gas supply line 114 connected to the connector tube 310 and distal port 304. Thus, the combination of the O-ring 334 on the connector tube 310 and the O-rings 704 adjacent to the first and second light pipe openings 426, 428 helps maintain the seal in the chamber 414 when the gas flows between the connector tube 310 and the receiver tube 416, thereby maintaining the pressure of the gas supplied to the gas supply line 114 during the surgical procedure.

[0055] In summary, embodiments of the present disclosure include structures and mechanisms for facilitating and improving surgical console setup during ophthalmic procedures, particularly improved port connector assemblies for intraocular fluid infusion. The connector assemblies described above include embodiments that allow the connector and the corresponding receiver / port of the surgical console to be temporarily locked together by rotating the connector after insertion. When integrated with a surgical console, the receiver may also be configured to utilize the rotation of the connector when locking the connector, providing a mechanism for the surgical console to detect / determine when the connector has been inserted and sufficiently rotated so that the connector and receiver are properly connected and locked. Thus, the connector assemblies described above are particularly useful in helping users, such as surgeons and surgical assistants, ensure proper connection of supply lines for delivering infusion gases before a surgical procedure and maintain that connection throughout such a procedure.

[0056] The foregoing relates to embodiments of the present disclosure, but other embodiments and further embodiments of the present disclosure can be devised without departing from its basic scope, the scope of which is determined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A connector for a surgical console, A proximal portion having a proximal port configured to be received by the surgical console, The distal portion having a distal port, A tube extending between the proximal portion and the distal portion, wherein the proximal port is in fluid communication with the distal port via the tube, and the tube has a flow axis extending along and substantially parallel to the direction of flow between the proximal port and the distal port, An annular flange formed along the outer surface of the tube and separating the proximal portion from the distal portion, the annular flange extending perpendicularly from the outer surface of the tube to the flow axis, One or more light posts extending from the proximal port, the one or more light posts extending substantially parallel to the flow axis of the tube and configured to interact with the light pipe of the surgical console when the proximal portion of the connector is connected to the surgical console, A connector equipped with the following features.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the proximal portion further comprises one or more aligners extending substantially perpendicularly from the outer surface of the tube to the flow axis of the tube.

3. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the proximal portion further comprises one or more locking protrusions, the locking protrusions being configured to engage with the surgical console when the connector is rotated.

4. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the distal portion further comprises a pair of gripping fins.

5. The connector according to claim 1, further comprising a gasket on one or both of the distal and proximal portions.

6. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the distal portion further comprises a spiked collar for engaging with a flexible tube.

7. A receiver for connecting a connector to a surgical console, A port located at the distal end of the receiver opposite the proximal end, the port being configured to accept the connector, and the proximal end of the receiver being configured to connect to the surgical console, A tube extending through the receiver from the port at the distal end of the receiver to the proximal end of the receiver, the tube having a flow axis extending along and substantially parallel to the direction of flow through the port and the tube, A pair of light pipe openings configured to receive an extension of a light pipe passing through the tube, wherein the light pipe extends substantially perpendicular to the flow axis of the tube, and the pair of light pipe openings A receiver equipped with the following features.

8. The receiver according to claim 7, wherein the port further comprises one or more aligner nanochs at the distal end of the receiver.

9. The receiver according to claim 7, further comprising one or more locking tabs formed along the inner surface of the port.

10. The receiver according to claim 7, wherein the port is in fluid communication with an injection gas or vacuum source when the proximal end is connected to the surgical console.

11. A connector assembly for a surgical console, A receiver configured to be received by a receiver section within the surgical console, wherein the receiver section is in fluid communication with an injection or vacuum gas source, and the receiver is A port located at the distal end of the receiver opposite the proximal end, the port being configured to accept a connector, and the proximal end being configured to connect to the surgical console, A receiver tube extending from the port at the distal end of the receiver through the receiver to the proximal end of the receiver, A pair of light pipe openings configured to receive an extension of the light pipe from the surgical console through the receiver tube, A receiver equipped with, A connector configured to be inserted into the receiver, wherein the connector is A proximal portion having a proximal port configured to be received by the port of the receiver, The distal portion having a distal port, A connector tube extending between the proximal and distal portions of the connector, wherein the proximal port is in fluid communication with the distal port via the connector tube, An annular flange formed along the outer surface of the connector tube and separating the proximal portion from the distal portion, One or more light posts extending from the proximal port, the one or more light posts being configured to obstruct the extension of the light pipe through the receiver tube when the receiver is received by the surgical console and the proximal portion of the connector is received by the receiver and rotated, and the proximal port of the connector is in fluid communication with the injection or vacuum gas source when the receiver is received by the receiver portion of the surgical console and the connector is inserted into the receiver, A connector equipped with, A connector assembly comprising:

12. The connector assembly according to claim 11, further comprising a light source for propagating the light pipe through the light pipe opening and the receiver tube when the receiver is received by the receiver portion of the surgical console.

13. The connector assembly according to claim 12, further comprising a sensor for detecting the propagation of the light pipe through the pair of light pipe openings and the receiver tube when the receiver is received by the receiver portion of the surgical console.

14. The proximal portion of the connector further comprises one or more aligners extending from the outer surface of the connector tube, The port of the receiver further comprises one or more aligner nanochts, Inserting the proximal portion of the connector into the port of the receiver includes aligning one or more aligners on the proximal portion of the connector with one or more aligner notches in the port of the receiver. The connector assembly according to claim 11.

15. The proximal portion of the connector further comprises one or more locking tabs extending from the outer surface of the connector. The port of the receiver further comprises one or more locking members along the inner surface of the port, When the proximal portion of the connector is inserted into the port of the receiver and rotated, the one or more locking tabs of the connector are configured to engage with the one or more locking members of the receiver, thereby temporarily locking the connector and the receiver together. The connector assembly according to claim 11.

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