Ostomy appliance coupling assembly

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a coupling assembly (12) for an ostomy appliance (10), including a locking mechanism (60), a first coupling, and a second coupling. The locking mechanism (60) includes a locking ring (61) and first and second grips (70, 71) attached to the locking ring (61). The locking ring (61) is attached to the first and / or second couplings, defines an inner circumference (62), and is adjustable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. In the locked configuration, the locking ring (61) maintains the first and second couplings (20, 40) in a coupled configuration, and the inner circumference (62) is smaller than in the unlocked configuration. The first and second grips (70, 71) are disposed about the locking ring (61) so as to be movable relative to one another to increase the inner circumference (62) and adjust the locking ring (61) from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] SUMMARY The present disclosure relates to coupling assemblies for ostomy appliances, and to ostomy appliances including such coupling assemblies. [Background technology]

[0002] Ostomy appliances come in many forms, intended to provide a safe and comfortable fit for the ostomate. Ostomy appliances generally include a pouch for collecting stoma output and are generally attached to the body by a wafer, often via at least one adhesive layer on the wafer. The wafer extends around the ostomate's stoma. In "two-piece appliances," a coupling assembly is provided for removably attaching the wafer to the pouch. Two-piece appliances allow the wafer to be separated from the pouch without damage, so that at least one of the components remains functionally usable. For example, the pouch can be replaced while the wafer remains secured to the ostomate's body.

[0003] EP-A-0737456 discloses a coupling assembly for a two-piece appliance having first and second coupling members, which can be held together by a springy, flexible split locking ring. A number of tabs located on the limb of the locking ring can be drawn generally radially outwardly by movement of the locking ring to allow separation of the two coupling members. The movement of the locking ring that causes the tabs to be drawn is a rotational movement relative to the second coupling member. The locking ring can be effective in holding the first and second coupling members together and preventing unintentional uncoupling. However, the rotational movement can result in torque being transmitted through the coupling assembly and the wafer to the area of ​​the body surrounding the stoma, which can cause discomfort to the ostomate.

[0004] GB-A-2323286 discloses a coupling assembly for a two-piece appliance, including first and second coupling members and a mechanical locking ring for releasably securing the coupling members to each other. A strainable or compressible seal member on one of the coupling members is strained or compressed in a generally axial direction to generate a generally axial sealing force. However, again, rotation of the locking ring may transmit torque to the ostomate's body, resulting in discomfort. In addition, stoma discharge may get into the area between the first and second coupling members, making the coupling structure difficult to clean and making it difficult to effectively seal between the existing wafer and the new replacement pouch. Summary of the Invention

[0005] As used herein, the term "stoma output" refers to any gas or liquid or solid produced by an ostomate that may be secreted from or exit the stoma. Stoma output may include stoma gas, stoma liquid, and stoma solids.

[0006] As used herein, the term "stoma" refers to a bodily opening. Generally, a stoma is a surgical opening in the body trunk. In some embodiments, the term "stoma" also refers to an internal tissue, organ, or portion thereof exposed by the opening. As non-limiting examples, the internal tissue may be selected from the colon, ileum, small intestine, large intestine, jejunum, and duodenum, and combinations thereof. The internal tissue may be an end or loop of the small intestine or large intestine.

[0007] As used herein, the term "ostomate" refers to a subject who may have use of a belt mount for an ostomy appliance disclosed herein. Although an ostomate typically refers to a subject with a surgical opening, as used herein, "ostomate" may refer to a subject with a stoma, whether the stoma was created by surgery or other means. The term "user" may refer to the ostomate or another person who assists the ostomate, for example, by draining stoma output from the cavity.

[0008] As used herein, the ostomy appliances disclosed herein may be used for the management of, for example, an esophageal fistula, a gastrostomy, a cholecystostomy, a biliary fistula, a cecostomy, a colostomy, a duodenal fistula, an ileostomy, a jejunal fistula, a cecal fistula, a tracheal fistula, a urethral fistula, a nephrostomy, a ureteral fistula, or a stoma resulting from a lower limb amputation. The ostomy appliances disclosed herein may be used with additional devices, including, but not limited to, a shunt, a catheter, a plug, or a fecal management system.

[0009] As used herein, the positions and orientations of components may be described with reference to the ostomy appliance belt mount being "in use," "oriented as if in use," or the like. Such terms refer to the intended orientation of the ostomy appliance belt mount when secured to the ostomate's body in a standing position, regardless of whether the ostomy appliance is currently performing such use or the ostomate's actual position. In particular, the terms "upper" and "lower" may refer to those positions of the ostomy appliance or components thereof when in use.

[0010] As used herein, the wafer may be for attachment to an ostomate's body around the stoma to attach an ostomy appliance to the ostomate. The term "wafer" may be used interchangeably with the terms "adapter," "ostomy wafer," "base plate," or "layered adhesive wafer." The wafer may include at least one adhesive layer on the body-facing side to adhere the wafer to the ostomate's body. A release liner may cover the body-facing side of the wafer that is removed by the user prior to application to the skin. The wafer may include additional features, such as a belt mount.

[0011] As used herein, the term "pouch" may be used interchangeably with the term "bag" and may include at least one film defining a cavity for collecting stoma output. The pouch may include at least one filter for separating stoma solids from stoma liquids and / or gases. The pouch may include at least one drain for selectively draining stoma output from the pouch.

[0012] Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a coupling assembly for an ostomy appliance including a locking mechanism, a first coupling, and a second coupling, wherein the locking mechanism comprises: a locking ring attached to the first and / or second coupling, defining an inner periphery, and adjustable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein in the locked configuration the locking ring is for maintaining the first and second couplings in a coupled configuration, the inner periphery being smaller than in the unlocked configuration; and first and second grips attached to the lock ring, the first and second grips being positioned about the lock ring such that the first and second grips are moveable relative to one another to increase an inner circumference and adjust the lock ring from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration.

[0013] Because the first and second grips are movable relative to one another during unlocking, no substantial rotational torque is transferred from the coupling assembly to its attached wafer during unlocking. As a result, the locking mechanism improves comfort for the ostomate.

[0014] The locking ring may be spring-loaded and resiliently biased to return from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration. The locking ring may include first and second locking ring ends movable relative to one another between the locked and unlocked configurations. The locking ring may be split.

[0015] In the locked configuration, the locking ring may extend around a length of the circumference that is greater than the inner circumference.In the locked configuration, the distance between the first and second grips around the length of the locking ring may be greater than the inner circumference.

[0016] The coupling assembly may further include first and second pinch tabs extending from the locking ring and including first and second grips, respectively. The first and second pinch tabs may slide adjacent to one another when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations.

[0017] The first pinch tab may extend around the locking ring between the first tab distal end and the first tab proximal end. The second pinch tab may extend around the locking ring between the second tab distal end and the second tab proximal end. The first and second tab distal ends may form first and second grips. In the locked configuration, the first and second tab distal ends may be aligned with the second and first tab proximal ends, respectively. The first and second pinch tabs may include first and second tab proximal portions adjacent the locking ring forming the first and second tab proximal ends, and first and second tab distal portions extending radially outward from the first and second tab proximal portions and forming the first and second tab distal ends. The first and second tab distal portions may extend around the locking ring between the first and second tab distal ends and the first and second tab inner edges. In the unlocked configuration, the first and second tab distal ends may be aligned with the second and first tab inner edges, respectively.

[0018] The locking ring may include at least one locking tab extending inwardly around an inner circumference to maintain the coupling assembly in the coupled configuration when the locking ring is in the locked configuration. The locking ring may be attached to the first coupling, and the at least one locking tab may be configured to engage the second coupling when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration.

[0019] The first coupling may include at least one first coupling aperture. The at least one locking tab may be configured to engage the second coupling through the at least one first coupling aperture when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration.

[0020] The second coupling may include a second coupling outer flange. The at least one locking tab may be configured to at least partially overlap the second coupling outer flange when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration.

[0021] The coupling assembly may include a first and / or second grip constraining arrangement configured to constrain radial and / or circumferential movement of the first and second grips when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. The first grip constraining arrangement may include at least one constraining pin slidably mounted in at least one constraining slot. The at least one constraining slot may be formed in at least one of the locking ring, the first pinch tab and the second pinch tab, and the at least one constraining pin may be mounted on the first coupling, or vice versa. The second grip constraining arrangement may include a radially extending constraining protrusion mounted in at least one radially extending constraining recess. The first coupling may include the constraining protrusion and the locking ring may include the at least one constraining recess, or vice versa.

[0022] The coupling assembly may include a centering mechanism configured to constrain circumferential movement of at least a portion of the locking ring when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. The centering mechanism may include at least one centering protrusion attached to the at least one centering recess. The first coupling may include at least one centering protrusion and the locking ring may include at least one centering recess, or vice versa.

[0023] The coupling assembly may include a sealing arrangement extending around a coupling aperture, the sealing arrangement being located between the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration, the sealing arrangement being axially compressed to form a seal between the first and second couplings, the sealing arrangement being adjacent and at least partially bounded by the coupling aperture.

[0024] The present disclosure further provides a coupling assembly for an ostomy appliance including a first coupling, a second coupling, and a sealing mechanism extending around a coupling opening, the first and second couplings being coupleable together in an axial direction into a coupled configuration, the sealing mechanism being located between the first and second couplings, and in the coupled configuration the sealing mechanism is compressed in the axial direction to form a seal between the first and second couplings, the sealing mechanism being adjacent to and at least partially abutting the coupling opening.

[0025] Thus, the sealing mechanism may be positioned to prevent stoma output from entering between the first and second couplings, such that the first and second couplings are not contaminated by stoma output and the first and second couplings can be kept cleaner to enable effective bonding and sealing therebetween.

[0026] The coupling opening may be bounded by the first coupling, the second coupling, and the sealing mechanism. In particular, the coupling opening may be defined by the first and second coupling and sealing mechanisms, and / or the first and second coupling and sealing mechanisms may all be exposed at the coupling opening.

[0027] The first coupling may include a first coupling inner wall and a first coupling channel extending around the first coupling inner wall. The second coupling may include a second coupling wall and a second coupling inner flange extending radially inward from the second coupling wall toward the coupling opening. The first and second couplings may be matable together in a mating configuration, where the second coupling wall extends into the first coupling channel and the second coupling inner flange extends over the first coupling inner wall, and a sealing mechanism is formed between the second coupling inner flange and the first coupling inner wall.

[0028] The present disclosure further provides a coupling assembly for an ostomy appliance including first and second couplings extending around a coupling opening and a sealing mechanism for sealing the first and second couplings together; the first coupling includes a first coupling inner wall and a first coupling channel extending around the first coupling inner wall; the second coupling includes a second coupling wall and a second coupling inner flange extending radially inward from the second coupling wall toward the coupling opening; the first and second couplings are coupleable together in a coupling arrangement in which the second coupling wall extends into the first coupling channel; A second coupling inner flange extends over the first coupling inner wall, and a sealing mechanism is formed between the second coupling inner flange and the first coupling inner wall.

[0029] Thus, the sealing mechanism may be positioned to prevent stoma output from entering the first coupling channel, such that the first coupling channel is not contaminated by stoma output and the first and second couplings are likely to remain cleaner to allow for effective coupling and sealing therebetween.

[0030] The first coupling may include a first coupling outer wall extending around the first coupling channel. The first and second couplings may extend circumferentially around the coupling opening. The first coupling inner wall and channel may extend circumferentially. The second coupling wall and inner flange may extend circumferentially. The second coupling may include a second coupling outer flange extending from the second coupling wall radially outwardly away from the coupling opening. In the coupled configuration, the second coupling outer flange may extend radially outwardly within the first coupling channel.

[0031] The sealing feature may comprise a resiliently deformable material. The sealing feature may comprise the second coupling inner flange and / or the first coupling inner wall. At least a portion of the second coupling inner flange and / or the first coupling inner wall may comprise a resiliently deformable material.

[0032] The sealing mechanism may include a seal element mounted between the second coupling inner flange and the first coupling inner wall. The seal element may be mounted to the second coupling. The seal element may include a closed ring.

[0033] The coupling assembly of the present disclosure may include any combination of the features disclosed herein. Thus, the coupling assembly having a locking mechanism may include a sealing mechanism for sealing the first and second couplings together. The coupling assembly having a sealing mechanism may include a locking mechanism for locking the first and second couplings together in a coupled configuration. The at least one locking tab may be configured to selectively overlap the second coupling outer wall flange to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration. The first coupling outer wall may include at least one first coupling opening for receiving the at least one locking tab such that the at least one locking tab is configured to extend through the at least one first coupling opening onto the second coupling outer flange in the coupled configuration.

[0034] The first and second couplings may be for attachment to a wafer and a pouch of an ostomy appliance, respectively, or vice versa. Accordingly, the present disclosure further provides an ostomy appliance, comprising: a coupling assembly as described above, a pouch and a wafer; The first coupling may be attached to the wafer and the second coupling may be attached to the pouch, or vice versa, such that the wafer and pouch may be separated by decoupling the first coupling and the second coupling. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0035] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side schematic view of an embodiment of an ostomy device including a coupling assembly according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the coupling assembly of FIG. 1 showing the coupling configuration. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the coupling assembly of FIG. 1, shown in an uncoupled configuration. [Figure 4] 4 is an exploded perspective view of a first coupling and locking mechanism of the coupling assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. [Diagram 5] 5 is a side cross-sectional view across the width of the coupling assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of the coupling assembly of FIG. 1 with hidden parts shown in dashed lines. [Figure 7] 7 is a bottom perspective view of the first coupling of the coupling assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. [Figure 8] 8 is a top perspective view of the first coupling of the coupling assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. [Figure 9] 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of a second coupling of the coupling assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the locking mechanism of the coupling assembly of FIG. 1 in an axially deflected configuration to illustrate the division of the locking mechanism. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a top elevational view of the locking mechanism of the coupling assembly of FIG. 1 with hidden portions shown in phantom. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a top elevational view of a further embodiment of a locking mechanism for a coupling assembly according to the present invention in a locked configuration, with hidden parts shown in phantom. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a top elevational view of a further embodiment of a locking mechanism of a coupling assembly according to the present invention in an intermediate configuration, with hidden parts shown in dashed lines. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a top elevational view of a further embodiment of a locking mechanism for a coupling assembly according to the present invention in an unlocked configuration, with hidden parts shown in phantom. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0037] In the following description, the same reference signs are used to indicate the same or similar features in different embodiments. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the claimed subject matter belongs. It is understood that the summary of the disclosure above and the following examples are exemplary and explanatory and are not intended to limit any claimed subject matter.

[0038] The following description is directed to embodiments of the present disclosure. The description of the embodiments is not intended to include all possible embodiments of the present disclosure as described in the appended claims. Many modifications, improvements, and equivalents not expressly described in the following embodiments may be included within the scope of the appended claims. Features described as part of an embodiment may be combined with features of one or more other embodiments, unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

[0039] It will be understood that at least some of the figures and descriptions of the present disclosure have been simplified to focus on elements relevant to a clear understanding of the present disclosure, while other elements that may be necessary for one of ordinary skill in the art to understand have been omitted for clarity. Because such elements are well known to the reader who is skilled in the art and do not necessarily facilitate an understanding of the present disclosure, descriptions of such elements are not provided herein.

[0040] As used herein, the use of the singular includes the plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the use of "or" means "and / or" unless stated otherwise.

[0041] 1 shows an ostomy appliance 10 according to the present disclosure, which includes a pouch 11 for receiving and containing stoma waste and which is releasably attached by a coupling assembly 12 to a wafer 13. The ostomy appliance 10 of the present disclosure may be a two-piece appliance.

[0042] As further illustrated in Figures 2-14, the coupling assembly 12 includes a first coupling 20, a second coupling 40, and a locking mechanism 60, which may be movable relative to one another. The coupling assembly 12 is configurable between a coupled configuration (shown in Figures 1, 2, and 5) and an uncoupled configuration (shown in Figure 3). In the coupled configuration, the ostomy appliance 10 is suitable for use by an ostomate by collecting stoma output, and the first and second couplings 20, 40 are coupled or attached together. In the uncoupled configuration, the first and second couplings 20, 40 are uncoupled or separated from one another to allow replacement of the wafer 13 and / or pouch 11.

[0043] In the following example, the pouch 11 is attached to the second coupling 40 and the wafer 13 is attached to the first coupling 20. The first and second couplings 20, 40 may be uncoupled to separate the pouch 11 from the wafer 13, such as when the pouch 11 is replaced while the wafer 13 is still attached to the ostomate's body. However, in other embodiments, the pouch 11 may instead be attached to the first coupling 20 and the wafer 13 may be attached to the second coupling 40. Additional elements may be attached between the pouch 11, the wafer 13, and the first and / or second couplings 20, 40, but generally uncoupling the first and second couplings 20, 40 will result in the pouch 11 being decoupled and separated from the wafer 13.

[0044] The first coupling 20 and the second coupling 40 may extend around and define a coupling opening 14 through which stoma output may pass. Thus, stoma output may pass from the stoma, through the wafer opening (not shown), through the coupling opening 14, through the pouch opening (not shown), and into the pouch 11.

[0045] Coupling assembly 12, first coupling 20, second coupling 40 and / or locking mechanism 60 may be substantially annular and / or may include an open or closed ring. Coupling assembly 12, first coupling 20, second coupling 40 and / or locking mechanism 60 may include a substantially circular annular body as shown, although the annular body may have another elliptical shape, such as an oval, or a polygonal shape, such as an octagon.

[0046] The components of the present disclosure, particularly the coupling assembly 12, the first coupling 20, the second coupling 40 and / or the locking mechanism 60, in a circumferential direction around the coupling opening 14, which may be in a circumferential direction 15 around the circumference of the coupling opening 14 and the stoma, - radially outward 16 from the coupling opening 14 and the center of the stoma, radially from the coupling opening 14, which may be substantially along the body of the ostomate; and / or in an axial direction, which may be an axial direction 17 through the coupling opening 14 perpendicular to the circumferential and radial directions, It may be extended.

[0047] The components of the present disclosure, particularly the coupling assembly 12, the first coupling 20, the second coupling 40 and / or the locking mechanism 60, a length which may be a dimension in the circumferential direction 15 around the coupling opening 14, - outer width, which is the maximum outer dimension in the radial direction 16; a width, which may be the dimension from inner circumference to outer circumference in the radial direction 16 (i.e. the width of the annulus); and / or - thickness, which is the dimension in the axial direction 17;

[0043]

[0048] The first coupling 20 is shown in more detail in Figures 3-8 and may include a first coupling inner wall 21 and a first coupling channel 22 extending around the first coupling inner wall 21. The first coupling channel 22 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the second coupling 40 in a mated configuration. The first coupling 20 may include a first coupling outer wall 23 extending around the first coupling channel 22. The first coupling flange 24 may extend radially between the first coupling inner and outer walls 21, 23 such that the first coupling channel 22 may be formed therebetween. The first coupling inner and outer walls 21, 23 may extend in the same axial direction 17 from the first coupling flange 24, and the first coupling 20 may have a substantially U-shaped cross-section (i.e. across its width).

[0049] The first coupling inner wall, channel, outer wall and flanges 21, 22, 23, 24 may extend circumferentially around the coupling opening 14, preferably completely around the coupling opening 14, so that the first coupling 20 constitutes a closed ring, as shown. The first coupling inner wall 22 may extend substantially axially adjacent the coupling opening 14 and its thickness may be greater than its width. The width of the first coupling flange 24 may be greater than its thickness. The thickness, and optionally the width, of the first coupling outer wall 23 may be greater than the thickness of the first coupling inner wall 21.

[0050] The first coupling 20 may include a first coupling slot 25 extending circumferentially and radially inwardly from its outer periphery. The first coupling slot 25 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the locking mechanism 60. The first coupling outer wall 23 may form the outer periphery of the first coupling 20, and the first coupling slot 25 may extend circumferentially around and radially inwardly into the first coupling outer wall 23. The first coupling slot 25 may extend from the outer periphery between first coupling slot walls 26, 27 to a first coupling slot base 28, each of which may be formed in and by the first coupling outer wall 23.

[0051] The first coupling 20 may include at least one first coupling opening 30 configured to receive at least a portion of a locking mechanism 60, as described further below. The at least one first coupling opening 30 may extend radially through the first coupling outer wall 23, preferably through the first coupling slot base 28, to the first coupling channel 22. The at least one first coupling opening 30 may be circumferentially elongated such that its length is greater than its thickness. The first coupling 20 preferably includes at least four first coupling openings 30, and may include six as shown.

[0052] The second coupling 40 is shown in more detail in Figures 3, 5 and 9 and may include a second coupling wall 41 and may include a second coupling inner flange 42 extending radially inward from the second coupling wall 41 toward the coupling opening 14. The second coupling 40 is ,mosquito From coupling opening 14 To the second coupling wall 41The second coupling 40 may include a radially outwardly extending second coupling outer flange 43. The second coupling inner and outer flanges 42, 43 may extend from axially opposite ends of the second coupling wall 41. The second coupling 40 may have a substantially Z-shaped cross-section (i.e. across its width).

[0053] The second coupling wall, inner flange and / or outer flange 41, 42, 43 may extend circumferentially around the coupling opening 14, preferably completely around the coupling opening 14, such that the second coupling 40 comprises a closed ring as shown. The second coupling inner flange 42 may be adjacent the coupling opening 14 and its width may be greater than its thickness. The second coupling wall 41 may extend substantially axially such that its thickness may be greater than its width. The second coupling outer flange 43 may include a second coupling chamfered edge 44 facing outwardly from the second coupling wall 41 and / or a second coupling flat edge 45 substantially perpendicular to the outer surface of the second coupling wall 41.

[0054] As shown in Figures 2 and 5, in a coupled configuration, the first coupling 20 may be attached to the second coupling 40 by the second coupling wall 41 located at least partially within and extending into the first coupling channel 22. The second coupling wall 41 may be located between the first coupling inner and outer walls 21, 23. The second coupling inner flange 42 may extend over the first coupling inner wall 21, which together may form and define the coupling opening 14. The second coupling wall 41 may be disposed adjacent to the first coupling inner wall 21. The second coupling outer flange 43 may be located adjacent to the first coupling outer wall 23 and may extend radially outward within the first coupling channel 22.

[0055] The coupling assembly 12 may further include a sealing mechanism 90 for sealing the first and second couplings 20, 40 together when in the coupled configuration. In particular, the first and second couplings 20, 40 may be coupleable together in the coupled configuration along the axial direction 17. The sealing mechanism 90 may be located between the first and second couplings 20, 40 and compressed along the axial direction 17 to form a seal between the first and second couplings 20, 40 in the coupled configuration. The sealing mechanism 90 may be located adjacent to and at least partially abut the coupling opening 14 such that it is directly exposed to the coupling opening 14 and, therefore, any stoma discharge passing therethrough.

[0056] A sealing mechanism 90 may be formed between the second coupling inner flange 42 and the first coupling inner wall 21. As a result, stoma discharge passing through the coupling opening 14 may be immediately prevented by the sealing mechanism 90 from entering the interface between the second coupling inner flange 42 and the first coupling inner wall 21. Thus, the first coupling channel 22 may be kept clean such that an effective coupling and sealing may be maintained when the pouch 11 is replaced and a new second coupling 40 is coupled with the remaining first coupling 20.

[0057] The sealing mechanism 90 may comprise an elastically deformable material that is compressed in the mating configuration to form a seal. The sealing mechanism 90 may comprise a separate sealing element 91 mounted between the second coupling inner flange 42 and the first coupling inner wall 21 as shown. The sealing element 91 may be mounted to the second coupling 40, preferably to the second coupling inner flange 42. The sealing element 91 may be substantially annular and may comprise a closed ring, preferably an O-ring. Alternatively or additionally, at least a portion of the second coupling inner flange 42 and / or the first coupling inner wall 21 may comprise an elastically deformable material such that the sealing mechanism 90 constitutes the second coupling inner flange 42 and / or the first coupling inner wall 21.

[0058] The locking mechanism 60 is for locking the first and second couplings 20, 40 together in a coupled configuration. As shown in more detail in Figures 4 and 10-14, the locking mechanism 60 includes a locking ring 61 mounted around the first and / or second couplings 20, 40 and around the first and / or second couplings 40. In particular, the locking ring 61 may be mounted to the first coupling 40 and may be mounted in and extend around the first coupling slot 25 thereof. The locking ring 61 may be annular and extend circumferentially, as shown.

[0059] The locking ring 61 has an inner periphery 62 and is adjustable between a locked configuration (shown in FIGS. 2-6, 11, 12) and an unlocked configuration (shown in FIG. 14). In the locked configuration, the locking ring 61 is for maintaining the coupling assembly 12 in a coupled configuration, preferably by holding the first and second couplings 20, 40 together, and the inner periphery 62 of the locking ring 61 is smaller than in the unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the locking ring 61 is for allowing the coupling assembly 12 to be adjusted to an uncoupled configuration, particularly by allowing the first and second couplings 20, 40 to separate.

[0060] The locking ring 61 may preferably be springy in at least the radial direction 16 and may be resiliently biased to reduce the inner circumference 62 and return to the locked configuration from the unlocked configuration. As in the illustrated embodiment, the locking ring 61 may be flexible and substantially inextensible along its length. The inner circumference 62 may be adjustable by the locking ring 61 including first and second locking ring ends 63, 64 that are movable relative to one another between the locked and unlocked configurations. As best shown in FIG. 10, the locking ring 61 may be split such that the first and second locking ring ends 63, 64 are free ends.

[0061] The length of the lock ring 61, which is the distance around the lock ring 61 between the first and second lock ring ends 63, 64, may be greater than the inner circumference 62 in the locked configuration. Thus, the lock ring 61 may include an overlap portion 65 where the lock ring 61 overlaps itself. The overlap portion 65 extends between the first and second lock ring ends 63, 64 and may decrease in area as the inner circumference 62 increases (as shown in Figures 12-14).

[0062] The locking ring 61 may include at least one locking tab 66 extending radially inwardly to selectively maintain the coupling assembly 12 in the coupled configuration when the locking ring 61 is in the locked configuration. The locking ring 61 may be configured such that its inner periphery 62 is sufficiently expandable to move the at least one locking tab 66 out of engagement with the second coupling 40 such that the first and second couplings 20, 40 can be uncoupled. A plurality of locking tabs 66, preferably at least four as shown, and optionally six, may be disposed about the inner periphery 62 of the locking ring 61.

[0063] The at least one locking tab 66 may be configured to engage with the second coupling 40 when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings 20, 40 in the coupled configuration. The at least one locking tab 66 may be configured to at least partially overlap the second coupling outer flange 43 and extend into the first coupling channel 22 when in the coupled and locked configurations. The at least one locking tab 66 may selectively lock the second coupling outer flange 43 between itself and the first coupling 20, particularly its first coupling flange 24. The at least one first coupling opening 30 may be configured to receive the at least one locking tab 66. The at least one locking tab 66 may be configured to extend through the at least one first coupling opening 30 in the locked and coupled configurations.

[0064] The or each locking tab 66 may include a locking tab flat edge 67 for abutting the second coupling flat edge 45 in the locked and coupled configurations, and may include a locking tab chamfered edge 68 for sliding against the second coupling chamfered edge 44 during coupling. During insertion of the second coupling 40 into the first coupling channel 22, the locking tab chamfered edge 68 may slide against the second coupling chamfered edge 44, which may push the at least one locking tab 66 radially outward such that the inner circumference 62 of the locking ring 61 increases. The second coupling outer flange 43 may then pass into the first coupling channel 22, and the at least one locking tab 66 may then return to its locked configuration in which the locking tab flat edge 67 abuts the second coupling flat edge 45.

[0065] The locking mechanism 60 includes first and second grips 70, 71 attached to the locking ring 61 for adjusting the inner circumference 62. The first and second grips 70, 71 are disposed about the locking ring 61 such that they are movable relative to one another to increase the inner circumference 62 and adjust the locking ring 61 from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration. Such adjustment or movement may be initiated by a user pinching the first and second grips 70, 71 together. The locking ring 61 may be resiliently biased to move the first and second grips 70, 71 away from one another such that the locking ring 61 is adjusted from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. Notably, a user may not need to apply force, but simply release them to allow them to move apart.

[0066] The first and second grips 70, 71 may be spaced apart from one another about the length of the locking ring 61. The distance between the first and second grips 70, 71 about the length of the locking ring 61 may be greater than the inner circumference 62 in the locked configuration, such that when they are pressed together they can increase the inner circumference 62. The first and second grips 70, 71 may be located on the top of the coupling assembly 12 and ostomy appliance 10 in use so that they are easily accessible.

[0067] The locking mechanism 60 may further include first and second pinch tabs 72, 73 that preferably extend radially outward from the locking ring 61 and form first and second grips 70, 71, respectively. The first and second pinch tabs 72, 73 may slide adjacent to one another when the locking ring 61 is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations.

[0068] Figure 11 shows in further detail the first and second pinch tabs 72, 73 of the embodiment of Figures 2-10 in a locked configuration. Figures 12 to 14 show further embodiments of the first and second pinch tabs 72, 73 moving from a locked configuration (Figure 12), through an intermediate configuration (Figure 13), to an unlocked configuration (Figure 14). The same reference numbers have been used to indicate common features, and the principles of movement of the first and second pinch tabs 72, 73 illustrated in Figures 12 to 14 apply equally to the embodiment of Figures 2 to 11.

[0069] The first pinch tab 72 may extend around the locking ring 61 between a first tab distal end 75 and a first tab proximal end 76. The second pinch tab 73 may extend around the locking ring 61 between a second tab distal end 77 and a second tab proximal end 78. The first and second tab distal ends 75, 77 may form first and second grips 70, 71, respectively. In the locked configuration, the first and second tab distal ends 75, 77 may be substantially aligned with the second and first tab proximal ends 78, 76, respectively, as shown in FIGS. 2-4, 6, 11 and 12. This alignment may be due to the first and second tab distal ends 75, 77 and the second and first tab proximal ends 78, 76 being adjacent but spaced apart along the radial direction 16. As a result, a user may be able to determine that the locking mechanism 60 is in the locked configuration by tactilely confirming this alignment.

[0070] The first and second pinch tabs 72, 73 may include first and second tab proximal portions 80, 81, respectively, which may be adjacent to the lock ring 61 and may form first and second tab proximal ends 76, 78. The first and second pinch tabs 72, 73 may include first and second tab distal portions 82, 83, respectively, which may extend radially outward from the first and second tab proximal portions 80, 81 and form first and second tab distal ends 75, 77. The first and second tab distal portions 82, 83 may extend circumferentially around the lock ring 61 from the first and second tab distal ends 75, 77 to first and second tab inner edges 84, 85. In the unlocked configuration, the first and second tab distal ends 75, 77 may be substantially aligned with the second and first tab inner edges 85, 84, respectively, as illustrated in FIG. 14 . This alignment is 1st and This may be due to second tab distal ends 75, 77 and second and first tab inner edges 85, 84 being adjacent but spaced apart along axial direction 17. As a result, a user may be able to determine that locking mechanism 60 is in the unlocked configuration by tactilely confirming this alignment.

[0071] When the first and second pinch tabs 72, 73 are between the locked and unlocked configurations, the first and second tab distal ends 75, 77 may not be axially or radially aligned with the second and first tab inner edges 85, 84 or the second and first tab proximal ends 78, 76, respectively, as shown in Figure 13. Thus, a user may be able to tactilely detect the lack of alignment and move the first and second pinch tabs 72, 73 to the locked or unlocked configurations as desired.

[0072] The coupling assembly 12 may include first and second grip constraint mechanisms 110 configured to constrain radial and / or circumferential movement of the first and second grips 70, 71 when the locking ring 61 is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. The radial constraint may ensure that the first and second grips 70, 71 are easy to grasp by not moving radially during pinching. The circumferential constraint may ensure that the first and second grips 70, 71 are not pushed so far that the locking ring 61 disengages from the first coupling 20.

[0073] A particularly preferred embodiment of a first gripping constraint mechanism 100 for constraining radial and circumferential movement of the first and second grips 70, 71 is shown in Fig. 6 using dashed lines. The first gripping constraint mechanism 100 may include at least one constraint pin 101, 102 that may extend axially and be slidably mounted in at least one constraint slot 103, 104 that may extend circumferentially. The at least one constraint slot 103, 104 may be formed in at least one of the locking ring 61, the first pinch tab 72 and the second pinch tab 73, and the at least one constraint pin 101, 102 may be mounted on the first coupling 20, or vice versa. As shown, the first and second pinch tabs 72, 73 may include first and second constraint slots 103, 104 that face axially inwardly toward the second and first pinch tabs 73, 72, respectively. The first and second restraining pins 101, 102 may be mounted to the first coupling 20, particularly to restraining pin mounts 105, 106, so as to be unable to move relative to the first coupling 20, and may be slidably mounted in second and first restraining slots 104, 103, respectively.

[0074] During movement of the first and second grips 70, 71 between the locked and unlocked configurations, the first and second constraining slots 103, 104 may slide past one another and the first and second constraining pins 101, 102 may slide within the first and second constraining slots 103, 104. The width of the first and second constraining slots 103, 104 is as large as the diameter of the first and second constraining pins 101, 102 such that radial movement of the first and second grips 70, 71 is substantially constrained. Furthermore, the length of the first and second constraining slots 103, 104 is such that in the unlocked configuration, the first and second constraining pins 101, 102 abut the ends of the first and second constraining slots 103, 104. Thus, the first and second grips 70, 71 are constrained or prevented from moving in the circumferential direction 15 past their unlocked configurations.

[0075] A particularly preferred embodiment of a second gripping constraint mechanism 110 for constraining circumferential movement of the first and second grips 70, 71 is illustrated in Figures 8 and 11-14 (using dashed lines in Figure 11). The second gripping constraint mechanism 110 may include a radially extending constraint protrusion 111 mounted in at least one radially extending constraint recess 112, 113. The first coupling 20 may include the constraint protrusion 111 and the lock ring 61 may include at least one constraint recess 112, 113 as shown, or vice versa. The constraint protrusion 111 (shown in dashed lines in Figures 11-14) may extend radially outward from the first coupling slot base 28 partially into the first coupling slot 25. The locking ring 61 may include first and second restraining recesses 112, 113 extending radially outward from the inner periphery 62 toward first and second locking ring ends 63, 64 thereof, respectively.

[0076] As shown in Figures 12-14, the restraining protrusions 111 may remain within the first and second restraining recesses 112, 113 as the first and second grips 70, 71 move between the locked and unlocked configurations. The length and position of the first and second restraining recesses 112, 113 may be configured such that in the unlocked configuration the restraining protrusions 111 are at their ends (see Figure 14). Thus, the first and second grips 70, 71 are restrained or prevented from moving in the circumferential direction 15 beyond their unlocked configuration.

[0077] 11, in one embodiment, the first and / or second restraining recesses 112, 113 may be shaped to provide an initial resistance to moving the first and second grips 70, 71 from the locked configuration. In particular, the width of the first and / or second restraining recesses 112, 113 may be reduced at a constriction 114, 115 adjacent the location of the restraining protrusion 111 in the locked configuration. The first and / or second restraining recesses 112, 113 and the restraining protrusion 111 must be pushed through this constriction 114, 115 to move from the locked configuration. As a result, tactile and / or auditory feedback of such unlocking may be detected by the user.

[0078] The coupling assembly 12 may include a centering mechanism 120 configured to constrain and prevent circumferential movement of at least a portion of the locking ring 61 when the locking ring 61 is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. As a result, as the inner circumference 62 increases, movement of the first and second grips 70, 71 is translated into radially outward movement of the locking ring 61 at the centering mechanism 120. Thus, a symmetrical retraction of the at least one locking tab 66 away from the second coupling 40 may be achieved. The centering mechanism 120 is preferably located in an opposite region of the coupling assembly 12 relative to the first and second grips 70, 71, and thus may be in a lower portion of the coupling assembly 12 as shown.

[0079] A preferred embodiment is shown in Figures 4 and 7, in which the centering mechanism 120 may include at least one centering protrusion 121 attached to at least one centering recess 122. As shown, the first coupling 20 may include at least one centering protrusion 121 that may extend axially, and the locking ring 61 may include at least one centering recess 122 that may extend axially, or vice versa. The centering protrusion 121 may be located within the first coupling slot 25 and extend radially from the first coupling slot base 28 along the first coupling slot wall 26. The at least one centering protrusion 121 may extend from an inner circumference 62 of the locking ring 61. The centering mechanism 120 may be configured such that as the inner circumference 62 increases, the locking ring 61 moves away from the first coupling slot base 28 and the at least one centering protrusion 121 and the at least one centering recess 122 slide relative to each other. The at least one centering protrusion and recess 121, 122 are sufficiently long so that they can remain engaged in the locked and unlocked configurations.

[0080] The first coupling 20, the second coupling 40 and the locking mechanism 60 may be formed by molding each component separately and then assembling them together. The sealing mechanism 90 may be molded with the first and / or second coupling 40 or may be connected thereto during assembly. The first and second couplings 20, 40 may be relatively rigid and the locking mechanism 60 may be more flexible than the first and second couplings 20, 40.

[0081] The first coupling 20, the second coupling 40 and / or the clamping mechanism 60 may comprise at least one of polyethylene (PE), low density PE (LDPE), high density PE (HDPE), polypropylene homopolymer (PP-H), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), ethylene based octene plastomer (such as Exact(RTM) 0230), polypropylene (PP, e.g. Sabic(RTM) 58MNK 10), thermoplastic, etc. In one embodiment, the first and second couplings 20, 40 may comprise PE, such as LDPE, and / or the clamping mechanism 60 may comprise PP-H or ABS.

[0082] Various alternatives to the above-described embodiments are within the scope of the present disclosure. The locking ring 61 may be elastic, include a cable, or the like. The locking ring 61 may not be split, but instead may include a flexible joint, catch, or the like between the first and second locking ring ends 63, 64.

Claims

1. 1. A coupling assembly for an ostomy appliance, comprising: a locking mechanism; a first coupling; and a second coupling, The locking mechanism is a locking ring attached to the first and / or second coupling, defining an inner periphery, and adjustable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein in the locked configuration the locking ring is for maintaining the first and second couplings in a coupled configuration, the inner periphery being smaller than in the unlocked configuration; first and second grips attached to the lock ring, the first and second grips being movably positioned about the lock ring relative to one another to increase an inner circumference and adjust the lock ring from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration; a sealing mechanism extending around the coupling opening; a sealing mechanism disposed between the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration, the sealing mechanism being axially compressed to form a seal between the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration, the sealing mechanism being adjacent and at least partially abutting the coupling opening; the second coupling includes a second coupling wall and a second coupling inner flange extending radially inward from the second coupling wall toward the coupling opening; Coupling assembly.

2. The locking ring is spring-loaded and resiliently biased to return from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

2. The coupling assembly of claim 1.

3. The locking ring includes first and second locking ring ends movable relative to one another between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. A coupling assembly according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The lock ring is split, 4. The coupling assembly of claim 3.

5. In the locked configuration, the locking ring extends around a circumference that is greater than the inner circumference. A coupling assembly according to claim 3 or 4.

6. In the locked configuration, the distance between the first and second grips around the length of the locking ring is greater than the inner circumference.

6. The coupling assembly of claim 5.

7. and further including first and second pinch tabs extending from the locking ring and including first and second grips, respectively. A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

8. The first pinch tab extends around the locking ring between a first tab distal end and a first tab proximal end, and the second pinch tab extends around the locking ring between a second tab distal end and a second tab proximal end, the first and second tab distal ends forming first and second grips.

8. A coupling assembly according to claim 7.

9. In the locked configuration, the first and second tab distal ends are aligned with the second and first tab proximal ends, respectively; 9. The coupling assembly of claim 8.

10. the first and second pinch tabs include first and second tab proximal portions adjacent the locking ring forming the first and second tab proximal ends, and first and second tab distal portions extending radially outward from the first and second tab proximal portions and forming the first and second tab distal ends; A coupling assembly according to claim 8 or 9.

11. the first and second tab distal portions extend around the locking ring between the first and second tab distal ends and the first and second tab inner edges; In the unlocked configuration, the first and second tab distal ends are aligned with the second and first tab inner edges, respectively; The coupling assembly of claim 10.

12. the first and second pinch tabs slide adjacent one another when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations; A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 7 to 10.

13. the locking ring includes at least one locking tab extending inwardly about an inner periphery to maintain the coupling assembly in a coupled configuration when the locking ring is in a locked configuration; A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. a locking ring attached to the first coupling, and at least one locking tab configured to engage the second coupling when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration; 14. A coupling assembly according to claim 13.

15. the first coupling includes at least one first coupling opening; the at least one locking tab is configured to engage the second coupling through the at least one first coupling opening when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration; 15. A coupling assembly according to claim 14.

16. the second coupling includes a second coupling outer flange; the at least one locking tab is configured to at least partially overlap the second coupling outer flange when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration; A coupling assembly according to claim 14 or 15.

17. further comprising first and / or second grip restraining mechanisms configured to restrain radial and / or circumferential movement of the first and second grips when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

18. the first gripping constraint mechanism includes at least one constraint pin slidably mounted in the at least one constraint slot; The at least one captive slot is formed in at least one of the lock ring, the first pinch tab and the second pinch tab, and the at least one captive pin is attached to the first coupling, or vice versa; 20. The coupling assembly of claim 17.

19. the second gripping constraint mechanism includes a radially extending constraint protrusion mounted in at least one radially extending constraint recess; The first coupling includes a captive protrusion and the lock ring includes at least one captive recess, or vice versa.

19. A coupling assembly according to claim 17 or 18.

20. and a centering mechanism configured to constrain circumferential movement of at least a portion of the locking ring when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

21. The centering mechanism includes at least one centering protrusion attached to the at least one centering recess; The first coupling includes at least one centering projection and the locking ring includes at least one centering recess, or vice versa.

21. The coupling assembly of claim 20.

22. The coupling opening abuts the first coupling, the second coupling, and the sealing mechanism. A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

23. The first coupling, comprising: a first coupling inner wall; and a first coupling channel extending around the first coupling inner wall. A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

24. In a coupling configuration, a second coupling wall extends into the first coupling channel; a second coupling inner flange extends over the first coupling inner wall; a sealing mechanism is formed between the second coupling inner flange and the first coupling inner wall; A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

25. The first coupling, comprising a first coupling outer wall extending around the first coupling channel; A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

26. The sealing mechanism includes an elastically deformable material. A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

27. The sealing mechanism includes a seal element. A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

28. The sealing element is mounted between the second coupling inner flange and the first coupling inner wall, A coupling assembly according to claim 27 when dependent on claim 24 or 25.

29. The sealing element is attached to the second coupling.

29. A coupling assembly according to claim 27 or 28.

30. The sealing element comprises a closed ring. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 27 to 29.

31. The sealing mechanism includes a second coupling inner flange and / or a first coupling inner wall, At least a portion of the second coupling inner flange and / or the first coupling inner wall comprises an elastically deformable material. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 26 to 30.

32. The first and second couplings extend circumferentially around the coupling opening, A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

33. The first coupling inner wall and channel extend circumferentially, and / or the second coupling wall and inner flange extend circumferentially. A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

34. The second coupling includes a second coupling outer flange extending radially outwardly from the second coupling wall away from the coupling opening, and in a coupled configuration, the second coupling outer flange extends radially outwardly within the first coupling channel. A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

35. The locking ring includes at least one locking tab extending radially inward toward the coupling opening to selectively maintain the coupling assembly in a coupled configuration. A coupling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

36. At least one locking tab is configured to selectively overlap an outer wall flange of the second coupling to maintain the first and second couplings in a coupled configuration. A coupling assembly according to claim 35 when dependent on claim 34.

37. The first coupling outer wall includes at least one first coupling opening for receiving at least one locking tab such that the at least one locking tab is configured to extend through the at least one first coupling opening and onto the second coupling outer flange in a coupled configuration; A coupling assembly according to claim 36 when dependent on any one of claims 25 to 33.

38. An ostomy device comprising: a coupling assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 37; and a pouch and a wafer; The first coupling is attached to the wafer and the second coupling is attached to the pouch, or vice versa, such that the wafer and pouch can be separated by decoupling the first coupling and the second coupling; Ostomy appliance.

39. A coupling assembly for an ostomy appliance, comprising: a locking mechanism; a first coupling; and a second coupling, The locking mechanism is a locking ring attached to the first and / or second coupling, defining an inner periphery, and adjustable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein in the locked configuration the locking ring is for maintaining the first and second couplings in a coupled configuration, the inner periphery being smaller than in the unlocked configuration; first and second grips attached to the lock ring, the first and second grips being movably positioned about the lock ring relative to one another to increase an inner circumference and adjust the lock ring from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration; further including first and second pinch tabs extending from the locking ring and including first and second grips, respectively; a first pinch tab extending around the locking ring between a first tab distal end and a first tab proximal end, and a second pinch tab extending around the locking ring between a second tab distal end and a second tab proximal end, the first and second tab distal ends forming first and second grips; In the locked configuration, the first and second tab distal ends are aligned with the second and first tab proximal ends, respectively; Coupling assembly.

40. The locking ring is spring-loaded and resiliently biased to return from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

40. A coupling assembly according to claim 39.

41. The locking ring includes first and second locking ring ends movable relative to one another between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration.

41. A coupling assembly according to claim 39 or 40.

42. The lock ring is split.

42. A coupling assembly according to claim 41.

43. In the locking configuration, the locking ring extends around a circumference that is greater than the inner circumference.

43. A coupling assembly according to claim 41 or 42.

44. In the locked configuration, the distance between the first and second grips around the length of the locking ring is greater than the inner circumference.

44. A coupling assembly according to claim 43.

45. The first and second pinch tabs include first and second tab proximal portions adjacent the locking ring forming the first and second tab proximal ends, and first and second tab distal portions extending radially outward from the first and second tab proximal portions and forming the first and second tab distal ends. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 39 to 44.

46. ​​The first and second tab distal portions extend around the locking ring between the first and second tab distal ends and the first and second tab inner edges; In the unlocked configuration, the first and second tab distal ends are aligned with the second and first tab inner edges, respectively; 46. ​​A coupling assembly according to claim 45.

47. The first and second pinch tabs slide adjacent to one another when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 39 to 46.

48. The locking ring includes at least one locking tab extending inwardly around an inner circumference to maintain the coupling assembly in a coupled configuration when the locking ring is in a locked configuration. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 39 to 47.

49. A locking ring is attached to the first coupling, and at least one locking tab is configured to engage the second coupling when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration.

49. A coupling assembly according to claim 48.

50. The first coupling includes at least one first coupling opening, the at least one locking tab is configured to engage the second coupling through the at least one first coupling opening when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration; 50. A coupling assembly according to claim 49.

51. The second coupling includes a second coupling outer flange, the at least one locking tab is configured to at least partially overlap the second coupling outer flange when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration; 51. A coupling assembly according to claim 49 or 50.

52. The method according to claim 52, further comprising first and / or second grip restraining mechanisms configured to restrain radial and / or circumferential movement of the first and second grips when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 39 to 51.

53. The first gripping constraint mechanism includes at least one constraint pin slidably mounted in at least one constraint slot; The at least one captive slot is formed in at least one of the lock ring, the first pinch tab and the second pinch tab, and the at least one captive pin is attached to the first coupling, or vice versa; 53. A coupling assembly according to claim 52.

54. The second gripping restraint mechanism includes a radially extending restraint protrusion attached to at least one radially extending restraint recess; The first coupling includes a captive protrusion and the lock ring includes at least one captive recess, or vice versa.

54. A coupling assembly according to claim 52 or 53.

55. The method of claim 5, further comprising a centering mechanism configured to constrain circumferential movement of at least a portion of the locking ring when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 39 to 54.

56. The centering mechanism includes at least one centering protrusion attached to the at least one centering recess; The first coupling includes at least one centering projection and the locking ring includes at least one centering recess, or vice versa.

56. A coupling assembly according to claim 55.

57. A coupling assembly comprising: a sealing mechanism extending around the coupling opening; a sealing mechanism disposed between the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration, the sealing mechanism being axially compressed to form a seal between the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration, the sealing mechanism being adjacent and at least partially abutting the coupling opening; A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 39 to 56.

58. The coupling opening abuts the first coupling, the second coupling, and the sealing mechanism.

58. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 57.

59. An ostomy appliance comprising: a coupling assembly according to any one of claims 39 to 58; and a pouch and a wafer; The first coupling is attached to the wafer and the second coupling is attached to the pouch, or vice versa, such that the wafer and pouch can be separated by decoupling the first coupling and the second coupling; Ostomy appliance.

60. A coupling assembly for an ostomy appliance, comprising: a locking mechanism; a first coupling; and a second coupling, The locking mechanism is a locking ring attached to the first and / or second coupling, defining an inner periphery, and adjustable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein in the locked configuration the locking ring is for maintaining the first and second couplings in a coupled configuration, the inner periphery being smaller than in the unlocked configuration; first and second grips attached to the lock ring, the first and second grips being movably positioned about the lock ring relative to one another to increase an inner circumference and adjust the lock ring from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration; and a first and / or second grip restraining mechanism configured to restrain radial and / or circumferential movement of the first and second grips when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations; the first gripping constraint mechanism includes at least one constraint pin slidably mounted in the at least one constraint slot; the at least one captive slot is formed in at least one of the lock ring, the first pinch tab and the second pinch tab, and the at least one captive pin is attached to the first coupling, or vice versa; the second gripping constraint mechanism includes a radially extending constraint protrusion mounted in at least one radially extending constraint recess; The first coupling includes a captive protrusion and the lock ring includes at least one captive recess, or vice versa. Coupling assembly.

61. The locking ring is spring-loaded and resiliently biased to return from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

61. A coupling assembly according to claim 60.

62. The locking ring includes first and second locking ring ends movable relative to one another between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration.

62. A coupling assembly according to claim 60 or 61.

63. The lock ring is split.

63. A coupling assembly according to claim 62.

64. In the locked configuration, the locking ring extends around a circumference that is greater than the inner circumference.

64. A coupling assembly according to claim 62 or 63.

65. In the locked configuration, the distance between the first and second grips around the length of the locking ring is greater than the inner circumference.

65. A coupling assembly according to claim 64.

66. The method of claim 60, further comprising: first and second pinch tabs extending from the locking ring and including first and second grips, respectively. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 60 to 65.

67. The method of claim 67, wherein a first pinch tab extends around the locking ring between a first tab distal end and a first tab proximal end, a second pinch tab extends around the locking ring between a second tab distal end and a second tab proximal end, the first and second tab distal ends forming first and second grips.

67. A coupling assembly according to claim 66.

68. The first and second pinch tabs include first and second tab proximal portions adjacent the locking ring forming the first and second tab proximal ends, and first and second tab distal portions extending radially outward from the first and second tab proximal portions and forming the first and second tab distal ends.

68. A coupling assembly according to claim 67.

69. The first and second tab distal portions extend around the locking ring between the first and second tab distal ends and the first and second tab inner edges; In the unlocked configuration, the first and second tab distal ends are aligned with the second and first tab inner edges, respectively; 69. A coupling assembly according to claim 68.

70. The first and second pinch tabs slide adjacent to one another when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 66 to 69.

71. The locking ring includes at least one locking tab extending inwardly around an inner circumference to maintain the coupling assembly in a coupled configuration when the locking ring is in a locked configuration. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 60 to 70.

72. A locking ring is attached to the first coupling, and at least one locking tab is configured to engage the second coupling when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration.

72. A coupling assembly according to claim 71.

73. The first coupling includes at least one first coupling opening, the at least one locking tab is configured to engage the second coupling through the at least one first coupling opening when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration; 73. A coupling assembly according to claim 72.

74. The second coupling includes a second coupling outer flange, the at least one locking tab is configured to at least partially overlap the second coupling outer flange when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration; 74. A coupling assembly according to claim 72 or 73.

75. The method of claim 75, further comprising a centering mechanism configured to constrain circumferential movement of at least a portion of the locking ring when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 60 to 74.

76. The centering mechanism includes at least one centering protrusion attached to the at least one centering recess; The first coupling includes at least one centering projection and the locking ring includes at least one centering recess, or vice versa.

76. A coupling assembly according to claim 75.

77. A coupling assembly comprising: a sealing mechanism extending around the coupling opening; a sealing mechanism disposed between the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration, the sealing mechanism being axially compressed to form a seal between the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration, the sealing mechanism being adjacent and at least partially abutting the coupling opening; A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 60 to 76.

78. The coupling opening abuts the first coupling, the second coupling, and the sealing mechanism.

78. A coupling assembly according to claim 77.

79. An ostomy appliance comprising the coupling assembly of any one of claims 60 to 78, a pouch and a wafer; The first coupling is attached to the wafer and the second coupling is attached to the pouch, or vice versa, such that the wafer and pouch can be separated by decoupling the first coupling and the second coupling; Ostomy appliance.

80. A coupling assembly for an ostomy appliance, comprising: a locking mechanism, a first coupling, and a second coupling, The locking mechanism is a locking ring attached to the first and / or second coupling, defining an inner periphery, and adjustable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein in the locked configuration the locking ring is for maintaining the first and second couplings in a coupled configuration, the inner periphery being smaller than in the unlocked configuration; first and second grips attached to the lock ring, the first and second grips being movably positioned about the lock ring relative to one another to increase an inner circumference and adjust the lock ring from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration; a centering mechanism configured to constrain circumferential movement of at least a portion of the locking ring when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations; The centering mechanism includes at least one centering protrusion attached to the at least one centering recess; The first coupling includes at least one centering projection and the locking ring includes at least one centering recess, or vice versa. Coupling assembly.

81. The locking ring is spring-loaded and resiliently biased to return from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

81. A coupling assembly according to claim 80.

82. The locking ring includes first and second locking ring ends movable relative to one another between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration.

82. A coupling assembly according to claim 80 or 81.

83. The lock ring is split.

83. A coupling assembly according to claim 82.

84. In the locked configuration, the locking ring extends around a circumference that is greater than the inner circumference.

84. A coupling assembly according to claim 82 or 83.

85. In the locked configuration, the distance between the first and second grips around the length of the locking ring is greater than the inner circumference.

85. A coupling assembly according to claim 84.

86. The method of claim 1, further comprising: first and second pinch tabs extending from the locking ring and including first and second grips, respectively. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 80 to 85.

87. The method of claim 87, wherein a first pinch tab extends around the locking ring between a first tab distal end and a first tab proximal end, a second pinch tab extends around the locking ring between a second tab distal end and a second tab proximal end, the first and second tab distal ends forming first and second grips.

87. A coupling assembly according to claim 86.

88. The first and second pinch tabs include first and second tab proximal portions adjacent the locking ring forming the first and second tab proximal ends, and first and second tab distal portions extending radially outward from the first and second tab proximal portions and forming the first and second tab distal ends.

88. A coupling assembly according to claim 87.

89. The first and second tab distal portions extend around the locking ring between the first and second tab distal ends and the first and second tab inner edges; In the unlocked configuration, the first and second tab distal ends are aligned with the second and first tab inner edges, respectively; 89. A coupling assembly as described in claim 88.

90. The first and second pinch tabs slide adjacent to one another when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 86 to 89.

91. The locking ring includes at least one locking tab extending inwardly around an inner circumference to maintain the coupling assembly in a coupled configuration when the locking ring is in a locked configuration. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 80 to 90.

92. A locking ring is attached to the first coupling, and at least one locking tab is configured to engage the second coupling when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration.

92. A coupling assembly according to claim 91.

93. The first coupling includes at least one first coupling opening, the at least one locking tab is configured to engage the second coupling through the at least one first coupling opening when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration; 93. A coupling assembly according to claim 92.

94. The second coupling includes a second coupling outer flange, the at least one locking tab is configured to at least partially overlap the second coupling outer flange when in the coupled and locked configurations to maintain the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration; 94. A coupling assembly according to claim 92 or 93.

95. The method according to claim 95, further comprising first and / or second grip restraining mechanisms configured to restrain radial and / or circumferential movement of the first and second grips when the locking ring is adjusted between the locked and unlocked configurations. A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 80 to 94.

96. A coupling assembly comprising: a sealing mechanism extending around the coupling opening; a sealing mechanism disposed between the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration, the sealing mechanism being axially compressed to form a seal between the first and second couplings in the coupled configuration, the sealing mechanism being adjacent and at least partially abutting the coupling opening; A coupling assembly according to any one of claims 80 to 95.

97. The coupling opening abuts the first coupling, the second coupling, and the sealing mechanism.

97. A coupling assembly as claimed in claim 96.

98. An ostomy appliance comprising the coupling assembly of any one of claims 80 to 97, a pouch and a wafer; The first coupling is attached to the wafer and the second coupling is attached to the pouch, or vice versa, such that the wafer and pouch can be separated by decoupling the first coupling and the second coupling; Ostomy appliance.

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