Filtered Vacuum Relief Vent Valve

Abstract

One embodiment includes a valve comprising: a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output; a one-way valve contained within the channel; a filter; a first pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when the pressure at the valve output is less than the pressure at the valve input; and a second pressure relief port configured to reduce a positive pressure when the pressure at the valve output is greater than the pressure at the valve input; the one-way valve including a monolithic portion simultaneously sealing the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port; and the filter covering the first pressure relief port.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE Embodiments of the present invention are in the field of valves, and in particular, cardiopulmonary bypass devices. [Background technology]

[0002] In open heart surgery, excess blood may flow into the left ventricle of the heart, the aortic root, or the open chest cavity. This may cause dilatation of the ventricle or aorta, which may cause complications during the procedure. Providing suction to these areas may drain blood from these areas to prevent these complications, and may also provide the surgeon with a clear, unobstructed view during the procedure. However, providing too much suction, returning blood to these areas, or allowing too much pressure to be applied to these areas also causes potential complications to the procedure.

[0003] A variety of extracorporeal circuits are utilized to allow fluid flow, to allow drainage, and to relieve excess pressure. One-way or check valves are often used to control the direction of fluid flow and to prevent backflow. Relief valves are utilized to relieve excess pressure and / or relieve excess vacuum conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one embodiment, a valve is provided that includes a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output, a one-way valve contained within the channel, a filter, a first pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input, and a second pressure relief port configured to reduce a positive pressure when a pressure at the valve output is greater than a pressure at the valve input, wherein the one-way valve is configured to simultaneously seal the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port, and the filter is configured to filter air passing through the first pressure relief port from outside the valve.

[0005] According to another embodiment, a valve is provided that includes a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output, a one-way valve contained within the channel, a filter, a first pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input, and a second pressure relief port configured to reduce a positive pressure when a pressure at the valve output is greater than a pressure at the valve input, wherein the one-way valve includes a monolithic part that simultaneously seals the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port, and the filter covers the first pressure relief port. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0006] Features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the appended claims, the following detailed description of one or more exemplary embodiments, and the corresponding drawings, in which: Where considered appropriate, reference characters have been repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of an embodiment of the present invention at an angle. [Figure 1B] 1 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the present invention from a different angle. FIG. [Figure 1C] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the above embodiment. [Figure 1D]FIG. 2 is an assembled view of the above embodiment at an angle. [Figure 1E] 13A-13C are assembly views of the above embodiment at different angles. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a front view of one embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] Reference is now made to the drawings, in which like structures may be provided with like suffix reference numbers. To more clearly illustrate the structures of the various embodiments, the drawings included herein are schematic diagrams of the structures. Thus, the actual appearance of a fabricated device, for example in a photograph, may appear different, while still incorporating the claimed structures of the illustrated embodiment. Furthermore, the drawings may only show structures that are useful for understanding the illustrated embodiment. Additional structures known in the art may not be included to maintain clarity of the drawings. "One embodiment," "various embodiments," and the like, refer to one or more embodiments so described, which may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not all embodiments necessarily include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Some embodiments may have some, all, or none of the features described with respect to other embodiments. "First," "second," "third," and the like, describe a common subject matter and indicate that different instances of the same subject matter are being referenced. Such adjectives do not imply that the objects so described must exist in a given order, ranking, or in any other manner, whether in time or space. "Connected" may indicate that elements are in direct physical contact with each other, and "coupled" may indicate that elements cooperate or interact with each other, but they may or may not be in direct physical contact. A phrase such as "comprising at least one of A and B" includes situations having A, B, or A and B.

[0008] Applicant has determined that the valves described above often have several elements to achieve the various functionality described. Applicant has determined that these valves may have complex and unnecessary geometries that may cause blockage of the flow path and lead to increased thrombosis and clotting in the blood circuit, which may lead to further complications including valve blockage. Applicant has determined that these valves may be expensive and complex to make. Applicant has also determined that such valves do not provide protection from external contaminants (e.g., from aerosolization of liquids in fluid heaters / coolers) that may enter the blood through various vacuum relief vents. (To prevent excessive vacuum, the valves open the vacuum relief vents to the atmosphere, allowing outside air to be drawn into the circuit to ensure that excessive vacuum does not collapse the ventricles or aorta.)

[0009] However, several embodiments address the shortcomings of the valves discussed above. One embodiment provides a simple, low-cost design that incorporates the functionality required for such valves, as well as protection from external contaminants that may otherwise be introduced into the bloodstream during open heart surgery.

[0010] One embodiment includes a vacuum relief vent valve to be used in ventricular vent lines, aortic vent lines, auxiliary suction lines used in cardiovascular surgery, or other lines in contact with a patient. One embodiment of a filtered vacuum relief valve is comprised of a one-way duckbill valve, inlet and outlet housing bodies, and a filter material. The duckbill valve portion has a radial flange that covers a vacuum vent opening in the inlet body and a cylindrical sleeve that covers a pressure relief vent in the outlet body. The vacuum relief valve has a filter material that covers the outside of the vacuum relief vent to filter air that is introduced into the bloodstream through the vacuum vent valve.

[0011] Various features of one embodiment contribute to solving the above problems, including, but not limited to, (1) the duckbill valve provides one-way flow (with a check valve), positive pressure relief, and vacuum relief, all in a unique single design, and (2) the filtration media provides filtration of outside air and possible contaminants through the vacuum relief vent.

[0012] One embodiment uses a 0.2 micron pore size for the filtration material to prevent and protect against airborne bacteria that may be present in the operating room. However, other embodiments may include pore sizes of 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 (or combinations thereof). In one embodiment, the duckbill is constructed from a flexible medical grade material (such as silicone) to allow for proper functionality.

[0013] Several embodiments are advantageous compared to conventional valves, including, but not limited to, (1) the embodiments provide one-way flow (with a check valve), positive pressure relief, and vacuum relief, all in a single piece duckbill valve design (or limited piece valve design), (2) have a simpler construction for improved reliability and lower cost, and (3) reduce thrombosis and blood clotting as a result of the simplicity.

[0014] Many of the vent valve embodiments include a filter, although not all embodiments necessarily include a filter. Some embodiments include a monolithic duckbill valve (wherein the relief valve portion of the valve and the one-way flow portion of the valve are monolithic with each other), while in other embodiments the two portions may not be monolithic with each other. Still other embodiments are not limited to duckbill valves.

[0015] In some embodiments, the valve is a stand-alone product. However, other embodiments include kits. For example, the kit includes a valve as described herein already attached to a ventilation line. This pre-coupling of the valve and line relieves some of the burden on hospitals when they need to couple (e.g., via disconnection) a valve to an existing line. Other kits can couple the valve to other lines, not limited to cardiac perfusion.

[0016] In one embodiment, the filter portion of the valve does not contact the fluid (e.g., blood, etc.) that crosses the valve (e.g., a duckbill valve, etc.), however, one embodiment filters air that comes into contact with the blood.

[0017] A more detailed discussion of various embodiments follows below.

[0018] The cardiopulmonary bypass circuit is a complex network of disposable devices, tubing, and equipment designed to handle the circulation and oxygenation of blood during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. Because fluid management is critical to the outcome of the procedure, several safety devices are incorporated into the circuit to prevent retrograde flow (backflow), manage pressure, and ensure that fluid is distributed when and where it is needed. Some important components of the circuit include the cardioplegia delivery system, the aortic cardioplegia catheter, the surgical equipment used in the procedure (aortic puncture and retract-o-tape), and various safety valves used throughout the circuit. The embodiments described herein address safety valves. Such safety valves may be used, for example, but not limited to, the following lines of the circuit: aortic root suction line (e.g., aortic cardioplegia catheter with a safety valve integrated into the vent line), open heart surgery suction line, left ventricular vent line, and lines connecting the arterial filter and bubble trap to the arterial blood gas sensor.

[0019] The Applicant has determined that there is a risk of airborne pathogen exposure to immunocompromised patients in the operating room (OR). This is a direct result of problems associated with heater-cooler devices used for various purposes in the OR, for example, during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. A heater-cooler device is a device that uses a water reservoir to store and heat or cool water that will be pumped through an artificial lung heat exchanger, a myocardial protection fluid heat exchanger, and / or a patient blanket. If not properly maintained, microorganisms and bacteria can multiply in the water reservoir. In some heater-cooler devices, the water tank is not properly sealed. When the water flows, it splashes inside the device, and those bacteria and microorganisms can become aerosolized. Next, the cooling fan inside the heater-cooler device may blow the aerosolized bacteria throughout the OR (including within the sterile field). This can lead to patient infection and, in turn, may result in complications, long-term care, or even death associated with airborne microorganisms distributed by the heater-cooler device.

[0020] As a result, the Applicant has designed embodiments that address devices where the air / patient interface can be a potential site of infection. In some cases, the vacuum relief function of the safety valve provides a point of direct contact where air is drawn in from the environment and ultimately mixed with the patient's blood. Thus, to promote patient safety, one embodiment includes a safety valve having a mechanism that prevents airborne bacteria from entering the blood volume through a filtration mechanism incorporated into the valve.

[0021] Multiple embodiments have several significant functions during use, such as, without limitation, preventing backflow (e.g., via a duckbill valve), providing vacuum relief (e.g., when used in a ventricular vent line, preventing the negative pressure from collapsing the ventricle itself when the negative pressure rises to an unsafe level), providing positive pressure relief (e.g., when the tube is placed behind a roller pump and turned on, the positive pressure relief reduces the pressure before the duckbill is damaged and backflow is experienced), or providing an air filtration mechanism that filters bacteria / pathogens present in the atmosphere in the OR. Embodiments may be configured with or without a filter and may further improve the performance of flow and pressure drop.

[0022] Figures 1(A) and 1(B) depict a valve further including a filter cover 101, a filter medium 102, an inlet body 103, a duckbill valve 104, an outlet body 105, a pressure relief vent 106, and a vacuum relief vent 107.

[0023] Figure 1(C) (having a one-way flow 110 through the duckbill valve 104) shows a path 109 (i.e., positive pressure relief) for reducing the pressure from the output of the channel. Figure 1(A) shows an opening 130 within the outer housing for pressure relief, and Figure 1(A) shows an opening 106 within the wall adjacent to the duckbill valve (although vent 106 is not seen in Figure 1(C), refer to pressure relief vent 106 for the pressure relief path 109). Figure 1(C) shows a path 108 (i.e., vacuum relief path 108) for reducing the pressure from the input of the channel. For example, if a downstream peristaltic pump (where "downstream" is to the right of the duckbill valve in Figure 1(C)) is present to create a negative pressure in region 112, the pressure can be relieved via air traveling along path 108, across the duckbill valve, and into region 112. Figure 1(A) shows an opening (vacuum relief vent 107) within the housing to facilitate path 108. The opening is covered by the filter medium 102 and filter cover 101 of Figure 1(A).

[0024] FIG. 1(C) includes a valve with a filter cover 101, a filter medium 102, an inlet body 103, a duckbill valve 104, an outlet body 105, a pressure relief vent (not shown in FIG. 1(C) due to the position in which the cross section is taken, but the vent (i.e., vent 106) is visible in FIG. 1(A)), and a vacuum relief vent 107. The vent 106 can have an opening at the location of the circle 106 in FIG. 1(C) if the cross section of FIG. 1(C) is altered by a small amount. The valve further includes a valve channel coupling a valve input 111 to a valve output 112. The pressure relief port 107 is configured to reduce a negative pressure when the pressure at the valve output is less than the pressure at the valve input. The pressure relief port 106 is configured to reduce a positive pressure when the pressure at the valve output is greater than the pressure at the valve input. Valve 104 includes a monolithic part that simultaneously seals the channel, pressure relief port 107, and pressure relief port 106. Filter 102 covers pressure relief port 107. Filter 102 does not cover pressure relief port 106.

[0025] This embodiment utilizes a one-way valve (such as, for example, duckbill valve 104) contained within the channel. Valve 104 may comprise a resilient material such as silicone. In an alternative embodiment, the one-way valve comprises a wagon wheel valve, such as the valve of Figures 2 or 3. The valve of Figure 2 includes side walls 217 that extend generally parallel to axis 213 such that they cover valve 206.

[0026] Returning to FIG. 2C, the filter material 102 is located between the pressure relief port 107 and the cover 101, which is included on the outermost surface of the valve.

[0027] Channel longitudinal axis 113 intersects with the valve input and valve output. In one embodiment, pressure relief port 107 includes a pressure relief port longitudinal axis (not shown) that is parallel to channel longitudinal axis 113. In one embodiment, axis 114 is orthogonal to channel longitudinal axis 113, and the monolithic portion of valve 104 intersects axis 114 four times. However, in other embodiments, the monolithic portion of valve 104 intersects axis 114 at least four times. In one embodiment, axis 114 intersects with pressure relief port 106 (not shown in FIG. 1(C)).

[0028] The duckbill valve 104 includes two opposing flaps 115, 116 that are biased against each other in a quiescent state and that directly contact each other in a quiescent state. The schematic diagram in Figure 1(C) does not show the interface between the two flaps (due to the abstract, high level nature of Figure 1(C)), which would expand to form an air gap between the two flaps when the valve is in a non-quiescent / activated state.

[0029] Figure 2 depicts the valve in a more abstract, higher level perspective than that of Figure 1(C). The valve includes the spoke valve of Figure 3. Note that the spoke valve has a sidewall 217 that seals the pressure relief vent 206 but does not seal the vacuum relief vent 207. Figure 2 shows a path 209 for pressure to be lowered from the output of the channel (i.e., positive pressure relief) and a path 208 for pressure to be lowered from the input of the channel (i.e., vacuum relief).

[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates a valve including filter cover 401, filter media 402, inlet body 403, duckbill valve (not shown, but located about area 404), duckbill valve 404′ (which serves as a pressure relief vent), outlet body 405, and vacuum relief vent 407.

[0031] Next, various examples are given.

[0032] Example 1: A valve including: a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output; a one-way valve contained within the channel; a filter; a first pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input; and a second pressure relief port configured to reduce a positive pressure when a pressure at the valve output is greater than a pressure at the valve input; wherein the one-way valve includes a monolithic portion that simultaneously seals the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port, and the filter covers the first pressure relief port.

[0033] As used herein, "monolithic" means "single piece." For example, a monolithic portion of a valve may be formed from two pieces fixedly and permanently joined together via additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing, etc.), molding, permanent bonding (e.g., welding, adhesives, etc.), etc.

[0034] Another version of Example 1: A valve including: a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output; a one-way valve contained within the channel; a filter; a first pressure relief port configured to reduce pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input; a second pressure relief port configured to reduce pressure when a pressure at the valve output is greater than a pressure at the valve input; wherein the one-way valve includes a monolithic portion that simultaneously seals the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port, and the filter covers the first pressure relief port.

[0035] Such a valve may be included as a stand-alone valve or may be included in a system of valves in which the valve is only one of several valves that cooperate to control the flow of a fluid ("fluid" as used herein includes both liquids and gases).

[0036] Another version of Example 1: A valve including: a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output; a check valve contained within the channel; a filter; a first pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input; a second pressure relief port configured to reduce a positive pressure when a pressure at the valve output is greater than a pressure at the valve input; wherein the check valve includes a monolithic portion that simultaneously seals the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port, and the filter covers the first pressure relief port.

[0037] A check valve, butterfly valve, non-return valve, reflux valve, retention valve, or one-way valve is a valve that typically allows fluid (liquid or gas) to pass in only one direction. A check valve may be a two-port valve, meaning that the valve has two openings in the body, one for fluid to enter and one for fluid to exit.

[0038] Another version of Example 1: A valve including: a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output; a valve contained within the channel; a filter; a first pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input; a second pressure relief port configured to reduce a positive pressure when a pressure at the valve output is greater than a pressure at the valve input; the valve including a monolithic portion that simultaneously seals the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port, and the filter covering the first pressure relief port.

[0039] Example 2: The valve of example 1, wherein the one-way valve comprises an elastic material.

[0040] Example 3: The valve of example 2, wherein the one-way valve is a duckbill valve.

[0041] Example 4: The valve of example 2, wherein the one-way valve is a wagon wheel valve.

[0042] Example 5: The valve of example 2, wherein the filter does not cover the second pressure relief port.

[0043] Example 6: The valve of example 5, including a filtration material and a cover, the filtration material being between the first pressure relief port and the cover, the cover being included in an outermost surface of the valve.

[0044] Example 7: The valve of example 5, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and the first pressure relief port includes a first pressure relief port long axis that is parallel to the channel long axis.

[0045] Example 8: A valve as described in example 5, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, an additional axis is orthogonal to the channel long axis, and the monolithic portion intersects the additional axis four times.

[0046] Example 9: The valve of example 8, wherein the further axis intersects with the second pressure relief port.

[0047] Example 10: A valve as described in Example 5, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, an additional axis is perpendicular to the channel long axis, and the monolithic portion intersects the additional axis at least four times.

[0048] Example 11: The duckbill valve of Example 3, wherein the duckbill valve includes two opposing flaps, the two opposing flaps being biased toward one another in a resting state, and the two opposing flaps being in direct contact with one another in a resting state.

[0049] Example 12: The valve of example 2, wherein the elastic material comprises silicone.

[0050] Examples 13 to 20 are omitted.

[0051] Example 21: A valve including: a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output; a one-way valve contained within the channel; a filter; a first pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input; and a second pressure relief port configured to reduce a positive pressure when a pressure at the valve output is greater than a pressure at the valve input; wherein the one-way valve is configured to simultaneously seal the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port, and the filter is configured to filter air passing through the first pressure relief port from outside the valve.

[0052] Thus, not all embodiments require the valve to be monolithic.

[0053] Another version of Example 21: A valve including: a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output; a one-way valve contained within the channel; a filter; a first pressure relief port configured to reduce pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input; a second pressure relief port configured to reduce pressure when a pressure at the valve output is greater than a pressure at the valve input; wherein the one-way valve is configured to simultaneously seal the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port, and the filter is configured to filter air passing through the first pressure relief port from outside the valve.

[0054] Example 22: The valve of example 21, wherein the one-way valve comprises an elastic material.

[0055] Example 23: The valve of example 22, wherein the one-way valve is a duckbill valve.

[0056] Example 24: The valve of example 22, wherein the one-way valve is a wagon wheel valve.

[0057] Example 25: The valve of example 22, wherein the filter does not cover the second pressure relief port.

[0058] Example 26: The valve of example 25, including a filtration material and a cover, the filtration material being between the first pressure relief port and the cover, the cover being included in an outermost surface of the valve.

[0059] Example 27: The valve of Example 25, wherein the channel includes a channel longitudinal axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and the first pressure relief port includes a first pressure relief port longitudinal axis that is parallel to the channel longitudinal axis.

[0060] Example 28: A valve as described in Example 25, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and a further axis is perpendicular to the channel long axis, and the one-way valve intersects the further axis four times.

[0061] Example 29: The valve of example 28, wherein the further axis intersects with the second pressure relief port.

[0062] Example 30: A valve as described in Example 25, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and a further axis is perpendicular to the channel long axis, and the one-way valve intersects the further axis at least four times.

[0063] Example 31: The duckbill valve of Example 23, wherein the duckbill valve includes two opposing flaps, the two opposing flaps being biased toward one another in a resting state, and the two opposing flaps being in direct contact with one another in a resting state.

[0064] Example 32: The valve of example 22, wherein the elastic material comprises silicone.

[0065] Example 33: The valve of Example 22, wherein the one-way valve includes a monolithic portion configured to simultaneously seal the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port.

[0066] Example 34: The valve of example 5 or 15, wherein the first pressure relief port is configured to be upstream of the one-way valve and the second pressure relief port is configured to be downstream of the one-way valve.

[0067] Example 35: A valve as described in Example 5 or 15, wherein the first pressure relief port is configured to be between the valve input and the one-way valve, and the second pressure relief port is configured to be between the valve output and the one-way valve.

[0068] Example 36: A valve as described in Example 5 or 15, wherein the first pressure relief port is configured to be fluidly coupled to the valve input when (a)(i) the pressure at the valve output is less than the pressure at the valve input and (a)(ii) the one-way valve is closed, and the second pressure relief port is configured to be fluidly coupled to the valve output when (b)(i) the pressure at the valve output is greater than the pressure at the valve input and (b)(ii) the one-way valve is closed.

[0069] Example 37: The valve of example 5 or 15, wherein both the first pressure relief port and the second pressure relief port are in direct contact with the one-way valve when neither the first pressure relief port nor the second pressure relief port relieves pressure.

[0070] Example 38: The valve of Example 5 or 15, wherein the valve includes an outermost surface, the outermost surface including a third pressure relief port, the third pressure relief port configured to reduce pressure when (a) the pressure at the valve output is greater than the pressure at the valve input and (b) the one-way valve is closed.

[0071] Example 39: The valve of Example 38, wherein the third pressure relief port is configured to fluidly couple to reduce pressure when (a) the pressure at the valve output is greater than the pressure at the valve input and (b) the one-way valve is closed.

[0072] Example 40: A valve as described in Example 1 or 21, including a third pressure relief port configured to reduce the positive pressure when the pressure at the valve output is greater than the pressure at the valve input, and the monolithic portion simultaneously seals the channel, the first pressure relief port, the second pressure relief port, and the third pressure relief port.

[0073] For example, note that in Figure 1(C) the pathway 109 is shown engaging the valve 104 in two positions (see the circles in Figure 1(C)). An embodiment may have one instance of the port 106, two instances of the port 106, or more than two instances of the port 106.

[0074] Example 40: A valve as described in Example 1 or 21, including a third pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when the pressure at the valve output is less than the pressure at the valve input, and the monolithic portion simultaneously seals the channel, the first pressure relief port, the second pressure relief port, and the third pressure relief port.

[0075] Thus, an embodiment may allow for more than one instance of port 107 .

[0076] Example 1a: A valve including: a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output; a one-way valve contained within the channel; a filter; a first pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input; and a second pressure relief port configured to reduce a positive pressure when a pressure at the valve output is greater than a pressure at the valve input; wherein the one-way valve includes a monolithic portion that simultaneously seals the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port, and the filter covers the first pressure relief port.

[0077] Example 2a: The valve of Example 1a, wherein the one-way valve comprises an elastic material.

[0078] Example 3a: The valve of any of Examples 1a to 2a, wherein the one-way valve is a duckbill valve.

[0079] Example 4a: The valve of any of Examples 1a to 2a, wherein the one-way valve is a wagon wheel valve.

[0080] Example 5a: The valve of any of Examples 1a to 4a, wherein the filter does not cover the second pressure relief port.

[0081] Example 6a: The valve of any of Examples 1a to 5a, including a filtration material and a cover, the filtration material being between the first pressure relief port and the cover, the cover being included in an outermost surface of the valve.

[0082] Example 7a: A valve as described in any of Examples 1a to 6a, wherein the channel includes a channel longitudinal axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and the first pressure relief port includes a first pressure relief port longitudinal axis that is parallel to the channel longitudinal axis.

[0083] Example 8a: A valve described in any of Examples 1a to 6a, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and a further axis is perpendicular to the channel long axis, and the monolithic portion intersects the further axis four times.

[0084] Example 9a: The valve of example 8a, wherein the further axis intersects with the second pressure relief port.

[0085] Example 10a: A valve described in any of Examples 1a to 6a, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and a further axis is perpendicular to the channel long axis, and the monolithic portion intersects the further axis at least four times.

[0086] Example 11a: The duckbill valve of Example 3a, wherein the duckbill valve includes two opposing flaps, the two opposing flaps being biased toward one another in a resting state, and the two opposing flaps being in direct contact with one another in a resting state.

[0087] Example 12a: The valve of any of Examples 2a to 11a, wherein the elastic material comprises silicone.

[0088] Examples 13a to 20a are omitted.

[0089] Example 21a: A valve including: a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output; a one-way valve contained within the channel; a filter; a first pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input; and a second pressure relief port configured to reduce a positive pressure when a pressure at the valve output is greater than a pressure at the valve input; wherein the one-way valve is configured to simultaneously seal the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port, and the filter is configured to filter air passing through the first pressure relief port from outside the valve.

[0090] Thus, not all embodiments require the valve to be monolithic.

[0091] Example 22a: The valve of Example 21a, wherein the one-way valve comprises an elastic material.

[0092] Example 23a: The valve of any of Examples 21a to 22a, wherein the one-way valve is a duckbill valve.

[0093] Example 24a: The valve of any of Examples 21a to 22a, wherein the one-way valve is a wagon wheel valve.

[0094] Example 25a: The valve of any of Examples 21a to 24a, wherein the filter does not cover the second pressure relief port.

[0095] Example 26a: The valve of any of Examples 21a to 25a, including a filter material and a cover, the filter material being between the first pressure relief port and the cover, the cover being included in an outermost surface of the valve.

[0096] Example 27a: A valve described in any of Examples 21a to 26a, wherein the channel includes a channel longitudinal axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and the first pressure relief port includes a first pressure relief port longitudinal axis that is parallel to the channel longitudinal axis.

[0097] Example 28a: A valve described in any of Examples 21a to 26a, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and a further axis is perpendicular to the channel long axis, and the one-way valve intersects the further axis four times.

[0098] Example 29a: The valve of Example 28a, wherein the further axis intersects the second pressure relief port.

[0099] Example 30a: A valve described in any of Examples 21a to 26a, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and a further axis is perpendicular to the channel long axis, and the one-way valve intersects the further axis at least four times.

[0100] Example 31a: The duckbill valve includes two opposing flaps, the two opposing flaps being biased toward one another in a resting state, and the two opposing flaps being in direct contact with one another in a resting state. The valve of Example 23a.

[0101] Example 32a: The valve of example 22a, wherein the elastic material comprises silicone.

[0102] Example 33a: The valve of any of Examples 21a to 32a, wherein the one-way valve includes a monolithic portion configured to simultaneously seal the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port.

[0103] Example 1b: A valve including: a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output; a one-way valve contained within the channel; a filter; a first pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input; and a second pressure relief port configured to reduce a positive pressure when a pressure at the valve output is greater than a pressure at the valve input; wherein the one-way valve includes a monolithic portion that simultaneously seals the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port, and the filter covers the first pressure relief port.

[0104] Example 2b: The valve of example 1b, wherein the one-way valve comprises an elastic material.

[0105] Example 3b: The valve of any of Examples 1b to 2b, wherein the one-way valve is a duckbill valve.

[0106] Example 4b: The valve of any of Examples 1b to 2b, wherein the one-way valve is a wagon wheel valve.

[0107] Example 5b: The valve of any of Examples 1b to 4b, wherein the filter does not cover the second pressure relief port.

[0108] Example 6b: The valve of any of Examples 1b to 4b, including a filter material and a cover, the filter material being between the first pressure relief port and the cover, the cover being included in an outermost surface of the valve.

[0109] Example 7b: A valve as described in any of Examples 1b to 4b, wherein the channel includes a channel longitudinal axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and the first pressure relief port includes a first pressure relief port longitudinal axis that is parallel to the channel longitudinal axis.

[0110] Example 8b: A valve described in any of Examples 1b to 4b, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and a further axis is perpendicular to the channel long axis, and the monolithic portion intersects the further axis four times.

[0111] Example 9b: The valve of example 8b, wherein the further axis intersects with the second pressure relief port.

[0112] Example 10b: A valve described in any of Examples 1b to 4b, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and a further axis is perpendicular to the channel long axis, and the monolithic portion intersects the further axis at least four times.

[0113] Example 11b: The duckbill valve of Example 3b, wherein the duckbill valve includes two opposing flaps, the two opposing flaps being biased toward one another in a resting state, and the two opposing flaps being in direct contact with one another in a resting state.

[0114] Example 12b: The valve of any of Examples 1b to 4b, wherein the elastic material comprises silicone.

[0115] Examples 13b to 20b are omitted.

[0116] Example 21b: A valve including: a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output; a one-way valve contained within the channel; a filter; a first pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input; and a second pressure relief port configured to reduce a positive pressure when a pressure at the valve output is greater than a pressure at the valve input; wherein the one-way valve is configured to simultaneously seal the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port, and the filter is configured to filter air passing through the first pressure relief port from outside the valve.

[0117] Thus, not all embodiments require the valve to be monolithic.

[0118] Example 22b: The valve of Example 21b, wherein the one-way valve comprises an elastic material.

[0119] Example 23b: The valve of any of Examples 21b to 22b, wherein the one-way valve is a duckbill valve.

[0120] Example 24b: The valve of any of Examples 21b to 22b, wherein the one-way valve is a wagon wheel valve.

[0121] Example 25b: The valve of any of Examples 21b to 24b, wherein the filter does not cover the second pressure relief port.

[0122] Example 26b: The valve of any of Examples 21b to 24b, including a filter material and a cover, the filter material being between the first pressure relief port and the cover, the cover being included in an outermost surface of the valve.

[0123] Example 27b: A valve described in any of Examples 21b to 24b, wherein the channel includes a channel longitudinal axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and the first pressure relief port includes a first pressure relief port longitudinal axis that is parallel to the channel longitudinal axis.

[0124] Example 28b: A valve described in any of Examples 21b to 24b, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and a further axis is perpendicular to the channel long axis, and the one-way valve intersects the further axis four times.

[0125] Example 29b: The valve of example 28b, wherein the further axis intersects with the second pressure relief port.

[0126] Example 30b: A valve described in any of Examples 21b to 24b, wherein the channel includes a channel long axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output, and a further axis is perpendicular to the channel long axis, and the one-way valve intersects the further axis at least four times.

[0127] Example 31b: The duckbill valve of Example 23b, wherein the duckbill valve includes two opposing flaps, the two opposing flaps being biased toward one another in a resting state, and the two opposing flaps being in direct contact with one another in a resting state.

[0128] Example 32b: The valve of example 22b, wherein the elastic material comprises silicone.

[0129] Example 33b: The valve of any of Examples 21b to 24b, wherein the one-way valve includes a monolithic portion configured to simultaneously seal the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port.

[0130] The above description of the embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. This specification and the appended claims include terms such as left, right, top, bottom, up, down, above, below, first, second, etc., which are used for descriptive purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting. For example, terms indicating a relative vertical position refer to a situation in which the side of a substrate is the "top" surface of the substrate, and the substrate may actually be in any orientation such that the "top" surface of the substrate may be lower than the "bottom" surface in a standard Earth reference frame and still be within the meaning of the term "top". The embodiments of the device or product described herein may be manufactured, used, or shipped in a number of positions and orientations. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. Those skilled in the art will recognize various equivalent combinations and substitutions for the various components shown in the figures. It is therefore intended that the scope of the invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. a valve channel coupling a valve input to a valve output; a one-way valve contained within the channel; A filter, a first pressure relief port configured to reduce a negative pressure when a pressure at the valve output is less than a pressure at the valve input; a second pressure relief port configured to reduce positive pressure when pressure at the valve output is greater than pressure at the valve input; A valve comprising: the one-way valve includes a monolithic portion configured to simultaneously seal the channel, the first pressure relief port, and the second pressure relief port; The filter is configured to cover the outside of the first pressure relief port to filter air passing through the first pressure relief port from outside the valve and prevent atmospheric bacteria, microorganisms, and / or pathogens from entering the valve channel.

2. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the one-way valve comprises a resilient material.

3. The valve of claim 2 , wherein the one-way valve is a duckbill valve.

4. 3. The valve of claim 2, wherein the one-way valve is a wagon wheel valve.

5. 5. A valve as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the filter does not cover the second pressure relief port.

6. A filter medium and a cover are included. the filter material is between the first pressure relief port and the cover; The filtration material is included in the filter, The cover is included on the outermost surface of the valve. A valve as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. the channel includes a channel longitudinal axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output; the first pressure relief port includes a first pressure relief port longitudinal axis parallel to the channel longitudinal axis; A valve as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4.

8. the channel includes a channel longitudinal axis that intersects the valve input and the valve output; a further axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the channel; The one-way valve intersects the further axis at least four times. A valve as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4.

9. The valve of claim 8 , wherein the further axis intersects the second pressure relief port.

10. The duckbill valve includes two opposing flaps; the two opposing flaps are biased toward one another in a resting state; the two opposing flaps are in direct contact with each other in the rest state; 4. The valve of claim 3.

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