Fluid manifold and method for producing the same

Abstract

To provide a fluid manifold with improved performance.SOLUTION: A body 110 of a fluid manifold 100 includes a proximal end 112, a distal end 114, and a primary manifold component 120. The primary manifold component extends from the proximal end of the body to the distal end thereof and encloses a primary channel 122. The fluid manifold may further include at least one auxiliary manifold component 130. The at least one auxiliary manifold component diverges from the primary manifold component and encloses an auxiliary channel 132 connected to the primary channel at a primary channel exit port. The fluid manifold may further include at least one compression valve region. The compression valve region may be operable between an open position and a closed position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to fluid manifolds, and more particularly to polymer-based fluid manifolds in which a compression valve region is positioned along a body portion of the fluid manifold.

Background Art

[0002] Fluid manifolds are used in a variety of applications. The biopharmaceutical manufacturing industry has utilized fluid manifolds to transport the media used in the manufacturing process. Such manifolds can contain reactants, reaction products, solvents, diluents, buffers, or other liquids used in manufacturing. However, many fluid manifold designs used in this industry experience performance degradation due to their inability to efficiently transport the media. In particular, many manifolds used in the industry experience a reduction in fluid flow in various regions near or adjacent to the outlet ports from the main manifold body, or near or adjacent to the valves, and the valves are incorporated downstream from the manifold, for example, as part of or acting on auxiliary tubing connected to the manifold. This can result in a portion of the fluid passing through the fluid manifold becoming stagnant, creating a structural condition of the manifold referred to as a "dead zone." Stagnant fluid in the manifold or in tubing connected to the manifold near the outlet ports can result in subsequent contamination of the transport media, reactants, reaction products, solvents, diluents, buffers, or other liquids flowing through the manifold. Accordingly, there remains a need for fluid manifolds having improved performance in such applications.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] According to one aspect, the fluid manifold can include a body portion, the body portion can include a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a primary manifold component, the primary manifold component extends from the proximal end portion of the body portion to the distal end portion of the body portion and surrounds a primary channel. The fluid manifold can further include at least one auxiliary manifold component, the at least one auxiliary manifold component branches from the primary manifold component and surrounds an auxiliary channel connected to the primary channel at a primary channel outlet port. The fluid manifold can further include at least one compression valve region disposed along the body portion of the manifold. The at least one compression valve region can be operable between an open position and a closed position, and when in the closed position, fluid flow through the manifold can be restricted from flowing through the primary channel and / or from flowing from the primary channel into the auxiliary channel.

[0004] According to yet another aspect, the fluid manifold assembly can include a fluid manifold. The fluid manifold can include a body portion that can include a proximal end, a distal end, and a primary manifold component that extends from the proximal end of the body portion to the distal end of the body portion and surrounds a primary channel. The fluid manifold can further include at least one auxiliary manifold component that branches from the primary manifold component and surrounds an auxiliary channel that is connected to the primary channel at a primary channel outlet port. The fluid manifold can further include at least one compression valve region disposed along the body portion of the manifold. The at least one compression valve region can be operable between an open position and a closed position and, when in the closed position, can limit at least one of fluid flow through the manifold flowing through the primary channel and fluid flowing from the primary channel out into the auxiliary channel. The fluid manifold assembly can further include a clamping component disposed at the at least one compression valve region of the fluid manifold.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0005] Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and are not limited in the accompanying drawings.

[0006]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to assist in improving the understanding of the embodiments of the present invention. Further, the use of the same reference numerals in different drawings indicates similar or identical items.

[0008] The following description in combination with the figures is provided to assist in understanding the teachings disclosed herein. The following discussion will focus on specific implementations and embodiments of the present teachings. This focus is provided to assist in explaining the present teachings and should not be construed as a limitation on the scope or applicability of the present teachings. However, other embodiments may be used based on the present teachings as disclosed in this application.

[0009] The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", "has", "having", or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method, article, or apparatus that includes a listing of features is not necessarily limited only to those features, but may include other features not explicitly listed or other features inherent to such method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, "or" represents an inclusive "or" and not an exclusive "or". For example, the condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or absent); A is false (or absent) and B is true (or present); and both A and B are true (or present).

[0010] Also, the use of "a" or "an" is employed to describe the elements and components described herein. This is merely for convenience and is done to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This description should be read to include "one" or "at least one", and the singular form includes the plural form or vice versa unless it is clear that it means otherwise. For example, when a single item is described herein, two or more items may be used instead of the single item. Similarly, when two or more items are described herein, a single item may be substituted for the two or more items.

[0011] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. In the absence of details regarding specific materials and processing acts not described herein, many are conventional and can be found in textbooks and other sources within the field of solar control technology.

[0012] The embodiments described herein generally relate to a fluid manifold having a body portion, the body portion being capable of including a primary manifold component, at least one auxiliary manifold component branching from the primary manifold component, and at least one compression valve region disposed along the body portion of the fluid manifold, the at least one compression valve region being operable between an open position and a closed position and, when in the closed position, restricting fluid flow either through the primary channel or from the primary channel out into the auxiliary channel.

[0013] These concepts are better understood in view of the embodiments described below, which illustrate but do not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 1a includes an illustration of a perspective view of a fluid manifold 100 according to a particular embodiment described herein. According to a particular embodiment, and as shown in Figure 1a, the fluid manifold 100 can have a body portion 110, the body portion 110 can include a proximal end 112, a distal end 114, and a primary manifold component 120 extending from the proximal end 112 to the distal end 114. The primary manifold component 120 can surround a primary channel 122. The body portion 110 can further include at least one auxiliary manifold component 130 branching from the primary manifold component 120. The auxiliary manifold component 130 can surround an auxiliary channel 132 connected to the primary channel 122. The body portion 110 can further include at least one compression valve region 140 disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130. According to a particular embodiment, the compression valve region 140 can be operable between an open position and a closed position.

[0015] Figure 1b includes a perspective cross-section view of the fluid manifold 100 of Figure 1a showing the internal cavity of the fluid manifold 100. Figure 1c includes a perspective cross-section view of a portion of the fluid manifold 100 of Figure 1a showing the compression valve region 140. According to an embodiment, and as shown in Figures 1b and 1c, the auxiliary channel 132 can be connected to the primary channel 122 at a primary channel outlet port 125, and the primary channel outlet port 125 leads from the primary channel 125 out through at least one compression valve region 140 and into the auxiliary channel 132.

[0016] According to certain embodiments described herein, the main body 110 can include any desired number of auxiliary manifold components 130 branching from the primary manifold component 120. According to certain embodiments, the main body 110 can include a specific number of auxiliary manifold components 130 branching from the primary manifold component 120. For example, the main body 110 can include at least about 2 auxiliary manifold components 130 branching from the primary manifold component 120, such as at least about 3 auxiliary manifold components 130 branching from the primary manifold component 120, or at least about 4 auxiliary manifold components 130 branching from the primary manifold component 120, or at least about 5 auxiliary manifold components 130 branching from the primary manifold component 120, or at least about 6 auxiliary manifold components 130 branching from the primary manifold component 120, or at least about 7 auxiliary manifold components 130 branching from the primary manifold component 120, or at least about 8 auxiliary manifold components 130 branching from the primary manifold component 120, or at least about 9 auxiliary manifold components 130 branching from the primary manifold component 120, or even at least about 10 auxiliary manifold components 130 branching from the primary manifold component 120, etc.

[0017] According to still other embodiments, the main body 110 can include any desired number of compression valve regions disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130. According to yet other embodiments, the main body 110 can include a specific number of compression valve regions 140 disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130. For example, the main body 110 can include at least about two compression valve regions 140 disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130, such as at least about three compression valve regions 140 disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130, or at least about four compression valve regions 140 disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130, or at least about five compression valve regions 140 disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130, or at least about six compression valve regions 140 disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130, or at least about seven compression valve regions 140 disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130, or at least about eight compression valve regions 140 disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130, or at least about nine compression valve regions 140 disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130, or even at least about ten compression valve regions 140 disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130, etc.According to yet other embodiments, the main body 110 can have a compression valve region 140 disposed between the primary manifold component 120 and the respective auxiliary manifold components 130.

[0018] According to other embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 1a, 1b, and 1c, the compression valve region can be a primary channel outlet port valve. According to yet other embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 1a, 1b, and 1c, the primary channel outlet port valve can be disposed along the main body 110 between the primary manifold component 120 and the auxiliary manifold component 130. According to yet other embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 1a, 1b, and 1c, the primary channel outlet port valve can be disposed along the main body 110 at the primary channel outlet port 125. According to still other embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 1a, 1b, and 1c, the primary channel outlet port valve can be disposed along the main body 110 such that when the compression valve region 140 is in the closed position, the fluid flow through the main body 110 is restricted from flowing out of the primary channel 122 and into the auxiliary channel 132. According to yet other embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 1a, 1b, and 1c, the primary channel outlet port valve is disposed along the main body 110 such that when the compression valve region 140 is in the closed position, the fluid flow through the main body 110 is restricted from flowing through the primary channel outlet port 125.

[0019] According to yet other embodiments, the primary channel outlet port valve may be disposed along the body portion 110 such that when the compression valve region 140 is in the closed position, the compressed portion of the compression valve region 140 restricts fluid flow from the primary channel 122 into the auxiliary channel 132. According to yet other embodiments, as well as as shown in FIGS. 1a, 1b, and 1c, the primary channel outlet port valve may be disposed along the body portion 110 such that when the compression valve region 140 is in the closed position, the compressed portion of the compression valve region 140 that restricts fluid flow is generally coplanar with the inner wall portion of the primary manifold component 130.

[0020] According to yet other embodiments, the primary channel outlet port valve may be disposed along the body portion 110 such that when the compression valve region 140 is in the closed position, the region of the primary channel that extends across the length of the compression valve region 140 has a particular longitudinal dead space factor (LDSF). As used with reference to the embodiments described herein, the longitudinal dead space factor (LDSF) is defined by the equation LDSF = |ACP PC -ACP CR | / ACP PC where ACP PC is equal to the average cross-sectional perimeter of the primary channel between the proximal end and the distal end of the body portion, and ACP CRis equal to the average cross-sectional outer circumference of the primary channel extending along the length of the compression valve region. According to certain embodiments, the longitudinal dead space factor (LDSF) of the compression valve region 140 can be about 0.5 or less, for example, about 0.45 or less, or about 0.4 or less, or about 0.35 or less, or about 0.3 or less, or about 0.25 or less, or about 0.2 or less, or about 0.15 or less, or about 0.1 or less, or even about 0.01 or less, etc. It will be recognized that the longitudinal dead space factor (LDSF) of the compression valve region 140 can be within a range between any of the values described above. It will be further recognized that the longitudinal dead space factor (LDSF) of the compression valve region 140 can be any value between any of the values described above.

[0021] According to still other embodiments, the primary channel outlet port valve can be disposed along the body portion 110 such that when the compression valve region 140 is in the closed position, the body portion 110 has substantially no dead space. According to still other embodiments, the primary channel outlet port valve can be disposed along the body portion 110 such that when the compression valve region 140 is in the closed position, the body portion 110 has no dead space. According to still other embodiments, the primary channel outlet port valve can be disposed along the body portion 110 such that when the compression valve region 140 is in the closed position, the body portion 110 has substantially no stagnant fluid flow. According to still other embodiments, the primary channel outlet port valve can be disposed along the body portion 110 such that when the compression valve region 140 is in the closed position, the body portion 110 has no stagnant fluid flow.

[0022] FIG. 2 includes an illustration of a perspective view of a fluid manifold 200 according to other embodiments described herein. According to one embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 2, the fluid manifold 200 can have a body portion 210, the body portion 210 can include a proximal end 212, a distal end 214, and a primary manifold component 220 extending from the proximal end 212 to the distal end 214. The primary manifold component 220 can surround a primary channel 222. The body portion 210 can further include at least one auxiliary manifold component 230 branching from the primary manifold component 220. The auxiliary manifold component 230 can surround an auxiliary channel 232 connected to the primary channel 222. The body portion 210 can further include at least one compression valve region 240 disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230. According to certain embodiments, the compression valve region 240 can be operable between an open position and a closed position.

[0023] According to certain embodiments, the body portion 210 can include any desired number of auxiliary manifold components 230 branching from the primary manifold component 220. According to certain embodiments, the body portion 210 can include a specific number of auxiliary manifold components 230 branching from the primary manifold component 220. For example, the body portion 210 can include at least about 2 auxiliary manifold components 230 branching from the primary manifold component 220, such as at least about 3 auxiliary manifold components 230 branching from the primary manifold component 220, or at least about 4 auxiliary manifold components 230 branching from the primary manifold component 220, or at least about 5 auxiliary manifold components 230 branching from the primary manifold component 220, or at least about 6 auxiliary manifold components 230 branching from the primary manifold component 220, or at least about 7 auxiliary manifold components 230 branching from the primary manifold component 220, or at least about 8 auxiliary manifold components 230 branching from the primary manifold component 220, or at least about 9 auxiliary manifold components 230 branching from the primary manifold component 220, or even at least about 10 auxiliary manifold components 230 branching from the primary manifold component 220, and so on.

[0024] According to yet other embodiments, the body portion 210 can include any desired number of compression valve regions disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230. According to still other embodiments, the body portion 210 can include a specific number of compression valve regions 240 disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230. For example, the body portion 210 can include at least about two compression valve regions disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230, for example, at least about three compression valve regions 240 disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230, or at least about four compression valve regions 240 disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230, or at least about five compression valve regions 240 disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230, or at least about six compression valve regions 240 disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230, or at least about seven compression valve regions 240 disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230, or at least about eight compression valve regions 240 disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230, or at least about nine compression valve regions 240 disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230, or even at least about ten compression valve regions 240 disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230, etc.According to yet another embodiment, the main body portion 210 can have one compression valve region 240 disposed along the primary manifold component 220 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230.

[0025] According to certain embodiments and as shown in FIG. 2, the compression valve region 240 can include a primary compression manifold valve. According to yet another embodiment and as shown in FIG. 2, the primary compression manifold valve can be disposed along the main body portion 210, along the primary manifold component 220, adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 230. According to yet another embodiment and as shown in FIG. 2, the primary compression manifold valve can be disposed along the main body portion 210 adjacent to the primary channel outlet port 225. According to still another embodiment and as shown in FIG. 2, the primary compression manifold valve can be disposed along the main body portion 210 such that when the compression valve region 240 is in the closed position, fluid flow through the main body portion 210 is restricted from passing through the auxiliary channel 232 and through at least a portion of the primary channel 222. According to yet another embodiment and as shown in FIG. 2, the primary compression manifold valve is disposed along the main body portion 210 such that when the compression valve region 240 is in the closed position, fluid flow through the main body portion 210 is restricted from flowing through the primary channel outlet port 225.

[0026] According to yet another embodiment, the primary channel 222 can have an average diameter D PC and can have a first axis along its length between the proximal end 212 of the main body portion and the distal end 214 of the main body portion 210. According to still another embodiment, the auxiliary channel 232 can have an average diameter D ACIt is possible to have, and also possible to have a second axis along its length. According to yet another embodiment, the compression valve region 240 can be disposed along the body portion 210, and when the compression valve region 240 is in the closed position, the primary channel 222 and the auxiliary channel 232 intersect to form an elbow bend, and the elbow bend is contained within a volume defined by a predetermined sphere, where this sphere has a diameter equal to the larger of D PC and D AC and is centered at the intersection of the first axis and the second axis.

[0027] According to yet another embodiment, the compression valve region 240 can be disposed along the body portion 210, and when the compression valve region 240 is in the closed position, the primary channel 222 and the auxiliary channel 232 intersect to form an elbow bend having a predetermined obtuse angle. According to still another embodiment, the compression valve region 240 can be disposed along the body portion 210, and when the compression valve region 240 is in the closed position, the primary channel 222 and the auxiliary channel 232 intersect to form an elbow bend that is at a right angle.

[0028] According to still another embodiment, the compression valve region 240 can be disposed along the body portion 210, and when the compression valve region 240 is in the closed position, the primary channel 222 can be within the same boundary as the auxiliary channel 232. As used with reference to the embodiments described herein, when the primary channel 222 extends beyond the distal edge 234 of the auxiliary channel 232 by a distance of up to 0.5*D AC it will be recognized that the primary channel 222 is within the same boundary as the auxiliary channel 232. In yet another embodiment, the primary channel 222 extends beyond the distal edge 234 of the auxiliary channel 232 by 0.4*D AC or less, or 0.3*D AC or less, or 0.25*DAC down to, or 0.2*D AC down to, or 0.15*D AC down to, or 0.1*D AC down to, or 0.05*D A down to, or 0.01*D AC and can extend to a distance of. In a further embodiment, the primary channel 222 can terminate precisely at the distal edge 234 of the distal flow channel.

[0029] According to yet other embodiments, the compression valve region 240 can be disposed along the body portion 210 such that when the compression valve region 240 is in the closed position, the body portion 210 has substantially no dead space. According to yet other embodiments, the compression valve region 240 can be disposed along the body portion 210 such that when the compression valve region 240 is in the closed position, the body portion 210 has no dead space. According to yet other embodiments, the compression valve region 240 can be disposed along the body portion 210 such that when the compression valve region 240 is in the closed position, the body portion 210 has substantially no stagnant fluid flow. According to yet other embodiments, the compression valve region 240 can be disposed along the body portion 210 such that when the compression valve region 240 is in the closed position, the body portion 210 has no stagnant fluid flow.

[0030] FIG. 3 includes an illustration of a perspective view of a fluid manifold 300 according to other embodiments described herein. According to an embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 3, the fluid manifold 300 can have a body portion 310, the body portion 310 including a proximal end 312, a distal end 314, and a primary manifold component 220 extending from the proximal end 312 to the distal end 314. The primary manifold component 320 can surround a primary channel 322. The body portion 310 can further include at least one auxiliary manifold component 330 branching from the primary manifold component 320. The auxiliary manifold component 330 can surround an auxiliary channel 332 connected to the primary channel 322. The body portion 310 can further include a first compression valve region 341 and a second compression valve region 343. The first compression valve region 341 can be disposed along the body portion 310 between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330. The second compression valve region 343 can be disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330. According to a particular embodiment, the compression valve regions 341, 343 can be operable between an open position and a closed position.

[0031] According to certain embodiments, the body portion 310 can include any desired number of auxiliary manifold components 330 branching from the primary manifold component 320. According to certain embodiments, the body portion 310 can include a specific number of auxiliary manifold components 330 branching from the primary manifold component 320. For example, the body portion 310 can include at least about 2 auxiliary manifold components 330 branching from the primary manifold component 320, such as at least about 3 auxiliary manifold components 330 branching from the primary manifold component 320, or at least about 4 auxiliary manifold components 330 branching from the primary manifold component 320, or at least about 5 auxiliary manifold components 330 branching from the primary manifold component 320, or at least about 6 auxiliary manifold components 330 branching from the primary manifold component 320, or at least about 7 auxiliary manifold components 330 branching from the primary manifold component 320, or at least about 8 auxiliary manifold components 330 branching from the primary manifold component 320, or at least about 9 auxiliary manifold components 330 branching from the primary manifold component 320, or even at least about 10 auxiliary manifold components 330 branching from the primary manifold component 320, etc.

[0032] According to yet other embodiments, the body portion 310 can include any desired number of compression valve regions disposed between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330. According to still other embodiments, the body portion 310 can include a specific number of compression valve regions 341 disposed between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330. For example, the body portion 310 can include at least about 2 compression valve regions 341 disposed between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330, for example, at least about 3 compression valve regions 341 disposed between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330, or at least about 4 compression valve regions 341 disposed between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330, or at least about 5 compression valve regions 341 disposed between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330, or at least about 6 compression valve regions 341 disposed between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330, or at least about 7 compression valve regions 341 disposed between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330, or at least about 8 compression valve regions 341 disposed between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330, or at least about 9 compression valve regions 341 disposed between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330, or even at least about 10 compression valve regions 341 disposed between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330, and so on.According to yet another embodiment, the main body portion 310 can have a compression valve region 341 disposed between the primary manifold component 320 and the respective auxiliary manifold components 330.

[0033] According to yet other embodiments, the body portion 310 can include any desired number of compression valve regions disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330. According to still other embodiments, the body portion 310 can include a specific number of compression valve regions 343 disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330. For example, the body portion 310 can include at least about 2 compression valve regions disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330, for example, at least about 3 compression valve regions 343 disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330, or at least about 4 compression valve regions 343 disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330, or at least about 5 compression valve regions 343 disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330, or at least about 6 compression valve regions 343 disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330, or at least about 7 compression valve regions 343 disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330, or at least about 8 compression valve regions 343 disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330, or at least about 9 compression valve regions 343 disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330, or even at least about 10 compression valve regions 343 disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330, and so on.According to yet other embodiments, the body portion 310 can have one compression valve region 343 disposed along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330.

[0034] According to certain embodiments and as shown in FIG. 3, the compression valve region 341 can include a primary channel outlet port valve. According to yet other embodiments and as shown in FIG. 3, the primary channel outlet port valve can be disposed along the body portion 310 between the primary manifold component 320 and the auxiliary manifold component 330. According to yet other embodiments and as shown in FIG. 3, the primary channel outlet port valve can be disposed along the body portion 310 at the primary channel outlet port 325. According to still other embodiments and as shown in FIG. 3, the primary channel outlet port valve can be disposed along the body portion 310 such that when the compression valve region 340 is in the closed position, the fluid flow through the body portion 310 is restricted from flowing out of the primary channel 322 and into the auxiliary channel 332. According to yet other embodiments and as shown in FIG. 3, the primary channel outlet port valve is disposed along the body portion 310 such that when the compression valve region 340 is in the closed position, the fluid flow through the body portion 310 is restricted from flowing through the primary channel outlet port 325.

[0035] According to certain embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3, the compression valve region 343 can include a primary compression manifold valve. According to still other embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3, the primary compression manifold valve can be disposed along the body portion 310 along the primary manifold component 320 adjacent to the auxiliary manifold component 330. According to still other embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3, the primary compression manifold valve can be disposed along the body portion 310 adjacent to the primary channel outlet port 325. According to yet other embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3, the primary compression manifold valve can be disposed along the body portion 310 such that when the compression valve region 340 is in the closed position, the fluid flow through the body portion 310 is restricted from passing through the auxiliary channel 332 and through at least a portion of the primary channel 322. According to still other embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3, the primary compression manifold valve is disposed along the body portion 310 such that when the compression valve region 340 is in the closed position, the fluid flow through the body portion 310 is restricted from flowing through the primary channel outlet port 325.

[0036] According to still other embodiments, the compression valve regions 341, 343 may be disposed along the main body portion 310 such that when the compression valve regions 341, 343 are in the closed position, the main body portion 310 has substantially no dead space. According to still other embodiments, the compression valve regions 341, 343 may be disposed along the main body portion 310 such that when the compression valve regions 341, 343 are in the closed position, the main body portion 310 has no dead space. According to still other embodiments, the compression valve regions 341, 343 may be disposed along the main body portion 310 such that when the compression valve regions 341, 343 are in the closed position, the main body portion 310 has substantially no stagnant fluid flow. According to still other embodiments, the compression valve regions 341, 343 may be disposed along the main body portion 310 such that when the compression valve regions 341, 343 are in the closed position, the main body portion 310 has no stagnant fluid flow.

[0037] It will be appreciated that the compression valve region 341 can include, or can be described as having, any of the characteristics of the compression valve region 140 described with reference to FIGS. 1a, 1b, and 1c. It will further be appreciated that the compression valve region 343 can include, or can be described as having, any of the characteristics of the compression valve region 240 described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0038] According to yet other embodiments, the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can be configured to be in a closed position when placed under a particular claimed pressure. For example, the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can be configured to be in a closed position when placed under a claimed pressure of about 20 N or less, or about 19 N or less, or about 18 N or less, or about 17 N or less, or about 16 N or less, or about 15 N or less, or about 14 N or less, or about 13 N or less, or about 12 N or less, or about 11 N or less, or about 10 N or less, or about 9 N or less, or about 8 N or less, or about 7 N or less, or about 6 N or less, or about 5 N or less. According to yet other embodiments, the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can be configured to be in a closed position when placed under a claimed pressure of at least about 1 N, for example, at least about 1.5 N, or even at least about 2.0 N, etc. It will be appreciated that the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can be configured to be in a closed position when placed under a claimed pressure within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values described above. It will further be appreciated that the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can be configured to be in a closed position when placed under a claimed pressure of any value between any of the minimum and maximum values described above.

[0039] According to yet other embodiments, the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can have a specific average thickness AT that is equal to the average thickness of the outer wall portion that defines the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 CVR According to still other embodiments, the primary manifold component 120 can have a specific average thickness AT that is equal to the average thickness of the outer wall portion that defines the primary manifold component 120 PMC According to still other embodiments, the auxiliary manifold component 130 can have a specific average thickness AT that is equal to the average thickness of the outer wall portion that defines the auxiliary manifold component 130 AMCIt is possible to have.

[0040] According to yet another embodiment, the average thickness AT of the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 CVR may be different from the average thickness AT of the primary manifold component 120. PMC According to yet another embodiment, the average thickness AT of the compression valve region CVR may be, for example, 0.9AT PMC or less, for example, 0.8AT PMC or less, or 0.7AT PMC or less, or 0.6AT PMC or less, or 0.5AT PMC or less, or 0.4AT PMC or less, or 0.3AT PMC or less, or even 0.2AT PMC or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average thickness AT of the compression valve region CVR may be at least about 0.01AT PMC for example, at least about 0.05AT PMC or even at least about 0.1AT PMC and it is possible to be.

[0041] According to yet another embodiment, the average thickness AT of the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 CVR may be different from the average thickness AT of the auxiliary manifold component 130. AMC According to yet another embodiment, the average thickness AT of the compression valve region CVR may be, for example, 0.9AT AMC or less, for example, 0.8AT AMC or less, or 0.7AT AMC or less, or 0.6AT AMC or less, or 0.5AT AMC or less, or 0.4AT AMC or less, or 0.3AT AMC or less, or even 0.2AT AMC or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average thickness AT of the compression valve region AVRThe average thickness is at least about 0.01 AT AMC , for example, at least about 0.05 AT AMC , or even at least about 0.1 AT AMC and it is possible to be so.

[0042] According to still other embodiments, the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can have a specific average tensile strength TS equal to the average tensile strength of the outer wall portions defining the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 CVR According to yet other embodiments, the primary manifold component 120 can have a specific average tensile strength TS equal to the average tensile strength of the outer wall portions defining the primary manifold component 120 PMC According to still further embodiments, the auxiliary manifold component 130 can have a specific average tensile strength TS equal to the average tensile strength of the outer wall portions defining the auxiliary manifold component 130 AMC and it is possible to be so.

[0043] According to still other embodiments, the average tensile strength TS of the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 CVR may be different from the average tensile strength TS of the primary manifold component 120 PMC According to still further embodiments, the average tensile strength of the compression valve region TS CVR is 0.9TS PMC or less, for example, 0.8TS PMC or less, or 0.7TS PMC or less, or 0.6TS PMC or less, or 0.5TS PMC or less, or 0.4TS PMC or less, or 0.3TS PMC or less, or even 0.2TS PMC or less and so on may be the case. According to still other embodiments, the average tensile strength of the compression valve region TS CVR is at least about 0.01 TS PMC , for example, at least about 0.05 TSPMC or, further, at least about 0.1 TS PMC and so on.

[0044] According to still other embodiments, the average tensile strength TS of the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 CVR may be different from the average tensile strength TS of the auxiliary manifold component 130. According to still other embodiments, the compression valve region TS AMC average tensile strength may be, for example, 0.9 TS CVR or less, for example, 0.8 TS AMC or less, or 0.7 TS AMC or less, or 0.6 TS AMC or less, or 0.5 TS AMC or less, or 0.4 TS AMC or less, or 0.3 TS AMC or less, or, further, 0.2 TS AMC or less and so on. According to still other embodiments, the compression valve region TS AMC average tensile strength may be at least about 0.01 TS CVR , for example, at least about 0.05 TS AMC , or, further, at least about 0.1 TS AMC and so on. AMC and so on.

[0045] According to still other embodiments, the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 may have a specific average density DN equal to the average density of the outer wall portions defining the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 CVR According to still other embodiments, the primary manifold component 120 may have a specific average density DN equal to the average density of the outer wall portions defining the primary manifold component 120 PMC According to still other embodiments, the auxiliary manifold component 130 may have a specific average density DN equal to the average density of the outer wall portions defining the auxiliary manifold component 130 AMC and so on.

[0046] According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 CVR may be different from the average density DN of the primary manifold component 120 PMC According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region CVR may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region PMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region PMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region PMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region PMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region PMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region PMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region PMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region PMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region CVR may be at least about 0.01DN, for example, at least about 0.05DN, or even at least about 0.1DN, etc. PMC may be at least about 0.01DN, for example, at least about 0.05DN, or even at least about 0.1DN, etc. PMC may be at least about 0.01DN, for example, at least about 0.05DN, or even at least about 0.1DN, etc. PMC is possible.

[0047] According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 CVR may be different from the average density DN of the auxiliary manifold component 130 AMC According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region CVR may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region AMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region AMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region AMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region AMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region AMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region AMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region AMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region AMC may be, for example, 0.9DN or less, such as 0.8DN or less, or 0.7DN or less, or 0.6DN or less, or 0.5DN or less, or 0.4DN or less, or 0.3DN or less, or even 0.2DN or less, etc. According to yet another embodiment, the average density DN of the compression valve region AVR may be at least about 0.01DNAMC For example, at least about 0.05 DN AMC or even at least about 0.1 DN AMC and the like are possible.

[0048] According to yet other embodiments, the primary manifold component 120 and the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can have individual shapes. According to yet other embodiments, the auxiliary manifold component 130 and the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can have individual shapes.

[0049] According to still other embodiments, the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can include recesses that extend into the primary manifold component. According to still other embodiments, the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can include protrusions that project out from the primary manifold component.

[0050] According to yet other embodiments, the primary channels 122, 222, 322 can be linear. According to yet other embodiments, the primary channels 122, 222, 322 can have an average inner diameter D PC and the like. According to still other embodiments, each of the auxiliary channels 132, 232, 332 can be linear. According to still other embodiments, each of the auxiliary channels 132, 232, 332 can have an average inner diameter D AC and the like. According to yet other embodiments, the primary channels 122, 222, 322 can have an inner diameter D AC that is larger than the inner diameter of each of the auxiliary channels D PC and the like. According to still other embodiments, the primary channels 122, 222, 322 can have an inner diameter D AC that is equal to the inner diameter D PC of each of the auxiliary channels 132, 232, 332 and the like.

[0051] According to still other embodiments, the fluid manifolds 100, 200, 300 can have a specific channel diameter ratio D PC / D AC For example, the fluid manifolds 100, 200, 300 can have a channel diameter ratio D PC / D AC of at least 0.01, at least 0.05, or at least 0.1, or at least 0.2, or at least 0.3, or at least 0.4, or at least 0.5, or at least 0.6, or at least 0.7, or at least 0.8, or even at least 0.9. According to still other embodiments, the fluid manifolds 100, 200, 300 can have a channel diameter ratio D PC / D AC of 0.99 or less, for example, 0.9 or less, or 0.8 or less, or 0.7 or less, or 0.6 or less, or 0.5 or less, or 0.4 or less, or 0.3 or less, or 0.2 or less, or 0.1 or less, or even 0.05 or less. It will be appreciated that the fluid manifolds 100, 200, 300 can have a specific channel diameter ratio D PC / D AC within a range between any of the values described above. It will be further appreciated that the fluid manifolds 100, 200, 300 can have any value of a specific channel diameter ratio D PC / D AC between any of the values described above.

[0052] According to still other embodiments, the primary channels 122, 222, 322 can have a specific average diameter D DCIt is possible to have. For example, the primary channels 122, 222, 322 have an average diameter D of at least 1 mm, such as at least 2 mm, or at least 5 mm, or at least 10 mm, or at least 15 mm, or at least 20 mm, or at least 25 mm, or at least 10 mm, or at least 15 mm, or at least 20 mm, or at least 25 mm, or at least 30 mm, or at least 35 mm, or at least 40 mm, or at least 45 mm, or at least 70 mm, or at least 75 mm, or at least 80 mm, or at least 85 mm, or at least 90 mm, or even at least 95 mm, etc. DC It is possible to have. According to still other embodiments, the primary channels 122, 222, 322 have an average diameter D of 100 mm or less, such as the following, or 95 mm or less, or 90 mm or less, or 85 mm or less, or 80 mm or less, or 75 mm or less, or 70 mm or less, or 65 mm or less, or 60 mm or less, or 55 mm or less, or 50 mm or less, or 45 mm or less, or 40 mm or less, or 35 mm or less, or 30 mm or less, or 25 mm or less, or 20 mm or less, or 15 mm or less, or 10 mm or less, or 5 mm or less, or even 2 mm or less, etc. DC It is possible to have. The primary channels 122, 222, 322 have an average diameter D within a range between any of the values described above. DC It will be recognized that it is possible to have. The primary channels 122, 222, 322 have an average diameter D of any value between any of the values described above. DC It will be further recognized that it is possible to have.

[0053] According to still other embodiments, the auxiliary channels 132, 232, 332 have a specific average diameter D ACIt is possible to have. For example, the auxiliary channels 132, 232, 332 have an average diameter D of at least 1 mm, for example, at least 2 mm, or at least 3 mm, or at least 10 mm, or at least 15 mm, or at least 20 mm, or at least 25 mm, or at least 10 mm, or at least 15 mm, or at least 20 mm, or at least 25 mm, or at least 30 mm, or at least 35 mm, or at least 40 mm, or at least 45 mm, or at least 70 mm, or at least 75 mm, or at least 80 mm, or at least 85 mm, or at least 90 mm, or even at least 95 mm, etc. AC It is possible to have. According to still other embodiments, the auxiliary channels 132, 232, 332 have an average diameter D of 100 mm or less, for example, 95 mm or less, or 90 mm or less, or 85 mm or less, or 80 mm or less, or 75 mm or less, or 70 mm or less, or 65 mm or less, or 60 mm or less, or 55 mm or less, or 50 mm or less, or 45 mm or less, or 40 mm or less, or 35 mm or less, or 30 mm or less, or 25 mm or less, or 20 mm or less, or 15 mm or less, or 10 mm or less, or 5 mm or less, or even 2 mm or less, etc. AC It is possible to have. The auxiliary channels 132, 232, 332 have an average diameter D within a range between any of the values described above. AC It will be recognized that it is possible to have. The auxiliary channels 132, 232, 332 have an average diameter D of any value between any of the values described above. AC It will be further recognized that it is possible to have.

[0054] According to yet another embodiment, the primary channels 122, 222, 322 can have a circular cross-section. According to still another embodiment, the primary channels 122, 222, 322 can have a non-circular cross-section. According to yet another embodiment, the auxiliary channels 132, 232, 332 can have a circular cross-section. According to still another embodiment, the auxiliary channels 132, 232, 332 can have a non-circular cross-section.

[0055] According to other embodiments, the fluid manifolds 100, 200, 300 can include a specific material. For example, the fluid manifolds 100, 200, 300 can include silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), polyalkylsiloxane, dimethylsiloxane, diethylsiloxane, dipropylsiloxane, methylethylsiloxane, methylpropylsiloxane, polydialkylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polypropylene, poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF), or any combination thereof.

[0056] According to other embodiments, the fluid manifolds 100, 200, 300 can consist essentially of a specific material. For example, the fluid manifolds 100, 200, 300 can consist essentially of silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), polyalkylsiloxane, dimethylsiloxane, diethylsiloxane, dipropylsiloxane, methylethylsiloxane, methylpropylsiloxane, polydialkylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polypropylene, poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF), or any combination thereof.

[0057] According to other embodiments, the primary manifold components 120, 220, 320 can include a specific material. For example, the primary manifold components 120, 220, 320 can include silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), polyalkyl siloxane, dimethyl siloxane, diethyl siloxane, dipropyl siloxane, methyl ethyl siloxane, methyl propyl siloxane, polydialkyl siloxane, polydimethyl siloxane (PDMS), polypropylene, poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF), or any combination thereof.

[0058] According to other embodiments, the primary manifold components 120, 220, 320 can consist essentially of a specific material. For example, the primary manifold components 120, 220, 320 can consist essentially of silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), polyalkyl siloxane, dimethyl siloxane, diethyl siloxane, dipropyl siloxane, methyl ethyl siloxane, methyl propyl siloxane, polydialkyl siloxane, polydimethyl siloxane (PDMS), polypropylene, poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF), or any combination thereof.

[0059] According to other embodiments, the auxiliary manifold components 130, 230, 330 can include a specific material. For example, the auxiliary manifold components 130, 230, 330 can include silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), polyalkylsiloxane, dimethylsiloxane, diethylsiloxane, dipropylsiloxane, methylethylsiloxane, methylpropylsiloxane, polydialkylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polypropylene, poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF), or any combination thereof.

[0060] According to other embodiments, the auxiliary manifold components 130, 230, 330 can consist essentially of a specific material. For example, the auxiliary manifold components 130, 230, 330 can consist essentially of silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), polyalkylsiloxane, dimethylsiloxane, diethylsiloxane, dipropylsiloxane, methylethylsiloxane, methylpropylsiloxane, polydialkylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polypropylene, poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF), or any combination thereof.

[0061] According to other embodiments, the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can include specific materials. For example, the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can include silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), polyalkylsiloxane, dimethylsiloxane, diethylsiloxane, dipropylsiloxane, methylethylsiloxane, methylpropylsiloxane, polydialkylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polypropylene, poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF), or any combination thereof.

[0062] According to other embodiments, the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can consist essentially of specific materials. For example, the compression valve regions 140, 240, 341, 343 can consist essentially of silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), polyalkylsiloxane, dimethylsiloxane, diethylsiloxane, dipropylsiloxane, methylethylsiloxane, methylpropylsiloxane, polydialkylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polypropylene, poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF), or any combination thereof.

[0063] According to other embodiments, the fluid manifolds 100, 200, 300 can include an embedded reinforcing material. According to still other embodiments, the embedded reinforcing material can include polyester, adhesion-modified polyester, polyamide, polyaramid, stainless steel, or any combination thereof. According to still other embodiments, the embedded reinforcing material can consist essentially of polyester, adhesion-modified polyester, polyamide, polyaramid, stainless steel, or any combination thereof. According to still other embodiments, the embedded reinforcing material can include a wire or strand. According to still other embodiments, the embedded reinforcing material can include a braided wire or braided strand.

[0064] According to other embodiments, the fluid manifolds 100, 200, 300 can be covered by a reinforcing shell. According to still other embodiments, the reinforcing shell can include a polymeric material. According to still other embodiments, the reinforcing shell can consist essentially of a polymeric material. According to still other embodiments, the reinforcing shell can include a thermoplastic material. According to still other embodiments, the reinforcing shell can consist of a thermoplastic material. According to still other embodiments, the reinforcing shell can include polypropylene. According to still other embodiments, the reinforcing shell can consist of polypropylene.

[0065] FIG. 4 includes an illustration of a perspective view of a fluid manifold assembly 400 according to certain embodiments described herein. According to one embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 4, the fluid manifold assembly 400 can include a fluid manifold 401 (300, 200, 300) and at least one clamping component 450.

[0066] It will be recognized that the fluid manifold 401 can include any of the components and characteristics described with reference to the fluid manifolds of FIGS. 1a, 2, or 3 (i.e., fluid manifolds 100, 200, 300). For purposes of illustration, the fluid manifold 401 can include a body portion 110, which can include a proximal end 412, a distal end 414, and a primary manifold component 420 extending from the proximal end 412 to the distal end 414. The primary manifold component 420 can surround a primary channel 422. The body portion 410 can further include at least one auxiliary manifold component 430 branching from the primary manifold component 420. The auxiliary manifold component 430 can surround an auxiliary channel 432 connected to the primary channel 422. The body portion 410 can further include at least one compression valve region 440 disposed between the primary manifold component 420 and the auxiliary manifold component 430. According to certain embodiments, the compression valve region 440 can be operable between an open position and a closed position.

[0067] According to certain embodiments, the clamping component 450 can be disposed at each of the at least one compression valve regions 440. According to still other embodiments, the clamping component 450 can be configured to apply sufficient pressure to the compression valve region 440 such that the compression valve region 440 is placed in the closed position.

[0068] According to yet other embodiments, the fluid manifold assembly 400 can further include a primary tube 425 overmolded by at least a portion of the primary manifold component 420. According to certain embodiments, the primary tube 425 can be overmolded at the proximal end of the body portion 410. According to yet other embodiments, the primary tube 425 can be overmolded into the primary channel 422 of the primary manifold component 420.

[0069] According to still other embodiments, the fluid manifold assembly 400 can further include an auxiliary tube 435 overmolded by at least a portion of at least one auxiliary manifold component 430. According to yet other embodiments, the auxiliary tube 435 can be overmolded into the auxiliary channel 432 of the auxiliary manifold component 430. According to still other embodiments, the fluid manifold assembly 400 can further include a separate auxiliary tube 435 associated with any one or each of the auxiliary manifold components 430. According to certain embodiments, each of the auxiliary tubes 435 can be overmolded by at least a portion of the corresponding auxiliary manifold component 430. According to yet other embodiments, each of the auxiliary tubes 435 can be overmolded into the auxiliary channel 432 of the corresponding auxiliary manifold component 430.

[0070] According to certain embodiments, the primary tube 425 can have an inner diameter corresponding to or equal to the inner diameter of the primary channel 422 at the opening adjacent to the tube.

[0071] According to yet other embodiments, the auxiliary tube 435 can have an inner diameter corresponding to or equal to the inner diameter of the corresponding auxiliary channel 432 at the opening adjacent to the tube.

[0072] According to yet other embodiments, the primary tube 425 can include a polymeric material. According to still other embodiments, the primary tube 425 can include a thermoplastic, a thermoset, an elastomer, a thermoplastic elastomer, an engineering thermoplastic elastomer, or any combination thereof. According to other embodiments, the primary tube 425 can include silicone, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), a polyalkylsiloxane, a dimethylsiloxane, a diethylsiloxane, a dipropylsiloxane, a methylethylsiloxane, a methylpropylsiloxane, a polydialkylsiloxane, a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a polypropylene, a poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF), or any combination thereof.

[0073] According to yet other embodiments, the primary tube 425 can consist essentially of a polymeric material. According to still other embodiments, the primary tube 425 can consist essentially of a thermoplastic, a thermoset, an elastomer, a thermoplastic elastomer, an engineering thermoplastic elastomer, or any combination thereof. According to other embodiments, the primary tube 425 can consist essentially of silicone, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), a polyalkylsiloxane, a dimethylsiloxane, a diethylsiloxane, a dipropylsiloxane, a methylethylsiloxane, a methylpropylsiloxane, a polydialkylsiloxane, a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a polypropylene, a poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF), or any combination thereof.

[0074] According to still other embodiments, the auxiliary tube 435 can include a polymeric material. According to yet other embodiments, the auxiliary tube 435 can include a thermoplastic, a thermoset, an elastomer, a thermoplastic elastomer, an engineering thermoplastic elastomer, or any combination thereof. According to other embodiments, the auxiliary tube 435 can include silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), polyalkylsiloxane, dimethylsiloxane, diethylsiloxane, dipropylsiloxane, methylethylsiloxane, methylpropylsiloxane, polydialkylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polypropylene, poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF), or any combination thereof.

[0075] According to still other embodiments, the auxiliary tube 435 can consist essentially of a polymeric material. According to yet other embodiments, the auxiliary tube 435 can consist essentially of a thermoplastic, a thermoset, an elastomer, a thermoplastic elastomer, an engineering thermoplastic elastomer, or any combination thereof. According to other embodiments, the auxiliary tube 435 can consist essentially of silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), polyalkylsiloxane, dimethylsiloxane, diethylsiloxane, dipropylsiloxane, methylethylsiloxane, methylpropylsiloxane, polydialkylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polypropylene, poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF), or any combination thereof.

[0076] According to other embodiments, the clamping component can include a cylinder covering the clamping component and can be configured to hold the fluid manifold. FIG. 5a includes an illustration of a perspective view of a clamping device 500 including a cylinder case 510 with a fluid manifold 501 seated therein according to a particular embodiment. FIG. 5b includes an illustration of a perspective view of a clamping device 500 showing a hinged door 520 for loading and covering the fluid manifold 501 according to another embodiment. FIG. 5c includes an illustration of a perspective view of a clamping device 500 showing a ball detent pin 530 inserted into the cylinder case 510 to secure the hinged door 520 of the clamping device 500 according to another embodiment. FIG. 5d includes an illustration of a perspective view of a clamping device 500 showing a ball detent pin 530 for securing the hinged door 520 of the clamping device 500 according to another embodiment. FIG. 5e includes an illustration of a perspective cross-sectional view of a clamping device 500 including a cylinder case 510 in an open configuration with a fluid manifold 501 seated therein, including an illustration showing a clamping component 550. FIG. 5f includes an illustration of a perspective cross-sectional view of a clamping device 500 including a cylinder case 510 in a closed configuration with a fluid manifold 501 seated therein, including an illustration of the clamping component 550. FIG. 5g includes an illustration of a perspective view of a portion of a clamping device 500 holding a clamping component 550 according to another embodiment. FIG. 5h includes an illustration of a perspective view of a portion of a clamping device 500 having an opening for holding a clamping component 550 according to another embodiment. The clamping device 500 can be actuated to actuate the clamping component 550 through actuation means such as, for example, electrical means, mechanical means, hydraulic means, and pneumatic means. Non-limiting examples of such actuation means can include cylinders, levers, and gear assemblies.

[0077] FIG. 6 includes an illustration of a perspective view of a fluid manifold according to certain embodiments described herein. FIGS. 7-10 include illustrations of perspective views of various examples of fluid manifold assemblies according to certain embodiments described herein.

[0078] Many different aspects and embodiments are possible. Some of those aspects and embodiments are described herein. After reading this specification, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that those aspects and embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the invention. Embodiments can be in accordance with any one or more of the embodiments listed below.

[0079] Embodiment 1. A fluid manifold including a body portion, the body portion including a proximal end, a distal end, a primary manifold component that extends from the proximal end of the body portion to the distal end of the body portion and surrounds a primary channel, at least one auxiliary manifold component that branches from the primary manifold component and surrounds an auxiliary channel connected to the primary channel at a primary channel outlet port, and at least one compression valve region disposed along the body portion, the at least one compression valve region being operable between an open position and a closed position and being configured to restrict at least one of fluid flow through the primary channel and fluid flow from the primary channel into the auxiliary channel when in the closed position.

[0080] Embodiment 2. A fluid manifold assembly, the fluid manifold assembly including a fluid manifold including a body portion, and a clamping component, the body portion including a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, a primary manifold component that extends from the proximal end portion of the body portion to the distal end portion of the body portion and surrounds a primary channel, at least one auxiliary manifold component that branches from the primary manifold component and surrounds an auxiliary channel connected to the primary channel at a primary channel outlet port, and at least one compression valve region disposed along the body portion, the at least one compression valve region being operable between an open position and a closed position and being configured to restrict at least one of fluid flow through the primary channel and fluid flow from the primary channel outward into the auxiliary channel when in the closed position, the clamping component being disposed at each of at least one compression valve region of the fluid manifold.

[0081] Embodiment 3. The compression valve region is a primary compression manifold valve, the primary compression manifold valve being disposed along the primary manifold component and being configured to restrict fluid flow through the primary channel when in the closed position, the fluid manifold according to Embodiment 1.

[0082] Embodiment 4. The compression valve region is disposed along the primary manifold between the primary channel outlet port and the distal end portion of the body portion, the fluid manifold according to any one of Embodiments 1 and 3.

[0083] Embodiment 5. The compression valve region is arranged along the primary manifold, and when in the closed position, the auxiliary channel is generally within the same boundary as the primary channel, the fluid manifold according to any one of Embodiments 1, 3, and 4.

[0084] Embodiment 6. The primary channel has an average diameter D PC and has a first axis along its length between the proximal end of the body portion and the distal end of the body portion, and the auxiliary channel has an average diameter D AC and has a second axis along its length, and the compression valve region is arranged along the primary manifold, and when in the closed position, the primary channel and the auxiliary channel intersect to form an elbow bend, and the elbow bend is contained within a volume defined by a predetermined sphere, and the sphere has a diameter equal to the larger of D PC and D AC and the sphere is centered at the intersection of the first axis and the second axis, the fluid manifold according to any one of Embodiments 1, 3, 4, and 5.

[0085] Embodiment 7. The primary channel extends beyond the distal edge of the auxiliary channel by a distance of 0.4*D AC or less, or 0.3*D AC or less, or 0.25*D AC or less, or 0.2*D AC or less, or 0.15*D AC or less, or 0.1*D AC or less, or 0.05*D AC or less, or 0.01*D AC , the fluid manifold according to Embodiment 6.

[0086] Embodiment 8. The elbow bend has a right angle, the elbow bend has an acute angle, the elbow bend has an obtuse angle, the fluid manifold according to Embodiment 6.

[0087] Embodiment 9. The fluid manifold according to Embodiment 6, wherein the axis of the primary channel is perpendicular to the axis of at least one of the auxiliary channels.

[0088] Embodiment 10. The compression valve region is a primary channel outlet port valve, the primary channel outlet port valve is disposed along the main body portion of the fluid manifold, and when the primary channel outlet port valve is in the closed position, the fluid flow is restricted so that it does not flow from the primary channel to the outside and into the auxiliary channel. The fluid manifold according to Embodiment 1.

[0089] Embodiment 11. The fluid manifold according to any one of Embodiments 1 and 10, wherein the compression valve region is disposed along the main body portion of the fluid manifold at the primary channel outlet port.

[0090] Embodiment 12. The compression valve region is disposed along the main body portion of the fluid manifold, and when the compression valve region is in the closed position, the compressed portion of the valve region that restricts the fluid flow from the primary channel to the outside and into the auxiliary channel is generally in the same plane as the inner wall portion of the primary manifold component. The fluid manifold according to any one of Embodiments 1, 10, and 11.

[0091] Embodiment 13. The compression valve region is disposed along the primary manifold component, and when in the closed position, the region of the primary channel that extends over the length of the compression valve region has a longitudinal dead space factor (LDSF) of about 0.5 or less, where LDSF = |ACP PC -ACP CR | / ACP PC where ACP PC is equal to the average cross-sectional outer perimeter of the primary channel between the proximal end of the main body portion and the distal end of the main body portion, where ACP CRThe fluid manifold according to any one of Embodiments 1, 10, 11, and 12, which is equal to the average cross-sectional outer circumference of the primary channel extending in the length of the compression valve region.

[0092] Embodiment 14. The compression valve region is disposed along the primary manifold component, and when in the closed position, the region of the primary channel extending in the length of the compression valve region has a longitudinal dead space factor (LDSF) of about 0.45, or 0.4, or 0.35, or 0.3, or 0.25, or 0.2, or 0.15, or 0.1, or 0.01, as described in Embodiment 8 of the fluid manifold.

[0093] Embodiment 15. The compression valve region is configured to be in the closed position under a claimed pressure of about 20 N or less, or about 19 N or less, or about 18 N or less, or about 17 N or less, or about 16 N or less, or about 15 N or less, or about 14 N or less, or about 13 N or less, or about 12 N or less, or about 11 N or less, or about 10 N or less, or about 9 N or less, or about 8 N or less, or about 7 N or less, or about 6 N or less, or about 5 N or less, of the fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0094] Embodiment 16. The compression valve region has an average thickness AT CVR and the primary manifold component has an average thickness AT PMC where AT CVR is different from AT PMC of the fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0095] Embodiment 17. The average thickness of the compression valve region AT CVR is 0.9 AT PMC or less, or 0.8 AT PMC or less, or 0.7 AT PMC or less, or 0.6 AT PMC or less, or 0.5 AT PMCBelow, or 0.4 AT PMC Below, or 0.3 AT PMC Below, or 0.2 AT PMC The fluid manifold according to Embodiment 16, which is below.

[0096] Embodiment 18. The compression valve region has an average tensile strength TS CR and the primary manifold component has an average tensile strength TS PMC where TS CR is different from TS PMC The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0097] Embodiment 19. The average tensile strength TS CR of the compression valve region is 0.9 TS PMC below, or 0.8 TS PMC below, or 0.7 TS PMC below, or 0.6 TS PMC below, or 0.5 TS PMC below, or 0.4 TS PMC below, or 0.3 TS PMC below, or 0.2 TS PMC The fluid manifold according to Embodiment 18, which is below.

[0098] Embodiment 20. The compression valve region has an average density DN CR and the primary manifold component has an average density DN PMC where DN CR is different from DN PMC The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0099] Embodiment 21. The compression valve region DN CR has an average density of 0.9 DN PMC below, or 0.8 DN PMC below, or 0.7 DN PMC below, or 0.6 DN PMC below, or 0.5 DN PMCBelow, or 0.4DN PMC Below, or 0.3DN PMC Below, or 0.2TC PMC The fluid manifold according to Embodiment 20, which is below.

[0100] Embodiment 22. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the compression valve region and the primary manifold component are configured in individual shapes.

[0101] Embodiment 23. The fluid manifold according to Embodiment 22, wherein the compression valve region includes a recess extending into the primary manifold component.

[0102] Embodiment 24. The fluid manifold according to Embodiment 22, wherein the compression valve region includes a protrusion protruding outward from the primary manifold component.

[0103] Embodiment 25. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the primary channel has no dead zone.

[0104] Embodiment 26. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the primary channel is linear.

[0105] Embodiment 27. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the primary channel has an inner diameter larger than the respective diameter of the auxiliary channels.

[0106] Embodiment 28. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the primary channel has an inner diameter equal to the respective diameter of the auxiliary channels.

[0107] Embodiment 29. The primary channel has an average diameter D PChas and has a first axis along its length between the proximal end and the distal end of the main body portion, and the auxiliary channel has an average diameter D AC has and has a second axis along its length, and the fluid manifold has at least 0.01, or at least 0.05, or at least 0.1, or at least 0.2, or at least 0.3, or at least 0.4, or at least 0.5, or at least 0.6, or at least 0.7, or at least 0.8, or at least 0.9 of D PC / D AC The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, including a ratio of.

[0108] Embodiment 30. The fluid manifold has a ratio of D DC / D AC of 0.99 or less, or 0.9 or less, or 0.8 or less, or 0.7 or less, or 0.6 or less, or 0.5 or less, or 0.4 or less, or 0.3 or less, or 0.2 or less, or 0.1 or less, or 0.05 or less, and is the fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0109] Embodiment 31. The primary channel has an average diameter D of at least 1 mm, or at least 2 mm, or at least 5 mm, or at least 10 mm, or at least 15 mm, or at least 20 mm, or at least 25 mm, or at least 30 mm, or at least 35 mm, or at least 40 mm, or at least 45 mm, or at least 50 mm, or at least 55 mm, or at least 60 mm, or at least 65 mm, or at least 70 mm, or at least 75 mm, or at least 80 mm, or at least 85 mm, or at least 90 mm, or at least 95 DC The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, including.

[0110] Embodiment 32. The primary channel has an average diameter D of 100 mm or less, or 95 mm or less, or 90 mm or less, or 85 mm or less, or 80 mm or less, or 75 mm or less, or 70 mm or less, or 65 mm or less, or 60 mm or less, or 55 mm or less, or 50 mm or less, or 45 mm or less, or 40 mm or less, or 35 mm or less, or 30 mm or less, or 25 mm or less, or 20 mm or less, or 15 mm or less, or 10 mm or less, or 5 mm or less, or 2 mm or less. DC The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, including the above.

[0111] Embodiment 33. At least one auxiliary channel has an average diameter D of at least 1 mm, or at least 2 mm, or at least 5 mm, or at least 10 mm, or at least 15 mm, or at least 20 mm, or at least 25 mm, or at least 30 mm, or at least 35 mm, or at least 40 mm, or at least 45 mm, or at least 50 mm, or at least 55 mm, or at least 60 mm, or at least 65 mm, or at least 70 mm, or at least 75 mm, or at least 80 mm, or at least 85 mm, or at least 90 mm, or at least 95 mm. AC The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, having the above.

[0112] Embodiment 34. At least one auxiliary channel has an average diameter D of 100 mm or less, or 95 mm or less, or 90 mm or less, or 85 mm or less, or 80 mm or less, or 75 mm or less, or 70 mm or less, or 65 mm or less, or 60 mm or less, or 55 mm or less, or 50 mm or less, or 45 mm or less, or 40 mm or less, or 35 mm or less, or 30 mm or less, or 25 mm or less, or 20 mm or less, or 15 mm or less, or 10 mm or less, or 5 mm or less, or 2 mm or less.AC The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, having

[0113] Embodiment 35. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the primary channel includes a circular cross-section.

[0114] Embodiment 36. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the primary channel includes a non-circular cross-section.

[0115] Embodiment 37. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the auxiliary channel includes a circular cross-section.

[0116] Embodiment 38. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the auxiliary channel includes a non-circular cross-section.

[0117] Embodiment 39. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, comprising silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), polyalkylsiloxane, dimethylsiloxane, diethylsiloxane, dipropylsiloxane, methylethylsiloxane, methylpropylsiloxane, polydialkylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polypropylene, or poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF).

[0118] Embodiment 40. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the distal support comprises silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), polyalkylsiloxane, dimethylsiloxane, diethylsiloxane, dipropylsiloxane, methylethylsiloxane, methylpropylsiloxane, polydialkylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polypropylene, or poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF).

[0119] Embodiment 41. The fluid manifold is the fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, including an embedded reinforcing material.

[0120] Embodiment 42. The fluid manifold is the fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, including an embedded reinforcing material, and the reinforcing material includes polyester, adhesion-modified polyester, polyamide, polyaramide, or stainless steel.

[0121] Embodiment 43. The fluid manifold is the fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, including an embedded reinforcing material, and the reinforcing material includes a wire or a strand.

[0122] Embodiment 44. The fluid manifold is the fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, including an embedded reinforcing material, and the reinforcing material includes a braided wire or a braided strand.

[0123] Embodiment 45. The fluid manifold is the fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, covered by a reinforcing shell.

[0124] Embodiment 46. The fluid manifold is covered by a reinforcing shell, and the reinforcing shell includes a polymer, a thermoplastic substance, such as polypropylene, etc. The fluid manifold is the fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0125] Embodiment 47. The fluid manifold is covered by a reinforcing shell, and the reinforcing shell includes a thermoplastic substance. The fluid manifold is the fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0126] Embodiment 48. The fluid manifold is covered by a reinforcing shell, and the reinforcing shell includes polypropylene. The fluid manifold is the fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0127] Embodiment 49. The fluid manifold assembly according to Embodiment 2, wherein the assembly further includes a primary tube overmolded onto the primary channel of the fluid manifold.

[0128] Embodiment 50. The fluid manifold assembly according to Embodiment 2, wherein the assembly further includes a primary tube overmolded onto the primary channel of the fluid manifold.

[0129] Embodiment 51. The fluid manifold assembly according to Embodiment 2, wherein the assembly further includes auxiliary tubes overmolded onto each of at least one auxiliary channel.

[0130] Embodiment 52. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein each of the tubes includes a polymer.

[0131] Embodiment 53. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein each of the tubes includes a thermoplastic, a thermoset, an elastomer, a thermoplastic elastomer, or an engineering thermoplastic elastomer.

[0132] Embodiment 54. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein each of the tubes includes silicone, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), a polyalkylsiloxane, a dimethylsiloxane, a diethylsiloxane, a dipropylsiloxane, a methylethylsiloxane, a methylpropylsiloxane, a polydialkylsiloxane, a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a polypropylene, or a poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF).

[0133] Embodiment 55. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the fluid manifold includes an embedded reinforcing material.

[0134] Embodiment 56. The fluid manifold includes an embedded reinforcing material, and the reinforcing material includes polyester, adhesion-modified polyester, polyamide, polyaramid, or stainless steel. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0135] Embodiment 57. The fluid manifold includes an embedded reinforcing material, and the reinforcing material includes wire or strand. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0136] Embodiment 58. The fluid manifold includes an embedded reinforcing material, and the reinforcing material includes braided wire or braided strand. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0137] Embodiment 59. The fluid manifold is covered by a reinforcing shell. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0138] Embodiment 60. The fluid manifold is covered by a reinforcing shell, and the reinforcing shell includes a polymer, a thermoplastic substance, such as polypropylene, etc. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0139] Embodiment 61. The fluid manifold is covered by a reinforcing shell, and the reinforcing shell includes a thermoplastic substance. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0140] Embodiment 62. The fluid manifold is covered by a reinforcing shell, and the reinforcing shell includes polypropylene. The fluid manifold according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0141] The foregoing embodiments represent a departure from the prior art. In particular, the fluid manifolds described herein, and the methods of making the fluid manifolds, include combinations of features not previously recognized in the art that facilitate performance improvements. Such features can include, but are not limited to, the inclusion of a compression valve region within the body of the fluid manifold, particularly in locations that eliminate excessive space or dead space within the fluid manifold, near or adjacent to an auxiliary outlet port of the manifold. The fluid manifolds described herein have demonstrated notable and unexpected improvements over prior art manifolds. In particular, they have shown improved fluid flow, reduced fluid stagnation, low cost, durability, ease of manufacture, and ease of use.

[0142] Note that not all of the activities described above are required in all instances of the general description, that some of these activities may not be required, and that one or more additional activities may be performed in addition to those described. Further, the order in which the activities are listed is not necessarily the order in which they are performed.

[0143] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with respect to specific embodiments. However, benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced should not be construed as critical, required, or essential features of any or all of the claims.

[0144] This specification, and the illustrations of the embodiments described herein, are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. This specification and the illustrations are not intended to serve as a thorough and comprehensive description of all of the elements and features of the apparatus and systems that use the structures or methods described herein. Also, separate embodiments may be provided in combination within a single embodiment, and conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any sub-combination. Further, references to values described in ranges include each and every value within that range. Many other embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art only after reading this specification. Other embodiments may be used and derived from this disclosure, such that structural substitutions, logical substitutions, or other changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, this disclosure should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

1. 1. A fluid manifold including a body portion, the body portion comprising: A proximal end portion; A distal end portion. a primary manifold component extending from the proximal end of the body to the distal end of the body and enclosing a primary channel; and at least one auxiliary manifold component branching from the primary manifold component and enclosing an auxiliary channel connected to the primary channel at a primary channel outlet port; at least one compression valve region disposed along the body portion, the at least one compression valve region operable between an open position and a closed position, the at least one compression valve region adapted, when in the closed position, to restrict at least one of fluid flow through the primary channel and fluid flow out of the primary channel into the auxiliary channel; The average thickness AT of the compression valve region ＣＶＲ is the average thickness AT of the primary manifold component ＰＭＣ is 0.9 or less, the fluid manifold is covered by a reinforcing shell; the compressed valve region is disposed along the body portion of the fluid manifold such that when the compressed valve region is in the closed position, a compressed portion of the compressed valve region that restricts fluid flow out of the primary channel and into the auxiliary channel is generally flush with an interior wall of the primary manifold component. Fluid manifold.

2. 1. A fluid manifold assembly, the fluid manifold assembly comprising: a fluid manifold including a body portion; Clamping components and Including, The main body portion is A proximal end portion; A distal end portion. a primary manifold component extending from the proximal end of the body to the distal end of the body and enclosing a primary channel; and at least one auxiliary manifold component branching from the primary manifold component and enclosing an auxiliary channel connected to the primary channel at a primary channel outlet port; at least one compression valve region disposed along the body portion, the at least one compression valve region operable between an open position and a closed position, the at least one compression valve region adapted to restrict fluid flow through the primary channel and / or fluid flow out of the primary channel into the auxiliary channel when in the closed position, the at least one compression valve region having an average thickness AT ＣＶＲ is the average thickness AT of the primary manifold component ＰＭＣ is 0.9 or less, the clamping component is disposed in each of the at least one compression valve region of the fluid manifold; the fluid manifold is covered by a reinforcing shell; the compressed valve region is disposed along the body portion of the fluid manifold such that when the compressed valve region is in the closed position, a compressed portion of the compressed valve region that restricts fluid flow out of the primary channel and into the auxiliary channel is generally flush with an interior wall of the primary manifold component. Fluid manifold assembly.

3. 2. The fluid manifold of claim 1, wherein the compression valve area is a primary compression manifold valve disposed along the primary manifold component such that when in the closed position, the primary compression manifold valve restricts fluid flow from passing through the primary channel.

4. The fluid manifold of claim 1 , wherein the compression valve region is disposed along the primary manifold component between the primary channel outlet port and the distal end of the body portion.

5. 2. The fluid manifold of claim 1, wherein the compression valve region is disposed along the primary manifold component such that when in the closed position, the auxiliary channel is generally within the same boundary as the primary channel.

6. The primary channels have an average diameter D ＰＣ and having a first axis along its length between the proximal end of the body and the distal end of the body, the auxiliary channel having an average diameter D ＡＣ and having a second axis along its length, the compression valve region being disposed along the primary manifold component such that, in the closed position, the primary channel and the auxiliary channel intersect and form a bend, the bend being contained within a volume defined by a sphere, the sphere being D ＰＣ and D. ＡＣ 2. The fluid manifold of claim 1, wherein said sphere has a diameter equal to the larger of said first axis and said second axis, said sphere being centered at the intersection of said first axis and said second axis.

7. The fluid manifold of claim 6 , wherein the bend comprises a right angle, an acute angle, or an obtuse angle.

8. 2. The fluid manifold of claim 1, wherein the compression valve region is a primary channel outlet port valve disposed along the body portion of the fluid manifold such that when the primary channel outlet port valve is in the closed position, fluid flow is restricted from flowing out of the primary channel into the auxiliary channel.

9. The fluid manifold of claim 1 , wherein the compression valve region is disposed along the body portion of the fluid manifold at the primary channel outlet port.

10. 10. The fluid manifold of claim 1, wherein the fluid manifold comprises silicone, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), a polyalkylsiloxane, a dimethylsiloxane, a diethylsiloxane, a dipropylsiloxane, a methylethylsiloxane, a methylpropylsiloxane, a polydialkylsiloxane, a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a polypropylene, or a poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF).

11. 10. The fluid manifold of claim 1, wherein the distal end comprises silicone, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC), a polyalkylsiloxane, a dimethylsiloxane, a diethylsiloxane, a dipropylsiloxane, a methylethylsiloxane, a methylpropylsiloxane, a polydialkylsiloxane, a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a polypropylene, or a poly[vinylidene fluoride] (PVDF).

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