Medical connector with locking engagement

Abstract

To provide a medical connector system including first and second connectors.SOLUTION: A first connector comprises a housing, an energization member and at least one protrusion part. A second connector has at least one groove for receiving at least one protrusion part. A proximal end part of the second connector is at least partially arranged in a distal end part of the housing of the first connector. In application and release of a first set of facing axial forces applied to the connector system, the first connector is locked to the second connector, and in application and release of a second set of facing axial forces, the first connector is released from the second connector. The connector includes an indicator for indicating that, the connector system is at a locked position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector system for medical devices, and more particularly to a connector system for enabling fluid transfer between a first medical device for receiving and / or dispensing a fluid and a second medical device for receiving and / or dispensing a fluid. [Background technology]

[0002] A problem with drug preparation, drug administration, and other similar handling procedures is the risk that medical and pharmacological staff may be exposed to drugs or solvents that may escape into the ambient air. This problem is particularly acute when cytotoxins, antivirals, antibiotics, and radiopharmaceuticals are involved. Another risk area can be sample collection, such as for viral infections or the like. When performing an intravenous infusion, it is often necessary to inject a drug or other medical substance into the intravenous fluid inside an intravenous bag or other intravenous fluid container. This is often done by piercing a septum or other fluid barrier at an injection port on the intravenous bag or intravenous fluid line with the needle of a syringe filled with the intended medical fluid. However, even before this, it may be necessary to transfer the medical fluid from a vial to a syringe and then from the syringe to a second container. At each of these steps, staff may be exposed to contamination of the medical fluid. Such contamination can be vaporized medical fluid or aerosols in the air. Contaminants can contaminate staff through their lungs or through evaporated medical fluids or aerosols in the air that condense on the skin and then penetrate the skin. Some agents are further known to penetrate protective gloves, thereby contaminating staff.

[0003] Over time, exposure to such contamination can result in surprisingly high concentrations of the drug in the blood or body of staff as discussed above. It is understood that the risk of contamination must be contained during the actual insertion and retraction of the needle from a container such as a vial, with many transfer steps between, for example, vials, syringes, infusion systems, etc. Closed system transfer devices have been developed to ensure that the drug is contained within the transfer device during its transfer. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one embodiment, a medical connector system includes a first connector having a proximal end and a distal end, the first connector including a housing, a biasing member, and at least one protrusion; and a second connector having a proximal end and a distal end, the second connector including at least one groove for receiving the at least one protrusion. The biasing member can be a spring. The proximal end of the second connector is configured to be at least partially disposed within the distal end of the housing of the first connector. Upon application and release of a first set of opposing axial forces applied to the proximal end of the first connector and the distal end of the second connector, the first connector is locked to the second connector, and upon application and release of a second set of opposing axial forces to the proximal end of the first connector and the distal end of the second connector, the first connector is released from the second connector.

[0005] When the first connector is locked to the second connector, at least one protrusion of the first connector engages with at least one groove of the second connector, and when the first connector is released from the second connector, the at least one protrusion of the first connector is released from engagement with the at least one groove of the second connector.

[0006] Upon application and release of a first set of opposing axial forces applied to the proximal end of the first connector and the distal end of the second connector, the biasing member biases the first connector proximally relative to the second connector, causing at least one protrusion of the first connector to engage with at least one groove of the second connector and lock the first connector onto the second connector.

[0007] Upon application and release of a second set of opposing axial forces to the proximal end of the first connector and the distal end of the second connector, the biasing member biases the first connector proximally relative to the second connector to release engagement between the at least one protrusion of the first connector and the at least one groove of the second connector.

[0008] The at least one groove can include a first section extending axially in the distal direction, a second section extending from a distal end of the first section and sloping distally away from the distal end of the first section, a third section extending axially in the proximal direction from the distal end of the second section, a fourth section extending from a proximal end of the third section and sloping proximally away from the proximal end of the third section, a fifth section extending axially in the distal direction from the proximal end of the fourth section, a sixth section extending from the distal end of the fifth section and sloping distally away from the distal end of the fifth section, a seventh section extending axially in the proximal direction from the distal end of the sixth section, and an eighth section extending from a proximal end of the seventh section and sloping proximally away from the proximal end of the seventh section.

[0009] Alternatively, the at least one groove may further include an additional section extending axially in the proximal direction from the proximal end of the fourth section, and the fifth section extending from the proximal end of the additional section.

[0010] The second connector may further include a distally sloping ledge on the exterior surface that extends to the proximal end of the first section of the at least one groove.

[0011] The first connector is locked to the second connector when at least one protrusion of the first connector is disposed within the proximal end of the fourth section of the at least one groove of the second connector or within the proximal end of the additional section of the at least one groove of the second connector.

[0012] Upon application of a first set of opposing axial forces to the proximal end of the first connector and the distal end of the second connector, the at least one protrusion travels within the first and second sections of the at least one groove of the second connector. Upon release of the first set of opposing axial forces, the biasing member biases the first connector proximally relative to the second connector, causing the at least one protrusion to travel within the third and fourth sections of the at least one groove of the second connector and be disposed within the proximal end of the fourth section of the second connector.

[0013] Upon application of the second set of opposing axial forces to the proximal end of the first connector and the distal end of the second connector, the at least one protrusion advances within the fifth and sixth sections of the at least one groove of the second connector. Upon release of the second set of opposing axial forces, the biasing member biases the first connector proximally relative to the second connector, causing the at least one protrusion to advance within the seventh and eighth sections of the at least one groove of the second connector and disengage from the engagement between the at least one protrusion and the at least one groove of the second connector.

[0014] The first connector may also include a cam member having at least one protrusion, and the cam member may be rotatably mounted to the housing.

[0015] The first connector can also include a carrier slidably mounted to the housing and a needle cannula, and the second connector can also include an axial central passage extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the second connector. A biasing member can be disposed between the proximal end of the housing and the carrier.

[0016] Upon application of a first set of opposing axial forces to the proximal end of the first connector and the distal end of the second connector, the carrier contacts the proximal end of the second connector and energy is stored in the biasing member. Additionally, when the first connector is locked to the second connector, the needle cannula is received within the central passage and the distal end of the needle cannula extends from the distal end of the second connector. When the first connector is released from the second connector, the distal end of the needle cannula is contained within the housing of the first connector.

[0017] The carrier of the first connector can also include at least one sealing member. When the first connector is locked to the second connector, the needle cannula extends through the sealing member and is received within the central passage of the second connector, creating a seal between the proximal end of the second connector and the sealing member. The seal is created between the proximal end of the second connector and the sealing member by a distally directed force exerted on the carrier by the biasing member and a proximally directed force exerted on the second connector by the protrusion of the first connector.

[0018] The first connector may also include an attachment portion at the proximal end for attaching the first connector to the first medical device.

[0019] The first connector and the second connector may also include an indicator to indicate to a user when the medical connector system is in a locked position. Such an indicator may include an axial band or a bullseye configuration with a dot and a circle.

[0020] The present invention also relates to a method for transferring a fluid from a first medical device for receiving or dispensing the fluid to a second medical device for receiving or dispensing the fluid. A first connector is provided, the first connector having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being coupled to a first medical device and the distal end being open. The first connector includes a housing and a needle cannula. A second connector is also provided, the second connector having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end being coupled to a second medical device. The second connector includes a central passage extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The proximal end of the second connector is at least partially inserted into the open distal end of the first connector. A first set of opposing axial forces is applied to and then released from the proximal end of the first connector and the distal end of the second connector. The first connector locks to the second connector upon release of the first set of opposing axial forces, and the needle cannula extends into the central passage, beyond the distal end of the second connector, and into the second medical device. Fluid is then transferred through the needle cannula from the first medical device to the second medical device.

[0021] The method can further include applying and releasing a second set of opposing axial forces to the proximal end of the first connector and the distal end of the second connector, wherein the first connector is released from locking engagement with the second connector and the needle cannula is disposed within the housing of the first connector upon release of the second set of opposing axial forces. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] 1A-1C are perspective views of a medical connector system shown with a first medical device that is a syringe and a second medical device that is a pressure regulator (a), an IV bag adapter (b), or a patient connector (c). [Figure 2] 2 is an exploded perspective view of the medical connector system shown in FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 3A]2 is a perspective view of a first connector of the medical connector system shown in FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3B] 3B is a cross-sectional view of the first connector of FIG. 3A taken along line AA, showing the first connector in an actuated position, with the second connector omitted for clarity, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4A] 2 is a perspective view of a second connector of the medical connector system shown in FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4B] 4B is a cross-sectional view of the second connector of FIG. 4A taken along line AA according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram of a groove of the second connector of FIG. 4A according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4D] 10 is a schematic diagram of a groove of a second connector according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5A] 2 is a perspective view of a patient connector provided with a second connector of the medical connector system of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 5B] 5B is a cross-sectional view of the second connector of FIG. 5A along line AA according to the first embodiment of the present application. [Figure 6] 5B is a cross-sectional view of the second connector of FIG. 5B according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the second connector inserted into the first connector of FIG. 3A but unlocked. [Figure 7A] FIG. 10 is a partially transparent perspective view of a medical connector system according to another aspect of the present invention. [Figure 7B] 7B is a partially transparent perspective view of the medical connector system of FIG. 7A showing the system upon insertion of the second connector into the housing of the first connector according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7B is a partially transparent perspective view of the medical connector system of FIG. 7A showing the system after application of a first set of opposing forces applied to the first connector and the second connector, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7D]FIG. 7B is a transparent perspective view of the medical connector system of FIG. 7A showing the system in a locked state after release of a first set of opposing forces applied to the first connector and the second connector, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7E] 7B is a transparent perspective view of the medical connector system of FIG. 7A showing the system at the start of application of a second set of opposing forces applied to the first connector and the second connector, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 7F] FIG. 7B is a transparent perspective view of the medical connector system of FIG. 7A showing the system at the completion of application of a second set of opposing forces applied to the first connector and the second connector, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7G] FIG. 7B is a transparent perspective view of the medical connector system of FIG. 7A showing the system in a released state after release of the second set of opposing forces applied to the first connector and the second connector, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first connector of a medical connector system according to another embodiment of the present invention showing a connector with a transparent housing and indicator band. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second connector of a medical connector system according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with an indicator band for use with a vial adapter. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second connector of a medical connector system according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with an indicator band for use with an IV bag spike. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second connector of a medical connector system according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with an indicator band for use with a patient connector. [Figure 12] 10 is a perspective view of a medical connector system according to one embodiment of the present invention showing the first connector of FIG. 8 locked to the second connector of FIG. 9. [Figure 13]11 is a perspective view of a medical connector system according to one embodiment of the present invention showing the first connector of FIG. 8 locked to the second connector of FIG. 10. [Figure 14] 12 is a perspective view of a medical connector system according to one embodiment of the present invention showing the first connector of FIG. 8 locked to the second connector of FIG. 11. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first connector of a medical connector system according to another embodiment of the present invention showing a connector with a transparent housing and indicator band. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a second connector of a medical connector system according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with an indicator band for use with a patient connector. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of the second connector of FIG. 16 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] 17 is a perspective view of a medical connector system according to one embodiment of the present invention showing the first connector of FIG. 15 locked to the second connector of FIG. 16. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first connector of a medical connector system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with a transparent housing and indicator band. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second connector of a medical connector system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with an indicator band for use with a vial adapter. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second connector of a medical connector system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with an indicator band for use with a patient connector. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first connector of a medical connector system according to another embodiment of the present invention showing a connector with an opaque housing and indicator band. [Figure 23] 23 is a cross-sectional view of the first connector of FIG. 22 taken along line 23-23 of FIG. 22. [Figure 24]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second connector of a medical connector system according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with an indicator band for use with a patient connector. [Figure 25] 25 is a perspective view of a medical connector system according to one embodiment of the present invention showing the first connector of FIG. 22 locked to the second connector of FIG. 24. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first connector of a medical connector system according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with a transparent housing and indicator. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second connector of a medical connector system according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with an indicator. [Figure 28] 28 is a perspective view of a medical connector system according to one embodiment of the present invention showing the first connector of FIG. 26 locked to the second connector of FIG. 27. [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first connector of a medical connector system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with a transparent housing and a window. [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second connector of a medical connector system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with an indicator band. [Figure 31] 30. FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a medical connector system according to one embodiment of the present invention showing the first connector of FIG. 29 locked to the second connector of FIG. [Figure 32] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first connector of a medical connector system according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing a connector with a transparent housing and a window. [Figure 33] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second connector of a medical connector system according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing the connector with indicator marks. [Figure 34] 34 is a perspective view of a medical connector system according to one embodiment of the present invention showing the first connector of FIG. 32 locked to the second connector of FIG. 33. [Figure 35]10 is a perspective view of a first connector of the medical connector system of FIG. 1 illustrating a gripping configuration according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 36] 10 is a perspective view of a first connector of the medical connector system of FIG. 1 illustrating a gripping configuration according to a second alternative embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 37] 10 is a perspective view of the first connector of the medical connector system of FIG. 1 showing a gripping configuration according to a third alternative embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 38] 10 is a perspective view of the first connector of the medical connector system of FIG. 1 showing a gripping configuration according to a fourth alternative embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 39] 10 is a schematic diagram of a groove of a second connector according to a first alternative embodiment. FIG. [Figure 40] 10 is a schematic diagram of a groove of a second connector according to a second alternative embodiment. FIG. [Figure 41] 10 is a schematic diagram of a groove of a second connector according to a third alternative embodiment. FIG. [Figure 42] 10 is a schematic diagram of a groove of a second connector according to a fourth alternative embodiment. FIG. [Figure 43] 10 is a schematic diagram of a groove of a second connector according to a fifth alternative embodiment. FIG. [Figure 44] 10 is a schematic diagram of a groove of a second connector according to a sixth alternative embodiment. FIG. [Figure 45] 13 is a schematic diagram of a groove of a second connector according to a seventh alternative embodiment. FIG. [Figure 46] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a groove of a second connector according to an eighth alternative embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] For purposes of the following description, terms such as "end," "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "lateral," "longitudinal," and derivatives thereof, shall refer to the present invention as oriented in the figures. However, it should be understood that the present invention is susceptible to various alternative modifications and step sequences, unless expressly stated to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying figures and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Thus, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics associated with embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting. Furthermore, it should be understood that the present invention is susceptible to various alternative modifications and step sequences, unless expressly stated to the contrary.

[0024] The present invention is directed to a connector system 10 for medical devices. In one embodiment, the connector system 10 can be utilized to connect and enable fluid transfer between a first medical device 12 for receiving and / or dispensing a fluid, such as a syringe (FIG. 1), and a second medical device 14 for receiving or dispensing a fluid, such as a pressure equalization device (FIG. 1(a)), a vial adapter, a patient connector (FIG. 1(b)), an IV bag adapter (FIG. 1(c)), or a similar device used for receiving or dispensing a fluid. The entire system is used to transfer a medication from its original container, such as a vial, to a patient. The medical connector 10 is a tool used to facilitate this closed-system transfer. The medical connector system 10 includes a first connector 16 and a second connector 18. FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of one embodiment of the medical connector system 10.

[0025] 2-3B, first connector 16 is embodied as a syringe adapter configured to receive a syringe or IV line at one end and mate with a second connector at the other end to facilitate sealed transfer from a first container to a second container. However, first connector 16 may be provided in connection with any other suitable medical device. First connector 16 includes a housing 20 having a proximal end 22 and a distal end 24. Housing 20 has a generally cylindrical shape defining a central opening 26.

[0026] A cap 28 is attached to the proximal end 22 of the housing 20. The cap 28 includes a fitting 30 to couple the first connector 16 and the first medical device 12. The fitting may be of any suitable configuration that allows for a secure, sealing attachment of the first connector 16 to the first medical device 12. Possible fittings include, but are not limited to, a luer connector or a snap-fit ​​connector. The cap 28 has a central passage 32 therethrough, and the proximal end 34 of the needle cannula 36 is received within the central passage 32, thereby providing a fluid connection between the first medical device 12 and the needle cannula 36 and allowing fluid within the first medical device 12 to flow into the needle cannula 36.

[0027] 2, 3A, 3B, and 6, the cap 28 is snap-fit ​​onto the housing 20. A ledge 38 extends circumferentially around the periphery of the cap 28 and is received within a corresponding circumferential recess 40 in the housing 20. At least one protrusion 42, having an upper surface that is sloped toward the distal end of the first connector 16, engages the upper surface of the ledge 38 and retains the cap 28 within the recess 40 in the housing 20. The sloped upper surface of the at least one protrusion 42 allows the cap 28 to snap-fit ​​onto the housing 20 during assembly. Alternatively, the cap 28 may be attached to the housing 20 using any suitable means, so long as the cap 28 is securely attached to the housing 20. Possible alternative attachment means include, but are not limited to, alternative snap-fit ​​configurations, welding of a permanent connection, or a threaded connection. When cap 28 is attached to housing 20, needle cannula 36 extends into central opening 26 of housing 20 but does not extend beyond distal end 24 of housing 20. The distal end of housing 20 is open to allow at least a portion of second connector 18 to be received within central opening 26, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0028] First connector 16 also includes a cam member 44. Cam member 44 may be cylindrical in shape and includes at least one protrusion 46 that extends into central opening 26 of housing 20, as shown in FIGS. 2, 3B, 6, 8A, and 8B. Cam member 44 is rotatably disposed within housing 20. While cam member 44 and housing 20 are shown and described as cylindrical, they may take any suitable shape that allows for rotation of cam member 44 within housing 20, including, but not limited to, a conical shape or a shape having an outer surface. A distal end 48 of cam member 44 rests on a ledge 50 at distal end 24 of housing 20, and a proximal end of cam member 44 abuts cap 28, such that cam member 44 is retained within housing 20 by ledge 50 and cap 28.

[0029] Alternatively, as shown in Figures 7A-7G, 9A, and 9B, cam member 44 may be ring-shaped and may be retained within a recess near distal end 24 of housing 20. Ring-shaped cam member 44 may be disposed within housing 20, as shown in Figures 7A-7G, 9A, and 9B, or may be external to housing 20, as shown in Figure 8D, for example.

[0030] A carrier 54 is disposed within the central opening 26 of the housing 20. The carrier 54 has a generally cylindrical shape. The outermost surface of the carrier 54 is in sliding contact with the inner surface of the cam member 44 when the cam member 44 has a cylindrical shape (FIGS. 2, 3B, 6, 8A, and 8B), or with the inner surface of the housing 20 when the cam member 44 has a ring shape (FIGS. 7A-7G, 9A, and 9B), thereby allowing the carrier 54 to move axially within the housing 20. The carrier 54 includes an axial central opening 56 and at least one sealing member 58. The needle cannula 36 extends through both the axial central opening 56 and the at least one sealing member 58 of the carrier 54.

[0031] 3A and 6, two sealing members 58 are provided, whereby a first sealing member is at a proximal end 60 of the carrier 54 and a second sealing member is at a distal end 62 of the carrier 54. Preferably, at least one sealing member 58 is disposed at the distal end 62 of the carrier 54. A larger ledge portion of each sealing member 58 is received within a recess 66 in the carrier 54 to attach the sealing member 58 to the carrier 54. In the actuated or coupled position shown in FIG. 6, the carrier 54 is moved upward, whereby the needle cannula 36 extends through the carrier 54 and the sealing members 58 to place the first medical device 12 and the second medical device 14 in fluid communication. 3B , the distal end of the needle cannula 36 is disposed between sealing members 58 within a central opening 56 of the carrier 54 to protect the sharpened end of the needle cannula 36 and contain any agent that may be placed within the lumen of the needle cannula 36. Alternatively, the needle cannula 36 may be enclosed within any structure, including, but not limited to, a single large membrane, that protects the sharpened end of the needle cannula 36 and contains any agent that may be placed within the lumen of the needle cannula 36. System 10 may also be utilized in connection with any other suitable drug delivery mechanism or device.

[0032] A biasing member 68 is disposed between the cap 28 and the proximal end of the carrier 54. The biasing member 68 may be a spring, although other suitable biasing members may be utilized, including, but not limited to, a plastic spring or made of a resilient material such as rubber, TPE, or silicone. The resilient material may be arranged in a lattice configuration with multiple resilient strands or may be a single resilient strand. The biasing member 68 biases the carrier 54 toward the distal end 24 of the first connector to ensure that, upon disconnection from the second connector 18, the distal end of the needle cannula 3 is disposed within the carrier 54, as described above.

[0033] The second connector 18 is generally cylindrical having a distal end 70 and a proximal end 72 and defining an axial central passage 74, although other suitable shapes for the second connector 18 may be utilized. The distal end 70 of the second connector 18 may be integral with a second medical device 14, such as a pressure equalization device, vial adapter, patient connector, IV bag adapter, or similar fluid delivery device (FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 7A-9B), or may include a fitting for coupling to such a device. For example, with reference to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6, the second connector 18 is provided on a patient connector, which includes a fitting 75 for coupling the second connector 18 to a patient IV line or other suitable connection. The fitting 75 is shown as a male locking Luer connector, although other suitable attachment devices may be provided. The second connector 18 also includes a sealing member 73 at its proximal end 72.

[0034] The second connector 18 defines a groove 76 on its outer surface. The groove 76 has a zigzag shape that extends in several directions (FIGS. 4A, 4C, 4D, and 5A). The groove 76 defines a first section 78 that extends generally axially in the distal direction, i.e., extends generally toward the bottom end of the second connector 18. A second section 80 of the groove 76 extends from a distal end 78a of the first section 78 and slopes distally away from the distal end 78a of the first section 78, i.e., slopes downward and away from the bottom end of the first section 78. A third section 82 of the groove 76 extends generally axially in the proximal direction from the distal end 80a of the second section 80, i.e., extends generally upward from the bottom end of the second section 80. The fourth section 84 of the groove 76 extends from the proximal end 82a of the third section 82 and is angled proximally away from the proximal end 82a of the third section 82, i.e., is angled upward and backward from the top end of the third section 82. The fifth section 86 of the groove 76 extends generally axially distally from the proximal end 84a of the fourth section 84, i.e., is angled downward from the top end of the fourth section 84. The sixth section 88 of the groove 76 extends from the distal end 86a of the fifth section 86 and is angled distally away from the distal end 86a of the fifth section 86, i.e., is angled downward and backward from the bottom end of the fifth section 86. The seventh section 90 of the groove 76 extends generally axially proximally from the distal end 88a of the sixth section 88, i.e., is angled upward from the bottom end of the sixth section 88. The eighth section 92 of the groove 76 extends from the proximal end of the seventh section 90 and slopes proximally away from the proximal end of the seventh section 90, i.e., slopes upward and away from the upper end of the seventh section 90.

[0035] The first 78, third 82, fifth 86, and seventh 90 of the grooves 76 are described as extending generally axially, including perpendicular or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second connector 18, and in a slightly oblique direction, provided they are generally oriented in a proximal or distal direction.

[0036] 4D and 7A-9B, an additional section 94 can extend axially proximally from the proximal end 84a of the fourth section 84, and a fifth section 86 can extend from the distal end 84a of the additional section 94; i.e., the additional section 94 can extend from a top end of the fourth section 84, and the fifth section 86 can extend from a bottom end of the additional section 94. The additional section 94 helps provide additional security in the locked position, but is not required to form a locking connection.

[0037] A proximally sloping ledge 96, i.e., a ledge that slopes toward the bottom of second connector 18, extends along the exterior of second connector 18. The distal end of sloping ledge 96 extends to the proximal end of first section 78 of groove 76, i.e., the bottom end of sloping ledge 96 extends to the top end of first section 78 of groove 76.

[0038] The first connector 16 may be provided with two protrusions 46 on either side of the cam member 44 (FIG. 3B), and the second connector 18 may be provided with two grooves 76 on either side of the second connector 18 (FIG. 5A).

[0039] In use, the proximal end 72 of the second connector 18 is inserted into the open distal end 24 of the housing 20 of the first connector 16 ( FIG. 7B ). Depending on the orientation of the first connector 16 relative to the second connector 18, the protrusion 46 on the cam member 44 of the first connector 16 contacts the angled ledge 96 on the second connector 18, or the protrusion 46 is received within the first section 78 of the groove 76. The proximal end 72 of the second connector 18 contacts the distal end 62 of the carrier 54. The second connector 18 can include a sealing member 73 disposed adjacent the proximal end 72 of the second connector 18, which engages with the sealing member 58 disposed at the distal end 62 of the carrier 54 to form a seal. After insertion, opposing axial forces are exerted on the proximal end 77 of the first connector 16 and the distal end 70 of the second connector 18 ( FIG. 7C ). The carrier 54 is urged proximally relative to the housing 20 by the proximal end 72 of the second connector 18. As a result, energy is stored in the biasing member 68. In the case of a spring, energy is stored by compression of the spring. Simultaneously, the second connector 18 is received further into the central opening 26 of the housing 20 of the first connector 16. As the second connector 18 is received further into the central opening 26 of the housing 20 of the first connector 16, the protrusion 46 on the cam member 44 rotatably disposed within the housing 20 of the first connector 16 follows the angled ledge 96 of the second connector 18 up to the groove 76 and rides within the first and second sections 78 and 80 of the groove 76, or rides directly within the first and second sections 78 and 80 of the groove 76.

[0040] When the opposing axial force is released, the energy stored in the biasing member 68 urges the housing 20 of the first connector 16 proximally relative to the second connector 18 ( FIG. 7D ). As a result, the protrusions 46 on the cam member 44 travel within the third and fourth sections 82, 84 of the groove 76, and into the additional section 94 if the additional section 94 is provided between the fourth and fifth sections 84, 86 of the groove 76. The proximal force exerted by the biasing member 68 on the housing 20, and thus on the protrusions 46 on the cam member 44, retains the protrusions 46 within the groove 76, thereby locking the first connector 16 onto the second connector 18. In this locked state, the housing 20 can still be rotated relative to the second connector 18 without disengaging the first connector 16 from the second connector 18.

[0041] Preferably, when first connector 16 and second connector 18 are in this locked, engaged state, proximal end 72 of second connector 18 is in sealing engagement with sealing member 58 on distal end 62 of carrier 54. The distal force exerted by biasing member 68 on carrier 54 and the proximal force exerted by protrusion 46 on cam member 44 on second connector 18 help to ensure a good seal between sealing member 58 and proximal end 72 of second connector 18.

[0042] When the first connector 16 and the second connector 18 are in this locked, engaged state, the needle cannula 36 extends into the central axial passage 74 of the second connector 18 and into the second medical device 14. This provides a fluid path from the first medical device 12, through the needle cannula 36, ​​and into the second medical device 14.

[0043] When it is desired to release the locking connection between the first connector 16 and the second connector 18, opposing axial forces are again exerted on the proximal end 77 of the first connector 16 and the distal end 70 of the second connector 18 ( FIGS. 7E and 7F ). The carrier 54 is urged proximally relative to the housing 20 by the proximal end 72 of the second connector 18. As a result, energy is stored within the biasing member 68. In the case of a spring, energy is stored by compression of the spring. Simultaneously, the second connector 18 is further received within the central opening 26 of the housing 20 of the first connector 16. As the second connector 18 is further received within the central opening 26 of the housing 20 of the first connector 16, the protrusion 46 on the cam member 44 advances within the fifth section 86 and sixth section 88 of the groove 76.

[0044] When the opposing axial force is released, the energy stored within biasing member 68 urges housing 20 of first connector 16 proximally relative to second connector 18 (FIG. 7G). As a result of the proximal force on housing 20, protrusions 46 on cam member 44 advance within seventh and eighth sections 90, 92 of groove 76, and first connector 16 is released from engagement with second connector 18. The distal end of needle cannula 36 is once again contained within carrier 54 of first connector 16.

[0045] In the released position, the tip of needle cannula 36 is contained between two sealing members 58 within central axial opening 56 of carrier 54. Thus, not only is the user protected from accidental needle sticks, but any fluid that may remain within needle cannula 36 is contained within needle cannula 36 and / or carrier 54 by sealing members 58.

[0046] While connector system 10 has been described and shown as having a biasing member 68, another embodiment does not include a biasing member. In this embodiment, a user presses first connector 16 onto second connector 18, applying opposing axial forces on proximal end 77 of first connector 16 and distal end 70 of second connector 18, until protrusion 46 advances within first 78 and second 80 sections of groove 76 and first connector 16 cannot advance further on second connector 18. The user then pulls first connector 16 away from second connector 18, applying opposing axial forces on proximal end 77 of first connector 16 and distal end 70 of second connector 18, until protrusion 46 advances within third 82 and fourth 84 sections of groove 76 and enters additional section 94. Additional section 94 is in the form of an indentation and provides a locking engagement with protrusion 46. When the protrusion 46 is locked into the additional section 94 , the first connector 16 is locked to the second connector 18 .

[0047] When it is desired to release the locking connection between the first connector 16 and the second connector 18, the user presses the first connector 16 onto the second connector 18 and again applies opposing axial forces on the proximal end 77 of the first connector 16 and the distal end 70 of the second connector 18 until the protrusions 46 disengage from the additional section 94, advance through the fifth 86 and sixth 88 sections of the groove 76, and the first connector 16 cannot advance any further on the second connector 18. The user then pulls the first connector 16 away from the second connector 18 and applies opposing axial forces on the proximal end 77 of the first connector 16 and the distal end 70 of the second connector 18 until the protrusions 46 advance through the seventh 90 and eighth 92 sections of the groove 76 and the first connector 16 is released from the second connector 18.

[0048] As shown in FIGS. 8-25, the first connector 16 can have an axially extending indicator band 98 on the outer surface of the cam member 44. In this case, the housing 20 of the first connector 16 is transparent. The second connector 18 can have an axially extending indicator band 100 on its outer surface. The indicator bands 98, 100 are positioned on the cam member 44 and the second connector 18 so that when the first connector 16 is in locking engagement with the second connector 18, the indicator band 98 on the cam member 44, visible through the transparent housing 20, is aligned with the indicator band 100 on the second connector 18, providing a visual indication to the user that the connector system is locked. Preferably, the indicator band 98 on the cam member 44 is positioned 90° around the circumference of the cam member 44 from the protrusion 46. Alternatively, if the second connector 18 is integral with the second medical device 14 , the indicator band 100 may be included on an exterior surface of the second medical device 14 .

[0049] The indicator line 98 may extend the entire length of the cam member 44 and second connector 18, as shown in Figures 8 and 11, or may extend only a portion of the length of the cam member 44 and second connector 18, as shown in Figure 19. Alternatively, if the cam member 44 is external to the housing 20, the housing 20 need not be transparent.

[0050] 26-28, in a connector system having a cam member 44, a first connector 16 can have a dot 102 on the outer surface of the housing 20. In this case, the housing 20 of the first connector 16 is transparent. The second connector 18 can have a circle 104. When the first connector 16 is in locking engagement with the second connector 18, the dot 104 on the housing 102 is visible through the transparent housing 20 and is located within the circle 104 on the second connector 18, providing a visual indication to the user that the connector system is locked.

[0051] In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 29-34 , in a connector system having a cam member 44, the cam member 44 can include a window 105, and the second connector can include an indicator band 100 ( FIGS. 30 and 31 ) or indicator mark 107 ( FIGS. 33 and 34 ). In this case, the housing 20 of the first connector 16 is transparent. When the first connector 16 is in locking engagement with the second connector 18, the indicator band 100 or indicator mark 107 is visible through the transparent housing 20 and is located within the window 105 of the cam member 44, providing a visual indication to the user that the connector system is locked. In yet another embodiment, instead of the indicator band 100 or indicator mark 107 on the second connector 18, a colored portion can be provided on the carrier 54. In this case, the indicator can be visible through a window in the opaque housing when the carrier 54 is moved into the housing 20.

[0052] 35-38, while housing 20 of first connector 16 is shown as being generally cylindrical in, for example, FIG. 2, housing 20 of first connector 16 may also include features to enhance a user's ability to grip housing 20.

[0053] 35 and 36, the housing 20 of the first connector 16 can include a gripping portion 106 that is a generally flat area compared to the cylindrical surface of the remainder of the housing 20. In FIG. 35, the housing 20 is generally cylindrical with a concave, planar gripping portion 106 having an hourglass-shaped circumference. In FIG. 36, the housing is generally cylindrical with a concave, planar gripping portion 106 having a generally rectangular-shaped circumference with rounded ends. The gripping portion 106 provides a contact surface to allow the housing 20 to be more easily gripped by a user of the connector 16.

[0054] 37, the housing 20 of the first connector 16 may include a plurality of annular ribs 108 that extend circumferentially around the outer surface of the housing 20. The housing 20 may include a plurality of annular ribs 108 that extend the entire length of the housing 20 or only a portion of the length of the housing 20. The annular ribs 108 provide a surface for a user to more easily grip the connector 16.

[0055] 38, the housing 20 of the first connector 16 may also define a convex gripping portion 110 that includes a protrusion or projection. The convex gripping portion 110 is a portion of the housing 20 that extends radially inward around the circumference of the housing 20 to provide a contact surface that allows the connector 16 to be more easily gripped by a user.

[0056] The protrusion 46 of the first connector 16 extends radially inward and the groove 76 of the second connector 18 is located on the outer surface of the second connector 18, but the protrusion 46 may also extend radially outward and be provided on the outer surface of the second connector 18, with the groove 76 of the second connector 18 being provided on the inner surface of the second connector 18.

[0057] As shown in Figures 39-46, the groove 76 of the second connector 18 can take any number of paths, so long as the first connector 16 is locked to the second connector 18 upon application and release of a first set of opposing axial forces applied to the proximal end 77 of the first connector 16 and the distal end 70 of the second connector 18, and the first connector 16 is released from the second connector 18 upon application and release of a second set of opposing axial forces to the proximal end 77 of the first connector 16 and the distal end 70 of the second connector 18. These include paths that can be linked and repeated (FIG. 39), paths that follow the same path during the application and release of a first set of opposing axial forces and during the application and release of a second set of opposing axial forces (FIGS. 44 and 45), paths with curved sections (FIG. 43), and paths that have common entry and exit points but are looped to follow a loop during most of the locking and release steps (FIG. 46). All paths can include at least five positions: (1) a start position, (2) an initial base position, (3) an intermediate (or locked) position, (4) a secondary base position, and (5) an end position. For some paths, the initial base position (2) and the secondary base position (4) are the same (FIGS. 44 and 45). Similarly, the start position (1) and the end position (5) may also be the same, depending on the path (FIG. 46). While the illustrated embodiment has two protrusions 46 on the cam member 44 and two grooves 76 on the second connector 18, any number of protrusions 46 may be used. The corresponding grooves or grooves 76 may be varied or increased or decreased, taking into account the number and / or location of the protrusions 46, so long as the shape of the grooves 76 allows for locking of the first connector 16 to the second connector 18 upon application and release of a first set of opposing axial forces, and release of the first connector 16 from the second connector 18 upon application and release of a second set of opposing axial forces. Additionally, the number of protrusions 46 and grooves 76 need not be equal. For example, one protrusion 46 may be used in a two or more repeated groove 76 pattern, or two protrusions 46 may be used in a four repeated groove 76 pattern.

[0058] The connector system has been described above as having a cam member 44 with at least one protrusion 46 rotatably disposed within the housing 20 of the first connector 16 with the second connector 18 secured thereto. Alternatively, the protrusion 46 may be directly secured to the housing 20 or keyed to the housing 20. In this case, the second connector 18 would then rest on a secondary component (similar to a cylinder) allowing the groove 76 to rotate relative to the housing 20 and the protrusion 46.

[0059] The connector system has also been described above as having a groove 76 on the exterior of the second connector 18 and a cam member 44 as part of the first connector 16. Alternatively, the groove 76 may be located on the interior wall of the housing 20 of the first connector 16, and the cam member 44 may be located on the exterior of the second connector 18. Two variations on this embodiment exist. First, the cam member 44 with at least one protrusion 46 may be a rotating washer on the exterior of the second connector 18, and the groove 76 may be fixed within the interior wall of the housing 20 of the first connector 16. Second, the protrusion 46 can be fixed to the exterior of the second connector 18, and the groove can be located inside a secondary component (such as a cylinder) that can freely rotate within the interior wall of the housing 20 of the first connector 16, allowing the groove 76 to rotate relative to the protrusion 46.

[0060] While this disclosure has been described as having exemplary designs, the disclosure may be further modified within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, this application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the disclosure using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this disclosure pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A medical connector system, comprising: a first connector having a proximal end and a distal end, the first connector comprising: a housing defining a central opening for receiving a needle cannula; and a cam member having at least one projection extending into the central opening of the housing, the first connector being mounted for rotation relative to the housing; A second connector having an exterior surface, a proximal end, and a distal end, the exterior surface of the second connector comprising: a receiving section extending distally substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the second connector; a locking section tapering proximally away from a lower end of the receiving section; a first angled section extending between the receiving section and the locking section; an outlet section extending proximally substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second connector; a second connector defining a groove comprising a second angled section extending between the locking section and the outlet section; the proximal end of the second connector is at least partially disposed within the open distal end of the first connector; when a first set of opposing axial forces is applied to the proximal end of the first connector and the distal end of the second connector and released, at least one protrusion is directed into the receiving section and then rotated through the first angled section and into the locking section such that the first connector is locked to the second connector; when a second set of opposing axial forces is applied to the proximal end of the first connector and the distal end of the second connector and released, the at least one protrusion is rotated from the locking section, through the second angled section, and then out of the exit section, releasing the first connector from the second connector.

2. The medical connector system of claim 1 , wherein the second connector comprises at least two protrusions extending from the exterior surface and defining the groove.

3. 2. The medical connector system of claim 1, wherein the locking section comprises a locking recess that receives the at least one protrusion when the first connector and the second connector are locked.

4. 4. The medical connector system of claim 3, wherein the locking section further comprises a substantially horizontal wall that directs the at least one protrusion of the first connector into the locking recess.

5. The medical connector system of claim 1 , wherein the receiving section comprises a bevel for orienting the at least one protrusion of the first connector within the receiving section.

6. 10. The medical connector system of claim 1, wherein the first connector further comprises a carrier received within the housing, the carrier comprising a sealing member within at least one of a distal end of the carrier and a proximal end of the carrier.

7. 10. The medical connector system of claim 1, wherein the first connector further comprises a cap that couples with a proximal end of the housing, the cap comprising a fitting for coupling the first connector to a medical device.

8. The medical connector system of claim 7, wherein the proximal end of the needle cannula is retained within the cap.

9. 10. The medical connector system of claim 1, wherein the second connector further comprises a fitting for connecting to a medical connecting member at a distal end of the second connector.

10. 2. The medical connector system of claim 1, wherein the first connector further comprises a first indicator and the second connector further comprises a second indicator, and upon application and release of a first set of opposing axial forces applied to the proximal end of the first connector and the distal end of the second connector, the first connector is axially locked relative to the second connector and the first indicator is aligned with the second indicator.

11. The medical connector system of claim 10 , wherein the first indicator and the second indicator are axial bands.

12. The medical connector system of claim 10, wherein the first indicator is a dot and the second indicator is a circle.

13. The medical connector system of claim 10, wherein the first indicator includes a window defined in the cam member and the second indicator is an axial band.

14. The medical connector system of claim 10, wherein the first indicator includes a window defined in the cam member and the second indicator is a symbol.

15. The medical connector system of claim 10 , wherein the housing of the first connector comprises a flat gripping portion.

16. 11. The medical connector system of claim 10, wherein the housing of the first connector includes a plurality of annular ribs extending circumferentially outwardly around an outer surface of the housing.

17. The medical connector system of claim 10 , wherein the first connector defines a concave gripping portion.

18. The medical connector system of claim 10 , wherein at least one of the proximal end and the distal end of the first connector is conical in shape.

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