Surgical suction device using positive pressure gas

Abstract

To provide devices, systems and methods for providing suction force.SOLUTION: The suction force is generated passively. A passive suction device may comprise a structural element, such as a narrow portion of an inner diameter of a hollow segment, configured to create a Venturi effect. A passive suction device may comprise a structural element, such as a conduit formed between two facing surfaces, configured to create a Coanda effect. A passive suction device may comprise a structural element, such as a wing shape or fan shape, configured to create a Coanda effect. A passive suction device may comprise one or more structural elements to create a Venturi effect, one or more structural elements to create a Coanda effect, one or more structural elements to create a Bernoulli effect, or any combination thereof.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [Background technology]

[0002] Suction can be achieved in many ways for a wide variety of applications. Typically, suction-generating devices are used to remove gases, liquids, or any combination thereof from an environment. Suction is typically generated by electrical or motor-driven devices, which tend to be noisy and cumbersome to use. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Described herein are devices, systems and methods for providing suction. In some embodiments, the suction is generated passively.

[0004] Described herein is a surgical suction device including an air amplifier. In some embodiments, the air amplifier has a structure defining a generally cylindrical cavity having a first opening at a first end and a second opening at a second end. In some embodiments, the cylindrical cavity is defined by an interior wall of the cavity. In some embodiments, the air amplifier has an annular opening in the interior wall near the first end. In some embodiments, the annular opening defines an outlet opening configured to allow pressurized gas to exit the annular opening, creating a low-pressure region at the first end and an amplified flow at the second end. The annular opening is further configured to allow the pressurized gas to enter the cavity at an angle relative to the interior wall of the cavity toward the second end. The cavity is flared, increasing in diameter until the annular opening communicates with the cavity.

[0005] Described herein is a passive suction device comprising: a housing including a first hollow section having an inlet port configured to receive a gas, a liquid, or a combination thereof, a first opening, and a first exterior surface surrounding the first opening; and a second hollow section having an interior and including an outlet port configured to release the gas, the liquid, or the combination thereof from the housing, a second opening opposite the first opening, and a second exterior surface surrounding the second opening and opposite the first exterior surface. The passive suction device may include a housing having a first outer surface and a second outer surface; an air flow amplifier having a pressurized gas port configured to receive a pressurized gas flow; and a conduit having a gap space between the first outer surface and the second outer surface, the conduit being in fluid communication with the pressurized gas port and positioned at an angle relative to the second opening to receive the pressurized gas flow from the pressurized gas port and direct the pressurized gas flow to the second hollow section, such that the pressurized gas flow flows along substantially the entirety of one or more inner surfaces of the second hollow section as the pressurized gas flow passes through the second hollow section. In some embodiments, the suction port further comprises a valve configured to prevent backflow of the gas, the liquid, or the combination thereof. In some embodiments, the passive suction device further comprises an alarm configured to activate through the housing if there is backflow of gas, liquid, or the combination thereof. In some embodiments, the alarm port is in communication with the first section. In some embodiments, the passive suction device further comprises a filter. In some embodiments, the first hollow section and the second hollow section are configured to move relative to one another to vary the distance between the first outer surface and the second outer surface, thereby adjusting the width of the interstitial space of the conduit. In some embodiments, when substantially all of the pressurized gas flow moves along one or more surfaces of the hollow interior of the second section, a low-pressure region is formed within the second section, creating a suction force that draws gas, liquid, solids, or any combination thereof, through the inlet port, through the first hollow section, through the first opening, through the second opening, through the second hollow section, and through the outlet port.In some embodiments, the conduit is positioned at an angle determined by the angle of the first surface, the angle of the first surface comprising an angle from 0 degrees to 90 degrees.

[0006] Also described herein are methods for passively generating suction, comprising providing an apparatus comprising: a first hollow section, a second hollow section; an air flow amplifier including a pressurized gas port configured to receive a pressurized gas flow; and a conduit including a gap space between the first hollow section and the second hollow section, the conduit being in fluid communication with the pressurized gas port and positioned to receive the pressurized gas flow from the pressurized gas port and direct the pressurized gas flow to a second opening such that the pressurized gas flow flows essentially along substantially the entirety of one or more inner surfaces of the second hollow section as the pressurized gas flow passes through the second hollow section. In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a valve configured to prevent backflow of gas, liquid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises an alarm configured to activate through the housing when backflow of gas, liquid, or a combination thereof occurs. In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises an alarm port including an air alarm configured to sound an alarm when backflow of air passes through the alarm port. In some embodiments, the alarm port is continuous with the first section. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a filter. In some embodiments, the width of the interstitial space of the conduit is adjustable. In some embodiments, the flow of pressurized gas through the second hollow section creates a low-pressure region within the second hollow section, thereby creating a suction force. In some embodiments, the second hollow section includes an opening configured to receive the pressurized gas flow from the conduit, the conduit being positioned to direct the pressurized gas flow at an angle between 0 and 90 degrees relative to the first hollow section.

[0007] Described herein are methods for passively generating suction using a passive suction device that receives a flow of pressurized gas into a conduit of a suction device, the method comprising: directing the flow of pressurized gas through a gap space between a first hollow section and a second hollow section of the device, and directing the pressurized gas to flow through the second hollow section and along substantially the entirety of one or more surfaces of the hollow interior of the second hollow section to generate the suction force. In some embodiments, the method further comprises adjusting a dimension of the gap space to adjust the strength of the suction force. In some embodiments, the method further comprises utilizing the suction force to receive a suction flow containing solids, liquids, or a mixture thereof. In some embodiments, the method further comprises filtering the suction flow. In some embodiments, the method further comprises sounding an alarm if the suction flow is interrupted. In some embodiments, the second hollow section includes an opening configured to receive the pressurized gas flow from a conduit, the conduit positioned to direct the pressurized gas flow at an angle between 0 and 90 degrees relative to the first hollow section.

[0008] Described herein are methods for providing suction during a surgical procedure, including receiving a suction device that passively generates suction by directing a flow of pressurized gas through the suction device, delivering the pressurized gas to the device to provide suction during the surgical procedure, and applying the suction to a surgical field to aspirate gas, liquid, solids, or any combination thereof resulting from the surgical procedure. In some embodiments, the method further includes adjusting the intensity of the suction. In some embodiments, the method further includes filtering the aspirated gas, liquid, solids, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the method further includes sounding an alarm if an obstruction is present in the device. In some embodiments, the device is configured to couple to a surgical suction system including a canister and a suction tube. In some embodiments, the suction device further comprises a valve configured to prevent backflow of aspirated gas, liquid, solids, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the suction capacity of the device is between about 10 pounds per square inch and about 25 pounds per square inch.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a passive suction device. The device includes: (a) a first hollow section having a central axis, the first hollow section including: (i) an intake port configured to receive a gas, a liquid, a solid, or any combination thereof; (ii) a first opening; and (iii) a first opposing surface at least partially surrounding the first opening; (b) a second hollow section having an interior and including: (i) an exhaust port configured to release the gas, the liquid, the solid, or any combination thereof; (ii) a second opening opposite the first opening; and (iii) a second opposing surface at least partially surrounding the second opening and opposing the first exterior surface; and (c) an air flow amplifier including: (i) a pressurized gas port configured to receive a pressurized gas flow; and (ii) a conduit formed by the first opposing surface and the second opposing surface. In some embodiments, the conduit is in fluid communication with the pressurized gas port. In some embodiments, the first opposing surface is at an angle of less than 90 degrees with respect to the central axis of the first hollow section. In some embodiments, the conduit is configured to receive a pressurized gas flow and to direct the pressurized gas flow to the second opening such that the pressurized gas flow through the second opening creates a low pressure region in which the inlet port receives a gas, liquid, solid, or combination thereof.

[0010] In some embodiments, the inlet port further comprises a valve configured to prevent backflow of gas, liquid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the device further comprises an alarm configured to activate in the presence of backflow of gas, liquid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the alarm port is in fluid communication with the first section. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a filter configured to filter gas, liquid, solids, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a tuner arm configured to adjust a width of the conduit, the tuner arm being configured to move one or more of the first hollow section and the second hollow section relative to each other to change the distance between the first opposing surface and the second opposing surface. In some embodiments, the width of the conduit is adjustable between about 0 millimeters (mm) and about 2 mm. In some embodiments, the device comprises an angle adjustment controller, the angle adjustment controller being configured to adjust the angle.

[0011] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air flow amplifier. The air amplifier includes: (a) a conduit having a diameter and a first wall and a second wall, the conduit configured to receive a flow of pressurized gas; (b) a hollow section in fluid communication with the conduit and having a central axis; and (c) a tuner arm configured to adjust the width of the conduit. In some embodiments, the first wall of the conduit is angled at an angle less than 90 degrees relative to the central axis of the receiving passage. In some embodiments, the conduit directs the flow of pressurized gas into the hollow section, such that the flow of pressurized gas through the hollow section generates a suction flow and creates a low-pressure region that amplifies the flow of pressurized gas. In some embodiments, the tuner arm is configured to move one or more of the first wall and the second wall relative to each other.

[0012] In some embodiments, the amplifier further comprises a chamber in which the aspiration flow is generated by the pressurized gas flow. In some embodiments, the amplifier further comprises a filter through which the aspiration flow passes. In some embodiments, the chamber further comprises a flow valve configured to prevent backflow of the aspiration flow outside of the chamber. In some embodiments, the amplifier further comprises an alarm configured to sound when an obstruction is present in the receiving passage. In some embodiments, the width of the conduit is adjustable between about 0 millimeters (mm) and about 2 mm.

[0013] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a suction system. The suction system includes: (a) pressurized gas; (b) a suction device including: (i) a pressurized gas port configured to receive the pressurized gas; (ii) a conduit having a diameter, a first wall, and a second wall, configured to receive a pressurized gas flow; (iii) a hollow section having a central axis and fluidly communicating with the conduit; and (c) a canister configured to receive a gas, a liquid, a solid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first wall of the conduit is angled at an angle less than 90 degrees relative to the central axis of the receiving passage. In some embodiments, the conduit is configured to direct a pressurized gas flow into the hollow section, and the pressurized gas flow through the hollow section creates a low-pressure region that generates a suction flow. In some embodiments, the canister is in fluid communication with the suction device such that suction force generated by the suction device is transmitted to the canister, and the canister is configured to receive a gas, a liquid, a solid, or a combination thereof.

[0014] In some embodiments, the pressurized gas flow conduit has a diameter, the diameter being adjustable. In some embodiments, the suction device further includes an alarm configured to sound when an obstruction is present in the receiving passage. In some embodiments, the canister is configured to contain a liquid, a solid, or a combination thereof, and the gas is drawn through the canister into the suction device. In some embodiments, the suction device further includes a filter through which the drawn gas passes. In some embodiments, the suction system further includes a tuner arm configured to adjust the width of the conduit, the tuner arm configured to move one or more of the first wall and the second wall relative to one another.

[0015] Aspects of the present disclosure include a surgical tool, a canister, a filter, and one or more passive suction devices, wherein an output port of the surgical tool may be in fluid communication with an input port of the canister, and the output port of the canister may be in fluid communication with an input port of the filter, and the one or more passive suction devices may be in fluid communication with the system. In some embodiments, the system further includes a first tubing and a second tubing, wherein a first end of the first tubing is fluidly connected to the output port of the surgical tool, a second end of the first tubing is fluidly connected to the input port of the canister, a second end of the second tubing is fluidly connected to the output port of the canister, and a first end of the second tubing is fluidly connected to the input port of the filter. In some embodiments, the input port of the one or more passive suction devices may be fluidly connected to the output port of the canister, and the output port of the one or more passive suction devices may be fluidly connected to the input port of the filter. In some embodiments, the one or more passive suction devices may be disposed in the system to push the effluent flow into the filter. In some embodiments, the system can be at least about 60% more efficient than fluidly connecting the input port of one or more passive suction devices to the output port of the filter. In some embodiments, the system can be at least about 75% more efficient. In some embodiments, the one or more passive suction devices may be integrated with the canister, the surgical tool, the filter, the tubing, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more passive suction devices may be attachable to the canister, the surgical tool, the filter, the tubing, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more passive suction devices may be two. In some embodiments, the output port of a first passive suction device may be fluidly connected to the input port of the canister, and the input port of a second passive suction device may be fluidly connected to the output port of the canister. In some embodiments, the pressure of the effluent stream within the tubing, the canister, or a combination thereof may be equalized. In some embodiments, the first passive suction device may be positioned to push the effluent stream into the canister, and the second passive suction device may be positioned to draw the effluent stream from the canister.In some embodiments, tubing stiffness can be reduced or eliminated compared to a system with a single passive suction device. In some embodiments, the tubing may have a wall thickness of about 0.01 inches (0.254 millimeters) or less. In some embodiments, the tubing may have a wall thickness of about 0.001 inches (0.0254 millimeters) or less. In some embodiments, the tubing may have a wall thickness of about 0.0001 inches (0.00254 millimeters) or less. In some embodiments, the one or more passive suction devices may include at least one Coanda effect, at least one Venturi effect, at least one Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more passive suction devices are fluidly connected to a surgical tool input port, and effluent stream entrainment occurs at the surgical tool input port. In some embodiments, the entrainment diameter of the effluent stream at the surgical tool input port may be at least about one time the diameter of the surgical tool. In some embodiments, the entrainment diameter may be at least about two times the diameter of the surgical tool.

[0016] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a passive suction device comprising: a first hollow section comprising i) a lumen and ii) a first opposing surface at an end of the first hollow section; and a second hollow section comprising i) a lumen and ii) a second opposing surface at an end of the second hollow section, wherein the first opposing surface is adjacent to or at least partially overlaps the second opposing surface to form a conduit therebetween, and wherein the geometry of the first opposing surface, the geometry of the second opposing surface, or a combination thereof, can direct a flow path for pressurized fluid entering the passive suction device, wherein the pressurized fluid can be moved substantially adjacent a) the first opposing surface for at least about 30% of the length of the first opposing surface, or b) the second opposing surface for at least about 30% of the length of the second opposing surface. In some embodiments, the pressurized fluid can be moved substantially adjacent a) the first opposing surface for at least about 60% of the length of the first opposing surface, or b) the second opposing surface for at least about 60% of the length of the second opposing surface. In some embodiments, the geometry of the first opposing surface, the second opposing surface, or a combination thereof can form a bull-nose end, a demi-bull-nose end, a relaxed end, a rectangular end, a counter-curve end, a concave curved end, a beveled end, a double beveled end, a blunt end, a flared end, a rounded end, a tapered end, an airfoil-shaped end, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the geometry of the first opposing surface, the second opposing surface, or a combination thereof can be adjustable. In some embodiments, the geometry of the first opposing surface, the geometry of the second opposing surface, or a combination thereof can redirect the flow path at an angle less than about 90 degrees relative to the original direction of the flow path. In some embodiments, the original direction can be perpendicular to the central axis of the passive suction device. In some embodiments, adjusting the geometry can i) redirect the flow path of the pressurized fluid, ii) change the suction capacity, iii) change the suction efficiency, iv) change the volumetric flow rate of the pressurized fluid, v) change the percentage of the length of the opposing surface through which the pressurized fluid travels, or vi) any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the pressurized fluid can enter the passive suction device at an angle of less than 90 degrees relative to the central axis of the passive suction device.In some embodiments, the pressurized fluid can enter the passive suction device at an angle of about 55 degrees or less relative to the central axis of the passive suction device.

[0017] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a surgical device comprising: a first input port for receiving pressurized fluid into the surgical device; a second input port for receiving entrained fluid into the surgical device; an output port through which an effluent stream comprising at least a portion of the entrained fluid, at least a portion of the pressurized fluid, or a combination thereof, is discharged from the surgical device; and: i) a constriction in the inner diameter of the hollow section; ii) a conduit formed by the first opposing surface of the end of the first hollow section at a location at least partially adjacent to or overlapping the second opposing surface of the end of the second hollow section; or iii) a combination thereof; wherein entry of pressurized fluid into the first input port of the surgical device can create a region of lower pressure within the surgical device relative to other regions within the surgical device, such that the second input port of the surgical device can entrain at least a portion of the fluid from a field external to the surgical device. In some embodiments, the second input port can be a conduit. In some embodiments, the second input port can be an annular opening. In some embodiments, the suction capacity of the surgical device can be adjustable. In some embodiments, adjusting the width of the conduit may adjust the suction capacity of the surgical device, the volumetric flow rate of the entrained fluid, the volumetric ratio of gas suction to liquid suction, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the surgical device may include at least one constriction and at least one conduit. In some embodiments, the flow path of the entrained fluid upon entering the second input port of the surgical device may be redirected at an angle of about 5 degrees to about 85 degrees relative to its original direction. In some embodiments, the entrained fluid may enter the conduit, and the original direction may be along a central longitudinal axis of the surgical device. In some embodiments, the flow path of the pressurized fluid upon entering the first input port of the surgical device may be redirected at an angle of about 5 degrees to about 85 degrees relative to its original direction. In some embodiments, the pressurized fluid may enter the conduit, and the original direction may be along a central longitudinal axis of the surgical device. In some embodiments, the surgical device may be a ventilator. In some embodiments, the surgical device may be a suction device. In some embodiments, the surgical device may be configured to be attachable to a surgical tool.In some embodiments, the surgical device may be a surgical suction device fluidly connected to a surgical tool, a canister, a filter, tubing, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the surgical device may be a surgical suction device in fluid communication with a surgical tool, a canister, a filter, tubing, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the tubing may have a wall thickness of about 0.01 inch (0.254 millimeters) or less. In some embodiments, the tubing may have a wall thickness of about 0.001 inch (0.0254 millimeters) or less. In some embodiments, the tubing may have a wall thickness of about 0.0001 inch (0.00254 millimeters) or less. In some embodiments, the entrained fluid may include a gas, a liquid, a solid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the entrained fluid may include a bodily fluid. In some embodiments, the geometry of the first opposing surface, the second opposing surface, or a combination thereof can form a bull-nose end, a demi-bull-nose end, a blunt end, a rectangular end, a counter-curve end, a concave curved end, a beveled end, a double beveled end, a blunt end, a flared end, a rounded end, a tapered end, an airfoil end, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the diameter of the entrained fluid region at the input port of the surgical tool in fluid communication with the surgical device can be at least about 1 times the diameter of the surgical tool. In some embodiments, the diameter of the entrained fluid region can be at least about 2 times the diameter of the surgical tool.

[0018]

[0013] Further aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes only exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As will be realized, the present disclosure is also applicable to various other embodiments, and its several details can be modified in various obvious aspects without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not restrictive.

[0019] [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] The novel features of the subject matter described herein are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The features and advantages of the present subject matter will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the subject matter described herein are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a suction system.

[0022] [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating the aspiration system.

[0023] [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an aspiration system with backflow prevention.

[0024] [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an aspiration system with a backflow alarm.

[0025] [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an aspiration system with safety features.

[0026] [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a method for operating an aspiration system with a safety feature.

[0027] [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an aspiration system with blockage removal control.

[0028] [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an aspiration system with safety features and blockage removal control.

[0029] [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a method for operating an aspiration system with safety features and blockage removal control.

[0030] [Figure 10A] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a filtration and suction system.

[0031] [Figure 10B] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the operation of the filtration and aspiration system.

[0032] [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating the filtration and aspiration system.

[0033] [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a positive pressure actuated suction device.

[0034] [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a positive pressure operated suction device with backflow prevention.

[0035] [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a positive pressure operated suction device with a backflow alarm.

[0036] [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a positive pressure operated suction device with safety features.

[0037] [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a filtration and suction device with a safety feature.

[0038] [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a compensation filter suction device.

[0039] [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a method for operating a compensation filter suction device.

[0040] [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a suction device with an adjustable pressure gap.

[0041] [Figure 20] 10A-10C illustrate a method of operating a suction device with an adjustable pressure gap.

[0042] [Figure 21A] FIG. 1 shows a suction device equipped with a non-return valve.

[0043] [Figure 21B1] FIG. 1 shows a suction device conduit equipped with a non-return valve. [Figure 21B] FIG. 21B1 is an enlarged view of FIG. 21B1 showing the suction device conduit with a one-way valve. [Figure 21C] Same as above

[0044] [Figure 21D] 1 illustrates the operation of a suction device with a check valve during normal operation.

[0045] [Figure 21E] 10A-10C illustrate the operation of a suction device with a non-return valve in the case of an obstruction.

[0046] [Figure 22A] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the check valve.

[0047] [Figure 22B] FIG. 10 illustrates a check valve during blockage.

[0048] [Figure 22C] FIG. 1 illustrates a check valve during normal operation.

[0049] [Figure 23A] FIG. 1 illustrates the operation of a positive vacuum device with safety features during normal operation.

[0050] [Figure 23B] 1 illustrates the operation of a positive pressure suction device with safety features in case of a disturbance.

[0051] [Figure 24A] FIG. 1 shows a positive pressure actuated suction device.

[0052] [Figure 24B1] FIG. 10 illustrates the operation of an adjustable pressure gap for a positive pressure operated suction device. [Figure 24B] FIG. 24B1 is an enlarged view of FIG. 24B1 illustrating the operation of an adjustable pressure gap for a positive pressure actuated suction device.

[0053] [Figure 24C1] FIG. 10 illustrates the operation of an adjustable pressure gap for a positive pressure operated suction device. [Figure 24C] FIG. 24C1 is an enlarged view of FIG. 24C1 illustrating the operation of an adjustable pressure gap for a positive pressure actuated suction device.

[0054] [Figure 24D] 1A-1C illustrate the operation of a positive pressure actuated suction device during normal operation.

[0055] [Figure 24E] 1A-1C illustrate the operation of a positive pressure actuated suction device during normal operation.

[0056] [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a suction system for use in an operating room.

[0057] [Figure 26] 1 illustrates a method of operating a suction system for use in an operating room.

[0058] [Figure 27] FIG. 1 shows a muffler for a positive pressure operated suction device.

[0059] [Figure 28] FIG. 10 illustrates the angle of the beveled or flared ends that form a conduit when two sections are placed adjacent to each other.

[0060] [Figure 29] 1 is a table showing different equipment settings and the corresponding smoke flow rate in standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) and static vacuum in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

[0061] [Figure 30] 1 is a table showing the auditory noise level (dB) of different devices at an input pressure of 30 psi.

[0062] [Figure 31] 31A and 31B show computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses using a flared end at a 35 degree angle relative to the central axis (FIG. 31A) or a 55 degree angle relative to the central axis (FIG. 31B).

[0063] [Figure 32] 10 is a graph showing maximum static vacuum as a function of input pressure at an angle of 35 degrees to the central axis or at an angle of 55 degrees to the central axis.

[0064] [Figure 33] 1 is a graph showing air consumption (scfm) as a function of static vacuum at an input pressure of 34 psi.

[0065] [Figure 34] 1 is a graph showing air consumption (scfm) as a function of static vacuum at an input pressure of 30 psi.

[0066] [Figure 35] 1 is a graph showing noise level (dB) at maximum suction as a function of input air pressure in pounds per square inch (psi).

[0067] [Figure 36] 1 is a graph showing inlet pressure and outlet flow rate as a function of simulated filter clogging.

[0068] [Figure 37] 1 is an image illustrating test equipment, in which 37A is a pressure meter, 37B is a blood pressure monitor, 37C is a flow meter, 37D is a sound level meter, 37E is a flow meter, and 37F is a flow meter.

[0069] [Figure 38] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram showing the test equipment set up for air consumption measurements.

[0070] [Figure 39] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram showing a test apparatus set up for static vacuum measurements.

[0071] [Figure 40] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram showing the test equipment set up for static vacuum and noise measurements.

[0072] [Figure 41A] 10A-10C show structural elements for adjusting the conduit width of the passive suction device. [Figure 41B] Same as above [Figure 41C] Same as above [Figure 41D] Same as above [Figure 41E] Same as above

[0073] [Figure 42A] 10A-10C illustrate placement of a passive suction device within a surgical set. [Figure 42B] Same as above [Figure 42C] Same as above [Figure 42D] Same as above [Figure 42E] Same as above [Figure 42F] Same as above [Figure 42G] Same as above [Figure 42H] Same as above

[0074] [Figure 43A] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the Coanda effect. [Figure 43B] Same as above

[0075] [Figure 44A] FIG. 10 illustrates redirection of a flow path by modifying the shape of an adjacent surface. [Figure 44B] Same as above

[0076] [Figure 45] 4A to 4J are diagrams showing the shapes of the opposing surfaces.

[0077] [Figure 46A] 10A-10C illustrate the redirection of a flow path relative to its original direction, such as perpendicular to the central axis of a passive suction device. [Figure 46B] Same as above [Figure 46C] Same as above [Figure 46D] Same as above [Figure 46E] Same as above [Figure 46F] Same as above [Figure 46G] Same as above [Figure 46H] Same as above

[0078] [Figure 47A] 1A and 1B illustrate variations in the structural elements of a passive suction device. [Figure 47B] Same as above [Figure 47C] Same as above [Figure 47D] Same as above [Figure 47E] Same as above [Figure 47F] Same as above [Figure 47G] Same as above

[0079] [Figure 48] FIG. 10 shows a passive suction device including a narrowing of the inner diameter of the hollow section.

[0080] [Figure 49] FIG. 10 illustrates the entry of induced and entrained air into a passive suction device.

[0081] [Figure 50] FIG. 10 shows a narrowing of the inner diameter of the hollow section to create a Venturi effect.

[0082] [Figure 51] 1 is a table showing various apparatus conditions for smoke emission in pig studies.

[0083] [Figure 52] 1 is a table showing maximum static vacuum (mmHg) in porcine studies.

[0084] [Figure 53] 1 is a graph showing maximum static vacuum (mmHg) in a porcine study.

[0085] [Figure 54] 1 is a table showing auditory noise levels in decibels (dB) as a function of maximum static vacuum (mmHg) in a porcine study. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0086] Described herein are devices, methods, and systems for generating suction. Before describing in detail at least one embodiment of the concepts disclosed herein, it is to be understood that the concepts are not limited in their application to the configurations, experiments, exemplary data, and / or arrangements of components set forth in the following description or to the details of the configurations illustrated in the drawings. The presently disclosed and claimed concepts may be or can be implemented in other embodiments or in various ways. It is also to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description only and are not intended to be limiting in any way.

[0087] In the following detailed description of embodiments of the described subject matter, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a more thorough understanding of the concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the concepts disclosed herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the immediate disclosure. The concepts of the present invention are illustrated, but not limited to, in Figures 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10A, 10B, 13, 15, 16, 17, 19, 21A-21E, 22A-22C, 23A, 23B, 25, and 27.

[0088] Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, "or" refers to neither inclusive nor exclusive. For example, condition A or B may be satisfied by any of the following: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist); A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists); or both A and B are true (or exist).

[0089] Furthermore, the use of "a" or "an" to describe elements and components of embodiments of the present invention is employed. This is for convenience only and to give a general sense of the concept. This description should be read to include one, or at least one, and the singular also includes the plural unless it is clear that it is specifically meant otherwise.

[0090] As used herein, the term "subject" may refer to a human subject or any animal subject.

[0091] And, as used herein, the term "one embodiment" or "embodiment" means that a particular element, property, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The appearance of the phrase "one embodiment" in various places in the specification is not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0092] In some embodiments, a suction device for removing medical or surgical by-products, such as smoke, tissue, and bodily fluids, generates suction using an airflow amplifier that utilizes the Coanda effect. Suction is generated in the device primarily from a flow of air or gas (typically pressurized at a pressure greater than ambient) supplied to the suction device, rather than an external suction pump (although the device may be used with a suction pump). The device may include safety features that prevent "reverse" flow of pressurized gas and the wrong direction of exiting the device. In other words, the device is configured to prevent the escape of pressurized gas from the suction end of the device, which could cause problems or harm the patient.

[0093] In some embodiments, a one-way valve is present along the airflow path within the device to ensure that the flow of pressurized gas does not escape from the suction end of the device. The one-way valve may include a bypass port configured to allow the pressurized gas to escape to atmosphere. The one-way valve isolates the suction port from the airflow amplifier and can simply stop all flow through the suction port by diverting the pressurized gas away from the bypass port.

[0094] In some embodiments, the device may have an alarm that is activated when an obstruction partially or completely blocks the exhaust path used by the device. The alarm may be activated by backflow caused by an obstruction. The alarm may also be activated by other means (e.g., electronically). In some embodiments, the alarm may be activated by the actuation of a one-way valve. In some embodiments, the alarm may be activated by the flow of pressurized gas from a bypass port.

[0095] In some embodiments, the alarm may include one or more mechanical gauges and / or electronic transducers for measuring pressure within the device. The alarm may be configured to activate in response to the internal pressure within the device reaching a threshold criterion. In some embodiments, the alarm may also notify the user of the current internal pressure level of the aspiration device and / or whether the internal pressure level is within a desired operating range.

[0096] The alarm may be an audible alarm, such as a whistle, siren, horn, buzzer, vibration, or any combination thereof. The alarm may be a visual alarm, such as a constant or flashing light located on the device. The visual alarm may be an illuminated button or icon with a symbol or word, such as "flow interruption," that may light up when the visual alarm is activated. The alarm may also be a mechanical alarm, such as a tab, lever, button, etc. that changes position, for example, a button that pops out or pushes out outside the device during an alarm, or a lever that rotates outside the device during an alarm. The device may be equipped with one or more alarms. The device may include one or more visual alarms, audible alarms, mechanical alarms, or any combination thereof.

[0097] In some embodiments, the suction device or attachment includes a suction or intake port disposed toward the distal end of the suction device or attachment. The suction device or attachment also includes a pressurized gas port for receiving a first pressurized gas flow. A first air flow amplifier of the suction device or attachment is in fluid communication with the suction port. The air flow amplifier is configured to receive the first pressurized gas flow and generate a first low-pressure region. This first low-pressure region generates a first flow from outside the suction device or attachment to the suction port. The combined first pressurized gas flow and the first flow to the suction port are exhausted through an output port of the first air flow amplifier.

[0098] The suction device or attachment may include a filter that receives (filters) the combined flow. The filter includes at least one filter inlet port and at least one filter output port. The at least one filter inlet port is fluidly connected to a filter medium such that air entering the filter passes through the filter medium before exiting the at least one filter output port. Thus, the combined flow is filtered while passing through the filter.

[0099] In some embodiments, the suction device or attachment may include a second airflow amplifier. The second airflow amplifier is configured to generate a second low-pressure region that generates a second flow from the second pressurized gas flow. The second airflow amplifier receives the second pressurized gas flow and generates the second low-pressure region. Adding multiple airflow amplifiers increases the suction capacity of the suction device. In some embodiments, the second airflow amplifier may be coupled to the first airflow amplifier. In some embodiments, the second airflow amplifier may be configured to compensate for loss of flow and / or pressure (suction) due to the flow resistance of a filter. For example, the second airflow amplifier may compensate for a portion of the filter (e.g., 1 / 4, 1 / 2, etc.) or all of the filter's flow resistance. In another example, the second airflow amplifier may generate suction that exceeds the flow resistance of the filter (e.g., 1.25 times, 1.5 times).

[0100] In some embodiments, the suction device or attachment may include a backflow prevention device. This backflow prevention device (e.g., a check valve, one-way valve, etc.) may be configured to prevent pressurized gas from exiting through the suction port. If the backflow prevention device is omitted or not activated, the flow of pressurized gas may exit through the suction port if there is an obstruction, blockage, or other obstruction to the flow through the output port. The obstruction may be in the suction device itself, or in auxiliary piping, lines, or conduits configured to contain and transport material aspirated by the suction device or attachment.

[0101] In some embodiments, the suction device or attachment includes an alarm. The alarm can be activated in response to activation of the backflow prevention device. In some embodiments, the backflow prevention device redirects the pressurized gas flow to a bypass port. In some embodiments, an alarm is activated in response to the gas flow being redirected to the bypass port. The alarm can be audible. The alarm can be visual (e.g., an indicator that changes color, shape, etc.). The alarm can be mechanical (e.g., vibration, etc.). In some embodiments, the alarm includes a whistle that makes an audible noise when air passes through it.

[0102] In some embodiments, a method for removing surgical byproducts includes receiving a pressurized gas flow through an aspiration assembly including a first air flow amplifier. The pressurized gas flow is supplied to the first air flow amplifier. The first air flow amplifier generates a low-pressure region for drawing an aspiration flow of the aspiration assembly. The aspiration flow may contain the surgical byproducts. The aspiration flow flows from outside the aspiration assembly to an aspiration port, through the air flow amplifier, and out of the aspiration assembly via a positive pressure output (or exhaust) port.

[0103] The suction device may weigh about 10 kilograms (kg), 5 kg, 4.5 kg, 4 kg, 3.5 kg, 3 kg, 2.5 kg, 2 kg, 1.5 kg, 1 kg, or less. The device may be less than about 2 kg. The device may have a weight of about 0.5 kg to about 2 kg.

[0104] The suction device may have a maximum outer diameter of less than about 100 centimeters (cm), 75 cm, 50 cm, 45 cm, 40 cm, 35 cm, 30 cm, 25 cm, 20 cm, 15 cm, 14.5 cm, 14 cm, 13.5 cm, 13 cm, 12.5 cm, 12 cm, 11.5 cm, 11 cm, 10.5 cm, 10 cm, 5.5 cm, 5 cm, or less. The maximum outer diameter may be less than about 15 cm. The maximum outer diameter may be less than about 12 cm. The maximum outer diameter may be less than about 11.5 cm. The maximum outer diameter may be between about 5 cm and about 13 cm. The maximum outer diameter may be between about 50 cm and 40 cm. The maximum outer diameter may be between about 100 cm and about 50 cm.

[0105] The suction device may have a maximum external length of about 200 cm, 150 cm, 100 cm, 75 cm, 60 cm, 55 cm, 50 cm, 45 cm, 44 cm, 43 cm, 42 cm, 41 cm, 40 cm, 39 cm, 38 cm, 37 cm, 36 cm, 35 cm, 34 cm, 33 cm, 32 cm, 31 cm, 30 cm, 29 cm, 28 cm, 27 cm, 26 cm, 25 cm, 20 cm, or less. The device may have a maximum external length of less than about 45 cm. The device may have a maximum external length of less than about 40 cm. The device may have a maximum external length of about 39 cm. The device may have a maximum external length of between about 40 cm and about 20 cm. The device may have a maximum external length of between about 200 cm and about 50 cm.

[0106] The suction device may have a maximum outer width of about 50 cm, 45 cm, 40 cm, 35 cm, 30 cm, 25 cm, 24 cm, 23 cm, 22 cm, 21 cm, 20 cm, 19 cm, 18 cm, 17 cm, 16 cm, 15 cm, 14 cm, 13 cm, 12 cm, 11 cm, 10 cm, 9 cm, 8 cm, 7 cm, 6 cm, 5 cm, or less. The device may have a maximum outer width of less than about 20 cm. The device may have a maximum outer width of less than about 19 cm. The device may have a maximum outer width of between about 20 cm and about 15 cm. The device may have a maximum outer width of between about 50 cm and about 20 cm.

[0107] In some embodiments, the suction device comprises a hollow housing. In some embodiments, the hollow housing may comprise one or more metals, one or more polymers, one or more plastics, one or more ceramics, or one or more composites thereof, or any combination thereof. The device may comprise one or more FDA-approved materials. The device may comprise one or more materials with good machining characteristics or machinability. The device may comprise one or more materials with a low coefficient of friction less than 0.25, less than 0.2, less than 0.15, less than 0.1, or less. The device may comprise one or more materials with a high tensile strength greater than 6,000 pounds per square inch (psi), greater than 7,000 psi, greater than 8,000 psi, greater than 9,000 psi, or greater.

[0108] The device may include one or more polymers. The device may include one or more copolymers. The device may include acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). The device may include polyacetal. For example, the device may include a formaldehyde polyacetal, such as acetal (polyoxymethylene). The device may include one or more plastics. The device may include a siloxane-containing polymer, such as silicone oil, silicone rubber, silicone resin, or silicone caulk, or any combination thereof. For example, one or more valves of the device may include silicone. The device may include polystyrene, polyethylene, sintered glass, borosilicate glass, fiberglass, nylon, polyamide (PA), polyethersulfone (PES), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), surfactant-free cellulose acetate (SFCA), regenerated cellulose (RC), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the device may include one or more materials for sound deadening, such as sound suppression (i.e., preventing vibrations), sound absorption (i.e., absorbing noise), sound attenuation (i.e., reducing sound energy), or any combination thereof. The device may have a geometry that aids in sound suppression, sound absorption, sound attenuation, or any combination thereof. The device may include a laminate layer, surface microarchitecture, or any combination thereof to aid in sound suppression, sound absorption, sound attenuation, or any combination thereof. The device may include anechoic tiles, fiberglass filling, polyurethane foam, porous foam (e.g., rubber foam), melamine foam (e.g., formaldehyde melamine sodium bisulfite copolymer), hair felt, resonance absorbers, Helmholtz resonators, or any combination thereof. The device may be configured for acoustic decoupling alone or in combination with one or more materials for sound suppression.

[0109] In some embodiments, the suction device housing includes one or more hollow sections. In some embodiments, the suction device housing may include one or more hollow sections that are generally aligned with one another. In some embodiments, the one or more sections of the device may be arranged in a number of different orientations, including stacked or other similar configurations, such as four hollow sections arranged two on top of two. In some embodiments, the one or more hollow sections are configured to communicate with one another such that the one or more hollow sections are continuous. In some embodiments, the one or more hollow sections are fluidly continuous, such that, for example, a suction flow can move from one hollow section to another. In some embodiments, the one or more hollow sections are configured such that, for example, a suction gas, liquid, solids, or any combination thereof, can move from one hollow section to another. In some embodiments, the hollow sections of the housing may further include other components, including ports. For example, in some embodiments, a first hollow section of the suction device housing includes an intake port, which may further include, for example, an external coupler or connector for coupling to suction tubing. In some embodiments, a first hollow section of the device housing includes an alarm port with an alarm configured to sound when the device is not functioning properly, for example, due to an obstruction. In some embodiments, one or more hollow sections include one or more holes configured and positioned to facilitate communication with one or more other hollow sections. In some embodiments, a first hollow section is positioned along a second hollow section, the first hollow section including a first hole communicating with the interior of the first hollow section, and the second hollow section including a second hole communicating with the interior of the second hollow section, the first hole facing, aligned with, or substantially aligned with the second hole. In some embodiments, one or more hollow sections may be tubular. In some embodiments, one or more hollow sections may be any polygonal shape, including, for example, cubic or spherical in shape. In some embodiments, the holes in the hollow sections may be circular. In some embodiments, the holes in the hollow sections may include any shape, including, for example, oval, square, rectangular, or triangular.In some embodiments, the housing further comprises one or more airflow amplifier mechanisms. The first section, second section, third section, or any additional section of the device may comprise, for example, a cylindrical shape, a square shape, a rectangle shape, a hexagonal shape, a triangle shape, a spiral shape, a trapezoidal shape, an elliptical shape, or any combination thereof. A portion of a hollow section may comprise a cylindrical shape, a square shape, a rectangle shape, a hexagonal shape, a triangle shape, a spiral shape, a trapezoidal shape, an elliptical shape, or any combination thereof. A hollow section may comprise multiple shapes. The first hollow section, second hollow section, third hollow section, or any additional section of the device may comprise a geometric shape that aids in sound absorption or attenuation. For example, a portion of the interior wall of the housing may comprise a surface microarchitecture to aid in sound absorption. A portion of the interior wall of the housing may comprise a laminate layer including a material with sound-absorbing properties, or a laminate layer including a surface microarchitecture to aid in sound absorption, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, a portion of the interior wall may comprise a sound baffle. In some embodiments, portions of the interior wall may include a labyrinth shape, a hexagonal shape, a convex shape, a honeycomb shape, or any combination thereof.

[0110] In some embodiments, the suction device comprises an airflow amplifier mechanism. In some embodiments, the airflow amplifier mechanism is one or more components of the hollow section. In some embodiments, the airflow amplifier is not part of the hollow section. In some embodiments, the first hole in the first hollow section is continuous with the second hole in the second hollow section. In some embodiments, the first hole in the first hollow section is fluidly continuous with the second hole in the second hollow section, and the first and second hollow sections are physically separated by a void space. In some embodiments, the first and second hollow sections are fluidly continuous but separated by a void space, and the first hole in the first section does not cover the entire surface of the first hollow section, and there is an area of ​​solid surface outside the first hollow section that at least partially surrounds the first hole. Similarly, in some embodiments, the first and second hollow sections are fluidly continuous but separated by a void space, and the second hole in the second section does not cover the entire surface of the second hollow section, and therefore there is an area of ​​solid surface outside the second hollow section that at least partially surrounds the second hole. In some embodiments, a gap space between an exterior surface surrounding the first hole and an exterior surface surrounding the second hollow hole forms a conduit. In this embodiment, the conduit includes a first wall including an exterior surface surrounding the first hole, a second wall including an exterior surface surrounding the second hollow hole, and a gap space between the two walls. In some embodiments, the conduit is part of an airflow amplifier mechanism configured to passively generate a suction force within the housing that is further transmittable outside the housing.

[0111] In some embodiments, the air flow amplifier is at least partially contained within the suction device housing. In some embodiments, the air flow amplifier includes a mechanism for creating a low-pressure region within the housing relative to ambient pressure, which then generates a suction force. In some embodiments, the air flow amplifier moves a jet stream of pressurized gas substantially entirely along one or more interior surfaces of the hollow section of the device housing. When the air flow amplifier moves the jet stream of pressurized gas substantially entirely along one or more interior surfaces of the hollow section of the device housing, a low-pressure region is created within the hollow section of the device. In some embodiments, when the low-pressure region is created, a suction force is generated in substantially the same direction as the jet stream. In some embodiments, the suction force created by the jet stream creates a suction force at an intake port in the housing. In some embodiments, the air flow amplifier includes a mechanism for directing a flow of the pressurized gas stream. In some embodiments, the air flow amplifier includes a conduit in communication with the pressurized gas flow port, wherein the conduit is configured to receive the pressurized gas from the pressurized gas flow port. In some embodiments, a conduit is disposed between a first hollow section and a second hollow section within the housing, the conduit configured to be fluidly connected to a hole in the second hollow section. In some embodiments, the conduit includes a first wall including an outer surface surrounding the first hole, a second wall including an outer surface surrounding a second hole in the second hollow section, and a gap space between the two walls. In some embodiments, the gap space may include an annular shape. In non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the gap space may include any shape, including a cubic, rectangular, and triangular shape. In some embodiments, the conduit and the second hole of the air amplifier mechanism are positioned relative to each other such that a pressurized gas flow flows from the conduit to the second hole. In some embodiments, the conduit and the second hole are positioned relative to each other such that a pressurized gas flow flows through the conduit to the second hollow section. In some embodiments, the conduit and the second hole are positioned relative to one another such that a stream of pressurized gas flows through the conduit and then into the second hollow space, where the pressurized gas forms a jet stream that flows substantially entirely along one or more interior surfaces of the second hollow space, forming a low pressure region adjacent to the jet stream in accordance with the Coanda effect.In this embodiment, the generated low-pressure region in the second hollow section causes a flow of higher-pressure air from the first hollow section into the second hollow section, causing a flow from the environment outside the suction device, including a suction flow or suction force. In this embodiment, the suction flow or force is transmitted through the second hollow section, through the interstitial space (between the first and second holes), through the first hollow section, and through the suction port. In some embodiments, the first hollow space includes a suction or suction port through which the suction force generated by the airflow amplifier mechanism and the second hollow section is transmitted to the outside of the device. In some embodiments, the device may be configured to draw gases, liquids, solids, or any combination thereof, providing a suction force, including, for example, vapors. This suction force can draw or push a) a portion of the exhaust, b) a portion of the pressurized gas, or c) a combination thereof through the device. This suction force can draw or push a portion of the exhaust, a portion of the pressurized gas, or a combination thereof through one or more filters. The pushing or pulling depends on the position of the conduit relative to the position of the suction flow or exhaust, or the position of the pressurized gas.

[0112] In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 0 degrees to 90 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 90 degrees to 180 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 180 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 175 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 170 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 165 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 160 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 155 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 150 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 145 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 140 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 135 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 130 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 125 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 120 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 115 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 110 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 105 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier.In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 100 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 95 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 85 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 80 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 75 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 70 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 65 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 60 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 55 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 50 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 45 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 40 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 35 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 30 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 25 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 20 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 15 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier.In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 10 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 5 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the conduit of the air amplifier mechanism is positioned at an angle of about 0 degrees relative to the second hole of the air amplifier.

[0113] The beveled end of one section, having an angle between 0° and 90°, can be positioned adjacent to the diverging end of the second section at an angle between about 90° and about 180°, such that the gap between the two forms a conduit. The beveled end of one section and the diverging end of the second section can be generally parallel to each other to enhance laminar flow within the conduit. The angle of the beveled end of the first section can match the angle of the diverging end of the second section. The angle of the beveled end of the first section can be similar to the angle of the diverging end of the second section. For example, the beveled end of the first section can be about 90° and the diverging end of the second section can be about 90°. The beveled end of the first section can be about 55° and the diverging end of the second section can be about 125°. The beveled end of the first section can be about 35° and the diverging end of the second section can be about 145°. The flared end may include smooth or rounded edges to enhance or allow laminar flow through the conduit.

[0114] The conduit can also be formed by placing one section with a beveled end at an angle of about 0° to 90° adjacent to a second section with the beveled end at an angle of about 90° to about 180°. For example, the beveled end of the first section can be about 90° and the beveled end of the second section can be about 90°. The beveled end of the first section can be about 55° and the beveled end of the second section can be about 125°. The beveled end of the first section can be about 35° and the beveled end of the second section can be about 145°.

[0115] The slope of the beveled end may be at an angle of about 90 degrees (°) or less relative to the central axis. The slope of the beveled end may be 90°, 85°, 80°, 75°, 70°, 65°, 60°, 55°, 50°, 45°, 40°, 35°, 30°, 25°, 20°, 15°, 10°, 5°, or less. The slope of the beveled end may be about 55° relative to the central axis. The slope of the beveled end may be about 35° relative to the central axis. The slope of the beveled end may be between about 55° and about 35° relative to the central axis. The slope of the beveled end may be between about 60° and about 20° relative to the central axis.

[0116] The inclination of the beveled end portion may be at an angle of about 90 degrees (°) or greater relative to the central axis. The inclination of the beveled end portion may be 90°, 95°, 100°, 105°, 110°, 115°, 120°, 125°, 130°, 135°, 140°, 145°, 150°, 155°, 160°, 165°, 170°, 175°, or about 180°. The inclination of the beveled end portion may be at about 125° relative to the central axis. The inclination of the beveled end portion may be about 145° relative to the central axis. The inclination of the beveled end portion may be about 125° to about 145° relative to the central axis. The inclination of the beveled end portion may be about 120° to about 160° relative to the central axis.

[0117] The flared end portion may flare at an angle of about 90 degrees (°) or more relative to the central axis. The flared end portion may flare at about 90°, 95°, 100°, 105°, 110°, 115°, 120°, 125°, 130°, 135°, 140°, 145°, 150°, 155°, 160°, 165°, 170°, 175°, or about 180°. The flared end portion may flare at about 125° relative to the central axis. The flared end portion may flare at about 145° relative to the central axis. The flared end portion may flare at about 125° to about 145° relative to the central axis. The flared end portion may flare at about 120° to about 160° relative to the central axis.

[0118] The flared end may be angled less than about 90 degrees relative to the central axis. The flared end may be angled at about 90°, 85°, 80°, 75°, 70°, 65°, 60°, 55°, 50°, 45°, 40°, 35°, 30°, 25°, 20°, 15°, 10°, 5°, or less relative to the central axis. The flared end may be angled at about 55 degrees relative to the central axis. The flared end may be angled at about 35 degrees relative to the central axis. The flared end may be angled at about 55 degrees to about 35 degrees relative to the central axis. The flared end may be angled at about 60 degrees to about 20 degrees relative to the central axis.

[0119] The slope may begin at one end of the section and continue toward the opposite end of the section. The slope may comprise a portion of the length of the section. For example, the sloped length of the section may be about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, or less. The sloped length may be less than about 25%. The sloped length may be less than about 15%. The sloped length may be less than about 10%. The sloped length may be less than about 5%. The sloped length may be less than about 1%.

[0120] The expansion may begin at one end of the section and continue to the opposite end of the section. The expansion may include a portion of the length of the section. For example, the portion of the length of the section that is expanded may be about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, or less. The expanded length may be less than about 25%. The expanded length may be less than about 15%. The expanded length may be less than about 10%. The expanded length may be less than about 5%. The expanded length may be less than about 1%.

[0121] The angle of one or more beveled ends, one or more flared ends, or any combination thereof may be adjustable. For example, a user may adjust one or more angles. The angle may be adjusted automatically, for example, from a remote location. The angle may be adjusted according to a feedback mechanism, such as suction capacity at an intake port. A user may mechanically rotate a tuner arm to adjust the angle.

[0122] One or both ends of a section may be flared, beveled, angled, sloped, or tapered. For example, a section may have a first end and a second end, one or both of which may be beveled. A section may have a first end and a second end, one or both of which may be flared. A section may have a first beveled end and a second flared end. One or more sections may be positioned adjacent to each other in series. For example, a flared end may be positioned adjacent to a beveled end, or a beveled end may be positioned adjacent to a different beveled end. A section having two flared ends may be positioned in series with two additional sections by positioning the beveled end of each additional section adjacent to one of the two flared ends of the section.

[0123] In some embodiments, a pressurized gas port (such as a positive pressure inlet) that supplies pressurized gas may be located adjacent to any point along the exterior of the housing. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas port may be located distal to the air amplifier along the housing (where the proximal end of the device includes the end with the inlet port). In some embodiments, the pressurized gas port may be located proximal to the air amplifier (where the proximal end of the device includes the end with the inlet port). In some embodiments, the gas port may be located adjacent to an inlet port (e.g., a nozzle). In some embodiments, the gas port may be located adjacent to an exhaust port (e.g., a pressurized waste port). In some embodiments, the gas port may be located at any point along the length of the conduit.

[0124] In some embodiments, one or more components of the air amplifier mechanism are adjustable. For example, a user can adjust the width of the gap space of the air amplifier conduit by, for example, moving one or more of the first and second hollow sections relative to one another (i.e., moving the walls of the conduit relative to one another). In some embodiments, the width of the gap space of the conduit may be adjusted automatically, for example, from a remote location. The width of the gap space of the conduit may be adjusted according to a feedback mechanism, such as the amount of effluent at the intake port or the liquid suction capacity at the intake port. A user may mechanically rotate a tuner arm to adjust the width of the gap space of the conduit. The tuner arm may be operably coupled to a groove, such as a spiral groove, that generates linear motion to adjust the width of the gap space of the conduit.

[0125] Reducing the width of the gap space in the conduit can increase the liquid suction capacity. Increasing the width of the gap space in the conduit can decrease the liquid suction capacity. Gas suction capacity can be constant over the tuner arm adjustment range or over the range of adjustable widths of one or more gap spaces in the conduit. The volumetric ratio of gas suction to liquid suction at the intake port (e.g., nozzle) is adjustable over the range of widths of the gap space in the conduit or over the range of tuner arm adjustment. The tuner arm can include continuous rotation or may include discrete grooves corresponding to specific widths of the gap space in the conduit.

[0126] The length of the conduit may be about 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 14%, 13%, 12%, 11%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1% or less compared to the length of the first section or the second section. The length of the conduit may be less than about 10% of the length of the first or second section. The length of the conduit may be less than about 20% of the length of the first or second section. The length of the conduit may be about 1% to about 10% of the length of the first section or the second section. The length of the conduit may be about 1% to about 5% of the length of the first section or the second section. The length of the conduit may be about 1% to about 15% of the length of the first section or the second section. The length of the conduit may be about 1% to about 20% of the length of the first section or the second section.

[0127] In some embodiments, the width of the interstitial space of the conduit may be about 10 centimeters (cm), 9.5 cm, 9 cm, 8.5 cm, 8 cm, 7.5 cm, 7 cm, 6.5 cm, 6 cm, 5.5 cm, 5 cm, 4.5 cm, 4 cm, 3.5 cm, 3 cm, 2.5 cm, 2 cm, 1.5 cm, 1 cm, or less. The width of the interstitial space of the conduit may be about 50 mm (millimeters), 45 mm, 40 mm, 35 mm, 30 mm, 25 mm, 20 mm, 15 mm, 10 mm, 9 mm, 8 mm, 7 mm, 6 mm, 5 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, 1 mm, 0.5 mm, or less. The width of the interstitial space of the conduit may be about 5 mm. The width of the interstitial space of the conduit may be about 4 mm. The width of the interstitial space of the conduit may be about 3 mm. The width of the interstitial space of the conduit may be about 2 mm. The width of the interstitial space of the conduit may be less than about 1 cm. The width of the interstitial space of the conduit may be adjustable between 0 mm and about 2 mm.

[0128] The device can be pressurized to approximately 275,790.3 Pa [40 pounds per square inch (psi)], 241,316.5 Pa [35 psi], 206,842.7 Pa [30 psi], 199,948.0 Pa [29 psi], 193,053.2 Pa [28 psi], 186,158.4 Pa [27 psi], 179,263.7 Pa [26 psi], 172,368.9 Pa [25 psi], 165,474.2 Pa [24 psi], 158,579.4 Pa [23 psi], 151,684.7 Pa [22 psi], 144,789.9 Pa [21 psi], The liquid suction capacity of the suction port may be applied at 20 psi, 19 psi, 18 psi, 17 psi, 16 psi, 15 psi, 14 psi, 13 psi, 12 psi, 11 psi, 10 psi, or approximately 5 psi. The liquid suction capacity may be approximately 25 psi. The liquid suction capacity may be approximately 20 psi. The liquid suction capacity may be approximately 103421.4 Pa [15 psi]. The liquid suction capacity may be approximately 68947.6 Pa [10 psi]. The liquid suction capacity may be approximately 172368.9 Pa [25 psi] to approximately 68947.6 Pa [10 psi].

[0129] The liquid aspiration capacity of the device may be adjustable. The liquid aspiration capacity may be adjustable from about 25 psi to about 10 psi. The liquid aspiration capacity may be adjustable from about 40 psi to about 5 psi. The liquid aspiration capacity may be adjustable from about 30 psi to about 10 psi. The liquid aspiration capacity may be adjustable from about 25 psi to about 5 psi. The liquid aspiration capacity may be manually adjusted by a user, for example, by adjusting the interstitial space of the conduit, or the user may specify a liquid aspiration capacity that can be programmed into the device, for example, remotely.

[0130] Adjusting the gap space is independent of the gas suction capacity, but can change the liquid suction capacity at the suction port. The device can maintain a constant gas suction capacity over a wide range of adjustable liquid suction capacities. The device can maintain a constant gas suction capacity over an adjustable liquid suction capacity range of about 10 pounds per square inch (psi) to about 25 psi. The device can maintain a constant gas suction capacity over an adjustable liquid suction capacity range of about 5 psi to about 40 psi. The device can maintain a constant gas suction capacity over an adjustable liquid suction capacity range of about 10 psi to about 30 psi. The device can maintain a constant gas suction capacity over an adjustable liquid suction capacity range of about 5 psi to about 25 psi.

[0131] The volumetric flow rate at the intake port is approximately 6.80 cubic meters per hour (m 3 / h) [4 cubic feet per minute (cfm)], 7.65 m 3 / h[4.5cfm], 8.50m 3 / h[5cfm], 9.34m 3 / h[5.5cfm], 10.19m 3 / h[6cfm], 11.04m 3 / h [6.5 cfm], 11.89 m 3 / h[7cfm], 12.74m 3 / h[7.5cfm], 13.59m 3 / h[8cfm], 14.44m 3 / h[8.5cfm], 15.29m 3 / h[9cfm], 16.14m 3 / h[9.5cfm], 16.99m 3 / h[10cfm], 17.84m 3 / h[10.5cfm], 18.69m 3 / h[11cfm], 19.54m 3 / h[11.5cfm], 20.39m 3 / h[12cfm], 21.24m 3 / h[12.5cfm], 22.09m 3 / h[13cfm], 22.94m 3 / h[13.5cfm], 27.79m 3 / h[14cfm], 24.64m 3 / h[14.5cfm], 25.49m 3 / h[15cfm], 26.33m 3 / h[15.5cfm], 27.18m 3 / h[16cfm], 28.88m 3 / h[17cfm], 30.58m 3 / h[18cfm], 32.28m 3 / h [19 cfm], or 33.98 m 3 / h [20 cfm] is also acceptable. The volumetric flow rate is approximately 6.80 m 3 / h[4cfm]~Approx. 10.19m 3 / h [6 cfm]. The volumetric flow rate is approximately 20.39 m 3 / h[12cfm]~Approx. 25.49m 3 / h[15cfm] may also be used.

[0132] The liquid aspiration rate at the suction port may be about 100 cubic centimeters per second (cc / sec), 95 cc / sec, 90 cc / sec, 85 cc / sec, 80 cc / sec, 75 cc / sec, 70 cc / sec, 65 cc / sec, 60 cc / sec, 55 cc / sec, 50 cc / sec, 45 cc / sec, 40 cc / sec, 35 cc / sec, 30 cc / sec, 25 cc / sec, 20 cc / sec, 15 cc / sec, 10 cc / sec, or 5 cc / sec. The liquid aspiration rate may be about 60 cc / sec to about 5 cc / sec. The liquid aspiration rate may be at least about 30 cc / sec. The liquid aspiration rate may be at least 25 cc / sec.

[0133] The liquid aspiration rate is adjustable. The liquid aspiration rate is adjustable from about 60 cc / sec to about 5 cc / sec. The liquid aspiration rate is adjustable from about 60 cc / sec to about 30 cc / sec. The liquid aspiration rate is adjustable from about 100 cc / sec to about 30 cc / sec. The liquid aspiration rate can be adjusted manually by the user, for example, by adjusting the gap space of the conduit, or the user can specify a programmable liquid aspiration rate for the device, for example, remotely.

[0134] The inner diameter of the intake port may be adjustable. A user can adjust the inner diameter of the intake port, for example, by rotating a third tuner arm on the device. The inner diameter of the intake port may be automatically adjusted based on the volume of effluent flowing into the intake port. The inner diameter may be adjustable from about 5 millimeters (mm) to about 10 centimeters (cm). The inner diameter may be adjustable from about 5 mm to about 50 mm. The inner diameter may be adjustable from about 25 mm to about 100 mm. The inner diameter may be adjustable from about 0.5 cm to 5 cm. The inner diameter may be adjustable from about 0.5 cm to about 10 cm. The inner diameter may be manually adjusted by a user, for example, by adjusting the third tuner arm, or, for example, at a remote location, a user can specify an intake port inner diameter that can be programmed into the device.

[0135] The suction devices described herein provide suction with minimal or no noise. Operation of the suction devices described herein can produce one or more sounds. The one or more sounds may be equivalent to background noise, such as about 43 decibels (dB). The one or more sounds may be less than 6 dB louder than background noise. The one or more sounds may be less than 4 dB louder than background noise. The one or more sounds may be about 40 dB, 35 dB, 30 dB, 29 dB, 28 dB, 27 dB, 26 dB, 25 dB, 24 dB, 23 dB, 22 dB, 21 dB, 20 dB, 19 dB, 18 dB, 17 dB, 16 dB, 15 dB, 14 dB, 13 dB, 12 dB, 11 dB, 10 dB, 5 dB, or less. The one or more sounds may be less than about 40 dB. The one or more sounds may be less than about 30 dB. The one or more sounds may be less than about 20 dB. The one or more sounds may be between about 10 dB and about 30 dB. The one or more sounds may be between about 15 dB and about 35 dB.

[0136] One or more embodiments including a backflow alarm or alarms may emit one or more sounds. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be audible. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be approximately 100 dB, 95 dB, 90 dB, 85 dB, 80 dB, 75 dB, 70 dB, 65 dB, 60 dB, 55 dB, 50 dB, or 45 dB. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be approximately 80 dB. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be approximately 70 dB. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be approximately 60 dB. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be approximately 50 dB. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be between approximately 45 dB and approximately 60 dB. The one or more sounds emitted by the backflow alarm may be between about 45 dB and about 75 dB.

[0137] The device may include one or more filters. For example, two, three, four, five, or more filters may be included in the device. The one or more filters may be positioned before the interstitial space of the conduit, after the interstitial space of the conduit, or a combination thereof. The one or more filters may be positioned at an intake port (e.g., a nozzle), an exhaust port (e.g., a pressurized waste port), within the housing, or any combination thereof. The one or more filters may collect effluent, such as solids. The one or more filters may collect bacterial particles, viral particles, solid surgical waste, or any combination thereof. The one or more filters may collect solid effluent based on the pore size of the one or more filters. The pore size of the filter may be 100 micrometers (μm), 70 μm, 20 μm, 10 μm, 5 μm, 2 μm, 1 μm, 0.7 μm, 0.5 μm, 0.4 μm, 0.3 μm, 0.2 μm, 0.1 μm, 0.02 μm, 0.01 μm, or less. The pore size may be about 100 μm or less. The pore size may be about 70 μm or less. The pore size may be about 0.5 μm or less. The pore size may be about 0.2 μm or less. One or more filters may be arranged in series.

[0138] The device may be used to collect, such as collect, a fluid, cell, or tissue sample. For example, the device may be used to collect a tissue sample, such as collect a polyp during a colonoscopy. The device may be used to collect a tumor biopsy sample. The device may be used to collect a fluid sample, such as collect a blood sample during surgery.

[0139] To collect samples, the device may include one or more filters. Including one or more filters in the device allows for sorting of the aspiration flow so that one or more samples can be recovered from the aspiration flow. One or more filters can collect tissue samples and allow for filtering or removing excess gas or liquid that may be aspirated during collection. One or more filters can collect cell samples and allow for filtering or removing excess gas or liquid that may be aspirated during collection. One or more filters can collect tissue and cell samples in separate areas of the device and allow for filtering or removing excess gas or liquid that may be aspirated during collection. One or more filters can separate collected materials (i.e., tissue, cells, particles) using filters with different pore sizes. One or more filters can separate collected materials, such as cell samples, using positive or negative selection based on one or more cell surface markers. In some embodiments, the device may include fluid paths with specific geometries for sorting the aspiration flow and collecting specific samples of interest.

[0140] One or more gases, liquids, or tissues can be evacuated from the device, such as excess gas, liquid, or tissue. The excess gas, liquid, or tissue can be further collected in a collection unit to collect excess blood for analysis of the subject's condition or for further study. The excess gas, liquid, or solids can be recycled for further use, such as collecting excess blood that can be recycled for use on the subject. The device can also include a collection unit for storing collected material, such as storing a tissue sample after collection. The collection unit of the device may be separate from the device, such as a separate unit that can be attached to the device during use, or may be formed within the device. The collection unit is reusable.

[0141] In some embodiments, the device may be used to provide suction, for example, during a surgical procedure. In some embodiments, the device may be configured to suction, for example, smoke, blood, or surgical debris, including, for example, feces, pus, irrigation, or bone fragments. In some embodiments, the suction device provides sufficient suction, or in some embodiments, one or more filters disposed within or in series with the device can separate, for example, gases, liquids, and solids aspirated from the surgical field. For example, a first filter may be disposed immediately before the device's intake port to filter solids, and a second filter may be disposed within the device to filter liquids and smaller particles from the aspirated gases.

[0142] The surgical by-products may include one or more fluids (e.g., blood, saliva), smoke, tissue, and / or hazardous chemicals. The suction flow may be passed through a filter before exiting the suction assembly. The suction flow may also be passed through a second air amplifier (e.g., after the filter).

[0143] The aspiration flow can pass through a backflow prevention device (e.g., a one-way valve) to prevent the pressurized gas flow from exiting the aspiration assembly through the aspiration port (e.g., in the event of an obstruction). A user can be alerted to an obstruction in the aspiration assembly. The pressurized gas can be diverted to activate an alarm. The pressurized gas flow can exit a bypass port in the aspiration assembly when the backflow prevention device is activated, preventing the pressurized gas flow from exiting the aspiration assembly through the aspiration port.

[0144] In some embodiments, the suction assembly includes a low-pressure port for receiving surgical by-products in a flow entering the low-pressure port. The suction assembly also includes a positive-pressure outlet port for collecting the surgical by-products from the suction assembly. A positive-pressure gas port receives a pressurized gas flow. A first air amplifier generates a flow from the low-pressure port to the positive-pressure port. This flow pushes the surgical by-products entrained in the suction flow from the suction port to the outlet port.

[0145] In some embodiments, the suction assembly may include one or more valves. The one or more valves may be one-way valves. The one or more valves may be shuttle valves, pressure relief valves, anti-reflux valves, check valves, or any combination thereof.

[0146] In some embodiments, a spring can be a source of energy used to seal one or more valves, such as a shuttle valve. The spring can provide a force of about 0 kilograms (kg) [0 pounds (lbs)] to about 30 lbs [13.61 kg]. The spring can provide a force of about 2 lbs [0.91 kg] to about 4 lbs [1.81 kg]. The spring can provide a force of at least about 2.5 lbs [1.13 kg]. The spring can provide a force of at least about 2 lbs [0.91 kg]. The spring can provide a force of at least about 1.5 lbs [0.68 kg]. The spring can provide a force of at least about 1 lbs [0.45 kg]. The spring can provide a force of at least about 0.5 lbs [0.23 kg]. The spring can provide a force of about 0.5 lbs [0.23 kg] to about 1 lbs [0.45 kg]. The spring can provide a force of about 0.23 kg [0.5 lbs] to about 0.36 kg [0.8 lbs].

[0147] In some embodiments, the suction assembly may include a check valve that blocks pressurized gas flow through the low-pressure port. In particular, the check valve prevents pressurized gas from exiting the low-pressure port when an obstruction blocks flow between the check valve and the exhaust port. The check valve may also divert the pressurized gas flow out a bypass port in the suction assembly.

[0148] In some embodiments, the air amplifier device has a structure defining a generally cylindrical cavity having a first opening at a first end and a second opening at a second end. The cylindrical cavity is defined by an interior wall of the cavity. The structure has a void space, such as an annular opening, in the interior wall near the first end that defines an outlet opening. The outlet opening is configured to allow pressurized gas to exit the annular opening, thereby creating a low-pressure region at the first end and an amplified flow at the second end. The annular opening is further configured to allow the pressurized gas to enter the cavity at an angle (e.g., 0° to 90°) relative to the interior wall of the cavity toward the second end. In some embodiments, a more acute angle (e.g., 30° to 50°) may be desirable. The cavity flares out, increasing in diameter until the annular opening communicates with the cavity.

[0149] In some embodiments, the dimensions of a gap space, such as an annular opening, can be adjusted to control the pressure differential between the ambient air at the first end and the low-pressure region. A portion of the structure can be rotatable, and the pressure differential can be controlled by adjusting the dimensions of the annular opening. The annular opening can be contoured such that pressurized gas entering the cavity adheres to a curved surface of the portion of the structure defining the annular opening, thereby creating a low-pressure region that increases the overall mass flow rate of the amplified flow.

[0150] The dimensions of the annular opening are adjustable to control the ratio of gas suction to liquid suction provided by the air amplifier. In some embodiments, the suction device includes a rotatable member for adjusting the dimensions of the annular opening to control the pressure difference between the ambient air at the first end and the low-pressure region. In some embodiments, the annular opening has a profile such that pressurized gas entering the cavity adheres to the curved surface of the portion of the structure defining the annular opening, thereby creating a low-pressure region that increases the overall mass flow rate of the amplified flow. The annular opening can have a profile such that pressurized gas entering the cavity adheres to the portion of the structure defining the annular opening, thereby creating a low-pressure region that increases the overall mass flow rate of the amplified flow.

[0151] In some embodiments, an apparatus for generating suction includes a housing defining a cavity having a first opening at a first end and a second opening at a second end. The apparatus also includes at least one opening on an inner surface of the housing configured to discharge a gas flow through the at least one opening, forming a low-pressure region at the first end and generating a combined flow at the second end. The combined flow includes the gas flow and a suction flow entering the first end as a result of the low-pressure region. The apparatus also includes a controller for manipulating the at least one opening to adjust the amount of pressure differential between the low-pressure region and ambient pressure.

[0152] In some embodiments, the at least one opening is configured to utilize the Coanda effect. In some embodiments, the at least one opening is configured to utilize the Venturi effect. The apparatus may also include an obstruction detector that stops gas flow from the at least one opening when an obstruction occurs in the combined flow.

[0153] In some embodiments, a medical suction device includes a positive pressure input port for receiving a flow of pressurized gas. The device also includes an input port for providing a low pressure region for entraining effluent into the suction device. The device also includes a positive pressure output port for outputting the flow of pressurized gas and the flow of effluent that enters the suction device through the input port. The device also includes a check valve in communication with the input port for preventing at least the pressurized gas from exiting through the suction port.

[0154] In some embodiments, the medical suction device includes an alarm that is mechanically activated when a check valve blocks flow through the suction port. Activation of the check valve, in some embodiments, may divert at least a portion of the pressurized gas flow, activating the alarm. This diverted portion of the pressurized gas can generate an audible alarm. For example, the diverted portion may pass through a whistle, thereby generating an audible sound. The alarm may also be a visual indicator. The diverted portion of the pressurized gas can move a member that visually displays an indicator to an operator of the medical suction device. The alarm may include a mechanical gauge or an electronic transducer for measuring pressure within the medical suction device. The alarm may be configured to activate in response to internal pressure within the device reaching a threshold criterion. The alarm may also notify the user of the device's current internal pressure level and / or whether one or more internal pressure levels are within a desired operating range.

[0155] In some embodiments, the medical suction device includes an internal lumen extending from an intake port to an exhaust port. An air amplifier assembly in fluid communication with the internal lumen. The air amplifier assembly receives a source of compressed air, and the compressed air is directed through the air amplifier assembly to create a low-pressure region at the input port and exit through the exhaust port. The medical suction device also includes an anti-reflux valve in the internal lumen between the input port and the air amplifier assembly.

[0156] In some embodiments, the medical suction device includes a mechanically activated alarm that prevents the non-return valve from flowing out through the suction port. Activating the non-return valve to prevent the non-return valve from flowing out through the input port can also divert at least a portion of the compressed air flow to activate the alarm. The alarm is an audible sound generated by a portion of the compressed air flow. For example, a portion of the compressed air flow can pass through a whistle, thereby generating an audible sound. The alarm can also be a visual indicator. The diverted portion of the compressed air flow can move a member to make the visual indicator visible to the operator of the medical suction device.

[0157] In some embodiments, the medical suction device may include a blockage removal control that pressurizes at least a portion of the lumen in conjunction with the anti-reflux valve to remove blockages. For example, when the blockage removal control is activated, compressed air can be used to force blockages out of the exhaust port.

[0158] In some embodiments, a method of operating a medical suction device includes accepting a pressurized gas flow. The method also includes utilizing the pressurized gas flow to create a low-pressure region at an input port to entrain and accept effluent into the suction device. The method also includes discharging the pressurized gas flow and the accepted effluent flow through the input port through an output port. The method also includes activating a valve to prevent at least the pressurized gas flow from exiting through the input port in response to an obstruction that reduces the pressurized gas flow and decreases the accepted effluent flow through the output port below a first threshold criterion.

[0159] In some embodiments, the method further includes activating an alarm in response to the obstruction reducing the pressurized gas flow and the flow of effluent discharged through the output port being below a second threshold criterion. In some embodiments, the first threshold criterion and the second threshold criterion are met by reducing the flow of pressurized gas flow and the flow of effluent discharged through the output port by the same amount. The alarm can be coupled to the valve and can activate the alarm when the valve is activated.

[0160] The term "about" refers to ±15% of the referenced numerical designation.

[0161] As used herein, "effluent stream" generally refers to a stream of one or more gases, one or more liquids, one or more solids, or any combination thereof.

[0162] As used herein, the term "fluid" generally refers to one or more gases, one or more liquids, or any combination thereof. A fluid may contain solid matter, such as solid particles.

[0163] As used herein, the term "surgical tool" refers to an instrument typically used in a surgical setting. Surgical tools may include cutting instruments, grasping or holding instruments, retractors, clamps, and distractors. A surgical tool may be an electrocautery knife. Surgical tools include articulators, bone chisels, Kottle cartilage grinders, bone cutters, bone distractors, intramedullary motion bone distractors, bone burrs, bone levels, bone mallets, bone rasps, bone saws, bone slippers, bone splints, bone buttons, calipers, cannulas, cauterizing scalpels, curettes, depressors, dilators, scalpels, surgical tweezers, dermatomes, forceps, hooks (i.e., nerve hooks, obstetric hooks, skin hooks), lancets, laxators, The surgical instruments may include a lithotome, lithotripte, mallet, mammotome, needle holder, obturator, osteotome, elevator (i.e., periosteum, Joseph, septum, tesh periosteum), probe, retractor, thoracotomy, rongeur, ultrasonic scalpel, laser scalpel, scissors, spatula, speculum, suction tube, surgical elevator, needle, scalpel, snare, sponge, spoon, stapler, suture, tracheotome, tissue dilator, perforator, or trocar.

[0164] As used herein, the term "canister" generally refers to a canister, such as a collection canister. A canister can collect one or more fluids, such as one or more liquids. A canister can also collect one or more solids. A canister can allow one or more fluids to pass through it, for example, from an input port to an output port of the canister. A canister may comprise plastic or metal. A canister may be disposable. A canister may have one or more input ports, one or more output ports, or any combination thereof. A canister may be a circular or cylindrical container. A canister can hold a volume of liquid of at least about 0.25 liters, 0.5 liters, 0.75 liters, 1 liter, 2 liters, 5 liters, 10 liters, 20 liters, 50 liters, 100 liters, 500 liters, or more. A canister can hold a volume of liquid of at least about 0.25 liters. A canister can hold a volume of liquid of at least about 0.5 liters. The canister is capable of holding a volume of at least about 0.75 liters of liquid. The canister is capable of holding a volume of at least about 1 liter of liquid. The canister is capable of holding a volume of at least about 2 liters of liquid. The canister is capable of holding a volume of at least about 5 liters of liquid. The canister is capable of holding a volume of at least about 10 liters of liquid. The canister is capable of holding a volume of at least about 20 liters of liquid. The canister is capable of holding a volume of at least about 50 liters of liquid. The canister is capable of holding a volume of at least about 100 liters of liquid.

[0165] The term "filter" as used herein generally refers to a filter for collecting particles based on particle size. One or more filters may be included in a system or aspiration device to sort entrained fluid or to allow one or more samples to be collected from the entrained fluid. One or more filters may allow for the collection of tissue samples and the filtration or removal of excess gas or liquid entrained or aspirated during operation of the system or device. One or more filters may allow for the collection of cell samples and the filtration or removal of excess gas or liquid that may be entrained or aspirated during operation of the system or device. One or more filters may collect tissue samples and cell samples in separate areas of the device or may collect them at different locations within the system to allow for the filtration or removal of excess gas or liquid that may be entrained or aspirated during operation of the system or device. One or more filters may allow for the separation of collected materials (i.e., tissue, cells, particles) using filters with different pore sizes. One or more filters may allow for the separation of collected materials, such as cell samples, using positive or negative selection based on one or more cell surface markers. In some embodiments, the device may include fluid pathways of specific geometries for filtering the aspiration flow and collecting specific samples of interest.

[0166] The term "tubing" generally refers to a hollow lumen having a first open end and a second open end. The tubing may be fluidly connected to a surgical tool, a filter, or other component of a system connected to the canister. The tubing may be of various lengths. The tubing may be of various inner diameters, various outer diameters, and various thicknesses. The tubing may be flexible. The tubing may be disposable. The tubing may be integral with the canister, filter, surgical tool, or a combination thereof.

[0167] The term "fluid communication" generally refers to two components, such as a surgical tool and a fluidly connected canister. The surgical tool and canister may be in direct fluid communication, or may be indirectly fluidly connected by placing additional components, such as tubing, between the two components. The same fluid can pass from the surgical tool to the canister, or vice versa, when the two components are in fluid communication.

[0168] A passive suction device can push the effluent stream through a system, such as a system including a passive suction device, a surgical tool, a canister, a filter, tubing, or any combination thereof. The passive suction device can pull the effluent stream through the system. A first passive suction device can push the effluent stream through the system, and a second passive suction device can pull the effluent stream through the system. The pushing or pulling force can be generated by the Coanda effect, the Venturi effect, the Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof. The pushing or pulling force can be a suction force or a vacuum force. Using a passive suction device to generate a pushing or pulling force on the effluent stream through the system can depend on the positioning of the passive suction device within the system. For example, a pushing force that pushes the effluent stream through the surgical tool can be generated by fluidly connecting the output port of the passive suction device to the input port of a surgical tool. In some cases, a pulling force that pulls the effluent stream through the surgical tool can be generated by fluidly connecting the output port of the surgical tool to the input port of the passive suction device. By placing two passive suction devices in the system, it is possible to equalize the pressure of the effluent flow within at least a portion of the system, such as the canister or piping. By placing passive suction devices in the system, it is possible to change the efficiency of the system.

[0169] As used herein, the term "efficiency" generally refers to the efficiency of a device or system, such as a surgical system or passive suction device. Efficiency may be aspiration capacity, aspiration head such as overall suction head, decibel level of the system or device, pressure head, fluid consumption, or any other measurable ability to avoid waste. System or device efficiency refers to the efficiency of fluid consumption, such as air consumption, the efficiency of reducing or minimizing the decibel or noise level of the system or device, the efficiency of overcoming pressure differences without compromising aspiration capacity, the efficiency of overcoming filter resistance in the system or device, the efficiency of the fluid flow profile, the efficiency of the aspiration head, the efficiency of the flow rate, or any combination thereof. For example, a system such as that of FIG. 42A can achieve greater efficiency compared to the system of FIG. 42B. In some embodiments, the efficiency of the system can be changed by changing the position of the suction device within the system. In some embodiments, the efficiency of the system can be changed by changing the position of the filter within the system. In some embodiments, the efficiency of the device can be changed by changing the position of the filter within the device. In some embodiments, the efficiency of the system or device can be changed by changing the shape of the filter. For example, shortening or enlarging the filter can reduce the pressure differential and improve system or device efficiency without compromising suction power.

[0170] The term "opposing surface" as used herein generally refers to an exterior surface of at least a portion of an end of a hollow section. An opposing surface disposed adjacent to or overlapping at least a portion of a second opposing surface can form a conduit. The opposing surface can have a geometric shape, where the geometric shape directs the flow of waste material to the passive suction device. The opposing surface can include the entire circumference about the end of the hollow section. The opposing surface can be at least a portion of a circumference about the end of the hollow section. The opposing surface can be adjacent to an interior surface of the hollow section.

[0171] As used herein, the term "constriction" generally refers to a narrowing of the inner diameter of a passive suction device, such as a narrowing of a hollow section. A passive suction device may include one or more types of constrictions. A constriction may create a Venturi effect. A constriction may create a converging or diverging fluid flow. The length of the constriction may be about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, or less of the total length of the hollow section. The length of the constriction may be about 1% or less of the total length of the hollow section. The length of the constriction may be about 5% or less of the total length of the hollow section. The length of the constriction may be about 10% or less of the total length of the hollow section. The length of the constriction may be about 15% or less of the total length of the hollow section. The length of the constriction may be about 20% or less of the total length of the hollow section. The length of the constriction may be about 25% or less of the total length of the hollow section. The length of the constriction may be about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, or less of the total length of the suction device. The length of the constriction may be about 1% or less of the total length of the suction device. The length of the constriction may be about 5% or less of the total length of the suction device. The length of the constriction may be about 10% or less of the total length of the suction device. The length of the constriction may be about 15% or less of the total length of the suction device. The length of the constriction may be about 20% or less of the total length of the suction device. The length of the constriction may be about 25% or less of the total length of the suction device. The constriction may be such that the inner diameter of the hollow section is about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50% smaller than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow section. The constriction may be such that the inner diameter of the hollow section is about 1% smaller than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow section. The constriction may be such that the inner diameter of the hollow section is about 5% smaller in diameter than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow section. The constriction may be such that the inner diameter of the hollow section is about 10% smaller in diameter than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow section. The constriction may include an inner diameter of the hollow section, and the diameter of the hollow section may be about 15% smaller in diameter than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow section.The constriction may be such that the inner diameter of the hollow section is about 20% smaller in diameter than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow section.The constriction may be such that the inner diameter of the hollow section is about 25% smaller in diameter than the widest inner diameter along the length of the hollow section.

[0172] As used herein, the term "Venturi effect" generally refers to a decrease in fluid pressure or the creation of a low-pressure region when a fluid flows through a constriction or reduction in the internal diameter of a lumen, such as a hollow section. Passing a fluid through a constriction can create a low-pressure region, such as a constricted region or a region substantially adjacent to the constriction. Because a constriction creates a region of converging and diverging fluid flow, the velocity of the fluid increases as it passes through the constriction and its local pressure is reduced.

[0173] As used herein, the term "Coanda effect" generally refers to the tendency of a fluid, such as a jet of pressurized gas or air, to be attracted to a nearby surface, such as the opposing surface of a hollow section of a passive suction device.

[0174] As used herein, the term "Bernoulli effect" refers to the principle of fluid mechanics that an increase in the velocity of a fluid occurs simultaneously with a decrease in pressure or a decrease in the potential energy of the fluid.

[0175] As used herein, the term "pressurized fluid" generally refers to a jet of fluid, a fluid that provides the driving force for a passive suction device, or a fluid at high velocity. The pressurized fluid may be a gas or a liquid.

[0176] The low pressure region within the device may be a low pressure region relative to different regions within the device. The low pressure region may be about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure region may be about 5% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure region may be about 10% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure region may be about 15% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure region may be about 20% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure region may be about 25% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure region may be about 30% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure region may be about 35% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure region may be about 40% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure region may be about 45% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure region may be approximately 50% lower than the pressure at the input port of the device. The low pressure region within the device may be a region of lower pressure than atmospheric pressure. The low pressure region may be approximately 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50% lower than atmospheric pressure. The low pressure region may be approximately 5% lower than atmospheric pressure. The low pressure region may be approximately 10% lower than atmospheric pressure. The low pressure region may be approximately 15% lower than atmospheric pressure. The low pressure region may be approximately 20% lower than atmospheric pressure. The low pressure region may be approximately 25% lower than atmospheric pressure. The low pressure region may be approximately 30% lower than atmospheric pressure. The low pressure region may be approximately 35% lower than atmospheric pressure. The low pressure region may be approximately 40% lower than atmospheric pressure. The low pressure region may be approximately 45% lower than atmospheric pressure. The low pressure region may be approximately 50% below atmospheric pressure.

[0177] The first opposing surface may be adjacent to the second opposing surface. The first opposing surface may at least partially overlap the second opposing surface by less than about 25% of the length of the second opposing surface. The first opposing surface may substantially overlap the second surface, for example, by more than about 25% of the length of the second opposing surface. The second opposing surface may at least partially overlap the first opposing surface by less than about 25% of the length of the first opposing surface. The second opposing surface may substantially overlap the first opposing surface, for example, by more than about 25% of the length of the first opposing surface.

[0178] As used herein, the term "gas" generally refers to a fluid without a separate shape or volume. The gas may be a mixture of one or more gases, such as air or ambient air. The gas may be a mixture of one or more gases, such as nitrous oxide and oxygen. The gas may be oxygen, nitrogen, argon, or other pure gas. The gas may be smoke, such as smoke generated during surgery, such as surgical smoke. The gas may be a pressurized gas, such as pressurized air, nitrogen, or argon. The gas may be used as a motive force to generate a vacuum force, such as a jet of gas or pressurized air, to entrain a stream of effluent into a passive suction device. The gas may be at least a portion of the entrained fluid drawn from a field, such as a surgical field, into a passive suction device.

[0179] As used herein, the term "body fluid" generally refers to amniotic fluid, aqueous humor, vitreous humor, bile, blood, serum, milk, cerebrospinal fluid, earwax, chyle, chyme, endolymph, perilymph, exudate, feces, gastric acid, gastric juice, lymph, mucus, pericardial fluid, ascites, pleural fluid, pus, mucosal secretions, saliva, sebum, semen, smegma, sputum, synovial fluid, sweat, tears, urine, vomit, or a combination thereof.

[0180] As used herein, the term "conduit" generally refers to a hollow lumen through which an effluent, such as a gas, a liquid, or a combination thereof, can flow. One or more solid objects, such as solid particles, can also pass through the conduit. The conduit may be a slit opening about the periphery of the hollow section or about the periphery of adjacent first and second hollow sections. The conduit may be an annular opening. The conduit may be formed by at least partially overlapping two hollow sections, where the first hollow section has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the second hollow section. In some cases, the passive suction device may include a conduit. The conduit may be formed by positioning a first opposing surface of the end of the first hollow section adjacent to or at least partially overlapping a second opposing surface of the end of the second hollow section. In some cases, fluid may enter the passive suction device through the conduit. In some cases, the geometry of the opposing surfaces may direct the flow path of the fluid through the conduit and into the passive suction device. In some cases, a pressurized fluid, such as a jet of gas, may enter the passive suction device through the conduit. Pressurized fluid may be directed through a conduit into the suction device to create a low-pressure region within the suction device. In some cases, entrained fluid, such as gas or bodily fluid, may enter the passive suction device through the conduit. The entrained fluid may be drawn into the suction device through the conduit by the low-pressure region created within the suction device.

[0181] A system may include one or more suction devices, one or more tubing, one or more canisters, one or more filters, one or more surgical devices, or any combination thereof. For example, a system may include one suction device, two tubing, one canister, one filter, and one surgical device. A system may include two suction devices, two tubing, one canister, one filter, and one surgical device. A system may include one suction device, two canisters, one filter, three tubing, and one surgical device. A system may include two suction devices. A system may include three suction devices. A system may include four suction devices. A system may include five suction devices. A system may include six suction devices. A system may include two canisters. A system may include three canisters. A system may include four canisters. A system may include five canisters. The system may include six canisters.

[0182] As used herein, the term "amplifier" generally refers to a fluid amplifier, such as an air amplifier. The suction devices described herein may be fluid amplifiers. A fluid amplifier can utilize a driving fluid, such as a jet of air or pressurized gas, to generate a suction force to entrain or draw entrained fluid from a field adjacent to the fluid amplifier, such as a surgical field. The amplifier can blow, jet, or eject an output stream containing at least a portion of the driving fluid, at least a portion of the entrained fluid, or a combination thereof. The fluid amplifier can entrain fluid from the field, draw fluid from the field, aspirate fluid from the field, blow fluid from an output port of the amplifier, jet fluid from an output port of the amplifier, eject fluid from an output port of the amplifier, or any combination thereof. The suction devices or systems described herein may be fluid amplifiers.

[0183] The term "multiplier" as used herein generally refers to a fluid multiplier, such as an air multiplier. The suction device described herein may be a fluid multiplier. The fluid multiplier can pass a driving fluid, such as an air jet, across the surface of a structural element, such as an airfoil or fan-shaped element. The opposing surface of the fluid multiplier may include an airfoil or fan-shaped element. As the jet of air passes across the airfoil, a low-pressure area is formed adjacent to the airfoil surface, causing additional air to pass over the surface. The fluid multiplier may also entrain or draw in fluid, such as air, from a field adjacent to the fluid multiplier, such as a surgical field. For example, the airfoil element may be shaped in a circular orientation, such as a cylinder, so that air on the side of the cylinder is entrained. The fluid multiplier can generate a total airflow including a driving fluid, a guiding fluid, an entrained fluid, or any combination thereof. The fluid ejected from the output port of the fluid multiplier may include a driving fluid, a guiding fluid, an entrained fluid, or any combination thereof. The fluid multiplier may multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 1x, 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x, 6x, 7x, 8x, 9x, 10x, 11x, 12x, 13x, 14x, 15x, 16x, 17x, 18x, 19x, 20x, 21x, 22x, 23x, 24x, 25x, or more compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier may multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 2x compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier may multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 4x compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier may multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 6x compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier may multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 8x compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier can multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 10 times compared to the fluid flow at the input port. The fluid multiplier can multiply the fluid flow at the output port by at least about 15 times compared to the fluid flow at the input port.The fluid multiplier can multiply the fluid flow at the output port compared to the fluid flow at the input port by at least about 20. The suction devices or systems described herein can be fluid multipliers.

[0184] As used herein, the term "conveyor" generally refers to a fluid conveyor, such as an air conveyor. The suction device or system described herein may be a fluid conveyor. A fluid conveyor can draw, transport, or blow a fluid, e.g., air, a liquid, a solid, such as solid particles, or any combination thereof. A fluid conveyor can utilize a driving fluid, such as air or a jet of pressurized gas, to create a suction or vacuum for the fluid, create a low-pressure region, and draw, transport, or blow the fluid. The suction device or system described herein may be a fluid amplifier, a fluid multiplier, a fluid conveyor, or any combination thereof.

[0185] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a suction system 100. In FIG. 1, the suction system 100 includes a vacuum generator 110. The vacuum generator 110 includes an input port 111, a suction port 112, and an exhaust port 113. The vacuum generator 110 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 121 from the input port 111. The vacuum generator 110 is configured to generate a low pressure region 122 from the positive pressure gas supply 121 near the suction port 112. The low pressure region 122 has a pressure lower than ambient atmospheric pressure. The ambient atmospheric pressure overcomes the pressure in the low pressure region 122, creating a suction force within the suction device 100. The low pressure region 122 draws effluent (e.g., liquid, gas, solids) into the vacuum generator 110 through the suction port 112. The effluent drawn into the vacuum generator 110 is then pushed out by the vacuum generator 110 through the exhaust port 113. Exhaust port 113 outputs an effluent of collected emissions and gases received via input port 111. This effluent may be output to tubing, piping, etc. for collection, separation, and / or disposal.

[0186] It should be understood that the terms "positive pressure" and "low pressure" are relative terms. These terms are relative to the ambient air / gas pressure near the vacuum generator 110. For example, the positive pressure gas supply 121 may be a flow of compressed air, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, or other gas pressure source. In this case, the positive pressure gas supply 121 is pressurized above the ambient air surrounding the vacuum generator 110. Similarly, the low pressure region 122 may be a region near the suction port 112 where the air pressure is less than the ambient air. This low pressure region forces air, and possibly entrained exhaust, near the suction port 112 to flow into the suction port 112.

[0187] In some embodiments, the vacuum generator 110 utilizes a fluid flow amplifier (also known as a flow multiplier) to create the low pressure region 122 from the positive pressure gas supply 121. In other embodiments, the vacuum generator 110 utilizes a mechanical pump or fan driven by the positive pressure gas supply 121 to create the low pressure region 122.

[0188] In some embodiments, the vacuum generator 110 may be configured for handheld operation. In this configuration, the vacuum generator 110 may be sized and shaped so that it can be held by one or more hands while being operated. Thus, rather than a permanently attached (or portable, but bulky) suction pump, the vacuum generator 110 may be a relatively small device that operates to draw waste material into the suction port 112, and can push the waste material out the exhaust port 113. It should be understood that while the vacuum generator 110 may be configured for handheld operation, it may also be used in conjunction with other procedures (e.g., laparoscopy, robotics, etc.).

[0189] It should be appreciated that the tubing and / or piping connected to the input port 111 and the exhaust port 113 may be thin-walled and collapsible by receiving the positive pressure gas supply 121 and generating the positive pressure effluent 123. The tubing and / or piping connected to the input port 111 and the exhaust port 113 is collapsible because the positive pressure of the positive pressure gas supply 121 and the positive pressure effluent 123 "push open" or "expand" the collapsible tubing. Thus, lighter and / or less expensive tubing can be used with the vacuum generator 110 than that used with "negative pressure" systems that rely on supplied vacuum lines or sources (e.g., vacuum pumps and / or tubing wall ports).

[0190] An input port 111 is disposed within a wall of the suction apparatus 100. The input port 111 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 121. The input port is coupled to a vacuum generator 110. The input port 1110 is configured to direct the positive pressure gas supply 121 to the vacuum generator 110. The vacuum generator 110 is configured to receive the positive pressure gas supply 121. In some embodiments, the input port 111 is configured to direct the positive pressure gas supply 121 at an angle to an inner wall of the vacuum generator 110.

[0191] The suction port 112 is disposed at the distal end of the suction device 100. The suction port 112 is configured to receive the flow of exudates via the low pressure region 122. The suction port 112 is configured to be coupled to the distal end of the vacuum generator 110. The suction port 112 is configured to direct the flow of exudates to the vacuum generator 110. The vacuum generator 110 is configured to receive the flow of exudates from the suction port 112.

[0192] Exhaust port 113 is disposed proximally of suction device 100. Exhaust port 113 is coupled to vacuum generator 110. Exhaust port 113 is configured to receive a combined flow of positive pressure gas supply 121 and an effluent flow received at suction port 112 from the vacuum generator. Exhaust port 113 is configured to exhaust at least the combined flow from suction device 100. In some embodiments, exhaust port 113 may include a fitting for attaching tubing configured to receive positive pressure effluent 123.

[0193] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating the suction system. The steps illustrated in FIG. 2 may be performed by one or more elements of the suction system 100. A pressurized gas flow is received at the input port (202). For example, the input port 111 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 121 and supply it to the vacuum generator 110. The vacuum generator 110 is an example of an air flow amplifier. A low pressure region is created near the suction port (204). For example, the vacuum generator 110 is configured to generate a low pressure region near the suction port 112 from the positive pressure gas supply 121. The suction device (206) draws the effluent flow. For example, the low pressure region 122 is lower than the ambient air pressure. This causes the effluent flow to enter the suction port 112. The suction port 112 is configured to receive this effluent stream. The combined stream, including the pressurized gas stream and the effluent stream, is configured to be discharged through the exhaust port (208). For example, the suction assembly 100 passes the combined stream (including the positive pressure gas supply 121 and the effluent stream received at the suction port 112) through the vacuum generator 110 and discharges it through the exhaust port 113 as a positive pressure effluent 123.

[0194] 3 is a block diagram showing an aspiration system with backflow prevention 300. The aspiration system with backflow prevention 300 includes a vacuum generator 310, an input port 311, a suction port 312, an exhaust port 313, and a backflow prevention device 316. The aspiration system 300 is an example of the aspiration system 100, but the aspiration system with backflow prevention 300 includes a backflow prevention device 316.

[0195] The vacuum generator 310 receives a positive pressure gas supply 321 through an input port 311 and generates a low pressure region 322 at an aspiration port 312. The low pressure region 322 causes effluent to flow and entrain within the aspiration system via a backflow prevention device 300. The aspiration port 312 is configured to entrain and receive surgical by-products (e.g., smoke, tissue, gases, liquids, hazardous chemicals, etc.) that enter the vacuum generator 310. In typical operation, surgical by-products drawn into the vacuum generator 310 are propelled by the vacuum generator 310 out of an exhaust port 313 as a positive pressure effluent 323. The exhaust port 313 outputs a positive pressure effluent 323 containing the surgical by-products entrained in the positive pressure gas supply 321. The positive pressure effluent 323 may be output to a tube, pipe, etc. for collection, separation, and / or disposal.

[0196] However, exhaust port 313 (or a connected tube carrying positive pressure effluent 323) may become clogged or blocked. In this case, the obstruction may prevent all or part of positive pressure effluent 323 from flowing out exhaust port 313. In the absence of backflow prevention device 316, if positive pressure effluent 323 could not be forced out exhaust port 313, positive pressure effluent 323 could instead be forced out suction port 312. Discharging positive pressure effluent 323 (especially positive pressure gas supply 321) out suction port 312 is undesirable and could cause injury or other problems to those in the vicinity of suction port 312 (e.g., the patient). However, backflow prevention device 316 is configured to at least stop the flow of positive pressure effluent 323 from flowing out suction port 312.

[0197] The backflow prevention device 316 can disable operation of the vacuum generator 310 by cutting off the positive pressure gas supply 321 to one or more components of the vacuum generator 310 that create the low pressure region 322. The backflow prevention device 316 can disable operation of the vacuum generator 310 by preventing any "back" flow of effluent from exiting the suction port 312. For example, the backflow prevention device 316 can be positioned along the suction port 312. The backflow prevention device 316 can be activated when effluent begins to flow out of the suction port 312. Once activated, the backflow prevention device 316 can be configured to remain activated and prevent flow from exiting the suction port 312 until the positive pressure gas supply 321 is removed (i.e., turned off) or until the blockage is removed. When activated, backflow prevention device 316 may allow positive pressure gas supply 321 to flow out the bypass port, allowing positive pressure gas supply 321 and positive pressure effluent 323 to flow out of vacuum generator 310 .

[0198] 4 is a block diagram illustrating an aspiration system with backflow alarm 400. The aspiration system with backflow alarm 400 is an example of aspiration system 100 and aspiration system 300, but the aspiration system with backflow alarm 300 includes a backflow alarm 417. The aspiration system with backflow alarm 400 includes a vacuum generator 410, a positive pressure input port 411, a suction port 412, an exhaust port 413, a low pressure region 422, a positive pressure effluent 423, and a backflow alarm 417.

[0199] Backflow alarm 417 is configured to alert a user of aspiration system 400 to the presence of an obstruction. Once an obstruction is alerted, the user can take one of the following actions: (1) stop using vacuum generator 410, (2) remove the obstruction to restore normal operation, or (3) turn off positive pressure gas supply 421 and shut down vacuum generator 410.

[0200] The backflow alarm 417 may generate an audible alarm (e.g., a whistle or other alarm-type noise), a visual alarm (e.g., a flag or other visual indicator), a tactile alarm (e.g., a vibration), or some other type of alarm to alert a user to the presence of an obstruction. The backflow alarm 417 may use mechanical or electrical means to generate the alarm. To provide examples of some mechanical means that may be used to generate the alarm, the backflow alarm 417 may use air pressure to generate an audible alarm using a whistle-type device, may generate a visual alarm by physically moving a flag or other visible indicator, or may generate a tactile alarm by physically moving a mass. Similarly, the backflow alarm 417 may use various electronic components, including transducers, mass airflow sensors, etc., to detect backflow and signal circuits to activate the backflow alarm 417.

[0201] In some embodiments, backflow alarm 417 may include one or more mechanical gauges or electronic transducers for measuring pressure within vacuum generator 410. Backflow alarm 417 may be configured to be activated in response to internal pressure within vacuum device 410 reaching a threshold criterion. Backflow alarm 417 may also notify the user of the current internal pressure level of vacuum generator 410 and / or whether the internal pressure level is within a desired operating range. The various types of alarms described herein may be used individually or in combination. Similarly, backflow alarm 417 may use both mechanical and electrical means to detect backflow, individually or in combination.

[0202] In some examples, the vacuum generator 410 can have a check valve, such as, for example, a backflow prevention device 310, in communication with the input port 411 to prevent at least the positive pressure gas supply 421 from exiting the suction port 412. The backflow alarm 417 can be configured to activate when the check valve prevents the positive pressure gas supply 421 from exiting the suction port 412. Activation of the check valve to prevent the positive pressure gas supply 421 from exiting the suction port 412 can divert at least a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 421 to activate the backflow alarm 417. The backflow alarm 417 can use a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 421 to generate an audible sound. For example, the backflow alarm 417 can indicate a portion of the positive pressure gas supply through a whistle, thereby generating an audible sound. Alternatively, the backflow alarm 417 can use a visual indicator to notify the user of the presence of an obstruction. The backflow alarm 417 can divert a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 421 to move a member that presents a visual indicator to an operator of an aspiration system equipped with the backflow alarm 400 .

[0203] 5 is a block diagram illustrating an aspiration system with safety feature 500. The aspiration system with safety feature 500 may be an example of aspiration system 100, an aspiration system with backflow prevention 300, or an aspiration system with backflow alarm 400, although the aspiration system with safety feature 500 may have alternative configurations and methods of operation. The aspiration system with safety feature 500 includes a vacuum generator 510, a positive pressure input port 511, a suction port 512, an exhaust port 513, a backflow prevention device 516, and a backflow alarm 517. The backflow prevention device 516 is operably coupled to a backflow alarm 517 .

[0204] The backflow prevention device 516 can disable operation of the vacuum generator 510 by cutting off the positive pressure gas supply 521 to one or more components of the vacuum generator 510 that create the low pressure region 522. The backflow prevention device 516 can disable operation of the vacuum generator 510 by preventing any "back" flow of effluent from exiting through the suction port 512. The backflow prevention device 516 can be activated when effluent begins to flow out of the suction port 512. Once activated, the backflow prevention device 516 can be configured to remain activated and prevent flow from the suction port 512 until the positive pressure gas supply 521 is removed (i.e., turned off) or the blockage is removed.

[0205] Backflow prevention device 516 may be operatively coupled to backflow alarm 517 for activating backflow alarm 517 in response to activation of backflow prevention device 516. In this manner, in response to a blockage, vacuum generator 510 stops (i.e., prevents) the backflow of effluent from exiting suction port 512 and alerts the user of the blockage.

[0206] Backflow change 517 is operably coupled to backflow prevention device 516. Backflow alarm 517 is configured to alert a user of vacuum generator 510 to the presence of an obstruction. Once alerted to an obstruction, the user can take any of the following actions: (1) stop using vacuum generator 510, (2) remove the obstruction to restore normal operation, or (3) stop positive pressure gas supply 521 and shut down vacuum generator 510.

[0207] The backflow alarm 517 may generate an audible alarm (e.g., a whistle or other alarm-type noise), a visual alarm (e.g., a flag or other visual indicator), a tactile alarm (e.g., a vibration), or some other type of alarm to alert a user to the presence of an obstruction. The backflow alarm 517 may use mechanical or electrical means to generate the alarm. To provide examples of some mechanical means that may be used to generate the alarm, the backflow alarm 517 may use air pressure to generate an audible alarm using a whistle-type device, may generate a visual alarm by physically moving a flag or other visible indicator, or may generate a tactile alarm by physically moving a mass. Similarly, the backflow alarm 517 may use various electronic components, including transducers, mass airflow sensors, etc., to detect backflow and signal circuits to activate the backflow alarm 517. The various types of alarms described herein may be used individually or in combination. Similarly, the backflow alarm 517 may use both mechanical and electrical means to detect backflow, either individually or in combination.

[0208] In some embodiments, the backflow alarm 517 may include one or more mechanical gauges or electronic transducers for measuring pressure within the vacuum generator 510. The backflow alarm 517 may be configured to be activated in response to the internal pressure within the vacuum device 510 reaching a threshold criterion, e.g., an increase in internal pressure indicating the presence of an obstruction. The backflow alarm 517 may also notify the user of the current internal pressure level of the vacuum generator 510 and / or whether the internal pressure level is within a desired operating range. The various types of alarms described herein may be used individually or in combination. Similarly, the backflow alarm 517 may use both mechanical and electrical means to detect backflow, individually or in combination.

[0209] The vacuum generator 510 includes a backflow prevention device 516 in communication with the input port 511 to prevent at least the positive pressure gas supply 521 from exiting the suction port 512. A backflow alarm 517 may be configured to activate when the backflow prevention device 516 prevents the positive pressure gas supply 521 from exiting the suction port 512. Activation of the backflow prevention device 516 to prevent the positive pressure gas supply 521 and positive pressure effluent 523 from exiting the suction port 512 can divert at least a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 521 and activate the backflow alarm 517. The backflow alarm 517 can use a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 521 to generate an audible sound. For example, the backflow alarm 517 can indicate a portion of the positive pressure gas supply via a whistle, thereby generating an audible sound. Alternatively, the backflow alarm 517 can use a visual indicator to notify the user of the presence of an obstruction. The backflow alarm 517 can divert a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 521 to move a member that presents a visual indicator to an operator of an aspiration system having the backflow alarm 500 .

[0210] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a method for operating an aspiration system with a safety feature. The steps illustrated in FIG. 6 may be performed by one or more elements of the aspiration system 500. A pressurized gas flow is received at the input port (602). For example, the input port 511 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 521 and provide it to a vacuum generator 510. The vacuum generator 510 is an example of an airflow amplifier. A low pressure region is formed near the aspiration port (604). For example, the vacuum generator 510 is configured to generate a low pressure region 522 near the aspiration port 512 by directing the positive pressure gas supply 521 through the negative pressure generator 510. An effluent flow is drawn into the aspiration system (606). For example, the low pressure region 522 is lower than the ambient air pressure. This causes an effluent flow to enter the aspiration port 512. The aspiration port 512 is configured to receive this effluent flow. A combined flow including the pressurized gas flow and the effluent flow received at the suction port is exhausted through exhaust port (608). For example, an aspiration system with safety feature 500 is configured to exhaust the combined flow (which may include the positive pressure gas supply 521 and the effluent flow received at suction port 512) through exhaust port 513 as positive pressure effluent 523. At least the pressurized gas flow is blocked from exiting suction port (610). For example, backflow prevention device 516 is configured to prevent at least the positive pressure gas supply 521 from exiting suction port 512. Backflow prevention device 516 may be activated when a portion of an aspiration system with safety feature 500 is obstructed by an obstruction. The pressurized gas flow is diverted to activate an alarm and to exhaust through one or more bypass ports (612). For example, backflow prevention device 516 is configured to divert positive pressure gas supply 521 to activate alarm 517 and to exhaust through one or more bypass ports.

[0211] 7 is a block diagram illustrating an aspiration system with blockage removal control 700. The aspiration system with blockage removal control 700 is an example of an aspiration system 100, which is an aspiration system with backflow prevention 300, an aspiration system with backflow alarm 400, and an aspiration system with safety feature 500, but which includes a blockage removal control 708. The aspiration system with blockage removal control 700 includes a backflow elimination control 708, a vacuum generator 710, an input port 711, an aspiration port 712, an exhaust port 713, a low pressure region 722, and a backflow prevention device 716.

[0212] The blockage removal control 708 is configured to increase the pressure in the vacuum generator 710 received from the positive pressure gas supply 721 in response to a user input. In operation, when the blockage removal control 708 is activated, the pressure in the vacuum generator 710 received from the positive pressure gas supply 721 increases. This increase in pressure in the vacuum generator 710 can force blockages out of the exhaust port 713. The blockages may be removed as a positive pressure effluent 723. In some embodiments, the vacuum generator 710 can include one or more bypass ports configured to divert the positive pressure gas supply 721 from the outlet suction port 712 in the event of a failure of the suction system via the blockage removal control 700. In some embodiments, the blockage removal control 708 can be configured to block one or more bypass ports to allow the pressure in the vacuum generator 710 to increase. In some embodiments, the blockage removal control 708 can operate in conjunction with a backflow prevention device 716 to increase the pressure. In such an embodiment, the backflow prevention device 716 may be configured to block the positive pressure gas supply 721 from flowing out of the suction port 712, and the blockage removal control 708 may block one or more bypass ports simultaneously to increase the pressure in the vacuum generator 710.

[0213] 8 is a block diagram illustrating an aspiration system with safety feature and blockage removal control 800. The aspiration system with safety feature and blockage removal control 800 is an example of an aspiration system 100, which includes an aspiration system with backflow prevention 300, an aspiration system with backflow alarm 400, an aspiration system with safety feature 500, and an aspiration system with backflow elimination control 700, although the aspiration system with safety feature and blockage removal control 800 may include alternative configurations and methods of operation. In FIG. 8, the aspiration system with safety feature and blockage removal control 800 includes a backflow elimination control 808, a vacuum generator 810, an input port 811, an aspiration port 812, an exhaust port 813, a backflow prevention device 816, a backflow alarm 817, and a canister 860.

[0214] The backflow elimination control 808 is configured to evacuate any obstructions or blockages from the vacuum generator 810 through the exhaust port 813. The backflow elimination control 808 is configured to increase the pressure provided by the positive pressure gas supply 821 within the vacuum generator 810. This increase in pressure can force the obstructions or blockages out the exhaust port 813. In some embodiments, the backflow elimination control 808 can interface with a backflow prevention device 816. In such an example, the backflow prevention device 816 can block the positive pressure gas supply 821 from flowing out the suction port 812 and divert the positive pressure gas supply 821 through one or more bypass ports. The blockage removal control can be configured to block one or more bypass ports to increase the pressure from the positive pressure gas supply 821 within the vacuum generator 810.

[0215] Vacuum generator 810 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 821 from input port 811. Vacuum generator 810 is configured to generate a low pressure region 822 from the positive pressure gas supply 821 near suction port 812. In some embodiments, input port 811 is configured to feed the positive pressure gas supply to vacuum generator 810 at an angle relative to an interior wall of vacuum generator 810. Vacuum generator 810 may be configured to utilize the Coanda effect to generate low pressure region 822.

[0216] The input port 811 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 821 and deliver it to the vacuum generator 810. In some embodiments, the input port 811 may be configured to deliver the positive pressure gas supply 821 to the vacuum generator 810 at an angle to an interior wall of the vacuum generator 810. Tubing may be used to deliver the positive pressure gas supply 821 to the input port 811. In some embodiments, the input port 811 may include a fitting for coupling the tubing to the input port 811. Types of fittings that can be used include barbed, quick disconnect, or compression fittings.

[0217] The suction port 812 is disposed toward the distal end of the vacuum generator 810. The suction port 812 is configured to receive the effluent stream and provide it to the vacuum generator 810. During operation, the low pressure region 822 draws the effluent stream into the suction port 812. The suction port 812 provides the effluent stream to the vacuum generator 810. In some embodiments, the suction port 812 may include radially arranged openings in a wall of the suction port 812. The openings provide additional suction near the suction port 812. The openings may be configured to utilize a Venturi effect. The openings may be configured to open and close in response to a user input.

[0218] Exhaust port 813 is configured to direct the positive pressure effluent from vacuum generator 810 to a collection source. Canister 860 is an example of a collection source. In some embodiments, exhaust port 813 may include a fitting for coupling to tubing. Types of fittings that may be used include barbed, quick disconnect, and compression fittings. Tubing may be used to couple exhaust port 813 to canister 860.

[0219] The backflow prevention device 816 can disable operation of the vacuum generator 810 by cutting off the positive pressure gas supply 821 to one or more components of the vacuum generator 810 that create the low pressure region 822. The backflow prevention device 816 can disable operation of the vacuum generator 810 by preventing any "back" flow of effluent from exiting through the suction port 812. For example, the backflow prevention device 816 can be positioned along the suction port 812. The backflow prevention device 816 can be activated when effluent begins to flow out of the suction port 812. Once activated, the backflow prevention device 816 can be configured to remain activated and prevent flow from the suction port 812 until the positive pressure gas supply 821 is removed (i.e., turned off) or the obstruction is removed. The backflow prevention device 816 can be operably coupled to the backflow alarm 817 to activate the backflow alarm 817 in response to activation of the backflow prevention device 816. In this manner, in response to a blockage, the vacuum generator 810 stops (ie, prevents) backflow of effluent out of the suction port 812 and alerts the user to the blockage.

[0220] The backflow alarm 817 is configured to alert a user of the vacuum generator 810 to the presence of an obstruction. Once an obstruction alert is issued, the user can take any of the following actions: (1) stop using the vacuum generator 810, (2) remove the obstruction to restore normal operation, or (3) stop the positive pressure gas supply 821 and shut down the vacuum generator 810. In operation, the backflow alarm 817 may be configured to activate when the backflow prevention device 816 prevents the positive pressure gas supply 821 from flowing out the suction port 812. The backflow alarm 817 may be configured to be activated in response to the internal pressure within the vacuum generator 810 reaching a threshold criterion. An example of a threshold criterion includes a predetermined pressure level within the vacuum generator 810 that may indicate an obstruction. The backflow alarm 817 may generate an audible alarm (e.g., a whistle or other alarm-type noise), a visual alarm (e.g., a flag or other visual indicator), a tactile alarm (e.g., a vibration), or some other type of alarm to alert a user to the presence of an obstruction. The backflow alarm 817 may use mechanical or electrical means to generate the alarm. The backflow alarm 817 may use a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 821 to generate an audible sound. For example, the backflow alarm 817 may direct a portion of the positive pressure gas supply via a whistle, thereby generating an audible sound. Alternatively, the backflow alarm 817 may use a visual indicator to notify a user of the presence of an obstruction. The backflow alarm 817 may move a member that diverts a portion of the positive pressure gas supply 821, making the visual indicator visible to the operator. Similarly, the backflow alarm 817 may use various electronic components, including transducers, mass airflow sensors, etc., to detect backflow and signal circuitry to activate the backflow alarm 817. The backflow alarm 817 may notify the user of the vacuum generator 810 of the presence of an obstruction using one or more combinations of the alarms described herein.

[0221] Canister 860 is configured to receive waste output from exhaust port 813 for collection, separation, and / or disposal. In some embodiments, canister 860 may couple output to a tube, pipe, etc. for collection, separation, and / or disposal. In some embodiments, canister 860 may be a suction canister connected to a vacuum source. Canister 860 may include a filter. Canister 860 may be fabricated from plastic, glass, metal, or other material with desired properties. Some desirable properties may include cost, sterilizability, manufacturing method, application, or other metrics.

[0222] FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a method for operating an aspiration system with safety features and blockage removal control. The steps illustrated in FIG. 9 may be performed by one or more elements of an aspiration system with safety features and blockage removal control 800. A pressurized gas supply is received at input port 902. For example, input port 811 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 821 and provide it to vacuum generator 810. Vacuum generator 810 is an example of an airflow amplifier. A low pressure region is formed near aspiration port 812. For example, vacuum generator 810 is configured to generate a low pressure region near aspiration port 812 by directing the positive pressure gas supply 821 through vacuum generator 810. An effluent flow is drawn into the aspiration system 906. For example, low pressure region 822 is lower than ambient air pressure. This causes the effluent flow to enter aspiration port 812. Aspiration port 812 is configured to accept the effluent flow into the aspiration system with safety features and blockage removal control 800. A combined flow including the pressurized gas supply and the effluent flow exits the exhaust port (908). For example, the aspiration assembly with safety and blockage removal control 800 is configured to exhaust the combined flow (including the positive pressure gas supply 821 and the effluent flow received at the aspiration port 812) through the exhaust port 813. At least the pressurized gas flow is blocked from exiting the aspiration port (910). For example, the backflow prevention device 816 is configured to activate when a portion of the aspiration system with safety and blockage removal control 800 is blocked. The backflow prevention device 816 is configured to prevent at least the positive pressure gas supply 821 from exiting through the aspiration port 812. The pressurized gas flow activates an alarm and is diverted to output through one or more bypass ports (912). For example, the backflow prevention device 516 is configured to divert at least a portion of the pressurized gas supply 521 to activate the alarm 517 and diver the remainder to exhaust through the bypass port. The pressure in the aspiration system is increased until the obstruction is expelled through exhaust port 914. For example, the blockage removal control 808 is configured to increase the pressure from the positive pressure gas supply 821 until the obstruction is expelled through exhaust port 813.The combined stream is collected 916. For example, canister 860 is coupled to exhaust port 813. Exhaust port 813 is configured to direct the combined stream into canister 860. Canister 860 is configured to collect at least the combined stream.

[0223] 10A is a block diagram illustrating the filtering process of a filtration and aspiration system 1000. The filtration and aspiration system 1000 is an example of a suction system 100, which is a suction system with backflow prevention 300, a suction system with backflow alarm 400, a suction system with safety feature 500, a suction system with backflow elimination control 700, and a suction system with safety feature and blockage removal control 800, but includes a filter 1030. As shown in FIG. 10A, the filtration and aspiration system 1000 includes a vacuum generator 1010, an input port 1011, a suction port 1012, an exhaust port 1013, and a filter 1030.

[0224] The vacuum generator 1010 is configured to receive positive pressure gas 1021 and create a low pressure region 1022 at the suction port 1012. The low pressure region 1022 entrains and receives effluent into the filtering and aspiration system 1000. The effluent may include surgical by-products (e.g., smoke, tissue, gases, liquids, hazardous chemicals, etc.). In typical operation, surgical by-products drawn into the vacuum generator 1010 are propelled by the vacuum generator 1010 through the filter 1030 and out the exhaust port 1013.

[0225] The filter 1030 is configured to capture effluent contained in the combined flow (which may include the positive pressure gas 1021 and surgical by-products). Various embodiments of the filter 1030 can capture different types of effluent using different operations. The filter 1030 includes one or more filter inlet ports (the exhaust port 1013 is integrated with the filter inlet port in this example) and one or more filter outlet ports 1033. The one or more filter inlet ports are configured to receive the combined flow from the vacuum generator 1010. The filter 1030 captures effluent contained in the combined flow and passes the filtrate to the filter outlet port 1030. The filter 1030 may be included in the filtration and aspiration system 1000 configured for handheld operation. Alternatively, the filter 1030 may be located a distance away from the handheld portion of the vacuum generator 1010. The surgical by-products and positive pressure gas 1021 may be output to a tube, pipe, or the like for transfer to the filter 1030.

[0226] The filter 1030 may include a mechanical, biological, chemical, or other type of filter, or any combination thereof. Mechanical filtration may include a physical barrier or filter media type filter, a vortex filter, or a cyclone type filter, or any combination thereof.

[0227] A filter using a physical barrier or filter media retains particles by physically blocking them from passing through the filter media. This mechanical or physical filtration of solids occurs from the effluent that passes through the filter media. Filter media are available in a variety of materials and porosities, which can be selected to limit the size of particles that can be extracted. The larger the pores in the filter media, the larger the particulate emissions must be to be filtered. Using a combination of different materials and filter media porosity, specific components of the collected effluent are separated, including the gas received through the intake port 1012 and exhausted through the exhaust port 1013 to the filter 1030.

[0228] Vortex or cyclone filters operate by cyclonic separation to remove particulates from effluent without the need for a physical barrier or filter media. They use rotational effects and gravity to separate solid and fluid mixtures. This method can also be used to separate fine droplets of liquid from gas streams.

[0229] Biological filtration uses live microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, to capture and biologically degrade pollutants, harmful chemicals, and other undesirable materials from effluent. Biological filtration can be used with gases and liquids. Biological filters contain a filter medium on which beneficial microorganisms grow. Biological filter media can be made from sand, plastic, metal, ceramics, and other materials. Materials with a high surface area-to-volume ratio typically perform best in biological filters.

[0230] Chemical filtration removes dissolved particles from effluents via activated carbon, resins, and other adsorbents. Chemical filtration media adhere to undesirable dissolved effluents. There are two types of chemical media: activated carbon and resins. Activated carbon has microscopic pores that allow certain organic or inorganic materials to adhere. Carbon removes many harmful elements from effluents. Ion exchange resins work by adsorbing and adhering to specific molecules. Resins can be combined with carbon. Resins often enhance the filtering capabilities of carbon. Protein foam skimming and ozone oxidation are also used for chemical filtration.

[0231] 10B is a block diagram illustrating the operation of the filtration and aspiration system 1000. In operation, the vacuum generator 1010 receives positive pressure gas 1021, creating a low-pressure region at the suction port 1012 and generating a positive pressure effluent at the exhaust port 1013. The vacuum generator 1010 is an example of a flow multiplier. The low-pressure region at the suction port 1012 draws effluent (e.g., fluid 1024 and solids 1026) 1025 into the vacuum generator 1010. The effluent 1025 drawn into the vacuum generator 1010 is then forced by the vacuum generator 1010 through the filter 1030 and out the exhaust port 1013. The filter 1030 removes solids 1050, allowing filtrate 1027 to pass and exit the filter 1030 at the filter exhaust port 1033.

[0232] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating a filtration and aspiration system. The steps illustrated in FIG. 11 may be performed by one or more elements of the filtration and aspiration system 1000. A pressurized gas flow is received at an input port (1102). For example, the input port 1011 is configured to receive a positive pressure gas supply 1021 and supply it to a vacuum generator 1010. The vacuum generator 1010 is an example of an air flow multiplier. A low pressure region is created (1104) near the aspiration port. For example, the vacuum generator 1010 is configured to generate a low pressure region 1022 using the positive pressure gas supply 1021 near the aspiration port 1012. The effluent flow is drawn into the aspiration system (1106). For example, the low pressure region 1022 is lower than ambient air pressure. This causes the effluent flow to enter the aspiration port 1012. The aspiration port 1012 is configured to direct the effluent flow through the filtration and aspiration system 1000. The combined flow, including the pressurized gas flow and the effluent flow received at the suction port, passes through a filter (1108). For example, vacuum generator 1010 is configured to pass the combined flow (which may include positive pressure gas 1021 and the effluent flow received at suction port 1012) through filter 1030. Solids contained in the combined flow are captured within the filter, and filtrate passes through the filter for collection (1110). For example, filter 1030 is configured to capture solids 1050, allowing filtrate 1027 to pass and be collected.

[0233] 12 is a block diagram illustrating a positive pressure actuated suction device 1200. The positive pressure actuated suction device 1200 is one example of a suction system 100, although the positive pressure actuated suction device 1200 may have alternative configurations and methods of operation. As shown in FIG. 12, the positive pressure actuated suction device 1200 includes a suction device 1210, a positive pressure inlet 1211, a suction port 1212, an exhaust port 1213, and a fluid flow multiplier 1215.

[0234] The suction device 1210 is configured to create a vacuum region 1222 near the suction port 1212 to draw effluent into the suction device 1210 and exhaust pressurized effluent through the exhaust port 1213. The effluent may include combinations and varying ratios of solids, liquids, and gases. In some embodiments, the effluent may include surgical by-products. The suction device 1210 is configured to create the vacuum region 1222 from a positive pressure supply 1221. In some embodiments, the suction device 1210 can utilize the Coanda effect to create the vacuum region 1222 from the positive pressure supply 1221.

[0235] The positive pressure inlet 1211 is configured to receive a positive pressure supply 1221 and provide it to the fluid flow multiplier 1215. In some embodiments, the positive pressure inlet 1211 is configured to provide the positive pressure supply 1221 to the fluid flow multiplier 1215 at an angle to an interior wall of the fluid flow multiplier 1215. Tubing may be used to provide the positive pressure supply 1221 to the positive pressure inlet 1211. In some embodiments, the positive pressure inlet 1211 may include a fitting for coupling the tubing to the positive pressure inlet 1211. Types of fittings that may be used include barbed, quick disconnect, compression fittings, etc.

[0236] The suction port 1212 is disposed toward the distal end of the suction device 1210. The suction port 1212 is configured to receive the effluent stream and deliver it to the suction device 1210. Upon activation, the vacuum region 1222 draws the effluent stream into the suction port 1212. The suction port 1212 delivers the effluent stream to the fluid flow multiplier 1215. In some embodiments, the suction port 1212 may include multiple openings arranged radially in a wall of the suction port 1212. The openings provide additional suction near the suction port 1212. In some embodiments, the openings may be configured to utilize a Venturi effect. In some embodiments, the openings may be configured to open and close in response to a user input.

[0237] The exhaust port 1213 is configured to direct the pressurized effluent 1223 from the suction device 1210 to a collection source. In some embodiments, the exhaust port 1213 may include a fitting for connecting to tubing. Types of fittings that may be used include barbed, quick disconnect, compression fittings, etc.

[0238] The fluid flow multiplier 1215 is configured to receive a positive pressure supply 1221 from a positive pressure inlet 1211. In some embodiments, the positive pressure inlet 1211 can be angled relative to an inner wall of the fluid flow multiplier 1215 to supply the positive pressure supply 1221 to the fluid flow multiplier 1215. The fluid flow multiplier 1215 is configured to create a vacuum region 1222 from the positive pressure supply 1221 near the suction inlet 1212. The vacuum region 1222 has a pressure lower than ambient atmospheric pressure. The ambient atmospheric pressure overcomes the pressure in the vacuum region 1222 to create a suction force within the suction device 1210. The vacuum region 1222 draws effluent (e.g., liquid, gas, solids) into the suction inlet 1212. The suction inlet 1212 is configured to supply the effluent to the suction device 1210. The effluent drawn into the suction device 1210 is forced out of the exhaust port 1213 by the fluid flow multiplier 1215. Exhaust port 1213 outputs pressurized effluent 1223 (which may include the effluent collected at positive pressure supply 1221 and suction inlet 1212). Pressurized effluent 1223 may be output to a tube, pipe, etc. for collection, separation, and / or disposal.

[0239] It should be understood that the terms "positive pressure" and "low pressure" are relative terms. These terms are relative to the ambient air / gas pressure near the suction device 1210. For example, the positive pressure supply 1221 may be a flow of compressed air, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, or some other gas pressure source. In this case, the positive pressure supply 1221 is pressurized above the ambient air surrounding the suction device 1210. Similarly, the vacuum region 1222 may be a region where the air pressure near the suction inlet 1212 is less than the ambient air. The vacuum region 1222 forces air, and possibly entrained exhaust, near the suction inlet 1212 into the suction inlet 1212.

[0240] In some embodiments, the suction device 1210 may be configured for handheld operation. In this configuration, the suction device 1210 may be sized and shaped so that it can be held by one or more hands while being operated. Thus, rather than a permanently attached (or portable, but larger) suction pump, the suction device 1210 may be a relatively small device that operates to draw waste material into the suction port 1212, where it can be pushed out through the exhaust port 1213. It should be understood that while the suction device 1210 may be configured for handheld operation, it may also be used in conjunction with other procedures (e.g., laparoscopy, robotics, etc.).

[0241] It should be understood that the tubing and / or piping connected to the positive pressure inlet 1211 and exhaust port 1213 are thin-walled and collapsible by receiving the positive pressure supply 1221 and generating the pressurized effluent 1223. The tubing and / or piping connected to the positive pressure inlet 1211 and exhaust port 1213 are collapsible as the positive pressure of the positive pressure supply 1221 and the pressurized effluent 1223 "push open" or "expand" the collapsible tubing. Thus, lighter and / or less expensive tubing can be used with the suction device 1210 than that used with "negative pressure" systems that rely on a supplied vacuum line or source (e.g., a vacuum pump and / or tubing wall port).

[0242] In some embodiments, the fluid flow multiplier 1215 may include a structure defining a generally cylindrical cavity with an inlet 1212 at a first end and an outlet port 1213 at a second end. The cylindrical cavity is defined by an interior wall of the cavity. The structure may further include an annular opening in the interior wall near the inlet 1212 defining an outlet opening configured to allow a positive pressure supply 1221 to exit the annular opening, such that a vacuum region 1222 is generated at the inlet 1212 and a stacked flow is generated at the outlet port 1213. The annular opening may be configured such that the positive pressure supply 1221 enters the cavity at an angle relative to the interior wall of the cavity near the outlet port 1213, and the cavity expands to a larger diameter where the annular opening is in communication with the cavity. The annular opening is also configured such that pressurized gas enters the cavity at an angle (e.g., between 0° and 90°) relative to the interior wall of the cavity toward the second end. In some embodiments, a more acute angle (eg, 30° to 50°) may be desirable.

[0243] The dimensions of the gap space, such as the annular opening, may be adjustable to control the pressure differential between the ambient air and the vacuum region 1222. The annular opening may be configured so that the positive pressure supply 1221 entering the cavity adheres to a curved surface of the portion of the structure defining the annular opening, creating a vacuum region 1222, thereby increasing the overall mass flow rate of the surged flow. Additionally, the fluid flow multiplier 1215 may include a rotatable structure to adjust the dimensions of the annular opening to control the pressure differential. By adjusting the annular opening, an operator or user can control the ratio of gas suction to liquid suction provided by the fluid flow multiplier 1215.

[0244] 13 is a block diagram illustrating a positive pressure actuated suction device with backflow prevention 1300. The positive pressure actuated suction device with backflow prevention 1300 is an example of the positive pressure actuated suction device 1200, but the positive pressure actuated suction device with backflow prevention 1300 includes a backflow prevention valve 1316. The positive pressure actuated suction device with backflow prevention 1300 includes a suction device 1310, a positive pressure inlet 1311, a suction port 1312, an exhaust port 1313, a fluid flow multiplier 1315, and a backflow prevention valve 1316.

[0245] In operation, the aspirator 1310 receives a positive pressure supply 1321 at a positive pressure inlet 1311 and creates a vacuum region 1322 near the aspirator inlet 1312 by directing the positive pressure supply 1321 to a fluid flow multiplier 1315. The vacuum region 1322 has a pressure lower than the ambient atmospheric pressure. The ambient atmospheric pressure overcomes the pressure in the vacuum region 1322, creating a suction force within the aspirator 1310. The vacuum region 1322 draws effluent (e.g., liquids, gases, solids) from the aspirator inlet 1312 into the aspirator 1310. In general operation, effluent drawn into the aspirator 1310 is propelled by the fluid flow multiplier 1315 out the exhaust port 1313 for collection.

[0246] However, the exhaust port 1313 (or the tubing connected to carry the pressurized effluent 1323) can become clogged or blocked. In this case, the obstruction can prevent all or a large portion of the pressurized effluent 1323 from exiting the exhaust port 1313. Without the anti-reflux valve 1316, if the pressurized effluent 1323 could not exit the exhaust port 1313, the pressurized effluent 1323 would instead exit through the suction port 1312. The discharge of the pressurized effluent 1323 (and particularly the positive pressure supply 1321) is undesirable and could cause damage or other problems to points near the suction port 1312 (e.g., the patient). However, the anti-reflux valve 1316 is configured to at least stop the flow of the positive pressure supply 1321 from exiting through the suction port 1312.

[0247] The anti-reflux valve 1316 is configured to disable operation of the suction device 1310. The anti-reflux valve 1316 can disable operation of the suction device 1310 by cutting off the positive pressure supply 1321 to one or more components of the suction device 1310 that form the vacuum region 1322. The anti-reflux valve 1316 can disable operation of the suction device 1310 by preventing any "back" flow of effluent from exiting through the suction port 1312. For example, the anti-reflux valve 1316 can be positioned along the suction port 1312. The anti-reflux valve 1316 can be activated when effluent begins to flow out of the suction port 1312. Once activated, the anti-reflux valve 1316 is configured to remain activated and prevent outflow from the suction port 1312 until the positive pressure supply 1321 is removed (i.e., turned off) or the blockage is resolved.

[0248] 14 is a block diagram illustrating a positive pressure actuated suction device with backflow alarm 1400. The positive pressure actuated suction device with backflow alarm 1400 is an example of the positive pressure actuated suction device 1200, but includes an alarm 1417. The positive pressure actuated suction device with backflow alarm 1000 includes a suction device 1410, a positive pressure inlet 1411, a suction port 1412, an exhaust port 1413, a fluid flow multiplier 1415, and an alarm 1417.

[0249] In operation, the suction device 1410 receives a positive pressure supply 1421 to create a vacuum field 1422 at the suction port 1412. The vacuum field 1422 entrains and receives effluent within the positive pressure operated suction device with backflow alarm 1400. The suction port 1412 is configured to entrain and receive surgical by-products (e.g., smoke, tissue, gases, liquids, hazardous chemicals, etc.) that enter the suction device 1410. In general operation, surgical by-products drawn into the suction device 1410 are forced out of the exhaust port 1413 by the fluid flow multiplier 1415 as a pressurized effluent 1423. The exhaust port 1413 is configured to output the pressurized effluent 1423, which includes the positive pressure supply 1421 and the entrained surgical by-products. The pressurized effluent 1423 may be output into a tube, pipe, etc. for collection, separation, and / or disposal.

[0250] However, exhaust port 1413 (or a tube connected to carry pressurized effluent 1423) may become clogged or blocked. In this case, the obstruction may prevent all or most of the pressurized effluent 1423 from exiting exhaust port 1413. If pressurized effluent 1423 cannot exit exhaust port 1413, it may instead be discharged through suction inlet 1412.

[0251] Alarm 1417 is configured to alert an operator or user of suction device 1410 to the presence of an obstruction. An obstruction alert can allow the user to take one or more of the following actions: (1) stop using suction device 1410, (2) remove the obstruction to restore normal operation, or (3) stop positive pressure supply 1421 and shut down suction device 1410.

[0252] The alarm 1417 can generate an audible alarm (e.g., a whistle or other alarm-type noise). The alarm 1417 can generate a visual alarm (e.g., a flag or other visual indicator). The alarm 1417 can generate a tactile alarm (e.g., a vibration) or generate other types of alarms to alert the user to the presence of an obstruction. The alarm 1417 can use mechanical or electrical means to generate the alarm. Examples of mechanical means that can be used to generate an alarm include: the alarm 1417 can use a positive pressure supply 1421 to generate an audible alarm using a whistle-type device, can generate a visual alarm by physically moving a flag or other visual indicator, or can generate a tactile alarm by physically moving a mass. Similarly, various electronic components, including transducers, mass airflow sensors, etc., can be used in the alarm 1417 to detect an obstruction or backflow and signal circuits to activate the alarm 1417. The various types of alarms described herein can be used individually or in combination.

[0253] 15 is a block diagram illustrating a positive pressure actuated suction device with safety feature 1500. While the positive pressure actuated suction device with safety feature 1100 is an example of a positive pressure actuated suction device 1200, a positive pressure actuated suction device with backflow prevention 1300, and a positive pressure actuated suction device with backflow alarm 1400, the positive pressure actuated suction device with safety feature 1500 may include alternative configurations and methods of operation.

[0254] The positive pressure operated suction device with safety features 1500 includes a suction device 1510 , a positive pressure inlet 1511 , a suction port 1512 , an exhaust port 1513 , a fluid flow multiplier 1515 , a non-return valve 1516 and an alarm 1517 .

[0255] In operation, the aspirator 1510 receives a positive pressure supply 1521 at a positive pressure inlet 1511 and creates a vacuum region 1522 near the aspirator port 1512 by directing the positive pressure supply 1521 to a fluid flow multiplier 1515. The vacuum region 1522 has a pressure lower than the ambient atmospheric pressure. The ambient atmospheric pressure overcomes the pressure in the vacuum region 1522, creating a suction force within the aspirator 1510. The vacuum region 1522 draws effluent (e.g., liquids, gases, and solids) into the aspirator 1510 through the aspirator port 1512. In general operation, effluent drawn into the aspirator 1510 is forced out the exhaust port 1513 by the fluid flow multiplier 1515.

[0256] The fluid flow multiplier 1115 utilizes fluid dynamic principles, including but not limited to the Coanda effect, the Venturi effect, fluid entrainment, and fluid induction, to amplify the effluent through the suction device 1510. The exhaust port 1513 outputs a pressurized effluent 1523 of the collected effluent and gas received through the suction inlet 1512. The pressurized effluent 1523 may be output into a tube, pipe, or the like for collection, separation, and / or disposal.

[0257] However, the exhaust port 1513 (or the tube connected to carry the pressurized effluent 1523) may become clogged or blocked. In this case, the obstruction may prevent all or most of the pressurized effluent 1523 from exiting the exhaust port 1513. If the pressurized effluent 1523 cannot exit the exhaust port 1513, the pressurized effluent 1523 may instead be discharged through the suction port 1512.

[0258] The anti-reflux valve 1516 can disable operation of the suction device 1510 by cutting off the positive pressure supply 1521 to one or more components of the suction device 1510 that form the vacuum region 1522. The anti-reflux valve 1516 can disable operation of the suction device 1510 by preventing any "back" flow of effluent from exiting through the suction port 1512. For example, the anti-reflux valve 1516 can be positioned along the suction port 1512. The anti-reflux valve 1516 can be activated when effluent begins to flow out of the suction port 1512. The anti-reflux valve 1516 is configured to remain activated once activated and to operate to prevent outflow from the suction port 1512 until the positive pressure supply 1521 is removed (i.e., turned off) or until the obstruction is removed.

[0259] Alarm 1517 is configured to alert a user of suction device 1510 to the presence of an obstruction. An obstruction alert can allow the user to take one or more of the following actions: (1) stop using suction device 1510, (2) remove the obstruction to restore normal operation, or (3) stop positive pressure supply 1521 and shut down suction device 1510.

[0260] The anti-reflux valve 1516 may be operatively coupled to the alarm 1517 to activate the alarm 1517 in response to activation of the anti-reflux valve 1516. In this manner, in response to an obstruction, the suction device 1510 stops (i.e., prevents) the backflow of pressurized effluent 1523 from the suction port 1512 and alerts the user of the obstruction.

[0261] The alarm 1517 may utilize an audible alarm (e.g., a whistle or other alarm-type noise), a visual alarm (e.g., a flag or other visual indicator), a tactile alarm (e.g., a vibration), or some other type of alarm to alert the user to the presence of an obstruction. The alarm 1517 may use mechanical or electrical means to generate the alarm. The various types of alarms described herein may be used individually or in combination.

[0262] 16 is a block diagram illustrating a filtering suction device with safety feature 1600. The positive pressure activated suction devices with safety feature 1600 are positive pressure activated suction device 1200, positive pressure activated suction device with backflow prevention 1300, positive pressure activated suction device with backflow alarm 1400, and positive pressure activated suction device with safety feature 1500, but the filtering suction device with safety feature 1600 includes a filter 1630 and a canister 1660. The filtering suction device with safety feature 1600 includes a suction system 1610, a positive pressure input port 1611, a vacuum port 1612, a positive pressure exhaust port 1613, a fluid accelerator 1615, a backflow valve 1616, a safety alarm 1617, a filter 1630, and a canister 1660.

[0263] Canister 1660 is configured to receive waste material output from positive pressure exhaust port 1613 for collection, separation, and / or disposal. In some embodiments, canister 1660 may be a suction canister connected to a vacuum source. In some embodiments, canister 1660 may include a filter. Canister 1660 may be fabricated from plastic, glass, metal, or other material with desired properties. Some desirable properties may include cost, sterilization, manufacturing method, application, or other metrics.

[0264] In operation, the suction system 1610 receives a pressure supply 1621 at a positive pressure input port 1611 and directs the pressure supply 1621 to a fluid accelerator 1615, thereby creating a suction region 1622 at a vacuum port 1612. The suction region 1622 has a pressure lower than ambient atmospheric pressure. The ambient atmospheric pressure overcomes the pressure in the suction region 1622, creating a suction force within the suction system 1610. The suction region 1622 draws effluent (e.g., liquids, gases, and solids) into the suction system 1610 through the vacuum port 1612. In general operation, effluent drawn into the suction system 1610 is propelled by the fluid accelerator 1615 through a filter 1630, and the filtrate is directed to a positive pressure exhaust port 1613. The positive pressure exhaust port 1613 directs the filtrate to a canister 1660.

[0265] The fluid accelerator 1615 is configured to couple to the filter 1630. The fluid accelerator 1615 uses a pressure supply 1621 to push the effluent through the filter 1630. The filter 1630 is configured to capture the effluent and pass the filtrate to the positive pressure exhaust port 1612. The positive pressure output 1613 is configured to couple to the canister 1660. The positive pressure output 1613 provides the filtrate from the suction system 1610 to the canister 1660. In some embodiments, the canister 1660 may be connected to a vacuum supply.

[0266] However, the positive pressure exhaust port 1613, the filter 1630, or the canister 1660 can become clogged or blocked. When this happens, the obstruction can prevent all or most of the effluent from exiting the positive pressure exhaust port 1613. If the effluent cannot exit the positive pressure exhaust port 1613, the effluent will instead be exhausted through the vacuum port 1612.

[0267] The backflow valve 1616 can deactivate the suction system 1610 by cutting off the pressure supply 1621 to one or more components of the suction system 1610 where the suction region 1622 is formed. The backflow valve 1616 can deactivate the suction system 1610 by preventing any "reverse" flow of effluent from exiting through the vacuum port 1612. For example, the backflow valve 1616 can be located along the vacuum port 1612. The backflow valve 1616 can be activated when effluent begins to flow to cause a flow to exit the vacuum port 1612. The backflow valve 1616 can be configured to remain activated once activated and prevent flow out of the vacuum port 1612 until the pressure supply 1621 is removed (i.e., turned off) or the blockage is removed.

[0268] Safety alarm 1617 is configured to alert a user of aspiration system 1610 to the presence of an obstruction. When an obstruction alert is issued, the user can take one or more of the following actions: (1) discontinue use of aspiration system 1610, (2) remove the obstruction to restore normal operation, or (3) shut down pressure supply 1621, thereby shutting down aspiration system 1610.

[0269] Safety alarm 1617 may be operatively coupled to backflow valve 1616 to activate safety alarm 1617 in response to activation of backflow valve 1616. In this manner, in response to a blockage, suction system 1610 stops (i.e., prevents) backflow of effluent out of vacuum port 1612 and alerts the user of the blockage.

[0270] 17 illustrates a compensating filtering and suction device 1700. Compensating filtering and suction device 1700 is an example of positive pressure operated suction device 1200, positive pressure operated suction device with backflow prevention 1300, positive pressure operated suction device with backflow alarm 1400, positive pressure operated suction device with safety feature 1500, and filtering and suction device with safety feature 1600, but includes a flow multiplier 1735. Compensating filtering and suction device 1700 includes a suction generator 1710, a positive pressure input port 1711, an inlet 1712, an outlet 1713, a flow multiplier 1715, a check valve 1716, a backflow alarm 1717, a filter 1730, and a flow multiplier 1735. The flow multiplier 1735 is configured to compensate for flow resistance through filter 1730 by creating a low-pressure region between filter 1730 and flow multiplier 1735.

[0271] In operation, the suction generator 1710 receives positive pressure gas 1721 at positive pressure input ports 1711, 1714, which is directed to flow through flow multipliers 1715, 1735, respectively. The flow multipliers 1715, 1735 are configured to generate a low-pressure region from the positive pressure gas 1721 distal to the flow multipliers 1715, 1735. The combined low-pressure region generates a low-pressure zone 1722 adjacent the inlet 1712. The low-pressure zone 1722 has a pressure lower than ambient atmospheric pressure. The ambient atmospheric pressure overcomes the pressure of the low-pressure zone 1722, creating a suction force within the suction generator 1710. The low-pressure zone 1722 draws effluent (e.g., liquids, gases, and solids) into the suction generator 1710 via the inlet 1712. In general operation, exhaust material drawn into the suction generator 1710 is forced through the filter 1730 by the flow multipliers 1715 , 1735 and discharged through the exhaust outlet 1713 .

[0272] The flow rate multipliers 1715, 1735 may each utilize fluid dynamic principles to generate and accelerate the effluent through the suction generator 1710, including, but not limited to, the Coanda effect, the Venturi effect, fluid entrainment, and fluid induction. The Coanda effect may be used by flow rate multipliers 1715, 1735 on either side of the filter 1730. While FIG. 17 illustrates only flow rate multipliers 1715 and 1735, it should be understood that multiple flow rate multipliers similar to flow rate multipliers 1715 and 1735 may be combined in series or parallel operation before or after the filter 1730.

[0273] However, exhaust outlet 1713 and / or filter 1730 (or the tubing connected to carry pressurized filtrate 1727) may become clogged or blocked. When this occurs, the obstruction can prevent all or most of the effluent from exiting exhaust outlet 1713. If the effluent cannot exit exhaust outlet 1713, it will instead exit through inlet 1712. The flow of positive pressure gas 1721 can be reversed to exit through inlet 1712 if an obstruction blocks exhaust outlet 1713, thereby providing positive pressure gas 1721 to exit through inlet 1712 and not elsewhere.

[0274] The check valve 1716 can disable operation of the suction generator 1710 by cutting off the supply of positive pressure gas 1721 to one or more components of the suction generator 1710 where the low pressure zone 1722 is formed. The check valve 1716 can disable operation of the suction generator 1710 by preventing the "reverse" flow of effluent from exiting through the inlet 1712. For example, the check valve 1716 can be positioned along the inlet 1712. The check valve 1716 can be activated when effluent begins to flow, forcing the effluent out of the inlet 1712. The check valve 1716 can be configured to remain activated once activated and prevent flow out of the inlet 1712 until the positive pressure gas 1721 is removed (i.e., off) or the blockage is cleared.

[0275] Backflow alarm 1717 is configured to alert a user of suction generator 1710 to the presence of an obstruction. Backflow alarm 1717 may be operatively coupled to check valve 1716 such that backflow alarm 1717 is activated in response to activation of check valve 1716. In this manner, in response to an obstruction, suction generator 1710 stops (i.e., prevents) the backflow of effluent from inlet 1712 and alerts the user of the obstruction.

[0276] Filter 1730 may include a mechanical, biological, chemical, or other type of filter, or any combination thereof. Filter 1730 includes at least one filter inlet port and at least one filter output port. The at least one filter inlet port is coupled to flow multiplier 1715 so that surgical by-products and positive pressure gas 1721 pass through filter 1730. The at least one filter output port is coupled to flow multiplier 1735.

[0277] The suction generator 1710 includes a flow multiplier 1735. The flow multiplier 1735 is in fluid communication with the input port of the filter 1730. During operation, the flow multiplier 1735 receives positive pressure gas 1721 at the positive pressure input port 1714 and generates a low pressure zone between the filter 1730 and the flow multiplier 1735. The flow multiplier 1735 may be configured to compensate for flow and / or pressure (suction) losses due to the flow resistance of the filter 1730. For example, the flow multiplier 1735 may compensate for a portion of the flow resistance of the filter 1730 (e.g., ¼, ½, etc.). The flow multiplier may also be configured to compensate for more of the flow resistance of the filter 1730 (e.g., 1.25 times, 1.5 times, or 2 times). The flow multiplier 1735 is coupled to the exhaust outlet 1713. The flow multiplier 1735 is configured to discharge filtrate discharged from the filter 1730 to the exhaust outlet 1713.

[0278] FIG. 18 is a block diagram illustrating a method of operating the compensated filtered suction device. The steps illustrated in FIG. 18 may be performed by one or more elements of the compensated filtered suction device 1700. A pressurized gas flow is received at a first input port and a second input port (1802). For example, the positive pressure input port 1711 is configured to receive positive pressure gas 1721 and provide it to a flow multiplier 1715. The positive pressure input port 1714 is configured to receive positive pressure gas 1721 and provide it to a flow multiplier 1735. A low pressure region is created (1804) near the suction ports. For example, the suction generator 1710 is configured to create a low pressure zone 1722 near the inlet 1712 by directing the positive pressure gas 1721 through the flow multipliers 1715 and 1735. A flow of exhaust is drawn into the suction device (1806). For example, the low pressure zone 1722 is less than ambient air pressure. This allows the effluent flow to enter the inlet 1712. The inlet 1712 is configured to receive the effluent flow and direct the effluent flow through the suction generator 1710. The combined flow, including the pressurized gas flow and the effluent flow, passes through a filter (1808). For example, the flow rate multiplier 1715 is configured to direct the combined flow (which may include the positive pressure gas 1721 and the effluent flow received at the inlet 1712) through the filter 1730. Particles in the combined flow are captured by the filter, and the filtrate passes through the filter to a second flow rate multiplier (1810). For example, the filter 1730 is positioned between the flow rate multiplier 1715 and the flow rate multiplier 1735. The filter 1730 is configured to capture particles and direct the filtrate to the flow rate multiplier 1735. A low-pressure region is formed between the filter and the flow rate multiplier (1812). For example, a flow rate multiplier 1735 is disposed between the filter 1730 and the exhaust outlet 1713. The flow rate multiplier 1735 is configured to create a low-pressure region between the filter 1730 and the flow rate multiplier 1735. The filtrate passes through the flow rate multiplier and is discharged through the exhaust port 1714. The flow rate multiplier 1735 is configured to receive the filtrate from the filter 1730 and discharge the filtrate through the exhaust port 1713.

[0279] 19 is a block diagram illustrating a suction device with an adjustable pressure gap 1900. The suction device with an adjustable pressure gap is an example of a suction system 100, including a suction system with backflow prevention 300, a suction system with backflow alarm 400, a suction system with safety feature 500, a filtration suction system 1000, a positive pressure operated suction device 1200, a positive pressure operated suction device with backflow prevention 1300, a positive pressure operated suction device with backflow alarm 1400, a positive pressure operated suction device with safety feature 1500, and a filtration suction device with safety feature 1600, but which includes an adjustable pressure gap 1931 and a motion converter 1942. The suction device with adjustable pressure gap 1900 includes a suction device 1910, a positive pressure input port 1911, an inlet 1912, an outlet 1913, a fluid accelerator 1915, a valve 1916, an alarm 1917, a filter 1930, an adjustable pressure gap 1931, and a motion converter 1942.

[0280] The positive pressure input port 1911 is configured to receive a positive pressure 1921 . The positive pressure input port includes a means for coupling to a positive pressure source. In operation, the positive pressure input port 1911 directs positive pressure 1921 to the adjustable pressure gap 1931.

[0281] Adjustable pressure gap 1931 includes an annular opening that directs positive pressure 1921 to fluid accelerator 1915. The size of adjustable pressure gap 1931 may be adjusted in response to a motion converter 1942 that receives user input. The pressure difference between low pressure region 1922 and ambient air pressure may be controlled by adjustable pressure gap 1931. For example, by increasing the size of adjustable pressure gap 1931, the pressure difference between low pressure region 1922 and ambient air pressure can be increased. By decreasing the size of adjustable pressure gap 1931, the pressure difference between low pressure region 1922 and ambient air pressure can be decreased. A user can choose to vary the pressure difference between low pressure region 1922 and ambient air pressure depending on the type of exudate the user wishes to inhale. For example, a user can adjust the pressure difference between low pressure region 1922 and ambient air pressure to inhale more smoke than liquid. Alternatively, a user can adjust the pressure difference between low pressure region 1922 and ambient air pressure to inhale liquid.

[0282] The motion converter 1942 is configured to convert user input into an adjustment of the adjustable pressure gap 1931. In some embodiments, the motion converter 1942 is configured to convert larger movements from the user input into smaller movements to adjust the size of the adjustable pressure gap 1931. In some embodiments, the motion converter 1942 is configured to include a rotatable element that converts rotational user input into a linear adjustment of the size of the adjustable pressure gap 1931. In some embodiments, the motion converter 1942 may include a sliding member that can adjust the size of the adjustable pressure gap 1931. In some embodiments, the motion converter 1931 may include a lever that can convert larger user input movements into smaller user input movements to adjust the size of the adjustable pressure gap 1931.

[0283] FIG. 20 illustrates a method of operating an aspiration device with an adjustable pressure gap. The steps illustrated in FIG. 20 may be performed by one or more elements of an aspiration device with an adjustable pressure gap 1900. A pressurized gas flow is received at an input port 2002. For example, an aspiration device with an adjustable pressure gap 1900 includes an input port 1911 configured to receive positive pressure 1921 and provide it to an adjustable pressure gap 1931. The pressurized gas flow is provided to the adjustable pressure gap 1931 2004. For example, a positive pressure input port 1911 is coupled to the adjustable pressure gap 1931. The positive pressure input port 1911 is configured to provide positive pressure 1921 to the adjustable pressure gap 1931. A user input is converted 2006 into an adjustment of the adjustable pressure gap. For example, a motion conversion device 1942 is configured to receive the user input and convert the user input into an adjustment of the adjustable pressure gap 1931. A low pressure region is formed near the suction port (2008). For example, fluid accelerator 1915 is configured to create a low pressure region 1922 near input 1912 from positive pressure 1921. An adjustable pressure gap 1931 is configured to be adjustable to vary the pressure difference between low pressure region 1922 and ambient air pressure. An effluent stream is drawn into the suction device (2010). For example, fluid accelerator 1915 creates a low pressure region 1922 that is lower than ambient air pressure. This draws the effluent stream into suction device 1910. A combined stream including the pressurized gas stream and the effluent stream received at the suction port passes through a filter (2012). For example, fluid accelerator 1915 is coupled to filter 1930. Fluid accelerator 1915 is configured to pass the combined stream (which may include positive pressure 1921 and the effluent stream received at inlet 1912) through filter 1930. Particles in the combined stream are captured within the filter, and the filtrate passes through the filter to an output port 2014. For example, filter 1930 is configured to capture solids and pass pressurized filtrate 1927 to outlet 1913.

[0284] 21A is a block diagram illustrating a suction device with an anti-reflux valve 2100. The suction device with an anti-reflux valve 2100 is an example of the suction device 100, the suction system with backflow prevention 300, the positive pressure actuated suction device 1200, the positive pressure actuated suction device with backflow prevention 1300, and the suction device with an adjustable pressure gap 1900, although the suction device with an anti-reflux valve 2100 may have alternative configurations and methods of operation. As shown in FIG. 21A, the suction device with an anti-reflux valve 2100 includes a pressurized gas port (e.g., a positive pressure intake) 2111, a suction assembly 2112, a nozzle 2114, a fluid accelerator 2115, and a backflow prevention valve 2116.

[0285] The suction device with anti-reflux valve 2100 uses a fluid accelerator 2115 with a Coanda effect to generate suction near the nozzle 2114. The suction is generated primarily by the suction device with anti-reflux valve 2100 from a positive pressure supply 2121 (typically pressurized above ambient pressure) that is fed to the fluid accelerator 2115, rather than an external suction pump (although the device may be used with a suction pump). The suction device with anti-reflux valve 2100 may be used to remove medical or surgical by-products such as smoke, tissue, and bodily fluids. The suction device with anti-reflux valve 2100 includes an anti-reflux valve 2116 that prevents pressurized gas from flowing in the "backward" direction and exiting the nozzle 2114 in the wrong direction. That is, the suction device with anti-reflux valve 2100 is configured to prevent pressurized gas from exiting the nozzle 2114, thereby preventing patient problems or injury.

[0286] The suction device with the anti-reflux valve 2100 includes a pressurized gas port 2111. The pressurized gas port 2111 is configured to receive a positive pressure supply 2121 and deliver it to a conduit 2129 (e.g., an annular opening). The dimensions of the conduit 2129 can be adjusted via a flow regulator 2120 to control the difference between the low pressure region created near the nozzle 2114 and the ambient air pressure. Tubing can be used to deliver the positive pressure supply 2121 to the pressurized gas port 2111. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas port 2111 can include a fitting for coupling the tubing to the pressurized gas port 2111. Types of fittings that can be used include barbed, quick disconnect, compression fittings, etc.

[0287] The aspiration device with anti-reflux valve 2100 includes an aspiration assembly 2112. The aspiration assembly 2112 is disposed toward the distal end of the aspiration device with anti-reflux valve 2100. The aspiration assembly 2112 is configured to house an anti-reflux valve 2116. The aspiration assembly includes an exhaust port 2181 configured to direct flow of at least the positive pressure supply 2121 to the exhaust port 2181 when the anti-reflux valve is activated.

[0288] The suction device with the anti-reflux valve 2100 includes a nozzle 2114. FIG. 21A illustrates an embodiment of the nozzle 2114 including a conical cavity with a narrow distal end and a wide proximal end. The narrow distal end may be configured to include a press-fit friction fitting, protrusions, threads, a luer fitting, or other means for attaching an accessory (e.g., tubing, needle, etc.) to the nozzle 2114. The nozzle 2114 includes a proximal end configured to be coupled to the suction assembly 2112. The nozzle 2114 is configured to receive the effluent flow / suction flow 2124 and deliver it to the suction assembly 2112. The nozzle 2114 is configured to be interchangeable. Different embodiments of the nozzle 2114 configured for specific applications may be used with the suction device with the anti-reflux valve 2100. In some embodiments, the nozzle 2114 may include radially arranged openings in the wall of the nozzle 2114. The openings provide additional suction near the nozzle 2114. In some embodiments, the opening may be configured to utilize the Venturi effect. In some embodiments, the opening may be configured to open and close in response to user input.

[0289] The suction apparatus with the check valve 2100 includes a fluid accelerator 2115. The fluid accelerator 2115 includes a fluid accelerator inlet 2118, a fluid accelerator housing 2119, a flow control 2120, and a conduit 2129. The fluid accelerator 2115 is configured to generate a low pressure region near the nozzle 2114 from a positive pressure supply 2121. The fluid accelerator 2115 may be configured to utilize the Coanda effect. The fluid accelerator 2115 is configured to receive the positive pressure supply 2121 and generate a first low pressure region near the nozzle 2114. The fluid accelerator is configured to accelerate an effluent flow / suction flow 2124 received at the nozzle 2114 and to expel a positive pressure effluent 2123 (which may include the positive pressure supply 2121 and the effluent flow / suction flow 2124) from the pressurized waste / exhaust port 2113. The pressure difference between the low pressure region created near the nozzle 2114 and the ambient air pressure may be adjusted by the flow controller 2120. The flow controller 2120 may be adjusted to aspirate more gas than liquid. The flow controller 2120 may be adjusted to aspirate more liquid.

[0290] The fluid accelerator 2115 includes a fluid accelerator inlet 2118. The fluid accelerator inlet 2118 is disposed between the check valve 2116 and the fluid accelerator 2115. The fluid accelerator inlet 2118 is configured to supply the flow of effluent received by the nozzle 2114 to the fluid accelerator 2115. The fluid accelerator inlet 2118 includes a plurality of conical cavities having variable dimensions. Each of the conical cavities includes a wide distal end and a narrow proximal end. In some embodiments, the conical cavities may be configured to utilize the Venturi effect. The fluid accelerator inlet 2118 is configured to couple to the fluid accelerator 2115. The fluid accelerator inlet 2118 may include a geometric shape including a tapered section disposed at the proximal end. The tapered section of the fluid accelerator inlet 2118 may be configured in combination with a flow controller 2120 to form a conduit 2129. The geometry of the tapered section located at the proximal end of the fluid accelerator inlet 2118 may be configured to provide a positive pressure supply 2121 to the fluid accelerator 2115 at an angle relative to the inner wall of the fluid accelerator 2115 .

[0291] The fluid accelerator 2115 includes a fluid accelerator housing 2119. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 is disposed near the proximal end of the suction device including the anti-reflux valve 2100. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 is configured to couple to the pressurized gas port 2111 and the flow control 2120. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 may include a screw configured to couple to the flow control 2120. The screw may be configured to convert rotational motion of the flow control 2120 into linear motion that adjusts the dimension of the conduit 2129. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 includes a generally cylindrical cavity having a first opening at a first end and a second opening at a second end. The cylindrical cavity is defined by an interior wall of the fluid accelerator housing 2119. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 includes the conduit 2129 on the interior wall near the first end. Conduit 2129 may be configured to provide positive pressure supply 2121 at an angle to the inner wall of fluid accelerator 2115 .

[0292] The fluid accelerator 2115 includes a flow control 2120. The flow control includes a pressurized waste / exhaust port 2113. The flow control 2120 is configured to be coupled to the fluid accelerator housing 2119. The flow control 2120 includes a pressurized waste port 1913. The flow control 2120 may include a diverging element disposed at a distal end of the flow control 2120. The diverging element is configured in combination with the fluid accelerator inlet 2118 and can be angled with respect to the interior wall of the fluid accelerator 2115 to provide positive pressure. The flow controller is rotatable to adjust the conduit 2129. The conduit 2129 is adjustable to control the pressure difference between the ambient air and the low-pressure region at the nozzle 2114. The dimensions of the conduit 2129 may be adjustable to control the ratio of gas suction power to liquid suction power to solids suction power provided by the fluid accelerator 2115. Conduit 2129 is contoured such that pressurized gas entering the cavity couples to the curved surface of the structural portion defining conduit 2129, thereby creating a low pressure region that increases the overall mass flow rate of the accelerated flow. Flow control section 2120 may include an O-ring to provide a seal between flow control section 2120 and fluid accelerator housing 2119.

[0293] The flow control 2120 includes a pressurized waste / vent port 2113. The pressurized waste / vent port 2113 is located at a distal end of the flow control 2120. The pressurized waste / vent port 2113 is configured to direct the positive pressure effluent 2123 to a waste containment unit. The waste containment unit may include a collection canister, a waste drain, tubing, or piping configured to carry away the positive pressure effluent. In some embodiments, the pressurized waste / vent port 2113 may include a fitting for connecting to tubing. Types of fittings that can be used include barbed, quick disconnect, compression fittings, and the like. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 21A , the pressurized waste / vent port 2113 includes an O-ring for coupling the pressurized waste / vent port 2113 to the tubing.

[0294] The fluid accelerator 2115 includes a conduit 2129. An annular opening is disposed between the fluid accelerator inlet 2118 and the fluid accelerator housing 2119. The conduit 2129 defines an outlet opening configured to allow a positive pressure supply 2121 to flow through the conduit 2129, creating a low pressure region proximate the nozzle 2114. The conduit 2129 is configured to receive the positive pressure supply 2121 from the pressurized gas port 2111 and provide it to the fluid accelerator 2115. The proximal end of the fluid accelerator inlet 2118 and the distal end of the flow control section 2120 may be configured to form the conduit 2129. The conduit 2129 may be configured such that the positive pressure supply 2121 enters the fluid accelerator 2115 at an angle (e.g., between 0° and 90°) relative to the inner wall of the cylindrical cavity. In some embodiments, a more acute angle (e.g., between 30° and 50°) may be desirable.

[0295] The suction device equipped with the check valve 2100 includes a check valve 2116. The check valve 2116 includes a check valve body 2180 and a diaphragm 2185. The check valve 2116 is located along the airflow path within the suction device equipped with the check valve 2100. During normal operation, the check valve 2116 is configured to block the exhaust port 2181 to provide maximum suction near the nozzle 2114. The check valve 2116 can disable operation of the fluid accelerator 2115 by blocking the positive pressure supply 2121 to one or more components of the fluid accelerator 2115 that create a low-pressure region. The check valve 2116 is configured to stop any "reverse" flow of effluent through the suction assembly 2112 or the nozzle 2114. The check valve 2116 may be configured such that once activated, it remains activated and prevents flow from the suction assembly 2112 or nozzle 1214 from discharging until the positive pressure gas supply is removed (i.e., turned off) or the obstruction is removed.

[0296] The check valve 2114 may be configured to, when activated, divert at least the positive pressure supply 2121 to the exhaust port 2181 to prevent the positive pressure supply 2121 from rising above a desired limit of the aspiration apparatus including the check valve 2100. In this embodiment, the exhaust port 2181 is integrated into the aspiration assembly 2112. The check valve 2116 is configured to move within the aspiration assembly 2112 to open the exhaust port 2181 in the event of an obstruction or blockage within a portion of the aspiration apparatus including the check valve 2100. Opening the exhaust port 2181 allows the positive pressure gas 2121 to exit the aspiration apparatus including the check valve 2100.

[0297] The check valve 2116 includes a diaphragm 2185. The diaphragm 2185 is constructed from a flexible material. The diaphragm 2185 is configured to deflect in response to flow. The diaphragm 2185 is configured to deflect in the direction of flow to allow flow through the check valve 2116 in a first direction during normal operation. The diaphragm 2185 is configured to prevent the positive pressure supply 2121 from passing in a second direction through the check valve disc 2180. The check valve disc 2180 includes a structural element that limits deflection of the diaphragm 2185 in the second direction. The check valve 2116 is configured to activate if the suction device or a portion thereof including the check valve 2100 becomes clogged or blocked. When activated, the positive pressure supply 2121 deflects the diaphragm 2185 until deflection is limited by the check valve disc 2180. When deflection of the diaphragm 2185 is limited by the check valve disc 2180, the positive pressure supply 2121 applies a force to the diaphragm 2185. The diaphragm 2185 transmits the force from the positive pressure supply 2121 to the check valve 2116, causing the check valve disc 2180 to slide within the suction assembly 2112. When the check valve disc 2180 is activated, at least the flow of the positive pressure supply 2121 is prevented from exiting the suction assembly 2112 or the nozzle 2114. The diaphragm 2185 may be configured to direct the positive pressure supply to the exhaust port 2181 when the check valve 2116 is activated.

[0298] 21B1 shows the central axis 2126 of the device, from which angle 2128 is measured. Intake port 2117 is located at one end of fluid accelerator 2115, and exhaust port 2113 is located at the opposite end. Low pressure chamber 2127 refers to the interior volume of fluid accelerator 2115 where exhaust / suction flow 2124 is generated.

[0299] 21B and 21C are enlarged views illustrating a conduit 2129 of a suction device equipped with a non-return valve 2100. The first hollow section 2122, the fluid accelerator housing 2119, and the second hollow section 2125 are configured to form the conduit 2129. The first hollow section 2122 can include a first opening 2133 that can be adjacent to a second opening 2134 of the second hollow section 2125. The first opposing surface 2130 can at least partially surround the first opening 2133. The second opposing surface 2132 can at least partially surround the second opening 2134. The first opposing surface 2130 can face the second opposing surface 2132. The first opposing surface 2130 or the second opposing surface 2132 can be chamfered, flared, angled, or any combination thereof. Conduit 2129 includes a pressure gap 2131. Pressure gap 2131 is configured to be adjustable. Adjusting the size of pressure gap 2131 adjusts the flow rate of positive pressure supply 2121 through conduit 2129. Adjusting the flow rate of positive pressure supply 2121 through conduit 2129 adjusts the pressure difference between the low pressure region generated near nozzle 2114 and ambient air pressure, thereby adjusting the flow of the suction device with backflow prevention valve 2100. Pressure gap 2131 may be adjustable to control the ratio of gas suction power to liquid suction power to solid suction power provided by fluid accelerator 2115. By adjusting the fluid flow, a user can adjust the suction device with backflow prevention valve 2100 to ingest a desired ratio of gas (e.g., smoke), liquid and solids, or a combination of all three. The conduit 2129 may be configured so that the positive pressure supply 2121 enters the fluid accelerator 2115 at an angle (e.g., 0°-90°) relative to the inner wall of the fluid accelerator 2115. In some embodiments, a more acute angle (e.g., 30°-50°) may be desirable.

[0300] The conduit 2129 is comprised, in part, of a first hollow section 2122. A proximal end of the first hollow section 2122 and a distal end of the second hollow section 2125 define a jet opening configured to allow the positive pressure supply 2121 to flow through the conduit 2129. The proximal end of the first hollow section 2122 may include a geometry configured to direct the flow of the positive pressure supply 2121.

[0301] The conduit 2129 is comprised, in part, of a fluid accelerator housing 2119. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 is coupled to a pressurized gas port 2111. The fluid accelerator housing is configured to receive and supply a positive pressure supply 2121 to the conduit 2129. The fluid accelerator housing 2119 may include a screw configured to couple to the second hollow section 2125. The screw allows the pressure gap 2131 to be adjusted by rotating the second hollow section 2125. The second hollow section 2125 may be configured to convert rotational motion into linear motion to adjust the pressure gap 2131.

[0302] The conduit 2129 is comprised, in part, of a second hollow section 2125. The distal end of the second hollow section 2125 may be flared to direct the positive pressure supply 2121 to enter the fluid accelerator at an angle relative to the inner wall of the fluid accelerator 2115. The second hollow section 2125 may include threads configured to mate with the fluid accelerator housing 2119. The threads may be configured to convert rotational motion of the second hollow section 2125 into linear motion that adjusts the pressure gap 2131. Adjusting the pressure gap 2131 adjusts the difference between the low pressure region created near the nozzle 2114 and the ambient air pressure.

[0303] Figure 21B shows conduit 2129. Adjusting the pressure gap 2131 as shown in Figure 21B allows for increased flow of the positive pressure supply 2121 through conduit 2129 relative to the pressure gap 2131 shown in Figure 21C. The pressure gap 2131 shown in Figure 21B creates a larger difference between the low pressure area created near the nozzle 2114 and the ambient air pressure, and therefore generates more flow through the suction device with check valve 2100 than the pressure gap 2131 shown in Figure 21C.

[0304] Conduit 2129 has an angle 2128 relative to central axis 2126. Angle 2128 relative to central axis 2126 is configured to provide pressure received from pressurized gas port 2111 at an angle relative to fluid accelerator 2115. In some embodiments, angle 2128 relative to central axis 2126 may be configured to utilize the Coanda effect to generate suction. In some embodiments, angle 2128 relative to central axis 2126 may be an acute angle (e.g., between 0° and 90°). In some embodiments, angle 2128 relative to central axis 2126 may be between 30° and 60°. In some embodiments, angle 2128 relative to central axis 2126 may be 55°.

[0305] Figure 21C shows conduit 2129. Adjusting pressure gap 2131 as shown in Figure 21C allows for a reduced flow of positive pressure supply 2121 through conduit 2129 relative to pressure gap 2131 as shown in Figure 21B. Pressure gap 2131 as shown in Figure 21C creates less flow through an aspiration device with check valve 2100 than pressure gap 2131 shown in Figure 21B because there is less difference between the low pressure area created near nozzle 2114 and the ambient air pressure.

[0306] 21D illustrates the operation of an aspiration device with anti-reflux valve 2100 during normal operation. The anti-reflux valve 2116 is configured to move proximally and distally within the aspiration assembly 2112. During normal operation, the anti-reflux valve 2116 slides to a proximal position within the aspiration assembly 2112 to block the exhaust port 2181 and allow flow through the aspiration device with the anti-reflux valve 2100. In the event of an obstruction, the anti-reflux valve 2116 slides to a distal position within the aspiration assembly 2112 to prevent backflow through the aspiration assembly 2112 or nozzle 2114. In the distal position, the anti-reflux valve opens the exhaust port 2181 to exhaust at least the positive pressure supply 2121.

[0307] In operation, a positive pressure supply 2121 is introduced to pressurized gas port 2111. Pressurized gas port 2111 provides positive pressure supply 2121 to fluid accelerator 2115 via conduit 2129. The amount of flow through conduit 2129 is controlled by adjusting flow controller 2120. The portion of the suction device with check valve 2100, particularly fluid accelerator 2115, creates a low pressure region near nozzle 2114 to entrain and direct effluent flow / suction flow 2124 through the suction device with check valve 2100.

[0308] In operation, the fluid accelerator 2115 receives a positive pressure feed 2121 at the pressurized gas port 2111 and creates a low pressure region at the nozzle 2114 by directing the positive pressure feed 2121 to the fluid accelerator 2115. The low pressure region at the nozzle 2114 has a pressure lower than the ambient atmospheric pressure. The ambient atmospheric pressure overcomes the pressure of the low pressure region, thereby creating a suction force at the nozzle 2114. The low pressure region created near the nozzle 2114 draws an effluent / suction flow 2124 into the suction assembly 2112. The effluent / suction flow 2124 may include liquids, gases, and solids. The drawn effluent / suction flow 2124 is forced by the fluid accelerator 2115 in the pressurized waste / exhaust port 2113 as a positive pressure effluent 2123. The positive pressure effluent 2123 may include a combined flow of the positive pressure feed 2121 and the effluent / suction flow 2124.

[0309] FIG. 21E illustrates the operation of a suction device with a check valve 2100 in the event of an obstruction. As shown in FIG. 2IE, the pressurized waste / exhaust port 2113 is blocked by an obstruction 2150. The obstruction 2150 can prevent all or a majority of the positive pressure supply 2121 from exiting the pressurized waste / exhaust port 2113. If, without the check valve 2116, the positive pressure supply 2121 (or the combination of the positive pressure supply 2121 and the positive pressure effluent 2123) cannot exit the pressurized waste / exhaust port 2113, the positive pressure supply 2121, and possibly the positive pressure effluent 2123, can instead be forced to exit through the nozzle 2114. The effluent (and particularly the positive pressure supply 2121) can be undesirable and can cause damage or other problems to items in the vicinity of the nozzle 2114 (e.g., the patient). However, check valve 2116 is configured to at least stop the flow of positive pressure supply 2121 and positive pressure effluent 2123 from flowing through nozzle 2114 .

[0310] The check valve 2116 can deactivate a suction device equipped with the check valve 2100 by preventing any "back" flow of effluent through the nozzle 2114. The check valve 2116 includes a check valve body 2180, an exhaust port 2181, and a diaphragm 2185. The check valve 2116 can be activated when effluent begins to flow so that flow exits the nozzle 2114. The check valve 2116 can be configured to remain activated once activated and prevent flow from exiting the nozzle 2114 until the positive pressure supply 2121 is stopped (i.e., turned off) or the obstruction 2150 is removed.

[0311] 21E illustrates the operation of an aspiration device with backflow prevention unit 2100 when an obstruction is encountered. Obstruction 2150 prevents positive pressure supply 2121 from exiting pressurized waste / exhaust port 2113. Because positive pressure supply 2121 cannot exit pressurized waste / exhaust port 2113 due to obstruction 2150, the flow of positive pressure supply 2121 reverses direction to nozzle 2114. Positive pressure supply 2121 deflects diaphragm 2185 against check valve body 2180. Pressure transfers from diaphragm 2185 to check valve 2116, which slides within suction assembly 2112. When activated, check valve 2116 opens exhaust port 2181, allowing positive pressure supply 2121 to exhaust through exhaust port 2181.

[0312] 22A shows an exploded view of check valve 2200. Check valve 2220 is an example of check valve 316, check valve 516, check valve 716, check valve 816, check valve 1316, check valve 1516, check valve 1616, check valve 1716, valve 1916, and check valve 2116, although check valve 2200 may include alternative configurations and methods of operation. Check valve 2200 includes a slider 2280 and a diaphragm 2285.

[0313] The check valve 2200 includes a slide 2280. The slide 2280 includes an alignment feature 2282, a male fitting 2283, an opening 2286, and a support element 2288. The slide 2280 is configured to be mounted within a housing, such as, for example, the suction assembly 2112. The slide 2280 includes the alignment feature 2282. The alignment feature 2282 includes an inclusion within the slide 2280. The alignment feature may be configured to be contained within the housing to prevent the check valve 2200 from rotating. The slide 2280 includes a support element 2288. The support element 2288 is configured to provide structural support to the diaphragm 2285. The diaphragm 2285 is comprised of a flexible material. The support element 2288 is configured to limit the amount of deflection of the diaphragm 2285 in one direction. 22A , male fitting 2283 is configured to be coupled to female fitting 2284 using a snap fit. In some embodiments, male fitting 2283 may be a mechanical fastener (e.g., a screw, bolt, rivet, etc.), an adhesive point, or other means of coupling male fitting 2283 to female fitting 2284. Slide 2280 has an opening 2286. Opening 2286 is configured to allow the flow of waste through slide 2280.

[0314] The check valve 2200 includes a diaphragm 2285. The diaphragm 2285 is configured to block flow through the opening 2286 in one direction while allowing flow in the reverse direction. The diaphragm 2285 is comprised of a flexible material. The diaphragm 2285 is configured to deflect in response to pressure. When pressure flow travels in one direction, the diaphragm 2285 is configured to deflect to allow flow through the opening 2286. When pressure flow travels in the reverse direction, the diaphragm 2285 is configured to deflect until the deflection is limited by the support element 2288. The diaphragm 2285 is configured to transfer pressure from a pressure source to the slider 2280. This transfer of pressure causes the slider 2280 to move within the housing. The diaphragm 2285 includes a female fitting 2284. 22A, the female fitting 2284 is configured to couple the diaphragm 2285 to the slider 2280. As shown in FIG. 22A, the female fitting 2284 is configured to be coupled to the male fitting 2283 using a snap fit. In some embodiments, the female fitting 2284 may be holes for mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, rivets, etc.), adhesive spots, or other methods of coupling the female fitting 2284 to the male fitting 2283.

[0315] FIG. 22B illustrates check valve 2200 during an obstruction. In the event of an obstruction, pressure from the pressure source causes diaphragm 2285 to deflect. The deflection of diaphragm 2285 is limited by support element 2288. As shown in FIG. 22B, diaphragm 2285 rests on support element 2288. In this mode of operation, diaphragm 2285 can transmit pressure from the pressure source to slider 2280. This pressure transmission can activate check valve 2200.

[0316] 22C illustrates check valve 2200 during normal operation. During normal operation, pressure from a pressure source deflects diaphragm 2285, thereby allowing flow through opening 2286. Pressure from the pressure source may act on diaphragm 2285. The pressure may be transmitted from diaphragm 2285 to slider 2280 by male fitting 2283 and female fitting 2284. During normal operation, pressure from the pressure source acts on diaphragm 2285, thereby allowing check valve 2200 to slide within the housing. When deactivated, check valve 220 may be configured to block the exhaust port.

[0317] 23A illustrates the operation of a positive pressure vacuum device with safety feature 2300 during normal operation. The positive pressure vacuum device with safety feature 2300 is an example of an aspiration system 100, an aspiration system with backflow prevention 300, an aspiration system with backflow alarm 400, an aspiration system with safety feature 500, a positive pressure operated aspiration device 1200, a positive pressure operated aspiration device with backflow prevention 1300, a positive pressure operated aspiration device with backflow alarm 1400, and a positive pressure operated aspiration device with safety feature 1500, although the positive pressure operated vacuum device with safety feature 2300 may include alternative configurations and methods of operation. The positive pressure vacuum device with safety feature 2300 includes a pressurized gas port (e.g., a positive pressure input port) 2311, a low pressure chamber 2312, an effluent outlet 2313, a fluid flow amplifier 2315, a safety valve 2316, a safety valve body 2380, and an alarm / safety alarm 2317.

[0318] In operation, fluid flow amplifier 2315 receives pressurized gas supply 2321 and creates a low pressure region adjacent low pressure chamber 2312. Fluid flow amplifier 2315 may be configured to utilize the Coanda effect to create a low pressure region adjacent low pressure chamber 2312. The low pressure region draws safety valve 2316 adjacent to low pressure chamber 2312, blocking backflow bypass port 2381 and open diaphragm 2385. During normal operation, check valve 2116 blocks backflow bypass port 2381, providing maximum suction to low pressure chamber 2312. The low pressure region draws effluent flow / suction flow 2324 into low pressure chamber 2312. Effluent flow / suction flow 2324 may include liquids, gases, and solids. Low pressure chamber 2127 directs effluent flow / suction flow 2324 to fluid flow amplifier 2315. Fluid flow amplifier 2315 is configured to generate laminar flow. Effluent flow / suction flow 2324 may be entrained with pressurized gas supply 2321 within fluid flow amplifier 2315 and exit through effluent outlet 2313 as positive pressure effluent 2323. The laminar flow within fluid flow amplifier 2315 allows positive pressure gas supply 2321 to be separated from effluent flow / suction flow 2324 by effluent outlet 2313. Effluent outlet 2313 may be configured to exit pressurized gas supply 2321 and positive pressure effluent 2323 as separate streams. Effluent outlet 2313 may be configured to couple to tubing, piping, etc. for collection, further separation, and / or disposal of pressurized gas supply 2321 and positive pressure effluent 2323.

[0319] 23B illustrates the operation of the positive pressure suction device with safety feature 2300 when an obstruction occurs. Flow through the positive pressure suction device with safety feature 2300 is blocked by obstruction 2350. Obstruction 2350 can prevent all or most of the pressurized gas supply 2321 from exiting the effluent outlet 2313. Preventing the pressurized gas supply 2321 from exiting the effluent outlet 2313 can result in the pressurized gas supply 2321 being exhausted from the low pressure chamber 2312. Without backflow safety valve 2316, the pressurized gas supply 2321, and possibly the effluent / aspiration flow 2324, could be exhausted from the low pressure chamber 2312. The exhaust pressurized gas supply 2321 and effluent / aspiration flow 2324 are undesirable and could cause injury or other problems to locations (e.g., the patient) near the low pressure chamber 2312. However, relief valve 2316 , together with relief valve body 2380 , is configured to stop the flow of pressurized gas supply 2321 from venting through at least low pressure chamber 2312 .

[0320] 23B illustrates an obstruction 2350 blocking pressurized gas supply 2321 from exiting effluent outlet 2313. Because the obstruction 2350 prevents pressurized gas supply 2321 from exiting effluent outlet 2313, the flow of pressurized gas supply 2321 reverses direction into low pressure chamber 2312. The pressurized gas supply 2321 closes diaphragm 2385, sliding relief valve 2316 into low pressure chamber 2312. Once activated, relief valve 2316 opens backflow bypass port 2381 to relieve pressurized gas supply 2321, thereby preventing pressure from rising above desired limits within a positive pressure suction device with safety feature 2300.

[0321] The backflow bypass port 2381 is operably coupled to the alarm / safety alarm 2317. The backflow bypass port 2381 may be configured to direct the pressurized gas supply 2321 to the alarm / safety alarm 2317 when the safety valve 2316 is activated. In this example, the alarm / safety alarm 2317 is configured to generate an audible alarm using the pressurized gas supply 2321.

[0322] 24A illustrates a positive pressure actuated suction device 2400. Positive pressure actuated suction device 2400 is an example of suction system 100, a suction system with backflow prevention 300, a suction system with backflow alarm 400, a suction system with safety feature 500, a filtration and suction system 1000, a positive pressure actuated suction device 1200, a positive pressure actuated suction device with backflow alarm 1400, a positive pressure actuated suction device with safety feature 1500, a filtration and suction device with safety feature 1600, and a suction device with adjustable pressure gap 1900, although positive pressure actuated suction device 2400 may include alternative configurations and methods of operation. The positive pressure operated suction device 2400 includes a pressurized gas port (e.g., a positive pressure intake port) 2411, a suction assembly 2412, an outlet / exhaust port 2413, a fluid accelerator 2415, a backflow prevention valve 2416, a warning / alarm 2417, a fluid accelerator intake 2418, a flow control section 2420, an inlet / input port 2422, a conduit (e.g., an annular opening) 2429, and a filter 2430.

[0323] The pressurized gas port 2411 is configured to receive positive pressure from a positive pressure source. The positive pressure source is configured to supply gas at a pressure higher than ambient atmospheric pressure. The positive pressure source may include compressed gas from a compressor, gas from a high-pressure gas cylinder, or human exhaled breath. The pressurized gas port 2411 is configured to supply positive pressure to the fluid accelerator 2415 via a conduit 2429.

[0324] The suction assembly 2412 is disposed toward the distal end of the positive pressure actuated suction device 2400. The suction assembly 2412 includes an inlet / input port 2422. The suction assembly 2412 is configured to receive the effluent flow. The suction assembly 2412 is configured to house an anti-reflux valve 2416.

[0325] The fluid accelerator 2415 is configured to create a low pressure region within the suction assembly 2412 and near the inlet / input port 2422. The low pressure region created by the fluid accelerator 2415 is lower than ambient air pressure. The low pressure region causes ambient air pressure to push the effluent stream through the inlet / input port 2422 and the suction assembly 2412. The effluent stream may include liquids, solids, and gases.

[0326] An outlet / exhaust port 2413 is disposed toward the proximal end of the positive pressure actuated suction device 2400. The outlet / exhaust port 2413 is configured to receive filtrate from the filter 2430. The outlet / exhaust port 2413 may be configured to output the filtrate received from the filter 2430 to a collection source, which may include tubing, a canister, or a waste drain.

[0327] Fluid accelerator 2415 is configured to accelerate the flow of exhaust / suction flow 2424 using a positive pressure supply 2421. Fluid accelerator 2415 includes a conduit 2429. Conduit 2429 is configured to direct the positive pressure supply 2421 received from pressurized gas port 2411 at an angle relative to an interior wall of fluid accelerator 2415. Fluid accelerator 2415 may be configured to utilize the Coanda effect to create a low pressure region near inlet / input port 2422 from positive pressure supply 2421. Fluid accelerator 2415 is configured to generate a positive pressure effluent 2423. Positive pressure effluent 2423 may include a combined flow of positive pressure supply 2421 and exhaust / suction flow 2424. Fluid accelerator 2415 is configured to direct the positive pressure effluent through filter 2430. Filter 2430 is configured to capture particles contained in positive pressure effluent 2423 and passes positive pressure filtrate 2426 to outlet / exhaust port 2413 .

[0328] The check valve 2416 is disposed between the suction assembly 2412 and the fluid accelerator 2415. The check valve 2416 is configured to prevent at least the positive pressure supply 2421 from flowing out of the inlet / input port 2422.

[0329] The warning / alarm 2417 is configured to notify a user that flow through the positive pressure actuated suction device 2400 has been obstructed. The warning / alarm 2417 may be configured to operate in conjunction with the anti-reflux valve 2416. Activation of the anti-reflux valve 2416 can block flow through the suction assembly 2412. The anti-reflux valve 2416 may be configured to direct the positive pressure supply 2421 to the warning / alarm 2417 via the exhaust port 2181. The warning / alarm 2417 may be configured to generate an alarm from the positive pressure supply 2421.

[0330] The fluid accelerator intake 2418 includes multiple conical sections, each having a wide end and a narrow end. In some embodiments, the fluid accelerator intake may be configured to utilize the Venturi effect to accelerate the flow through the fluid accelerator intake 2418. The fluid accelerator intake is configured to direct the flow of effluent received at the inlet / input port 2422 into the fluid accelerator 2415.

[0331] The flow control 2420 is disposed toward the distal end of the positive pressure actuated suction device 2400. The flow control 2420 includes a rotatable member configured to receive a user input. The flow control converts the rotational motion received from the user input into linear motion, which can adjust the pressure gap disposed between the fluid accelerator inlet 2418 and the fluid accelerator 2415. In some embodiments, the flow control 2420 can convert larger motions into smaller motions near the conduit 2429.

[0332] Conduit 2429 is disposed between fluid accelerator inlet 2418 and fluid accelerator 2415. Conduit 2429 includes an adjustable pressure gap. The adjustable pressure gap controls the flow of pressure received from pressurized gas port 2411 through conduit 2429, which in turn controls the flow of pressure to fluid accelerator 2415. Conduit 2429 may be adjusted by a user by adjusting flow control 2420. The intensity of the low pressure region may be adjusted by adjusting conduit 2429.

[0333] Filter 2430 is disposed near the proximal end of positive pressure actuated suction device 2400. Filter 2430 is configured to receive positive pressure effluent 2423. Filter 2430 is configured to capture particles and pass positive pressure filtrate 2426 to outlet / exhaust port 2413.

[0334] FIG. 24B is an expanded view of FIG. 24B1 and is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of adjustable pressure gap 2431 for a positive pressure actuated suction device. Flow control section 2420 includes an adjustment feature, such as tuner arm 2440. Tuner arm 2440 is configured to allow a user to control a low pressure region proximate inlet / input port 2422. In this embodiment, tuner arm 2440 allows a user to adjust adjustable pressure gap 2431 using one hand. Tuner arm 2440 is configured to receive rotational input from a user. Tuner arm 2440 is configured to impart rotational motion to flow control section 2420. Flow control section 2420 is configured to impart rotational motion to motion converter section 2442. Motion converter section 2442 is configured to convert the rotational motion received from flow control section 2420 into linear motion. The linear motion from motion converter section 2442 is configured to adjust pressure gap 2431.

[0335] Conduit 2429 includes a pressure gap 2431. Pressure gap 2431 is configured to be adjustable. Adjusting pressure gap 2431 regulates the flow rate of positive pressure supply 2421 through conduit 2429. Adjusting positive pressure supply 2421 through conduit 2429 adjusts the pressure differential between the low pressure region created near inlet / input port 2422 and the ambient air pressure. Pressure gap 2431 may be configured to control the ratio of gas suction, liquid suction, and solids suction provided by second hollow section 2402, such as fluid accelerator 2415. By adjusting positive pressure supply 2421 through conduit 2429, a user can adjust positive pressure operated suction device 2400 to obtain a desired ratio of gas (e.g., smoke), liquid, and solids, or a combination of the three. The conduit 2429 may be configured so that the positive pressure supply 2421 enters the second hollow section 2402 at an angle (e.g., 0°-90°) relative to the interior wall of the second hollow section 2402. In some embodiments, a more acute angle (e.g., 30°-50°) may be desirable.

[0336] The conduit 2429 is comprised, in part, of a first hollow section 2401, such as the fluid accelerator inlet 2418, and a second hollow section 2402, such as the fluid accelerator 2415. The proximal end of the first hollow section 2401 and the distal end of the second hollow section 2402 may be configured to form an ejection opening adapted to allow the positive pressure supply 2421 to flow through the conduit 2429. The proximal end of the first hollow section 2401 may include a geometric shape, including a cone, configured to be angled relative to the inner wall of the second hollow section 2402 to direct the flow of the positive pressure supply 2421 into the second hollow section 2402.

[0337] The first hollow section 2401 may include a first opening 2405 that may be adjacent to the second opening 2406 of the second hollow section 2402. The first opposing surface 2403 may at least partially surround the first opening 2405. The second opposing surface 2404 may at least partially surround the second opening 2406. The first opposing surface 2403 may face the second opposing surface 2404. The first opposing surface 2403 or the second opposing surface 2404 may be chamfered, flared, angled, or any combination thereof.

[0338] The conduit 2429 is comprised, in part, of the second hollow section 2402. The distal end of the second hollow section 2402 may be flared for the positive pressure supply 2421 to enter the second hollow section 2402 at an angle relative to the interior wall of the second hollow section 2402.

[0339] As shown in Figure 24B, adjusting the pressure gap 2431 allows for an increased flow of positive pressure supply 2421 through conduit 2429 relative to the pressure gap 2431 shown in Figure 24C. As shown in Figure 24B, the pressure gap 2431 creates a larger difference between the low pressure area created near the inlet / input port 2422 and the ambient air pressure, which allows more fluid to flow into the positive pressure actuated suction device 2400 than the pressure gap 2431, as shown in Figure 24C.

[0340] FIG. 24C is an expanded view of FIG. 24C1 illustrating conduit 2429. Adjusting pressure gap 2431, as shown in FIG. 24C, can adjust to reduce flow of positive pressure supply 2421 through conduit 2429 relative to pressure gap 2431, as shown in FIG. 24B. As shown in FIG. 24C, pressure gap 2431 allows less flow to positive pressure actuated suction device 2400 than pressure gap 2431, as shown in FIG. 24B, due to a smaller difference between the low pressure region created near inlet / input port 2422 and the ambient air pressure. In some embodiments, adjusting adjustable pressure gap 2431 can disable operation of positive pressure actuated suction device 2400.

[0341] 24D illustrates the operation of the positive pressure actuated suction device 2400 during normal operation. The anti-reflux valve 2416 includes an anti-reflux valve body 2180 and an exhaust port 2181. The anti-reflux valve 2416 is configured to move within the suction assembly 2412. During normal operation, the anti-reflux valve 2416 may be configured to block the exhaust port 2181 and allow flow through the positive pressure actuated suction device 2400. In the event of an obstruction, the anti-reflux valve 2416 slides within the suction assembly 2412 to prevent at least the positive pressure supply 2421 from exiting the intake / input port 2422. The anti-reflux valve 2416 may be configured to open the exhaust port 2181 to prevent the positive pressure supply 2421 from increasing beyond desired limits within the positive pressure actuated suction device 2400.

[0342] In operation, a positive pressure supply 2421 is introduced to pressurize the gas port 2411. The pressurized gas port 2411 supplies the positive pressure supply 2421 to the fluid accelerator 2415. The fluid accelerator 2415 may be configured to utilize the Coanda effect. The fluid accelerator 2415 is configured to create a low pressure region from the positive pressure supply 2421 proximate the inlet / input port 2422. A conduit 2429 may be configured at an angle relative to the inner wall of the fluid accelerator 2415 to supply the positive pressure supply 2421 to the fluid accelerator 2425. Portions of the positive pressure actuated suction device 2400, and in particular the fluid accelerator 2415, are configured to create a low pressure region within the suction assembly 2412. This low pressure region may be used to entrain and direct the effluent flow / suction flow 2424 through the positive pressure actuated suction device 2400.

[0343] 24D shows exhaust / suction flow 2424 entering inlet / input port 2422. The exhaust / suction flow 2424 may be entrained with a positive pressure feed 2421 in fluid accelerator 2415. This combined flow is shown as positive pressure effluent 2423. Fluid accelerator 2415 pushes positive pressure effluent 2423 through filter 2430. Filter 2430 is configured to capture particles and allow positive pressure effluent 2426 to pass to outlet / exhaust port 2413.

[0344] 25 is a block diagram illustrating a suction system for use in a procedure room 2500. The suction system 2500 includes a suction device 2510, a suction attachment 2552, a fluid separator 2554, a support 2558, and a collection canister 2560.

[0345] Suction system 2500 includes suction device 2510, which is an example of suction system 100, suction system with backflow prevention 300 (shown as 2516 in FIG. 25 ), filtration suction system 1000, positive pressure actuated suction device 1200, positive pressure actuated suction device with backflow prevention 1300, and suction device with adjustable pressure gap 1900, but includes muffler 2532 and mount 2556.

[0346] Suction device 2510 includes a muffler 2531. Muffler 2531 is configured to reduce the volume level of positive pressure output 2521. Muffler 2521 includes a plurality of openings configured to direct airflow to reduce the volume level of positive pressure output 2521.

[0347] The suction device 2510 includes a mount 2556. The mount 2556 is configured to couple the suction device to a support 2558. The mount 2556 can be used for hands-free operation of the suction device 2510. In some embodiments, the mount 2556 can be configured for pole attachment, as is frequently used in hospital and operating room environments. In some embodiments, the mount 2556 can be configured to couple the suction device 2510 to a wall. In some embodiments, the mount 2556 can be configured to suspend the suction device 2510 from an overhead structure.

[0348] The suction system 2500 includes a suction attachment 2552. The suction attachment is configured to deliver a low pressure region 2522 to a target area. In some embodiments, the suction attachment may be configured for handheld operation. In some embodiments, the suction attachment 2552 may be configured to couple to a surgical instrument. While FIG. 25 illustrates the suction attachment 2552 coupled to a fluid separator 2554, it should be understood that the suction attachment may be coupled directly to the suction device 2510.

[0349] The suction system 2500 includes a fluid separator 2554. The fluid separator 2552 is configured to separate components of the effluent stream. The effluent stream may include solids, liquids, and gases in various proportions. The fluid separator 2554 is configured to separate the liquids and solids from the gases in the effluent stream. The fluid separator 2554 is configured to evacuate the liquids and solids to a collection canister 2560. The smoke and gases are suctioned from the fluid separator 2554 by the suction device 2510.

[0350] Suction system 2500 includes support 2558. Support 2558 may be any structure capable of supporting suction device 2510. In some embodiments, support 2558 may be a pole such as those commonly found in hospital or operating room environments. In some embodiments, support 2558 may be a wall. In some embodiments, support 2558 may be a structure suspended from the ceiling. Support 2550 may also include a person holding suction device 2510.

[0351] The suction system 2500 includes a collection canister 2560. The collection canister 2560 is configured to receive liquids and solids from the fluid separator 2554. The collection canister 2560 measures the volume of the received liquids and solids, which may be used for safe disposal of waste or other purposes.

[0352] In operation, suction device 2510 uses positive pressure supply 2521 to create a low pressure region 2522. The suction force created by suction device 2510 is supplied to fluid separator 2554. Fluid separator 2554 transfers the suction force to suction attachment 2552. The suction force creates a low pressure region 2522 near suction port 2512. The effluent stream (which may include liquids, solids, and gases) is drawn by low pressure region 2522 into suction attachment 2552. The effluent stream is received by fluid separator 2554. Fluid separator 2554 separates liquids, solids, and gases from the effluent stream. Fluid separator 2554 discharges the liquids, solids, and gases from the effluent stream into collection canister 2560. Gases from the effluent stream are drawn through fluid separator 2544 by suction device 2510. Elements from the gas are removed by filter 2530. The filtrate from filter 2530 passes through muffler 2532 as positive pressure output 2521.

[0353] 24E illustrates the operation of a positive pressure operated suction device during normal operation. In this example, an obstruction 2450 prevents all or a portion of the positive pressure supply 2421 from being discharged at the outlet / exhaust port 2413. A check valve 2416 is configured to activate when an obstruction 2450 prevents all or a portion of the positive pressure supply 2421 from flowing out of the outlet / exhaust port 2413. The check valve 2421 can prevent the positive pressure supply 2421 from releasing exhaust near the inlet / input port 2422. When the check valve 2421 is activated, the positive pressure supply 2421 is directed through a warning / alarm 2417. The warning / alarm 2417 is configured to activate when the pressure within the suction system 2500 rises to a threshold indicating that an obstruction 2450 is preventing all or a portion of the positive pressure supply 2421 from flowing out of the outlet / exhaust port 2413.

[0354] Figure 26 illustrates a method of operating a suction system for use in a surgical suite. The steps illustrated in Figure 26 may be performed by one or more elements of the suction system 2500. Positive pressure is received 2602 at an input port of the suction device. For example, the suction device 2510 is configured to receive a positive pressure supply 2521. A suction force is generated 2604 from the positive pressure. For example, suction device 2510 is configured to generate suction from positive pressure supply 2521. A suction force is applied 2606 to a suction port of a fluid separator. For example, suction device 2510 is configured to be coupled to fluid separator 2554. Fluid separator 2554 includes a suction port. Suction device 2510 is configured to apply suction to the suction port of fluid separator 2554. A cyclonic flow is generated 2608 within the fluid separator. For example, fluid separator 2554 is configured to generate cyclonic flow from the suction force received from suction device 2510. The suction force is transferred 2610 from the fluid separator to a suction attachment. For example, fluid separator 2554 is configured to transfer suction from suction device 2510 to suction attachment 2552. Suction from suction device 2510 creates a low-pressure region 2522 near suction port 2512. An effluent stream is drawn 2612 into the suction system. For example, suction attachment 2552 is configured to receive the effluent stream from low-pressure region 2522. Liquids and solids in the effluent stream are separated 2614. For example, fluid separator 2554 is configured to separate liquids, solids, and gases from the effluent stream. The liquids and solids are collected 2616. Collection canister 2560 is configured to receive liquids and solids. Collection canister 2560 is coupled to fluid separator 2554. Fluid separator 2554 can discharge liquids and solids into collection canister 2560. Gas from the effluent stream is passed to a suction device 2518. Fluid separator 2554 is configured to pass gas from the effluent stream to suction device 2510. Suction force generated by suction device 2510 draws gas from fluid separator 2554.

[0355] FIG. 27 illustrates a muffler for a positive pressure actuated suction device 2700. The muffler 2700 includes a body 2772, a gap 2774, and an alignment feature 2776. The muffler 2700 is configured to reduce the volume of exhaust air from a suction device, such as the positive pressure actuated suction device 2500. The muffler reduces the volume level of the exhaust air by directing the flow path of the exhaust air. The body 2772 is coupled to the output of the suction device. The body 2772 can be manufactured from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, glass, and ceramic. The muffler 2700 includes a gap 2774. The gap 2774 is configured to direct the flow path of the exhaust air from the suction device such that the volume level generated by the exhaust air is reduced relative to a non-directional flow path of the exhaust air. The size and shape of the gap 2774 affect the volume level of the exhaust air. The size and shape of the gap 2774 can be varied to accommodate various embodiments of the suction device. In some embodiments, the gap 2774 may have a width of 1.5 millimeters. In some embodiments, gap 2774 may have a width of 2.5 millimeters. Muffler 2700 includes alignment feature 2776. Alignment feature 2776 is configured to mate with a corresponding alignment feature on the suction apparatus. Alignment feature 2776 may be used to position muffler 2776 with respect to the suction apparatus. In some embodiments, alignment feature 2776 may be configured to position muffler 2776 with respect to a filter included in the suction apparatus.

[0356] FIG. 28 illustrates the beveled edge of hollow section 2801. The beveled edge can form an angle 2802 of 0 to 90 degrees with the section. FIG. 28 also illustrates the beveled edge of hollow section 2803. The beveled edge can form an angle 2804 of 90 to 180 degrees with the section. FIG. 28 also illustrates the flared edge of hollow section 2805. The flared edge can form an angle 2806 of 90 to 180 degrees with the section. FIG. 28 illustrates a hollow section having a beveled edge 2807 in series with a second hollow section having a flared edge 2808, where the beveled edge 2807 and the flared end 2808 can be adjacent to one another. The beveled edge can be at an angle of 0 to 90 degrees, and the flared edge can be at an angle of 90 to 180 degrees. 28 shows a hollow section having a beveled edge 2809 in series with a second hollow section having a beveled edge 2810, where the two beveled edges are adjacent to each other. The beveled edge of the first hollow section can be at an angle of 0 to 90 degrees, and the beveled edge of the second hollow section can be at an angle of 90 to 180 degrees.

[0357] FIG. 29 is a table showing different device settings and the corresponding smoke flow rate in standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) and static vacuum in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

[0358] Figure 30 shows the device noise of different devices at a distance of 1.5 m and an input pressure of 30 psi. In some embodiments, the device can emit one or more sounds at approximately 49 decibels. This device can emit one or more sounds at approximately 6 decibels above background noise.

[0359] 31A and 31B show computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses using a flared end at a 35-degree angle relative to the central axis (FIG. 31A) or a 55-degree angle relative to the central axis (FIG. 31B). Changing the angle can improve suction resolution. For example, changing the angle from 35 degrees to 55 degrees can increase suction resolution by approximately 20%.

[0360] FIG. 32 is a graph showing maximum static vacuum as a function of input pressure at a 35 degree angle relative to the central axis or a 55 degree angle relative to the central axis. Varying the angle can change the maximum static vacuum. The maximum static vacuum may be about 250 mmHg to about 260 mmHg at a 35 degree angle relative to the central axis at 30 psi (206,842.7 Pa) input pressure. The maximum static vacuum may be about 275 mmHg to about 285 mmHg at a 35 degree angle relative to the central axis at 34 psi (234,421.7 Pa) input pressure. The maximum static vacuum may be about 305 mmHg to about 315 mmHg at a 55 degree angle relative to the central axis at 39 psi (268,895.5 Pa) input pressure.

[0361] Figure 33 is a graph showing air consumption (scfm) as a function of static vacuum at an input pressure of 34 psi. For static vacuums from about 100 mmHg to about 325 mmHg at an input pressure of 34 psi, the air consumption is about 6.8 m 3 / h [4scfm] and approximately 18.7m 3 For a static vacuum of about 150 mmHg to about 300 mmHg at an input pressure of 234421.7 Pa [34 psi], the air consumption is about 6.8 m 3 / h [4scfm] and approximately 15.29m 3 / h [9scfm] may be used.

[0362] FIG. 34 is a graph showing air consumption (scfm) as a function of static vacuum at 30 psi input pressure. For static vacuums from about 100 mmHg to about 300 mmHg at 30 psi input pressure, air consumption is about 5.1 m 3 / h [3scfm] and approximately 17.0m 3 For a static vacuum of about 150 mmHg to about 250 mmHg at 30 psi input pressure, the air consumption is about 6.8 m 3 / h [4scfm] and approximately 15.29m 3 / h [9scfm] may be used.

[0363] FIG. 35 is a graph showing noise levels at maximum suction as a function of input air pressure. Consuming more air can also increase noise levels, such as an increase of about 1 or 2 decibels. Changes in device geometry can increase noise levels, such as an increase of about 1 or 2 decibels. Changes in device geometry, such as sound baffles or laminate layers with micro-surface structures, can reduce noise levels. The noise level at maximum suction may be approximately 62.5 dB at 25 psi (172,368.9 Pa) at a 55-degree angle to the central axis, and approximately 60 dB at 25 psi (172,368.9 Pa) at a 35-degree angle to the central axis. The noise level at maximum suction may be approximately 64.25 dB at 30 psi (206,842.7 Pa) at a 55-degree angle to the central axis, and approximately 62.5 dB at 30 psi (206,842.7 Pa) at a 35-degree angle to the central axis.

[0364] Figure 36 is a graph showing inlet pressure and outlet flow rate as a function of simulated filter blockage. As one or more filters become partially or completely blocked, the suction force generated by the device decreases. In some cases, the loss of suction force may occur before one or more filters become completely blocked. In some cases, the suction flow may completely block one or more filters. In some cases, the suction flow, such as smoke, may not be able to completely block one or more filters.

[0365] Figure 37 shows an image of the test setup. Figure 37A can be a pressure gauge such as the SPAN 0-100 psi pressure gauge, QMS-596. Figure 37B can be a sphygmomanometer such as the Meriam M2 Series Smart Manometer, ZM200-DN0200, QMS-689. Figure 37C can be a flow meter such as the Key Instrument FR4A67SVVT flow meter. Figure 37D can be a sound level meter such as the Extec Instrument SL130 Sound Meter, QMS-548. Figure 37E can be a flow meter such as the Cole-Parmer Model PMR1-010608 0.08-1.25 LPM flow meter, S / N 371889-1, QMS-687. FIG. 37F may be a flow meter such as Cole-Parmer Model PMR1-0106920 0.5-5 LPM Flow Meter, S / N 371889-1, QMS-587 (inactive).

[0366] Figure 38 is a flow diagram showing a test apparatus set up for air consumption measurements. The apparatus can be powered by compressed air, such as from a compressed air regulator. The pressure entering the apparatus can be verified, for example, by a pressure meter placed between the air regulator and the apparatus. Air is drawn into the apparatus through a flow meter, allowing pen setup. The pressure can be recorded from the pressure meter one or more times, and the flow rate can be recorded by the flow meter one or more times. The settings on the tuner arm correspond to clearance spaces, such as 0-14, where 0 on the tuner arm corresponds to a width of 0 millimeters [0 inches] and 14 on the tuner arm corresponds to a width of 0.2921 millimeters [0.0115 inches]. In the first setup, Setup A, the device and flow meter may be connected with tubing such as 1.22 meter (4 ft) long, 9.525 mm (3 / 8 inch) internal diameter (ID) corrugated tubing to measure air flow, and in the pen setup, 1.83 meter (6 ft) long, 22.225 mm (7 / 8 inch) ID corrugated tubing. In the second setup, Setup B, the pen setup may be connected to four canisters with tubing to measure air and liquid flow. For example, four fluid knockout canisters may be connected to a pen setup with 2 meter long, 9.525 mm (3 / 8 inch) ID tubing. The canisters may be connected with tubing such as 3.175 mm (1 / 8 inch) ID. The canisters may be connected to the device and flow meter with 9.525 mm (3 / 8 inch) ID tubing.

[0367] Figure 39 is a flow diagram showing a test apparatus set up for static vacuum measurements. The apparatus can be powered by compressed air, such as from a compressed air regulator. The pressure entering the apparatus can be verified, for example, by a pressure gauge placed between the air regulator and the apparatus. The vacuum generated by the apparatus can be recorded with a digital sphygmomanometer. The maximum vacuum can be recorded by adjusting one or both of the input pressure and the interstitial space of the apparatus to achieve the maximum vacuum.

[0368] Figure 40 is a flow diagram showing the test equipment set up for static vacuum and noise measurements. The test is similar to the static vacuum test, but the air flow rate into the equipment can also be measured with a flow meter, and the noise of the equipment can also be measured with a decibel meter placed approximately 1 meter away from the equipment. The decibel meter can be placed 1.5 meters or more away from the equipment.

[0369] Figure 41A shows a suction device 4109 having an interstitial space 4102 between a first hollow section 4100 and a second hollow section 4101 (also shown in Figure 41B), which when arranged in series, are positioned side-by-side, at least partially overlapping, or adjacent to each other to form a conduit. The width of the conduit may be adjustable, such as by adjusting the position of the first hollow section 4100, the second hollow section 4101, or a combination thereof. Adjusting the interstitial space 4102 can adjust the width of the conduit, the volumetric flow rate of pressurized gas or the like entering the conduit, the volumetric flow rate entering the second hollow section 4101, the suction capacity of the passive suction device, the ratio of gas to liquid suction capacity of the passive suction device, or any combination thereof. The gap space 4102 can be increased by moving the first hollow section 4100 away from the second hollow section 4101, by moving the second hollow section 4101 away from the first hollow section 4100, or a combination thereof. The gap space 4102 can be decreased by moving the first hollow section 4100 closer to the second hollow section 4101, by moving the second hollow section 4101 closer to the first hollow section 4100, or a combination thereof.

[0370] 41C shows a suction device 4109 with a first hollow section 4100 configured to engage with the threaded structure 4104 to form a threaded connection 4103 between an outer surface of the first hollow section 4100 and the threaded structure 4104. By rotating the first hollow section 4100, the first hollow section 4100 can be moved closer or farther from the second hollow section 4101, thereby adjusting the gap space 4102. In some cases, the second hollow section 4101 can be configured to engage with the threaded structure 4104 to form a threaded connection 4103 between an outer surface of the second hollow section 4101 and the threaded structure 4104. By rotating the second hollow section 4101, the second hollow section 4101 can be moved closer or farther from the first hollow section 4100, thereby adjusting the gap space 4102. In some cases, the first hollow section 4100 and the second hollow section 4101 may be configured to engage one or more threaded features 4104 .

[0371] FIG. 41D shows a suction device 4109 with a first hollow section 4100 configured to engage a helical structure, such as a helical ramp 4105. A pin 4106 may be attached to or integral with the first hollow section 4100. When the first hollow section 4100 is rotated, the gap space 4102 may increase or decrease depending on the direction of rotation. In some cases, the second hollow section 4101 may be configured to engage a helical structure, such as a helical ramp 4105. The pin 4106 may be attached to or integral with the second hollow section 4101. When the second hollow section 4101 is rotated, the gap space 4102 may increase or decrease depending on the direction of rotation. In some cases, the first hollow section 4100 and the second hollow section 4101 may be configured to engage one or more helical structures, such as a helical ramp 4105.

[0372] FIG. 41E shows a suction device 4109 comprising a first hollow section 4100, which may be configured to engage a sliding structure, such as a sliding joint 4107. The longitudinal position of the first hollow section 4100 along its central axis can be adjusted by a drive mechanism 4108 to drive the first hollow section 4100 along the sliding joint 4107. In some cases, the second hollow section 4101 may be configured to engage a sliding structure, such as the sliding joint 4107. The longitudinal position of the second hollow section 4101 along its central axis can be adjusted by a drive mechanism 4108 to drive the second hollow section 4101 along the sliding joint 4107. In some cases, the first hollow section 4100 and the second hollow section 4101 may be configured to engage one or more sliding structures, such as the sliding joint 4107.

[0373] 42A illustrates a system 4200 including a suction device, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 may be fluidly connected to a canister 4203, fluidly coupled thereto, for example, via tubing 4202. The canister 4203 may also be fluidly connected to a filter 4206, fluidly coupled thereto, for example, via tubing 4204. A passive suction device 4205, including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof, may be disposed between the canister 4203 and the filter 4206 and fluidly connected to both the canister 4203 and the filter 4206, for example, via tubing 4204. In such a case, the passive suction device 4205 may be disposed adjacent to the end of the filter 4206 where the effluent flow enters the filter 4205. The passive suction device 4205 may be directly attached to or integral with the filter 4206. In such cases, the passive suction device 4205 can force a flow of effluent into the filter 4206 and cause the flow of effluent through the tubing 4202, the canister 4203, the tubing 4204, and combinations thereof, and out an opening on the surgical tool 4201. In some cases, positioning the passive suction device 4205 before the filter 4206 increases the efficiency of the system by at least about 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% compared to positioning the passive suction device 205 after the filter 4206. In some cases, positioning the passive suction device 4205 before the filter 4206 increases the efficiency of the system by at least about 60% compared to positioning the passive suction device 4205 after the filter 4206. In some cases, positioning the passive suction device 4205 before the filter 4206 increases the efficiency of the system by at least about 70% compared to positioning the passive suction device 4205 after the filter 4206. In some cases, positioning the passive suction device 4205 before the filter 4206 increases the efficiency of the system by at least about 80% compared to positioning the passive suction device 4205 after the filter 4206. In some cases, positioning the passive suction device 4205 before the filter 4206 increases the efficiency of the system by at least about 90% compared to positioning the passive suction device 4205 after the filter 4206.

[0374] 42B illustrates a system 4200 including a suction device, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 may be fluidly connected to a canister 4203, fluidly coupled thereto, for example, via tubing 4202. The canister 4203 may also be fluidly connected to a filter 4206, fluidly coupled thereto, for example, via tubing 4204. A passive suction device 4205, including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof, may be fluidly connected to the filter 4206 and disposed at the end of the filter 4206 where the effluent flow enters the filter 4206. The passive suction device 4205 may be directly attached to or integral with the filter 4206. In such a case, the passive suction device 4205 may draw the effluent flow from an opening on the surgical tool 4201 through the tubing 4202, the canister 4203, the tubing 4204, the filter 4206, and combinations thereof. In such cases, the efficiency of the system will be less than about 60%, less than about 65%, less than about 70%, less than about 75%, or less than about 80% of the efficiency of a system including a passive suction device located at the end of the filter where the effluent flow enters the filter.

[0375] 42C illustrates a system 4200 including a suction device, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 may be fluidly connected to a canister 4203, fluidly coupled thereto, for example, via tubing 4202. The canister 4203 may also be fluidly connected to a filter 4206, fluidly coupled thereto, for example, via tubing 4204. A passive suction device 4205, including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof, may be disposed between the surgical tool 4201 and the canister 4203, or may be fluidly connected to both tubing 4202. In such a case, the passive suction device 4205 may be disposed adjacent to the end of the surgical tool 4201 where the effluent flow exits the surgical tool 4201. The passive suction device 4205 may be directly attached to or integral with the surgical tool 4201. In such a case, the passive suction device can draw the effluent flow through the surgical tool 4201 and push the effluent flow through the tubing 4202, the canister 4203, the tubing 4204, the filter 4206, and combinations thereof.

[0376] 42D illustrates a system 4200 with a suction device, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 may be fluidly connected to a canister 4203, fluidly coupled thereto, for example, via tubing 4202. The canister 4203 may also be fluidly connected to a filter 4206, fluidly coupled thereto, for example, via tubing 4204. A passive suction device 4205, including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof, may be positioned at the end of the surgical tool 4201 where the effluent flow enters the surgical tool 4201. The passive suction device 4205 may be directly attached to or integral with the surgical tool 4201. In such cases, the passive suction device may push the effluent flow through the surgical tool 4201, the tubing 4202, the canister 4203, the tubing 4204, the filter 4206, and combinations thereof. In such cases, entrainment may occur at the end (e.g., nib) of the surgical tool 4201. The diameter of the entrainment at the end of the surgical tool 4201 may be, for example, about 1x, 1.25x, 1.5x, 1.75x, 2x, 2.25x, 2.5x, 2.75x, 3x, 3.25x, 3.5x, 3.75x, 4x, 4.25x, 4.5x, 4.75x, 5x or more times the diameter of the surgical tool. The diameter of the entrainment at the end of the surgical tool 4201 may be about 1x (1x) the diameter of the surgical tool. The diameter of the entrainment at the end of the surgical tool 4201 may be about 2x (2x) the diameter of the surgical tool. The diameter of the entrainment at the end of the surgical tool 4201 may be about 3x the diameter of the surgical tool. The diameter of the entrainment at the end of the surgical tool 4201 may be about 4x the diameter of the surgical tool.

[0377] 42E illustrates a system 4200 including a suction device, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 may be fluidly connected to a canister 4203, e.g., fluidly coupled via tubing 4202. The canister 4203 may also be fluidly connected to a filter 4206, e.g., fluidly coupled via tubing 4204. A passive suction device 4205, including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof, may be disposed between the surgical tool 4201 and the canister 4203. In such a case, the passive suction device 4205 may be disposed adjacent the end of the canister 4203 where the effluent flow enters the canister 4203. The passive suction device 4205 may be directly attached to or integral with the canister 4203. In such a case, the passive suction device 4205 can push the effluent flow through the surgical tool 4201, the tubing 4202, the canister 4203, and draw the effluent flow through the tubing 4204 and the filter 4206, and combinations thereof.

[0378] 42F illustrates a system 4200 including a suction device, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 may be fluidly connected to a canister 4203, e.g., fluidly coupled via tubing 4202. The canister 4203 may also be fluidly connected to a filter 4206, e.g., fluidly coupled via tubing 4204. A passive suction device 4205, including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof, may be disposed between the canister 4203 and the filter 4206. In such a case, the passive suction device 4205 may be disposed adjacent the end of the canister 4203 where the effluent flow enters the canister 4203. The passive suction device 4205 may be directly attached to or integral with the canister 4203. In such a case, the passive suction device 4205 can pull the effluent flow through the surgical tool 4201, tubing 4202, and canister 4203, and push the effluent flow through tubing 4204 and filter 4206, and combinations thereof.

[0379] 42G illustrates a system 4200 including a suction device, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 may be fluidly connected to a canister 4203, fluidly coupled thereto, for example, via tubing 4202. The canister 4203 may also be fluidly connected to a filter 4206, fluidly coupled thereto, for example, via tubing 4204. A first passive suction device 4205a, including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof, may be disposed between the surgical tool 4201 and the canister 4203. The first passive suction device 4205a may be disposed adjacent to an end of the canister 4203 where the effluent flow enters the canister 4203. A second passive suction device 4205b, including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof, may be disposed between the canister 4203 and the filter 4206. The second passive suction device 4205b may be positioned adjacent to the end of the canister 4203 into which the effluent flow enters. The first passive suction device 4205a, the second passive suction device 4205b, or a combination thereof, may be directly attached to or integral with the canister 4203. In such cases, the canister may have a high flow rate that balances as the effluent flow passes through it. In such cases, two passive suction devices fluidly connected to the same tubing can equalize the pressure of the effluent flow within the tubing. In such cases, the first passive suction device pushes the effluent flow, and the second passive suction device induces the effluent flow.

[0380] 42H shows a system 4200 including a suction device, such as a surgical system. For example, a surgical tool 4201 may be fluidly connected to a canister 4203, fluidly coupled thereto, for example, via tubing 4202. The canister 4203 may also be fluidly connected to a filter 4206, fluidly coupled thereto, for example, via tubing 4204. A first passive suction device 4205a, including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof, may be disposed between the surgical tool 4201 and the canister 4203. The first passive suction device 4205a may be disposed adjacent to an end of the surgical tool 4201 where the effluent flow enters the surgical tool 4201. A second passive suction device 4205b, including a Coanda effect, a Venturi effect, a Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof, may be disposed between the surgical tool 4201 and the canister 4203. The second passive suction device 4205b may be positioned adjacent the end of the canister 4203 where the effluent flow enters the canister 4203. The first passive suction device 4205a may be directly attached to or integral with the surgical tool 4201. The second passive suction device 4205b may be directly attached to or integral with the canister 4203. In such cases, the tubing 4202 may include a high flow rate that is balanced as the effluent flow passes through. In such cases, two passive suction devices fluidly connected to the same tubing can equalize the pressure of the effluent flow within the tubing.

[0381] In some cases, the flow of effluent through the tubing of a system can cause stiffness in the tubing. The stiffness of the tubing can reduce flexibility for movement within the system, such as movement of a surgical tool. The stiffness of the tubing can separate the tubing from the canister or other system components (e.g., a filter or a surgical tool). In some cases, it can be advantageous to reduce the stiffness of the tubing, such as in systems including two passive suction devices instead of one. In some cases, such as in Figures 42G or 42H, the stiffness of the tubing caused by the flow of effluent through the tubing during activation of the passive suction device may be reduced or eliminated. The stiffness can be reduced by placing one or more passive suction devices in the system. Reducing or eliminating the stiffness of the tubing can improve the user experience, ease of movement of a surgical tool, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the tubing can be flexible. The tubing can have a thickness of approximately 3.175 millimeters [1 / 8 inch] and may be less than approximately 1.5875 millimeters [1 / 16 inch]. The tubing may have a thickness of less than about 2.54 millimeters (0.1 inch), less than about 1.905 millimeters (0.075 inch), less than about 1.27 millimeters (0.05 inch), less than about 0.635 millimeters (0.025 inch), less than about 0.254 millimeters (0.01 inch), less than about 0.1905 millimeters (0.0075 inch), less than about 0.127 millimeters (0.005 inch), less than about 0.0635 millimeters (0.0025 inch), less than about 0.0254 millimeters (0.001 inch), or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 2.54 millimeters (0.1 inch) or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 1.905 millimeters (0.075 inch) or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 1.27 millimeters (0.05 inch) or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 0.025 inches [0.635 millimeters] or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 0.01 inches [0.254 millimeters] or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 0.0075 inches [0.1905 millimeters] or less.The tubing may have a thickness of about 0.005 inches [0.127 millimeters] or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 0.0025 inches [0.0635 millimeters] or less. The tubing may have a thickness of about 0.001 inches [0.0254 millimeters] or less. The tubing may comprise polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, nylon, urethane, polypropylene, polycarbonate, acrylate butadiene styrene, any combination thereof, or others.

[0382] FIG. 43A is an example illustrating the Coanda effect 4300, or the tendency of a fluid, such as a gas, liquid, or combination thereof, to be attracted to an adjacent surface. In such cases, a jet of fluid exiting a lumen can create a negative pressure region near an adjacent surface, such as a curved surface. By curving the adjacent surface, the jet fluid flow path can be redirected in a direction different from its original direction. FIG. 43A shows the fluid flow path being redirected along a curved adjacent surface. FIGS. 44A and 44B show examples of redirecting a flow path using the Coanda effect 4400. By optimizing the shape of the adjacent surface, the fluid flow path can be redirected in a direction different from its original direction by redirecting the flow path at an angle less than about 90 degrees (as shown in FIG. 44A) or about 90 degrees (as shown in FIG. 44B) relative to its original direction.

[0383] FIG. 43B shows an example of a Coanda effect 4300 formed as a jet of fluid, for example, as pressurized gas 301 passes adjacent to one or more exterior surfaces of an airfoil or sector structure 4302. At least a portion of the pressurized gas 4303 can proceed adjacent to the curved side 4305 of the airfoil structure 4302. At least a portion of the pressurized gas 4304 can proceed adjacent to the side 4306 opposite the curved side 4305 of the airfoil structure 4302. The pressurized gas 4303 proceeding adjacent the curved side 4305 can proceed at a faster velocity than the pressurized gas 4304 adjacent the opposite side 4306. A low pressure region may be formed adjacent to the curved side 4305 of the airfoil structure 4302 that creates a suction force. A high pressure region may be formed adjacent to the opposite side 4306 of the airfoil structure 4302. The suction device may include a wing or sector structure 4302 for generating the suction force of the device. In some embodiments, a suction device with a wing or sector structure can draw or entrain a fluid, such as a gas. In some embodiments, a suction device with a wing or sector structure can draw or entrain one or more gases, one or more fluids, one or more solid particles, or any combination thereof.

[0384] The geometry of adjacent surfaces, such as opposing surfaces, can redirect the flow path of a pressurized fluid, such as a gas. The geometry of one or more opposing surfaces can redirect the flow path of a pressurized gas. In some cases, the pressurized fluid may be redirected at an angle of about 90, 85, 80, 75, 70, 65, 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 10, or 5 degrees or less relative to its original direction. In some cases, the pressurized fluid may be redirected at an angle of 90 degrees or less relative to its original direction. In some cases, the pressurized fluid may be redirected at an angle of about 60 degrees or less relative to its original direction. In some cases, the pressurized fluid may be redirected at an angle of about 55 degrees or less relative to its original direction. In some cases, the pressurized fluid may be redirected at an angle of about 40 degrees or less relative to its original direction. In some cases, the pressurized fluid may be redirected at an angle of about 35 degrees or less relative to its original direction. In some cases, the pressurized fluid may be redirected at an angle of about 60 degrees to about 30 degrees relative to its original direction.

[0385] The geometry of the opposing surfaces can direct the flow path of a fluid, such as pressurized gas, into the hollow section of the passive suction device. In some cases, the pressurized gas enters the hollow section at a 90-degree angle relative to the central axis of the passive suction device. In some cases, the pressurized gas enters the hollow section at an angle of approximately 60 degrees relative to the central axis. In some cases, the pressurized gas enters the hollow section at an angle of approximately 55 degrees relative to the central axis. In some cases, the pressurized gas enters the hollow section at an angle of approximately 40 degrees relative to the central axis. In some cases, the pressurized gas enters the hollow section at an angle of approximately 35 degrees relative to the central axis. In some cases, the pressurized gas enters the hollow section at an angle of approximately 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, or 90 degrees relative to the central axis. In some cases, the pressurized gas enters the hollow section at an angle of 90 degrees or less relative to the central axis. In some cases, the pressurized gas enters the hollow section at an angle of approximately 60 degrees or less relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas may enter the hollow section at an angle of about 55 degrees or less relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas may enter the hollow section at an angle of about 40 degrees or less relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas may enter the hollow section at an angle of about 35 degrees or less relative to the central axis. The pressurized gas may enter the hollow section at an angle of about 30 to 60 degrees relative to the central axis.

[0386] The geometry of the opposing surface can direct a flow path for a fluid, such as pressurized gas, to travel along the surface of the opposing surface. For example, pressurized gas entering the passive suction device can travel adjacent to at least a portion of the surface of the opposing surface, within the lumen of the hollow section, adjacent to at least a portion of the inner surface of the hollow section, or a combination thereof. A fluid, such as pressurized gas, entering the passive suction device can travel adjacent to at least about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% of the length of the surface of the opposing surface. The fluid can travel adjacent to at least about 95% of the length of the surface of the opposing surface. The fluid can travel adjacent to at least about 90% of the length of the surface of the opposing surface. The fluid can travel adjacent to at least about 85% of the length of the surface of the opposing surface. The fluid may travel adjacent to at least about 80% of the surface length of the opposing surface. The fluid may travel adjacent to at least about 75% of the surface length of the opposing surface. The fluid may travel adjacent to at least about 70% of the surface length of the opposing surface. The fluid may travel adjacent to at least about 65% of the surface length of the opposing surface. The fluid may travel adjacent to at least about 60% of the surface length of the opposing surface. The fluid may travel adjacent to at least about 55% of the surface length of the opposing surface. The fluid may travel adjacent to at least about 50% of the surface length of the opposing surface. The fluid may travel adjacent to at least about 45% of the surface length of the opposing surface. The fluid may travel adjacent to at least about 40% of the surface length of the opposing surface. The fluid may travel adjacent to at least about 35% of the surface length of the opposing surface. The fluid may travel adjacent to at least about 30% of the surface length of the opposing surface. The fluid may travel adjacent to at least about 25% of the surface length of the opposing surface. The fluid may advance adjacent to at least about 20% of the length of the surface of the opposing surface. The fluid may advance adjacent to at least about 15% of the length of the surface of the opposing surface. The fluid may advance adjacent to at least about 10% of the length of the surface of the opposing surface. The fluid may advance adjacent to at least about 5% of the length of the surface of the opposing surface.

[0387] As shown in FIG. 45, opposing surfaces 4500 of the hollow section may be formed to have a particular geometric shape. The opposing surfaces may have an airfoil shape, as shown in FIG. 43B. The geometric shape may be curved, angled, circular, or straight, or a combination thereof. The opposing surfaces 4500 may form a bull-nose end (FIG. 45A), a demi-bull-nose end (FIG. 45B), a relaxed end (FIG. 45C), a square end (FIG. 45D), an ogee end (FIG. 45E), a concave end (FIG. 45F), a beveled end (FIG. 45G) or double beveled end, a blunt end (FIG. 45H), a flared end (FIG. 45I or 45J), a rounded end, a tapered end, an airfoil-shaped end (FIG. 43B), or any combination thereof. Opposing surfaces having a particular geometric shape may at least partially or completely surround the opening of the hollow section. The opposing surface may be shaped to a) allow a fluid, such as pressurized gas, to enter directly into the hollow section of the passive suction device, b) augment the fluid, such as pressurized gas, to move at least a portion of the surface of the opposing surface, c) increase the suction capacity or efficiency of the passive suction device, or any combination thereof.

[0388] As shown in FIG. 46 , the opposing surface 4600 of the hollow section may be shaped with a particular geometry, such as an angled end, to direct the flow path of a fluid, such as pressurized gas, into the hollow section. The opposing surface can redirect the flow path of a fluid at a 90-degree angle relative to its original direction, such as perpendicular to the central axis of the passive suction device, as shown in FIG. 46A or 46B . The opposing surface can redirect the flow path of a fluid at less than 90 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the flow path of a fluid to less than about 85 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the flow path of a fluid to less than about 80 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the flow path of a fluid to less than about 75 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the flow path of a fluid to less than about 70 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the flow path of a fluid to less than about 65 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 60 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 55 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 50 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 45 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 40 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 35 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 30 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 25 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 20 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 15 degrees relative to its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 10 degrees relative to its original direction.The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 5 degrees from its original direction, as shown in Figures 46C and 46D, or into an airfoil or fan-shaped structure as shown in Figure 46E. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 4 degrees from its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 3 degrees from its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 2 degrees from its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 1 degree from its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path from about 5 degrees to about 85 degrees from its original direction. The opposing surface can redirect the fluid flow path to less than about 5 degrees to 90 degrees from its original direction, as shown in Figures 46F, 46G, or 46H.

[0389] As shown in FIG. 47A, a fluid 4703, such as pressurized gas, can enter a passive suction device 4700 including a first hollow section 4701 and a second hollow section 4702, or as shown in FIG. 47B, a passive suction device 4700 including a hollow section 4706. In some cases, the fluid travels generally along the inner surface 4705 of the hollow sections. The inlet of the fluid 4703, such as pressurized gas, can create a low-pressure region within the hollow sections. The low-pressure region can create a vacuum force causing an effluent flow 4704 to flow into or be drawn into the passive suction device. The effluent flow 4704 and at least a portion of the fluid 4703 can exit the passive suction device at the end of the hollow section 4707. The geometry of the opposing surfaces on the hollow sections can direct the flow path of the fluid 4703. A port for a fluid 4703, such as pressurized gas, may be located to the right of the fluid inlet to the hollow section of the su...

Claims

1. A system comprising: a surgical tool, a canister (860, 1660, 2560), a filter (1030, 1630, 1730, 1930, 2430), and a passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100); The passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) comprises: (i) a constriction in the inner diameter of the first hollow section, the second hollow section, or a combination thereof; (ii) a conduit formed by a first opposing surface of the end of the first hollow section disposed adjacent to or at least partially overlapping a second opposing surface of the end of the second hollow section; or (iii) a conduit formed by a first opposing surface of the end of the second hollow section disposed adjacent to or at least partially overlapping a second opposing surface of the end of the second hollow section. and wherein the flow of pressurized fluid into the passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) creates a low pressure region within the passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100), and the passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) is a passive suction source of the system. an output port of the surgical tool in fluid communication with an input port of the canister (860, 1660, 2560), an output port of the canister (860, 1660, 2560) in fluid communication with an input port of the filter (1030, 1630, 1730, 1930, 2430), and an input port of the passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100). or the output port is in fluid communication with an input port of a surgical tool, an output port of a surgical tool, an input port of a canister (860, 1660, 2560), an output port of a canister (860, 1660, 2560), an input port of a filter (1030, 1630, 1730, 1930, 2430), or an output port of a filter (1030, 1630, 1730, 1930, 2430); the passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) further comprises a muffler (2531, 2532, 2700, 2776) configured to reduce the volume of a positive pressure output from the passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100); The passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) further includes a check valve (1316, 1516, 2100, 2116, 2200, 2416, 2421) comprising a slider (2280) and a diaphragm (2185, 2285) and configured to prevent backflow of gas, liquid, or a combination thereof, wherein the slider (2280) is a diaphragm (2185, 2285) configured to move within the passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) when acted upon by pressure transmitted from a pressure source to the slider (2280) via the diaphragm (2185, 2285), the diaphragm (2185, 2285) configured to block flow in one direction while allowing flow in the opposite direction; The slide (2280) includes a male coupling (2283) configured to couple the slide (2280) to the diaphragms (2185, 2285), an opening (2286) configured to allow the flow of waste through the slide (2280), and a support element (2288) configured to limit the amount of deflection of the diaphragms (2185, 2285) in one direction, wherein the diaphragms (2185, 2285) are made of a flexible material, and a system including a female coupling (2284) configured to couple the diaphragms (2185, 2285) to the slide (2280).

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a first tube and a second tube, wherein a first end of the first tube is fluidly connected to an output port of a surgical tool, a second end of the first tube is fluidly connected to an input port of a canister (860, 1660, 2560), a first end of the second tube is fluidly connected to an output port of the canister (860, 1660, 2560), and a second end of the second tube is fluidly connected to an input port of a filter (1030, 1630, 1730, 1930, 2430).

3. The system described in claim 2, wherein an input port of the passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) is fluidly connected to an output port of the canister (860, 1660, 2560), and an output port of the passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) is fluidly connected to an input port of the filter (1030, 1630, 1730, 1930, 2430).

4. A system as described in claim 2, wherein a passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) is positioned within the system to push the flow of waste material into the filter (1030, 1630, 1730, 1930, 2430).

5. The system described in claim 2, wherein the passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) is integral with a canister (860, 1660, 2560), a surgical tool, a filter (1030, 1630, 1730, 1930, 2430), or a tube.

6. The system of claim 2, wherein the passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) is attachable to a canister (860, 1660, 2560), a surgical tool, a filter (1030, 1630, 1730, 1930, 2430), a tube, or any combination thereof.

7. The system described in claim 2, wherein the system comprises two passive suction devices (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100).

8. The system described in claim 7, wherein an output port of a first passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) is fluidly connected to an input port of a canister (860, 1660, 2560), and an input port of a second passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) is fluidly connected to an output port of the canister (860, 1660, 2560).

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the pressure of the discharge flow within the tube, canister (860, 1660, 2560), or combination thereof, is equalized.

10. A system as described in claim 8, wherein a first passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) is arranged to push a flow of exhaust material into the canister (860, 1660, 2560), and a second passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) is arranged to draw a flow of exhaust material from the canister (860, 1660, 2560).

11. The system of claim 2, wherein the tube has a wall thickness of less than about 0.01 inches [0.254 millimeters].

12. The system described in claim 2, wherein the passive suction device (300, 500, 700, 800, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2100) includes at least one Coanda effect, at least one Venturi effect, at least one Bernoulli effect, or a combination thereof.

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