Disposable Pressure Transducer

Abstract

A pressure transducer assembly is disclosed for directly monitoring pressure in a fluid flowing through the assembly. The pressure transducer can include a housing with a flow restrictor, an inlet port, and an outlet port. A poppet can be coupled to the housing. The flow restrictor can be formed by a valve seat in the housing between the inlet and outlet ports.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to pressure transducers, and more particularly, the present invention relates to disposable pressure transducers for monitoring and recording hemodynamic pressure within an individual. [Background technology]

[0002] When diagnosing and treating various physical ailments, such as shock and cardiovascular problems, medical personnel often find it desirable to measure and / or monitor a patient's blood pressure. By monitoring blood pressure, medical personnel can better detect blood flow obstructions and other cardiovascular problems early. As a result, the use of blood pressure measuring and monitoring devices can increase the likelihood of successful treatment of the patient and the provision of necessary emergency assistance.

[0003] Currently, various methods are used to measure and monitor blood pressure. For example, medical professionals frequently use various indirect blood pressure measurement techniques, such as using a pressure cuff and stethoscope to measure a patient's blood pressure. Furthermore, blood pressure measurements are often performed using a number of direct measurement and monitoring techniques. These direct methods are generally preferred over any indirect methods, especially when diagnosing and treating critically ill patients. Direct blood pressure measurement and monitoring techniques are generally accurate to within approximately 1% and facilitate continuous beat-to-beat monitoring of a patient's blood pressure. Direct blood pressure monitoring also allows for rapid detection of changes in cardiovascular activity, which can be crucial in emergency situations. Direct blood pressure measurement methods are more widely used than indirect methods for patients receiving treatment in operating rooms and intensive care units. This is because blood pressure can be measured simultaneously with blood manipulations such as blood sampling and medication injections. Furthermore, they offer high-precision blood pressure measurements and allow for continuous monitoring over long periods of time.

[0004] In a direct blood pressure monitoring system, a catheter is inserted into the patient's circulatory system, the end of which typically has an opening to the bloodstream in a main or peripheral vessel. An IV set is attached to the proximal end of the catheter, which protrudes from the patient, allowing the solution to flow through the catheter and into the patient. The IV solution provides a fluid "column" through which pressure pulses are transmitted, and pressure transducers positioned along the fluid column monitor those pressure pulses.

[0005] In the past, pressure transducers consisted of a dome that served as a reservoir for IV fluid. The dome contained an elastic diaphragm that attached to an electrical transducer. The transducer sensed pressure fluctuations within the diaphragm and converted them into an electrical signal. The electrical signal was then transmitted via a cable to a monitor for amplification and display. In modern systems, a single silicon chip contained both the pressure diaphragm and the pressure transducer's measurement circuitry. Because such silicon chips are inexpensive to mass-produce, the total cost of the pressure transducer has been reduced to the point where the transducer is economically disposable. Such disposable blood pressure transducers (DPTs) are the standard of care in operating rooms, ICUs, or CCUs. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 4,539,998 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Reissue Patent No. 33518 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] This application discloses several novel pressure transducers and methods for assembling and using pressure transducers. In one exemplary embodiment, the pressure transducer assembly directly monitors the pressure of a fluid flowing through the assembly. The pressure transducer may include a housing with an integral flow restrictor, an inlet port, and an outlet port.

[0008] In one exemplary embodiment, the pressure transducer assembly includes a housing, a poppet, and a flow restrictor. The housing includes the flow restrictor, an inlet port, and an outlet port. The poppet is coupled to the housing. A valve seat between the inlet port and the outlet port forms the flow restrictor.

[0009] In one exemplary method for cleaning a pressure transducer, a fluid flows through a first flow path. The first flow path includes an inlet port, a flow restrictor, and an outlet port. The flow restrictor is disposed on a valve seat of a housing of the pressure transducer. A poppet is separated from the valve seat of the housing. This separation allows the fluid to travel through a second flow path. The second flow path includes an inlet port, a bypass channel, and an outlet port.

[0010] To further clarify various aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure, a more particular description of certain embodiments will be provided with reference to various aspects of the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present disclosure and therefore should not be considered limiting of the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, the figures are drawn to scale for some embodiments, but not necessarily for all embodiments. Embodiments of the present disclosure and other features and advantages will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is an overhead view of a prior art disposable pressure transducer ("DPT"). [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a housing of a prior art DPT. [Figure 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a housing of an exemplary embodiment of a DPT. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the housing and poppet of the DPT in an engaged state. [Figure 5]FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the housing and poppet of the DPT in a disengaged state. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the housing and poppet of the DPT in a disengaged state. [Figure 7] This is a top perspective view of the DPT with the poppet removed. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of the flow when the poppet of the DPT is in an engaged state. [Figure 9A] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary DPT with overpressure functionality. [Figure 9B] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary DPT with overpressure functionality. [Figure 10A] FIG. 9B is a flow schematic diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 9A when the DPT poppet is in a disengaged state. [Figure 10B] FIG. 9C is a schematic diagram illustrating the flow of FIG. 9B when the DPT poppet is in a disengaged state. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a top view of an alternative flow restrictor for the DPT. [Figure 12A] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a mold projection used to make a flow restrictor channel for a DPT. [Figure 12B] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a mold projection used to make a flow restrictor channel for a DPT. [Figure 12C] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a mold projection used to make a flow restrictor channel for a DPT. [Figure 12D] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a mold projection used to make a flow restrictor channel for a DPT. [Figure 12E] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a mold projection used to make a flow restrictor channel for a DPT. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 shows a graphical relationship between flow rate and preload in the flow restrictor channel of a DPT. [Figure 14A] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a mold projection used to make a flow restrictor channel for a DPT. [Figure 14B] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a mold projection used to make a flow restrictor channel for a DPT. [Figure 14C] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a mold projection used to make a flow restrictor channel for a DPT. [Figure 14D] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a mold projection used to make a flow restrictor channel for a DPT. [Figure 14E] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a mold projection used to make a flow restrictor channel for a DPT. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 shows a graphical relationship between flow rate and preload in the flow restrictor channel of a DPT. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of the port of the DPT. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mold insert for making a DPT. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the housing and poppet of the DPT. [Figure 19A] This is a perspective view of the DPT poppet. [Figure 19B] A cross-sectional view of the DPT poppet. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a housing and poppet of a DPT in an exploded state. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a housing assembled with a poppet. [Figure 22A] 10A-10C are schematic diagrams illustrating the securing of the poppet to the housing of an exemplary embodiment of a DPT. [Figure 22B] 10A-10C are schematic diagrams illustrating the securing of the poppet to the housing of an exemplary embodiment of a DPT. [Figure 23] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of an assembled poppet and housing of a DPT. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a DPT. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a DPT. [Figure 26] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a housing and cable assembly for DPT; [Figure 26A]26 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane indicated by line 26-26 in FIG. [Figure 26B] 26A is a schematic diagram of a wire end fixation configuration taken from a cross-sectional perspective along the plane indicated by line 26-26 in FIG. 26. [Figure 26C] 26A is a schematic diagram of a wire end fixation configuration taken from a cross-sectional perspective along the plane indicated by line 26-26 in FIG. 26. [Figure 26D] 26A is a schematic diagram of a wire end fixation configuration taken from a cross-sectional perspective along the plane indicated by line 26-26 in FIG. 26. [Figure 27] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a sensor assembly and housing of a DPT. FIG. [Figure 28] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pressure sensor assembly and cable of a DPT. [Figure 29] 26 is a cross-sectional view of the DPT of FIG. 25 taken along the plane indicated by line EE of FIG. 25. [Figure 30] 30 is a cross-sectional view of the DPT of FIG. 29 taken along the plane indicated by line FF of FIG. 29. [Figure 31] 30 is a cross-sectional view of the DPT of FIG. 29 taken along the plane indicated by line GG of FIG. 29. [Figure 32] 30 is a cross-sectional view of the DPT of FIG. 29 taken along the plane indicated by line HH of FIG. 29. [Figure 33] 30 is a cross-sectional view of the DPT of FIG. 29 taken along the plane indicated by line II of FIG. 29. [Figure 34] 30 is a cross-sectional view of the DPT of FIG. 29 taken along the plane indicated by line JJ of FIG. 29. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The following description refers to the accompanying drawings that illustrate specific embodiments of the present disclosure. Other embodiments having different structure and operation do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0013] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to devices and methods for reshaping one or more walls of a human heart. It should be noted that various embodiments of delivery devices and systems are disclosed herein, and any combination of these options is possible unless specifically excluded. In other words, individual components of the disclosed devices and systems can be combined unless they are mutually exclusive or physically impossible.

[0014] As described herein, when one or more components are described as being connected, joined, affixed, coupled, attached, or interconnected, such interconnection may be direct, such as between the components, or indirect, such as through the use of one or more intermediate components. Also, as described herein, references to a "member," "component," or "portion" are not limited to a single structural member, component, or element, but may include an assembly of components, members, or elements. Also, as used herein, the terms "substantially" and "about" are defined as at least near (and including) a given value or state (preferably within 10%, more preferably within 1%, and most preferably within 0.1%).

[0015] 1 and 2, various components of a prior art disposable blood pressure transducer (DPT) 10 are shown. The DPT 10 includes a housing 20, a cable 30 extending from one end of the housing 20 and terminating in an electrical connector 32, and a multi-port stopcock assembly 34. Although not shown in these figures, an internal flow path within the stopcock assembly 34 leads to a short length of tubing 36 located on the top surface of the housing 20 opposite a mounting plate 38. The mounting plate 38 can engage a wall of a mounting bracket (not shown) so that the tubing 36 faces outward from the mounting bracket. The DPT 10 can be connected to an external sterile fluid source (not shown) via a connection to an inlet opening 40. The DPT 10 also includes a poppet 50 that allows fluid to flow from the DPT 10. The DPT 10 can restrict the flow of fluid, including sterile saline, from an external sterile fluid source (not shown).

[0016] 1 are the relevant components of a pressure monitoring system that connects to DPT 10. Typically, a signal receiving device, such as a patient or cardiac output monitor, includes a cable and connector that mates with connector 32 and receives an electrical signal indicative of the fluid pressure detected by DPT 10. A variety of monitors are available for this purpose and will not be further described herein except as follows in the context of the interface features of the present invention that enable the monitor to identify characteristics of DPT 10.

[0017] Additionally, an indwelling catheter providing the particular fluid to be measured is attached to one of the ports on the stopcock assembly 34, typically the port aligned with the DPT 10 to which the Luer connector is attached. Many catheters can be used for pressure monitoring, and details are well known in the art. Furthermore, as used herein, the term "catheter" refers to any elongated structure for accessing a body cavity, such as a blood vessel, and providing a conduit through which fluid can pass. In a preferred embodiment, saline provides a fluid "column" through which pressure pulses from the catheter lumen are transmitted, and pressure transducers positioned along the fluid column monitor those pressure pulses. Devices for providing such access include cannulas, needles, sheaths, introducers, and other such structures, and are typically tubular.

[0018] 2, the housing 20 of the DPT 10 includes several components that are glued or otherwise joined together. The housing 20 includes a fluid chamber 60 and a pressure sensor 64 that extends from the housing 20 into the fluid chamber 60. The DPT 10 includes a cap 90 that secures the poppet 50 to the housing 20. The cap 90 may be made from a polycarbonate material that is ultrasonically welded to the housing 20.

[0019] The DPT 10 includes a poppet 50 and a capillary tube 70. The capillary tube 70 is adhered to the inner wall 22 of the housing 20 with a UV adhesive. The capillary tube 70 has a controlled flow rate through which fluid A travels from the inlet channel 42 to the outlet channel 60. The DPT 10 includes a bypass channel 80 between the inlet channel 42 and the outlet channel 60.

[0020] Poppet 50 can seal or close fluid chamber 60 from bypass channel 80. Fluid A entering inlet channel 42 from an external source (not shown) must pass through capillary tube 70 to fluid chamber 60. When bypass channel 80 is sealed, fluid A moves continuously and slowly through capillary tube 70 to prevent the fluid from clotting in the blood circuit. Capillary tube 70 restricts the flow rate of fluid A. The size and shape of the capillary tube correspond to the desired flow rate.

[0021] When the poppet 50 is pulled away from the housing 20 in direction B, the poppet 50 allows the bypass channel 80 to fluidly communicate with the inlet channel 42 and the outlet channel 60. Fluid A from an external source flows through the bypass channel 80 into the outlet channel 60. The flow through the bypass channel allows for rapid fluid cleaning of the DPT 10.

[0022] 3-6 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a disposable pressure transducer (DPT) 110. The DPT 110 can take a wide variety of different forms. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the DPT 110 includes a housing 120, a poppet 150, and a pressure sensor 160.

[0023] In one exemplary embodiment, the DPT 110 does not include a capillary tube 70 (see Prior Art FIG. 2). Instead, a flow restrictor 170 is integrally formed by one or more portions of the poppet 150 and the housing 120. Such a flow restrictor 170 can take a variety of different forms. For example, the flow restrictor can be formed at the interface between the poppet 150 and the valve seat 172 of the housing 120, such as a flow passage in the surface of the valve seat 300, a flow passage in the surface of the poppet 150, or a flow passage or passage formed by both the valve seat 172 and the poppet 150. The integral flow restrictor 170 can also be one or more passages through the housing 120, such as one or more passages through the portion 302 of the housing 120 below the valve seat 172, or a passage through the poppet 150, such as a passage extending from the inlet port 132 to the outlet port 142. Any structure integral with the poppet 150 and / or housing 120 that replaces the capillary function of a conventional separate capillary tube can be used.

[0024] The housing 120 can take a wide variety of different forms. In one exemplary embodiment, the housing 120 includes an inlet passageway 130, an outlet passageway 140, a valve seat 172, and a poppet cavity 304. With reference to FIG. 4, when the poppet 150 is closed against the valve seat 172, fluid can flow slowly from the inlet passageway 130, through the flow restrictor 170, and out the outlet passageway 140. With reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, when the poppet 150 is open, fluid can flow rapidly from the inlet passageway 130 through the poppet cavity 304 (the space between the poppet 150 and the valve seat 172) and out the outlet passageway 140.

[0025] Inlet passageway 130, outlet passageway 140, and valve seat 172 can take a wide variety of different forms. In one exemplary embodiment, valve seat 172 includes inlet port 132 and / or outlet port 142. In one exemplary embodiment, inlet port 132 is in fluid communication with inlet passageway 130, poppet cavity 304, and flow restrictor 170. In one exemplary embodiment, outlet port 142 is in fluid communication with outlet passageway 140, poppet cavity 304, and flow restrictor 170.

[0026] The inlet port 132 and the outlet port 142 can take a variety of different forms. For example, the inlet port 132 and / or the outlet port 142 can be perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the surface of the valve seat 172, as shown by way of example in FIG. 3. The inlet port 132 and / or the outlet port 142 can extend at an angle into the poppet cavity 304, as shown by way of example in FIG. 4. The inlet port 132 and / or the outlet port 142 can be inside the outer periphery 306 of the valve seat 172, as shown by way of example in FIGS. 3 and 7. The inlet port 132 and / or the outlet port 142 can extend to the outer periphery 306, as shown by way of the inlet and outlet ports 132, 142 shown by way of FIG. 4 and the outlet port 142 shown by way of FIG. 3 and 7. One or both of the inlet port 132 and the outlet port 142 can be configured to be sealed by the poppet 150 when the poppet 150 is closed, such as the inlet port 132 shown in Figure 3 and the inlet and outlet ports shown in Figure 4. One of the inlet port 132 and the outlet port 142 can be configured to be unsealed (i.e., unblocked) by the poppet 150 when the poppet 150 is closed, such as the outlet port 142 shown in Figure 3.

[0027] Poppet 150 can take a wide variety of different forms. In one exemplary embodiment, poppet 150 includes a sealing portion 154, an actuator or control portion 152, a mounting portion 158, and a flex portion 159. With reference to FIG. 3 , poppet 150 is connected to housing 120 by fastening mounting portion 158 to housing 120. Seal portion 154 is connected to mounting portion 158 by flex portion 159. Seal portion 154 is also connected to actuator or control portion 152. With reference to FIG. 3 , in one exemplary embodiment, flex portion 159 biases seal portion 154 against valve seat 172. With reference to FIG. 5 , poppet 150 is opened by pulling actuator or control portion 152. This pulls seal portion 154 away from valve seat 172 and flexes flex portion 159. When actuator or control portion 152 is released, flex portion 159 returns seal portion 154 to engagement with valve seat 172.

[0028] The DPT 110 includes a pressure sensor 160 for measuring the fluid pressure in the outlet channel 140. The pressure sensor can take a wide variety of different forms. In one exemplary embodiment, the pressure sensor is a silicon pressure sensor that may have a thin, single-crystal silicon diaphragm. The pressure sensor may have four terminals. Acceptable silicon pressure sensors are commercially available from Motorola, Inc. Details of acceptable pressure transducers are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,539,998 and U.S. Reissue Pat. No. 33,518, the disclosures of both of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. The pressure sensor may include temperature compensation circuitry for compensating the sensed pressure in the fluid based on the temperature of the fluid.

[0029] 3-5, inlet channel 130 is in fluid communication with inlet port 132 and an external fluid source (not shown), such as a fluid-filled intravenous bag. Inlet channel 130 extends from inlet opening 134 to inlet port 132. Outlet channel 140 is in fluid communication with outlet port 142. Outlet channel 140 may extend from outlet port 142 to an optional stopcock assembly 534 (see FIG. 25).

[0030] 3-4, the DPT 110 is in an "engaged or closed state" in which the sealing portion 154 of the poppet 150 is mated or sealed with the valve seat 172 to seal the inlet port 132 and / or the outlet port 142. In the configuration illustrated by FIG. 3, in the "engaged state," the face 340 of the sealing portion 154 seals against the valve seat 172 around the inlet port 132, sealing the inlet port 132. In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 4, in the "engaged state," the annular surface 342 of the sealing portion 153 seals against the valve seat 172 around the inlet port 132 and around the outlet port 142. Referring to FIG. 4, when the poppet 150 engages the valve seat 172 of the housing 120, fluid A' travels through the flow restrictor 170 from the inlet channel 130 to the outlet channel 140 via a first flow path C.

[0031] In various embodiments, when the poppet 150 is in an "engaged" state, sealing with the valve seat 172 of the housing 120, fluid A' from an external source (not shown) is in communication with the first flow path C and the outlet channel 140. The fluid A' in the first flow path C can flow through various structures, including the inlet channel 130, the inlet port 132, the flow restrictor 170, the outlet port 142, and the outlet channel 140. As long as the pressure in the inlet 130 is higher than the pressure in the outlet 140 sufficiently to pass through the restrictor, the fluid A' in the first flow path C flows from the external source through the inlet channel 130 to the inlet port 132. The fluid A' in the first flow path C then travels from the inlet port 132 through the flow restrictor 170. The fluid A' in the first flow path C then travels through the outlet port 142 and the outlet channel 140.

[0032] 3 and 4, the flow of fluid A′ in first flow path C is restricted by sealing portion 154 of poppet 150, which is coupled with valve seat 172. This coupling closes off bypass space 180 (see FIG. 5) in poppet cavity 304. As a result, flow restrictor 170 is the only way for fluid A′ to travel from inlet port 132 to outlet port 142. In various embodiments, flow restrictor 170 is formed from the same portion of housing 120 that forms valve seat 172. Flow restrictor 170 can slow or otherwise control the rate at which fluid A′ enters outlet port 142. The slow, restricted flow prevents the fluid from clotting in the DPT and the IV line connected to the DPT.

[0033] A wide variety of flow rates through the restrictor 170 can be selected. In various embodiments, the fluid A′ moving through the first flow path C may have a flow rate between about 1 cc / hr and about 10 cc / hr. In various embodiments, the fluid A′ moving through the first flow path C may have a flow rate between about 1.5 cc / hr and about 8 cc / hr. In various embodiments, the fluid A′ moving through the first flow path C may have a flow rate between about 2 cc / hr and about 6 cc / hr. In various embodiments, the fluid A′ moving through the first flow path C may have a flow rate between about 2.5 cc / hr and about 3.5 cc / hr. In various embodiments, the fluid A′ moving through the first flow path C may have a flow rate of about 3 cc / hr or 3 cc / hr.

[0034] 5 and 6, the DPT 110 is in a "disengaged state" and is configured to allow fluid A' to flow through second flow path C' from the inlet channel 130 through a bypass passage 180 (between the sealing portion 154 and the valve seat 172) in the poppet cavity 304 to the outlet flow path 140. To "disengage" the DPT, the actuator or shaft 152 is pulled in direction D. The actuator or shaft 152 pulls the sealing portion 154 away from the valve seat and bends the flexible portion 159. The resulting space between the sealing portion 154 of the poppet 150 and the valve seat 172 includes a bypass channel 180 through which fluid A' can flow to clean the DPT 110.

[0035] Second flow path C′ can include inlet channel 130, inlet port 132, bypass channel 180, outlet port 142, and outlet channel 140. In various embodiments, flow path B′ can include flow restrictor 170 such that in the disengaged state, a portion of fluid A′ can still flow through flow restrictor 170.

[0036] As described above, bypass channel 180 includes the space defined by poppet 150 and valve seat 172 of housing 120. Fluid A′ flowing through flow path C′ can provide rapid flow cleaning and overpressure relief for DPT 110. Bypass channel 180 can be various sizes based on how far poppet 150 is pulled from valve seat 172 in direction D. For example, if poppet 150 is pulled from valve seat 172 with less force, the volume of bypass channel 180 is less, resulting in less fluid A′ moving through bypass channel 180. Conversely, if poppet 150 is pulled from housing 120 with more force, bypass channel 180 has a larger volume, resulting in more fluid A′ moving through bypass channel 180. Therefore, the amount of fluid A′ moving through bypass channel 180 to outlet channel 140, and its flow rate, can be proportional to the size of bypass channel 180.

[0037] In various embodiments, the fluid A' moving through the flow path C' can have a flow rate of about 5 cc / min to about 250 cc / min. In various embodiments, the fluid A' moving through the first flow path C' can have a flow rate of about 20 cc / min to about 225 cc / min. In various embodiments, the fluid A' moving through the first flow path C' can have a flow rate of about 50 cc / min to about 200 cc / min. In various embodiments, the fluid A' moving through the first flow path C' can have a flow rate of about 70 cc / min to about 175 cc / min. In various embodiments, the fluid A' moving through the first flow path C' can have a flow rate of about 80 cc / min to about 150 cc / min. In various embodiments, the fluid A' moving through the first flow path C' can have a flow rate of about 100 cc / min to about 115 cc / min. In various embodiments, the fluid A' moving through the first flow path C' can have a flow rate of about 110 cc / min.

[0038] As discussed above, the flow restrictor 170 can take a variety of different forms. Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8 , in one exemplary embodiment, the flow restrictor 170 can comprise a flow restrictor channel 174. The flow restrictor channel 174 can extend into the valve seat 172 as shown, or the flow restrictor channel 174 can extend into the face 340 of the poppet 150. The flow restrictor channel 174 can be various shapes and have various lengths, widths, and depths to optimize the flow rate of the fluid A′ flowing therethrough. For example, in cross section, the flow restrictor channel 174 can include a rounded shape, a rectangular shape, or a trapezoidal shape. The flow restrictor 170 can include a predetermined shape, length, width, or depth, or a combination thereof, based on the desired flow rate of the fluid A′.

[0039] 7 , the flow restrictor 170 can have multiple turns to increase the length of the flow restrictor channel 174 between the inlet port 132 and the outlet port 142. Increasing the length of the flow restrictor channel 174 decreases the flow rate through the flow restrictor. Therefore, for a set or desired flow rate, the size or cross-sectional area of ​​the flow restrictor channel 174 can be increased if the length of the flow restrictor channel 174 is also increased. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the flow restrictor channel is between 2 and 20 times the distance 800 between the inlet port 132 and the outlet port 142, such as between 3 and 10 times the distance 800 between the inlet port 132 and the outlet port 142, such as between 4 and 6 times the distance 800 between the inlet port 132 and the outlet port 142.

[0040] 8, a top view of the valve seat 172 of the DPT 110 is shown in an engaged state, with the sealing portion 154 (shown in dotted lines) of the poppet 150 pressing against the valve seat 172 of the housing 120. In the engaged state, fluid A′ traveling from the inlet port 132 flows continuously through the flow restrictor channel 174 via the first flow path C to the outlet port 142.

[0041] In various embodiments, referring to FIG. 9A , in an engaged state, the end face 340 of the sealing portion 154 presses against the valve seat 172, sealing the inlet port 132. However, the end face 340 of the sealing portion 154 does not seal the outlet port 142. As a result, when a predetermined pressure (referred to as “overpressure”) is applied to the inlet channel 130, the “overpressure” acts on the end face 340, forcing the sealing portion 154 upward. This opens the poppet 150 and allows fluid A′ to flow through the bypass channel 180 (see FIGS. 5-6 ) to the outlet port 142 (see FIG. 10A ), thereby reducing the pressure in the inlet channel. Therefore, the poppet 150 can be opened by either pulling the actuator or shaft 152 or by applying overpressure to the inlet channel 130.

[0042] 10A, a top view of the DPT 110 configuration of FIG. 9A is shown in a disengaged state. The sealing portion 154 of the poppet 150 is spaced from the valve seat 172 of the housing 120. As shown in FIG. 6, the volume of the bypass channel 180 is determined by the distance between the sealing portion 154 of the poppet 150 and the valve seat 172. In the disengaged state, fluid A′ from the inlet port 132 flows through the bypass channel 180 via the second flow path C′ to the outlet port 142 at a faster rate than in the engaged state.

[0043] In various embodiments, referring to FIG. 9B , in the engaged state, the end face 340 of the sealing portion 154 presses against the valve seat 172, sealing the outlet port 132. However, the end face 340 of the sealing portion 154 does not seal the outlet port 132. As a result, when a predetermined pressure (referred to as "overpressure") is supplied to the outlet channel 140, the "overpressure" acts on the end face 340, forcing the sealing portion 154 upward. This opens the poppet 150 and allows fluid A' to flow back (opposite the arrows in FIGS. 5, 6, and 10B) through the bypass channel 180 (see FIGS. 5-6) to the inlet port 132, thereby reducing the pressure in the outlet channel 140. Thus, the poppet 150 can be opened by both pulling the actuator or shaft 152 and by applying overpressure to the outlet channel 140.

[0044] 10B, a top view of the DPT 110 of the FIG. 9B configuration is shown in a disengaged state. The sealing portion 154 of the poppet 150 is spaced from the valve seat 172 of the housing 120. As shown in FIG. 6, the volume of the bypass channel 180 is determined by the distance between the sealing portion 154 of the poppet 150 and the valve seat 172. In the disengaged state, fluid A′ from the inlet port 132 flows through the bypass channel 180 via the second flow path C′ to the outlet port 142 at a faster rate than in the engaged state.

[0045] The path of the flow restrictor channel 174 can take a variety of different forms. FIG. 11 illustrates another path for the flow restrictor channel 174. The flow restrictor channel 174 of the flow restrictor 170 can have a snake-like shape with any number of turns. The length, width, and depth of the flow restrictor channel 174 can be predetermined to match a specific flow rate for a specific pressure differential between the inlet port 132 and the outlet port 142. Holding the width and depth constant and increasing the length of the flow restrictor channel 174 slows the flow rate of fluid A′ through the flow restrictor 170. Conversely, if a faster flow rate is preferred, the length of the flow restrictor channel 174 can be decreased. In various embodiments, the flow restrictor channel 174 can have a direct path between the inlet port 132 and the outlet port 142. However, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow restrictor channel 174 is reduced to accommodate a shorter path.

[0046] 12A-12E and 14A-14E, various profiles of the protrusions 1200 used to form the flow restrictor channel 174 of the flow restrictor 170 are shown. The flow restrictor channel 174 of the flow restrictor 170 can be formed using protrusions of various sizes and shapes, resulting in a flow restrictor shape corresponding to the shape of a pin. It will be apparent that the top 1300 of the formed flow restrictor channel 174 can be larger than the base of the flow restrictor protrusion. In FIGS. 12A-12E, the depth of the flow restrictor channel 174 (i.e., the height of the protrusions 1200) is greater than the width of the flow restrictor channel 174 (based on the width of the protrusions 1200). In FIGS. 14A-14E, the depth of the flow restrictor channel 174 (i.e., the height of the protrusions 1200) is less than the width of the flow restrictor channel 174 (based on the width of the protrusions 1200).

[0047] In various embodiments, the depth of the flow restrictor channel 174 can be between 0.0005 inches and 0.0080 inches. In various embodiments, the depth of the flow restrictor channel 174 can be between 0.0010 inches and 0.0070 inches. In various embodiments, the depth of the flow restrictor channel 174 can be between 0.0020 inches and 0.0050 inches. In various embodiments, the depth of the flow restrictor channel 174 can be between 0.0030 inches and 0.0040 inches. In various embodiments, the depth of the flow restrictor channel 174 can be 0.00350 inches.

[0048] In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel 174 can be between 0.0005 inches and 0.0080 inches. In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel 174 can be between 0.0010 inches and 0.0070 inches. In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel 174 can be between 0.0020 inches and 0.0050 inches. In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel 174 can be between 0.0030 inches and 0.0040 inches. In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel 174 can be 0.00350 inches.

[0049] In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel 174 is greater than its depth. With reference to FIG. 12A, the protrusion 1200 used to create the flow restrictor channel 174 has a depth (d1) of 0.0018 inches, a width (w1) of 0.0020 inches, and an angle (θ1) of 5 degrees. With reference to FIG. 12B, the protrusion 1200 used to create the flow restrictor channel 174 has a depth (d2) of 0.00240 inches, a width (w2) of 0.0020 inches, and an angle (θ2) of 5 degrees. With reference to FIG. 12C, the protrusion 1200 used to create the flow restrictor channel 174 has a depth (d3) of 0.0030 inches, a width (w3) of 0.0020 inches, and an angle (θ3) of 5 degrees. Referring to Figure 12D, the protrusions 1200 used to create the flow restrictor channels 174 have a depth (d4) of 0.00370 inches, a width (w4) of 0.0020 inches, and an angle (θ4) of 5 degrees. Referring to Figure 12E, the protrusions 1200 used to create the flow restrictor channels 174 have a depth (d5) of 0.00450 inches, a width (w5) of 0.0020 inches, and an angle (θ5) of 5 degrees.

[0050] 3 , the poppet 150 exerts a force on a valve seat 172 of the housing 120. In various embodiments, the force (i.e., “preload”) that the poppet 150 exerts on the valve seat 172 of the housing 120 can affect the rate of flow of fluid A′ through the flow restrictor 170. For example, the sealing portion 154 can be made from a soft and / or flexible material that can include one or more of rubber, synthetic rubber, synthetic rubber-like materials, silicone, Teflon, etc. This soft material can be forced into the flow restrictor channel 174. As a result, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow restrictor channel 174 decreases, reducing the flow rate through the channel 174.

[0051] As the preload of the poppet 150 on the valve seat 172 increases, the flow rate of fluid A′ through the flow restrictor 170 decreases. For example, when the preload is small, the sealing portion 154 of the poppet 150 can rest on the valve seat 172 such that the sealing portion 154 does not enter any portion of the flow restrictor channel 174. However, as the preload increases, the sealing portion 154 of the poppet 150 (which may be deformable) may be forced into a portion of the flow restrictor channel 174, reducing the volume of the flow restrictor channel 174 that allows fluid A′ to pass through. This can slow the flow rate of fluid A′ through the flow restrictor 170. The deformation of the poppet material into the channel can be affected by various factors, including the width of the flow restrictor channel, the composition of the poppet 150, the composition of the housing 120, and the force with which the poppet is pressed against the valve seat.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 13, the relationship between flow rate (Sccm) and poppet preload (lbs) is shown for the channel 174 created from the protrusion depicted in FIG. 12C. As mentioned above, in FIG. 12C, the protrusion 1200 used to create the flow restrictor channel 174 has a depth (d3) of 0.0030 inches, a width (w3) of 0.0020 inches, and an angle (θ3) of 5°. In one exemplary embodiment, the protrusion depicted by FIG. 12C creates the channel 174 shown at the top of FIG. 13, which has a depth greater than its width. At a preload of 0.65 pounds, the flow rate is approximately 5.5 Sccm. At a preload of 2.65 pounds, the flow rate is approximately 4.75 Sccm.

[0053] In various embodiments, the width of flow restrictor channel 174 is greater than its depth. With reference to FIG. 14A, protrusion 1200 used to create flow restrictor channel 174 has a depth (d6) of 0.00110 inches, a width (w6) of 0.004 inches, and an angle (θ6) of 5 degrees. With reference to FIG. 14B, protrusion 1200 used to create flow restrictor channel 174b′ has a depth (d7) of 0.00140 inches, a width (w7) of 0.004 inches, and an angle (θ7) of 5 degrees. With reference to FIG. 14C, protrusion 1200 used to create flow restrictor channel 174h has a depth (d8) of 0.00170 inches, a width (w8) of 0.004 inches, and an angle (θ8) of 5 degrees. Referring to Figure 14D, the protrusions 1200 used to create flow restrictor channels 174i have a depth (d9) of 0.00190 inches, a width (w9) of 0.004 inches, and an angle (θ9) of 5 degrees. Referring to Figure 14E, the protrusions 1200 used to create flow restrictor channels 174j have a depth (d10) of 0.00220 inches, a width (w10) of 0.004 inches, and an angle (θ10) of 5 degrees.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 15, the relationship between flow rate (Sccm) and poppet preload (lbs) is shown for a flow restrictor channel 174 having a depth (d11) of 0.002 inches, a width (w11) of 0.003 inches, and an angle (θ11) of 5 degrees. Therefore, the width of the flow restrictor is greater than the depth. At a preload of approximately 0.65 pounds, the flow rate through the flow restrictor channel is approximately 3.4 Sccm. At a preload of approximately 2.5 pounds, the flow rate is approximately 2.5 Sccm.

[0055] 16 , the body 120 of the DPT 110 can include a ramp 176 between the flow restrictor channel 174 and the inlet port 132 and / or the outlet port 142. In various embodiments, the ramp 176 connects the flow restrictor channel 174 to the recess 136 connected to the inlet 132. In various embodiments, the ramp 176 can connect the flow restrictor channel 174 to the outlet recess connected to the outlet port 142. The optional inlet recess 136 and / or outlet recess can be incorporated into the housing 122 and can surround the inlet port 132 and the outlet port 142, respectively. The ramp 176 can increase the space for fluid A′ to travel into the flow restrictor channel 172. The extra space provided by the ramp 176 can reduce the risk of blockage of the inlet or outlet of the flow restrictor channel 174 caused by loads that push the poppet's sealing portion 154 into the inlet port 132 and / or the outlet port 142.

[0056] 17, a mold having an insert 182 can be used to form various portions of the DPT 110. For example, referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the mold insert 182 can be used to create one or more of the inlet port 132, the inlet recess 136, the inlet ramp 176, and the flow restrictor channel 172. The mold insert 182 can also be used to create the outlet recess, the outlet port 142, the outlet ramp, and the outlet port 142. The mold insert 182 can include a pin 184 that corresponds to and is the negative of at least one of the inlet port 132 and the outlet port 142 of the DPT 110. The mold 182 can include a shoulder or ring 186 that corresponds to and is the negative of at least one of the inlet recess 136 and the outlet recess of the DPT 110. The mold insert 182 can include a ramp portion 188 that corresponds to and is the negative of the ramp 176 of the DPT 110. The mold 182 may include raised serpentine protrusions 190 that correspond to and are the negative of the flow restrictor channels 172 of the DPT 110 .

[0057] The poppet 150 can take a wide variety of different forms. The sealing portion 154 can take a wide variety of different forms and can be made from a wide variety of different materials. The sealing portion 154 can be configured so that an end face 340 of the sealing portion provides the seal (see FIG. 3 ) or a peripheral portion 342 provides the seal. The sealing portion can be made from a single material, or the portion of the sealing portion 154 that contacts the valve seat 172 can be made from a first sealing material, and other portions of the sealing portion 154 can be made from one or more additional materials, such as rubber, synthetic rubber, synthetic rubber-like materials, silicone, Teflon, etc.

[0058] Flex portion 159 can take a wide variety of different forms. Flex portion 159 can be integrally formed with sealing portion 154, as shown, or flex portion 159 can be a separate component that presses sealing portion 154 against valve seat 172. In one exemplary embodiment, void 162 forms flex portion 159. Flex portion 159 can be made from a variety of different materials. For example, flex portion 159 can be made from one or more of rubber, synthetic rubber, synthetic rubber-like material, silicone, Teflon, etc.

[0059] The actuator 152 can take a wide variety of different forms. The actuator 152 can have the shaft configuration shown, or can have any configuration that allows a user to move the sealing portion from a closed position to an open position. The actuator 152 can be integrally formed with the sealing portion 154 as shown, or the actuator 152 can be a separate component connected to the sealing portion. The flex portion 159 can be made from a variety of different materials. For example, the flex portion 159 can be made from one or more of metal, hard plastic, rubber, synthetic rubber, synthetic rubber-like material, silicone, Teflon, etc.

[0060] The mounting portion 158 can take a wide variety of different forms. In the illustrated example, the mounting portion 158 is used to secure the poppet to the housing 120 and seal the poppet 150 within the poppet cavity. The mounting portion 158 can have the ring configuration shown, or can have any configuration that facilitates securing the poppet to the housing 120 and sealing the poppet 150 within the poppet cavity. The mounting portion 158 can be integrally formed with the flex portion 159 as shown, or the mounting portion 158 can be a separate component that is connected to the sealing portion or that connects the flex portion to the housing 120. The mounting portion 158 can be made from a variety of different materials. For example, the mounting portion 158 can be made from one or more of metal, hard plastic, rubber, synthetic rubber, synthetic rubber-like material, silicone, Teflon, etc.

[0061] 18, 19A, and 19B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a poppet 150. With reference to FIG. 18, the poppet 150 is shown separated from the housing 120 of the DPT 110. With reference to FIGS. 19A-19B, the poppet 150 includes an actuator 152 and a sealing portion 154. With reference to FIG. 19A, the actuator 152 of the poppet 150 may include one or more ribs 256 extending radially outward from the actuator 152. The ribs 256 may be located at or near the end of the actuator 152. The ribs 256 may help ensure a secure grip for use when opening or otherwise handling the poppet 250.

[0062] 19A-19B, the mounting portion 158 of the poppet 150 is a ring that extends radially outward. The ring-shaped mounting portion 158 is used to secure the poppet 150 to the housing 120 of the DPT 110. In the example shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B, the ring-shaped mounting portion 158 includes a plurality of concentric ring protrusions 165. The concentric ring protrusions 165 extend axially from the end of the mounting portion 158. The concentric ring protrusions 165 can seal with the housing 120.

[0063] 19A and 19B, the poppet 150 can include a gap or cutout 162 between the ring-shaped mounting portion 158 and the actuator shaft 152. The gap or cutout 162 is configured such that when the inner actuator portion 152 is pulled in direction D′, the bending portion 159 bends in direction D′. Referring to FIGS. 5-6, the bending of the bending portion 159 and the corresponding movement of the sealing portion 154 of the poppet 150 in direction D′ at least partially forms a bypass channel 180 between the sealing portion 154 and the valve seat 172. Liquid A′ can flow through the open bypass channel, cleaning the DPT 100.

[0064] FIG. 20 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a poppet 150 having an alternative mounting portion 158. Referring to FIG. 20, a portion of the poppet 150 and the housing 120 of the DPT 110 are shown. In this exemplary embodiment, the mounting portion 158 is annular with a "dogbone" cross-sectional shape. The mounting portion 158 includes protrusions 360, 362 that extend axially outward in opposite directions. The protrusion 360 of the poppet 150 can correspond to a slot 322 located in the housing 120. The poppet 150 can be secured to the housing 120 during manufacturing of the DPT 110. In various embodiments, the protrusion 362 can fit into the slot 322 to form a secure fit between the poppet 150 and the housing 120.

[0065] The poppet 150 can be assembled with the housing 120 in a variety of different ways. For example, the mounting portion 158 can be attached to the housing 120 by fasteners, welding such as ultrasonic welding, adhesives, co-molding, crimping, securing a cap to the housing 120, etc. FIGS. 21-23 illustrate one method of securing the mounting portion 158 to the housing 120. Referring to FIG. 21 , the poppet 150 is placed within the poppet cavity 304 of the housing 120. Before the poppet 150 is attached to the housing, the illustrated housing 120 includes a cylinder 422 that extends around the poppet 150. The open end of the cylinder 422 can be crimped, melted, and / or otherwise pressed or deformed, as indicated by arrow 423, toward and onto the mounting portion 158 of the poppet 150 to secure the poppet to the housing 120 of the DPT 110.

[0066] 22A, a tool 460 can be used to close the open end of the cylinder 422 onto the mounting portion 158 of the poppet 450. For example, the tool 460 can melt and / or deform material at the end of the cylinder 422. In various embodiments, referring to FIG. 22B, the end of the cylinder 422 is deformed such that the material at the end 424 of the cylinder 422 is forced against the mounting portion 158 of the poppet 150.

[0067] 23-24, the end 423 of the poppet cylinder 422 is deformed such that the end secures the mounting portion 154 of the poppet 150 to the housing 120. In the example shown in FIG. 23, an annular projection 470 is pressed into the bottom surface of the mounting portion 154 to form a first or primary seal between the poppet 150 and the housing 120. The annular projection 165 (see FIG. 21) is compressed by the end 423 of the poppet cylinder 422 to form a second or secondary seal between the poppet 150 and the housing 120. The compression of the mounting portion 154 between the end 423 of the poppet cylinder 422 and the annular projection 470 also secures the poppet 150 in place relative to the housing 120. FIG. 24 shows a perspective view of the DPT 110 with the poppet 150 secured to the cylinder 122 of the housing 120.

[0068] The DPT 110 disclosed herein can be used in a wide variety of applications. For example, the DPT can have a variety of different types of valves for delivering medications and / or fluids to a patient. Referring to FIG. 25 , in one exemplary embodiment, the DPT 110 can include a housing 120, a mounting assembly 530, a two-port stopcock assembly 534, and a poppet 150. The stopcock assembly 534 can take a variety of different forms. In the example shown in FIG. 25 , the central axis of the inlet port 535 of the stopcock assembly 534 is coplanar with the central axis of the cylinder 122. The stopcock assembly 534 is connected to the outlet 140 of the housing 120. The housing 120 can be coupled to the mounting plate 532 in a variety of different ways. For example, the housing 120 can be coupled to the mounting plate 532 by ultrasonic welding, adhesive, fasteners, etc.

[0069] 26, mounting assembly 530 includes a mounting plate 532 and a wire end 540 that is part of a cable 538. Wire end 540 may optionally be tinned to prevent corrosion. Mounting plate 532 may include a shaped wall 542 that engages with a complementary wall 522 in housing 120 (see FIG. 27). The shaped wall 542 and the complementary wall 522 of housing 120 can be connected together in a variety of different ways. For example, walls 542, 522 can be connected together by ultrasonic welding, adhesive, fasteners, etc.

[0070] 26 , in the illustrated embodiment, the mounting plate 532 includes wire end support portions 550. The wire end support portions 550 hold the wire ends 540 in a predetermined spaced apart position. For example, the spacing and arrangement of the wire ends 540 can correspond to the terminals 562 of the pressure sensor assembly. The wire support portions 550 can take a wide variety of different forms. Any structure that holds the wire ends in a predetermined position relative to the mounting plate 532 and maintains the spacing of the wire ends 540 can be used.

[0071] In the example shown in Figure 26, wire support portion 550 includes a plurality of posts 552 spaced apart by a plurality of channels 554. Channels 554 include a bottom surface 556 that supports wire ends 540. With reference to Figures 26 and 31, the width of channel 554 is selected to securely hold wire ends 540. Figure 26A is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane indicated by line 26-26 in Figure 26, showing wire ends 540 resting on bottom surfaces 556 of channels 554.

[0072] In one exemplary embodiment, wire end 540 is secured to prevent movement of wire end 540 when axial load 557 is applied. For example, load 557 can be applied when cable 538 and / or individual wires within the cable are pulled. Wire end 540 can be secured in a variety of different ways. For example, plastic can be molded around the wire, the wire can be folded, a stop such as a metal ring or sphere can be crimped or otherwise attached to the wire end, and / or end 540 can have holes, pores, bores, or can be roughened or otherwise treated to increase friction.

[0073] 26B-26D show several examples of securing the wire end 540. These examples are shown broadly and diagrammatically, as understood in cross-section along the plane indicated by line 26-26 in FIG. 26. The securing shown diagrammatically by FIGS. 26B-26D can be applied to the wire support portion 550, e.g., one or more of the sets of posts 552 and / or channels 554, and / or the wire end 540. In FIG. 26B, a material, such as plastic, of the posts 552, another portion of the mounting plate 532, and / or a portion of the valve body 120 is melted, molded, and / or otherwise formed around the wire end 540. In FIG. 26C, the wire end 540 is bent onto the bottom surface 556 of the channel 554. In FIG. 26D, the wire end 540 is bent onto the bottom surface 556 of the channel 554, and material such as plastic from the post 552, another portion of the mounting plate 532, and / or a portion of the valve body 120 is melted, molded, and / or otherwise formed around the bent portion of the wire end 540.

[0074] In previous DPT assemblies, terminals associated with the pressure sensor or transducer are soldered to wiring associated with the mounting assembly. However, this can be time-consuming and expensive. In one exemplary embodiment, the terminals 564 of the pressure sensor 160 are electrically coupled to the wire ends 540 without soldering. This electrical coupling can be achieved in a variety of different ways. For example, the terminals 564 can be press-fit into contact with the wire ends 540, they can be wrapped together with plastic, the wire ends 540 can be inserted into the terminals 564, and / or the terminals 564 can be inserted into the wire ends 540.

[0075] 27 and 28 illustrate an exemplary embodiment in which terminals 564 of pressure sensor 160 are electrically coupled to wire ends 540 without soldering. In this example, terminals 562 associated with pressure sensor circuit board 564 contact wire ends 540 of cable assembly 538. Contact between wire ends 540 and terminals 562 allows signals or readings associated with pressure sensor 160 to be transferred to a processor, display, or other means for reading or interpreting the signal. Referring to FIGS. 27-28, terminals 562 are biased against wire ends 540 and can flex toward and away from printed circuit board 564 to ensure constant contact with wire ends 540.

[0076] The wire ends 540 and terminals 562 can be held together as shown in Figure 28, although there are a variety of different ways. In one exemplary embodiment, the assembly of the housing 120 and mounting plate 532 around the pressure sensor 160 and cable 538 holds the wire ends 540 and terminals 562 together.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 29 , a cross-section of the DPT 110 of FIG. 25 taken along plane E is shown. The housing 120 is coupled to the mounting assembly 530 around the pressure sensor 160 and the cable 538. The pressure sensor 160 includes a sensing component 570 covered by a seal 572. The seal 572 may be made of one or more of rubber, synthetic rubber, synthetic rubber-like materials, silicone, or other known sealing materials. The sensing component 570 and the seal 572 are retained in an opening 574 in the housing 120 that communicates with the outlet passageway 140. In one exemplary embodiment, the seal 572 provides a seal between the pressure sensing component 570 and the opening 574 without the need for additional components, positioning the sensing component 570 in sensing communication with the fluid in the outlet passageway 140 (see FIG. 31 ).

[0078] 29, the housing 120 and mounting assembly 530 clamp to the circuit board 564 to hold the pressure sensor 160 in place. The housing 120 and mounting assembly 530 also clamp the cable 538 to hold the cable in place, with the wire ends 540 held in place in the wire support portion 550. The wall 542 (see FIG. 25) of the mounting plate 532 is ultrasonically welded, glued, or otherwise bonded to the wall 522 (see FIG. 28) of the housing 120, and the wires 540 are coupled to the terminals 562.

[0079] 30-34, a cross section of the DPT 110 of FIG. 29 is shown. FIG. 30 shows a cross section of the DPT 110 of FIG. 29 along the plane indicated by line FF. In FIG. 30, the housing 120 and mounting plate 532 are connected together at interface 3000. The housing 120 and mounting plate 532 clamp the circuit board 564 to hold the pressure sensor 160 in place.

[0080] FIG. 31 shows a cross-section of the DPT 110 of FIG. 29 taken along the plane indicated by line GG. In FIG. 31 , the housing 120 and the mounting plate 532 are connected together at interface 3100. The housing 120 and the mounting plate 532 clamp the circuit board 564 to hold the pressure sensor 160 in place, thereby holding the sensing component 570 and the seal 572 in the opening 574 of the housing 120. The sensing component is in communication with the outlet passage 140. The seal 572 provides a seal between the pressure sensing component 570 and the opening 574. The seal 572 can be a separate component that is simply disposed on or around the sensing component 570. In one exemplary embodiment, no adhesive is present between the seal 572 and the sensing component 570.

[0081] Figure 32 shows a cross section of the DPT 110 of Figure 29 taken along the plane indicated by line HH. In Figure 32, the housing 120 and mounting plate 532 are connected together at interface 3200. The assembly of the housing 120 and mounting plate 532 around the pressure sensor 160 and cable 538 holds the wire ends 540 and terminals 562 together.

[0082] Figure 33 shows a cross section of the DPT 110 of Figure 29 taken along plane I. Figure 34 shows a cross section of the DPT 510 of Figure 29 taken along plane J. In Figure 33, the housing 120 and mounting plate 532 are connected together at interface 3300. The assembly of the housing 120 and mounting plate 532 around the cable 538 holds the wire end 540 within the channel 554.

[0083] Figure 34 shows a cross section of the DPT 110 of Figure 29 taken along the plane indicated by line II. In Figure 34, the housing 120 and mounting plate 532 are connected together at interface 3400. The assembly of the housing 120 and mounting plate 532 clamps around the cable 538 to hold the cable in place and provide strain relief for the wire ends 540.

[0084] According to various embodiments, a method for cleaning a disposable pressure transducer can include releasing fluid A′ through a first flow path B′ that includes inlet port 132, flow restrictor 170, and outlet port 142. In various embodiments, flow restrictor 170 is disposed on valve seat 172 of housing 120 of pressure transducer 110. In various embodiments, the method can include separating poppet 150 from valve seat 172 of housing 120, allowing fluid A′ to travel through a second flow path B′ that includes inlet port 132, bypass channel 180, and outlet port 142. In various embodiments, separating poppet 150 includes exerting a force on poppet 150 in direction D away from housing 120. In various embodiments, the method can include coupling poppet 150 to valve seat 1172 of housing 120 to close bypass channel 180. In various embodiments, first flow path B has a smaller flow rate than second flow path B′. In various embodiments, first flow path B provides a flow rate between about 1 cc / hr and about 10 cc / hr. In various embodiments, second flow path B' provides a flow rate between about 5 cc / min and about 250 cc / min.

[0085] While various inventive aspects, concepts, and features of the present disclosure may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts, and features can be used in many alternative embodiments, either individually or in various combinations and subcombinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein, all such combinations and subcombinations are intended to be within the scope of the present application. Furthermore, while various alternative embodiments of various aspects, concepts, and features of the present disclosure (such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, devices, and components, shape, fit, and function) may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether currently known or later developed. Those skilled in the art will readily be able to adopt one or more of the aspects, concepts, or features of the present disclosure into additional embodiments and applications within the scope of the present application, even if such embodiments are not explicitly disclosed herein.

[0086] Furthermore, even if some features, concepts, or aspects of the disclosure are described herein as being preferred configurations or methods, such description is not intended to imply that such features are required or necessary unless expressly stated. Furthermore, while example or representative values ​​and ranges may be included to aid in understanding the present application, such values ​​and ranges should not be construed in a limiting sense, and are intended to be critical values ​​or ranges only when so expressly stated.

[0087] Moreover, while various aspects, features, and concepts may be expressly identified herein as inventive or forming part of the disclosure, such identification is not intended to be exclusive; rather, there may be aspects, concepts, and features of the invention fully described herein without being expressly identified as such or as part of a particular disclosure, the disclosure of which is instead set forth in the appended claims. The description of an exemplary method or process is not limited to the inclusion of every step as necessary in all cases, nor should the order in which the steps are presented be construed as necessary or required unless expressly stated. The terms used in the claims are to be given their entire ordinary meaning and are not limited in any way by the description of the embodiments in the specification. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 10, 110 Disposable Blood Pressure Transducer (DPT) 20, 120 housing 22 Inner wall 30 Cable 32 Electrical Connectors 34 Multi-port Stopcock Assembly 38 Mounting plate 36 tube 40 Inlet opening 42 Entrance Channel 50, 150, 250, 450 poppets 60 fluid chamber 60 Exit Channel 64, 160 Pressure Sensor 70 Capillary 80 bypass channels 90 Cap 120 Valve body 130 Entrance Passage 132, 535 inlet port 136 Entrance recess 140 Exit passage 142 Exit Port 152 Actuator or control part 152 Actuator shaft 154 Seal part 154, 158 Mounting part 159 Bent part 162 Cutouts 162 void 165 concentric ring protrusion 165 Annular protrusion 170 Flow Restrictor 172 Valve seat 174, 174b′, 174h, 174i, 174j flow restrictor channels 176 On-ramp 180 bypass channels 182 Molds 184 pins 186 Shoulder or Ring 176 Lamp 188 Lamp part 190, 1200 protrusion 256 Ribs 302 parts 304 Poppet Cavity 306 Outer perimeter 340 sides 342 Annular Surface 342 Outer area 360, 362, 1200 protrusions 422 cylinders 423 Arrow 423 End 460 Tools 470 Annular protrusion 522 Complementary Wall 530 Mounting Assembly 532 Mounting plate 534 Stopcock Assembly 538 Cable 540 Wire End 542 Molded wall 550 Wire end support part 552 pillars 554 channels 556 bottom 557 Axial load 562 terminals 564 Printed Circuit Board 570 Sensing Components 572 stickers 574 Opening 800 distance 3000, 3100, 3200, 3300, 3400 Interface A, A′ fluid B direction B First flow path B' Second flow path C. First flow path C' channel, first channel, second channel D, D′ direction E, I, J plane d1, d2, d3, d4, d5, d6, d7, d8, d9, d10, d11 depth w1, w2, w3, w4, w5, w6, w7, w8, w9, w10, w11 width θ1, θ2, θ3, θ4, θ5, θ6, θ7, θ8, θ9, θ10, θ11 Angle

Claims

1. a housing having an inlet port and an outlet port; a poppet coupled to the housing, the poppet including a sealing portion; A pressure sensor; A pressure transducer comprising: a flow restrictor formed between the inlet port and the outlet port by a valve seat; the valve seat includes a ramp extending from the flow restrictor to one of the inlet port and the outlet port; the flow restrictor comprises a flow restrictor channel having a plurality of turns such that the flow restrictor channel has a length between 2 and 20 times the distance between the inlet port and the outlet port; A pressure transducer wherein, in an engaged state, an end face of the sealing portion is configured to seal the inlet port by pressing against the valve seat, and not to seal the outlet port.

2. 2. The pressure transducer of claim 1, wherein the pressure transducer includes a second ramp extending from the flow restrictor to the other of the inlet port and the outlet port.

3. The pressure transducer of claim 1 , wherein the valve seat is integrally formed with the housing.

4. 2. The pressure transducer of claim 1, wherein the housing includes a recess formed between the inlet port and the ramp, the recess surrounding the inlet port.

5. The pressure transducer of claim 1 , wherein the poppet is coupled to the valve seat of the housing.

6. 6. The pressure transducer of claim 5, wherein fluid flows into a first flow path including the inlet port, the flow restrictor, and the outlet port in response to the poppet closing against the valve seat of the housing.

7. 7. The pressure transducer of claim 6, wherein the flow rate of the fluid in the first flow path is between 1 cc / hr and 10 cc / hr.

8. 10. The pressure transducer of claim 1, wherein the pressure transducer includes a bypass channel between the poppet and the valve seat of the housing.

9. 9. The pressure transducer of claim 8, wherein fluid flows through a second flow path including the inlet port, the bypass channel, and the outlet port in response to the poppet being separated from the valve seat of the housing.

10. 10. The pressure transducer of claim 9, wherein the flow rate of the fluid in the second flow path is between 5 cc / min and 250 cc / min.

11. a housing including a valve seat with an inlet port and an outlet port; a poppet coupled to the housing, the poppet having a sealing portion; A pressure sensor; a flow restrictor disposed on the valve seat between the inlet port and the outlet port, the flow restrictor including a flow restrictor channel extending toward an interior of the housing at the valve seat; A pressure transducer comprising: a cross section of the flow restrictor channel having an apex and a base; a width at the top of the flow restrictor channel that is greater than a width at the base of the flow restrictor channel; a depth of the flow restrictor channel greater than a width at the top of the flow restrictor channel; the base of the flow restrictor channel is rounded; the flow restrictor channel has a plurality of turns such that the flow restrictor channel has a length between 2 and 20 times the distance between the inlet port and the outlet port; A pressure transducer wherein, in an engaged state, an end face of the sealing portion is configured to seal the inlet port by pressing against the valve seat, and not to seal the outlet port.

12. 12. The pressure transducer of claim 11, wherein the width of the top of the flow restrictor channel is between 0.0005 inches and 0.0080 inches.

13. The pressure transducer of claim 11, wherein the flow restrictor channel has a depth between 0.0005 inches and 0.0080 inches.

14. 12. The pressure transducer of claim 11, wherein the pressure transducer comprises at least one ramp disposed on the valve seat extending from the flow restrictor channel to at least one of the inlet port and the outlet port.

15. 12. The pressure transducer of claim 11, wherein the length of the flow restrictor channel is at least twice the distance between the inlet port and the outlet port.

16. 12. The pressure transducer of claim 11, wherein the pressure transducer includes a second ramp extending from the flow restrictor to the other of the inlet port and the outlet port.

17. a housing including a valve seat with an inlet port and an outlet port; a poppet coupled to the housing, the poppet having a sealing portion; A pressure sensor; a flow restrictor disposed on the valve seat between the inlet port and the outlet port, the flow restrictor including a flow restrictor channel extending toward an interior of the housing at the valve seat; A pressure transducer comprising: a cross section of the flow restrictor channel having an apex and a base; a width at the top of the flow restrictor channel that is greater than a width at the base of the flow restrictor channel; a depth of the flow restrictor channel greater than a width at the top of the flow restrictor channel; the base of the flow restrictor channel is rounded; the length of the flow restrictor channel is at least twice the distance between the inlet port and the outlet port; a ramp extending from the flow restrictor channel to one of the inlet port and the outlet port; a bypass channel formed between the poppet and the valve seat of the housing; a second flow path including the inlet port, the bypass channel, and the outlet port in response to the poppet being decoupled from the valve seat of the housing; the flow restrictor channel has a plurality of turns such that the flow restrictor channel has a length between 2 and 20 times the distance between the inlet port and the outlet port; A pressure transducer wherein, in an engaged state, an end face of the sealing portion is configured to seal the inlet port by pressing against the valve seat, and not to seal the outlet port.

18. 18. The pressure transducer of claim 17, wherein the pressure transducer includes a second ramp extending from the flow restrictor to the other of the inlet port and the outlet port.

Images