Valve device for tamper-proof Luer lock connectors and adapters

Abstract

A connector for connection to a fluid transfer device comprises an outer body having a longitudinal axis, and a luer lock connection port positioned within the outer body and configured to couple with an external port of the fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable in at least one of a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis at least prior to initiation of coupling with the external port, the outer body being structured to prevent an operator from directly accessing the exterior of the luer lock connection port with their fingertips through the outer body after the luer lock connection port is coupled with the external port, and the luer lock connection port being positioned within the outer body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject matter of the present disclosure relates to an anti-tampering luer lock connector for use with an adapter in a spill prevention fluid transfer system and a valve device for maintaining a desired air pressure within the adapter.

Background Art

[0002] In fluid transfer systems, especially when the transfer of hazardous fluids is involved, the exposure of fluids to the environment is highly undesirable and can in some cases lead to fatal accidents. Therefore, devices such as fluid transfer devices, adapters, connectors, valves, etc. used in such systems need to be completely spill-proof and not contaminated. In certain embodiments, the connection between some devices needs to be made such that the connection cannot be accidentally or tamperingly disconnected, and at the same time, can be disconnected by an operator using proper care and appropriate techniques.

[0003] Furthermore, in certain applications, the air pressure continues to rise and / or fall within the system during fluid transfer. Such air pressure, if increased or decreased without control, can lead to malfunction of any device or the entire system.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need and a desire for a fluid transfer device that solves at least some of the problems described above.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the subject matter of the present disclosure, a connector for connecting to a fluid transfer device, comprising an outer body having a longitudinal axis, a luer lock connection port positioned within the outer body and configured to be coupled to an external port of the fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable about the longitudinal axis at least in one of a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction at least before the start of the coupling to the external port. The outer body is structured to prevent an operator from directly accessing the outside of the Luer lock connection port with their fingertips through the outer body after the Luer lock connection port is connected to the external port, and the connector is provided such that the Luer lock connection port is located inside the outer body.

[0006] The fluid transfer device can be a commonly known Luer lock connector used in medical systems, for example, drug mixing systems where it is necessary to safely transfer hazardous drugs from one container to another. In some embodiments, the fluid transfer device may be any connector that facilitates the transfer of fluids between containers.

[0007] The connector described above can be integrated with an adapter configured to facilitate connection between the container and a fluid transfer device, either directly or via another corresponding adapter. In some embodiments, the container may be a syringe, and the adapter can facilitate connection between the syringe, either directly or via a standard syringe adapter, and a standard female Luer lock connection device. In some embodiments, the adapter facilitates the conversion of a standard female Luer lock port to a docking port for secure connection with the female connector of the syringe adapter.

[0008] The outer body can be a substantially cylindrical, hollow body having a proximal end positioned toward the fluid transfer device and a distal end positioned toward the container during use. The Luer lock connection port can be positioned at the proximal end within the outer body to receive the external port of the fluid transfer device. In certain applications, the external port is a standard female Luer lock port. The Luer lock connection port can be positioned within the outer body so as to have a common longitudinal axis with the outer body, and so as to be able to rotate about that axis.

[0009] A Luer lock connection port may include threads for receiving the corresponding threads formed on the external port to which it is connected. The connection begins when the external port contacts and screws into the Luer lock connection port. The connection is in progress as the external port is rotated to screw into the Luer lock connection port. Since the Luer lock connection port is rotatable within the outer body before the connection begins, rotation of the Luer lock connection port, at least in the screwing direction (which can be clockwise in common applications), must be prevented, at least while the connection is in progress. The connection is complete when the external port is fully screwed into the Luer lock connection port. After the connection is complete, the Luer lock connection port can rotate around its longitudinal axis.

[0010] The outer body, when positioned within the Luer lock connection port and connected to the external port, generally covers the Luer lock connection port so that it is not easily accessible, or at least not accessible by fingertip. In some embodiments, the side wall of the outer body may have one or more openings, each opening smaller than the size of a child's fingertip, and therefore, especially when used in medical drug delivery systems, a child cannot access the Luer lock connection port with their fingertip. The inability of a child to access the Luer lock connection port ensures that a child cannot prevent the rotation of the Luer lock connection port, thereby preventing unintended separation of the Luer lock connection port from the external port. The average diameter of a child's fingertip is about 10-12 mm. Therefore, in some embodiments, the dimension of at least one of each of the one or more openings can be less than 10 mm. Thus, the connector is configured as a tamper-proof connector.

[0011] The Luer lock connection port can be made rotatable both clockwise and counterclockwise around its longitudinal axis, at least before connection with an external port is initiated.

[0012] The Luer lock connection port may be rotatable both clockwise and counterclockwise around its longitudinal axis when connected to an external port.

[0013] In some embodiments, the Luer lock connection port may be rotatable at least counterclockwise around its longitudinal axis when connected to an external port.

[0014] To understand the entirety of this application, clockwise and counterclockwise directions should be understood as being viewed from the direction of the external port toward the Luer lock connection port.

[0015] The connector may further include a coupling assist mechanism configured to selectively take between a coupling state that restricts rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise and a non-coupling state that allows rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise.

[0016] The coupling assist mechanism may include any structure understood by those skilled in the art that can selectively prevent rotation of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body, at least in the threading direction (which may be clockwise in common applications). In certain embodiments, if the threading direction is counterclockwise, the coupling assist mechanism may be configured to restrict rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction when the connector is connectable. In some embodiments, the coupling assist mechanism may include a button, key, lever, etc., located outside the connector or formed within the outer body, which can be operated to prevent rotation of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body. In some embodiments, the coupling assist mechanism may include at least a pair of projections and catchers, one formed on the Luer lock connection port and the other formed on or operable through the outer body, and the projection and catcher can engage with each other to prevent rotation of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body. The coupling assist mechanism may be configured to normally remain in a non-connectable state and can be operated by an operator to achieve a connectable state when the connector is to be connected.

[0017] The coupling assist mechanism can be configured to remain in a connectable state at least while the coupling between the Luer lock connection port and the external port is in progress.

[0018] The coupling assist mechanism can be configured to allow the Luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise around the longitudinal axis when the device is in a connectable state. Furthermore, the coupling assist mechanism can be configured to allow the Luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise and / or clockwise around the longitudinal axis when the device is not connectable.

[0019] The Luer lock connection port can be configured to be axially displaced along the longitudinal axis between a first position associated with a non-connectable state and a second position associated with a connectable state. In some embodiments, the Luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the connecting auxiliary mechanism, as well as their relative positions to each other, can be configured such that the connecting auxiliary mechanism can be displaced to a connectable state only when the Luer lock connection port and the outer body are in a specific position relative to each other. The specific position can be defined by the range in which the Luer lock connection port lies within the outer body along the longitudinal axis.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the Luer lock connection port can be configured to be freely displaced from a first position to a second position when a pressing force is applied by an external port, i.e., a pressing force applied by an operator to a fluid transfer device during coupling. The first position can be the normal position of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body, in which case the Luer lock connection port can be freely rotated clockwise and counterclockwise around its longitudinal axis. When in the first position, the Luer lock connection port is spaced apart from the proximal end of the outer body within a first range. In the second position, the Luer lock connection port is spaced apart from the proximal end of the outer body within a second range, which is larger than the first range. When the Luer lock connection port is in the second position, the coupling assist mechanism can be automatically made into a connectable state or actuated to make it connectable, and in response, the clockwise rotation of the Luer lock connection port is restricted. However, in the connectable state, the counterclockwise rotation of the Luer lock connection port may or may not be restricted.

[0021] The connecting assist mechanism may include at least one locking member attached to the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port and at least one restraining member attached to the inner surface of the outer body, wherein in a second position, the locking member engages with the restraining member, thereby restricting rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise. In a first position, the locking member can be disengaged from the restraining member. In some embodiments, the Luer lock connection port may have at least one side wall extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and a rear wall extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The side wall and rear wall of the Luer lock connection port may each have an outer surface facing the outer body and an inner surface on the opposite side. The outer body may have at least one side wall corresponding to the side wall of the Luer lock connection port and a rear wall corresponding to the rear wall of the Luer lock connection port. The side wall and rear wall of the outer body may each have an inner surface facing the Luer lock connection port and an inner surface on the opposite side. According to one embodiment, the outer surface of the rear wall of the Luer lock connection port may have at least one locking member, and the inner surface of the rear wall of the outer body may have a corresponding restraining member, both of which constitute a coupling auxiliary mechanism. When the Luer lock connection port is in a first position, the locking member is separated from the restraining member, and the Luer lock connection port can rotate at least clockwise. When the Luer lock connection port is further pushed in the outer body by the outer port, for example at the start of coupling (when pushed by an operator), the locking member engages with the restraining member and is restrained, thereby moving the coupling auxiliary mechanism into a connectable state. The engagement of the locking member and the restraining member restricts the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise.

[0022] In another embodiment, the locking member can be formed on the outer surface of the side wall of the Luer lock connection port. The restraining member can be formed on the outer body in the form of a button, key, lever, or it can be an external member that is operated through an opening in the side wall of the outer body to engage with the locking member and restrict the rotation of the Luer lock connection port in at least the clockwise direction.

[0023] The connector may further include a separation assist mechanism configured to selectively take between a non-separable state that allows rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least counterclockwise around the longitudinal axis of the Luer lock connection port, and a separable state that restricts rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least counterclockwise to allow separation of an external port from the Luer lock connection port.

[0024] The separation assist mechanism may include any structure that will be understood by those skilled in the art as capable of selectively preventing rotation of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body in at least the direction of unscrewing, which in common applications may be counterclockwise. In certain embodiments, if the direction of unscrewing is clockwise, the separation assist mechanism may be configured to restrict rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise in the separable state. In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism may include a button, key, lever, etc., located outside the connector or formed within the outer body, which can be operated to prevent rotation of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body. In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism may include at least a pair of projections and catchers, one formed on the Luer lock connection port and the other formed on or operable through the outer body, and the projection and catcher can engage with each other to prevent rotation of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body. The separation assist mechanism may be configured in a non-separable state and can be operated by an operator (e.g., by pressing force) to achieve a separable state when separation is performed.

[0025] The isolation assist mechanism can be configured to remain in a separable state at least while the isolation of the Luer lock connection port from the external port is in progress.

[0026] The outer body includes a side wall with at least one opening formed therein, and the side wall can be configured to be used together with a separation assisting mechanism to provide access to the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, at least in a separable state. In some embodiments, the separation assisting mechanism includes a button, an actuator, a key, a lever, etc. located outside the connector, and is used to access the side wall of the Luer lock connection port through the opening formed in the side wall of the outer body, so as to grip the Luer lock connection port and limit its rotation, thereby facilitating the disengagement of the external port from the Luer lock connection port.

[0027] The separation assisting mechanism can include an actuator at least partially positioned within the opening. The actuator has an inner surface of the actuator facing the Luer lock connection port and an outer surface of the actuator on the opposite side. The separation assisting mechanism is configured to be in a separable state when a pressing force is applied to the actuator and in a non-separable state when the force is removed. In some embodiments, the actuator can be a button at least partially positioned within the opening in the side wall of the outer body. When attempting to separate the external port from the Luer lock connection port, the operator can press the button, and the inner surface of the button engages with the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, thereby restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port. When the separation assisting mechanism includes an actuator, a button, a lever, etc. fixed to the outer body, the corresponding opening can be made larger than other openings on the side wall, but the actuator, the button, the lever, etc. can be positioned within the opening so as not to leave enough space around the opening to allow direct access to the Luer lock connection port by a fingertip. When the separation assisting mechanism includes an actuator, a button, a lever, etc. as an external non-fixed element, the opening large enough to allow direct access to the Luer lock connection port by a fingertip can be eliminated.

[0028] In the separable state, the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the actuator is smaller than the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the rim of the opening. In the separable state, at least most of the outer surface of the actuator is positioned below the virtual plane defined by the rim of the opening. In some embodiments, the actuator can be positioned within the opening such that at least some portions of the outer surface of the actuator, i.e., the surface of the actuator facing away from the luer lock connection port, are recessed further inwardly towards the luer lock connection port than the rim of the opening. Thus, the actuator can be configured to be a hidden button that an operator would not typically assume to be a button for facilitating separation of the external port from the luer lock connection port.

[0029] The actuator can have a first portion extending from the outer body and a second portion extending from the first portion, and the first portion forms part of the outer body. The first portion and the second portion can constitute a lever. In some embodiments, the actuator can be in the form of a lever. The actuator can have a first portion that is an extension of the outer body and a second portion that is a continuation of the first portion.

[0030] The separation assist mechanism may include a first engaging portion that forms part of the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port and a second engaging portion that forms part of the inner surface of the actuator. In the separable state, the first engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion, thereby restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction. In the non-separable state, the first engaging portion can be disengaged from the second engaging portion. The first engaging portion may include at least one projection formed on the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, and the second engaging portion may include at least one tooth protruding from the inner surface of the actuator. In the separable state, at least one tooth engages with at least one projection, thereby restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction. In the non-separable state, at least one tooth can be disengaged from at least one projection.

[0031] In some embodiments, the protrusions and teeth can be repositioned; that is, the teeth can be formed on the inner surface of the actuator, and the protrusions can be formed on the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port.

[0032] The actuator can be configured to be pressed only when at least one projection is radially displaced relative to at least one tooth. The at least one projection may have projection sides extending from the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port toward the actuator, and the at least one tooth may have tooth sides extending from the inner surface of the actuator toward the Luer lock connection port, with the tooth side engaging with the projection side in the detachable state.

[0033] The Luer lock connection port can be configured to be axially displaced to a third position along the longitudinal axis. The third position can be any position between the first and second positions, and in certain embodiments, it can be the first position. In some embodiments, the first position can be the normal position of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body, where the Luer lock connection port is in a first range within the outer body from the proximal end of the outer body. In the second position, the Luer lock connection port can be in a second range within the outer body that is larger than the first range, from the proximal end of the outer body.

[0034] The Luer lock connection port can be configured to be freely displaced from a second position to a third position when a tensile force is applied while separating the external port from the Luer lock connection port. In some embodiments, when separation occurs, the fluid transfer device is pulled away from the connector, thereby pulling the Luer lock connection port to the third position. The third position can be any position between the first and second positions, and in certain embodiments, it can be the first position.

[0035] The separation assist mechanism can be configured to become separable when the Luer lock connection port is displaced to a third position. In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism can be configured to become separable when the Luer lock connection port is displaced to a second position. In some embodiments, the Luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the separation assist mechanism, as well as their relative positions, can be configured such that the separation assist mechanism automatically displaces to a separable state only when the Luer lock connection port is in the third position, or can be displaced to a separable state by an operator. The third position can be any position between the first and second positions, and in certain embodiments, it can be the first position.

[0036] Therefore, in order to separate the external port from the Luer lock connection port, the Luer lock connection port may need to be moved to a third position, which may be the first normal position as described above, and the teeth are positioned relative to the protrusions such that the teeth and protrusions are not radially aligned, i.e., not above / below each other, and then the separation assist mechanism is displaced into a separable state, thereby restricting the counterclockwise rotation of the Luer lock connection port. In such a state, the external port can be rotated counterclockwise and separated from the Luer lock connection port.

[0037] In some embodiments, the coupling assist mechanism and the separation assist mechanism may be the same mechanism configured to simplify coupling and separation. For example, the mechanism may be configured to restrict the rotation of the Luer lock connection port to either a clockwise direction or both when in operation.

[0038] A Luer lock connection port can be a male Luer lock connection port comprising an elongated central member and a collar surrounding the elongated central member, and the male Luer lock connection port can be configured to connect to an external port by screwing the external port between the collar and the elongated central member, such that when connected, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body, and the outer body covers at least a large portion of the collar from the outside. In some embodiments, the Luer lock connection port may be a male port having an elongated central member that constitutes a male member, which is inserted into a corresponding female connector. The central member may be surrounded at least radially by the collar. The collar may include threads on its inner surface facing the elongated central member. The threads may be configured to receive corresponding threads formed on the outer surface of the external port.

[0039] The collar can extend parallel to the elongated central member, and its length can range from 5.4 mm to 8 mm. The outer body can cover at least a large portion of the collar. The skirt member and the elongated central member can be formed integrally.

[0040] The outer body can radially cover at least a large portion of the Luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least 90% of the Luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least a large portion of the sidewall of the Luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least 90% of the sidewall of the Luer lock connection port.

[0041] According to a second aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure, an adapter is provided which is configured for use in a medical fluid transfer device and comprises the connector described above according to a first aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0042] The adapter may be configured to have a septum located at its distal end, through which at least one needle of a syringe can be received.

[0043] The connector can constitute the proximal portion of the adapter.

[0044] According to a third aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure, a connector for connecting to a fluid transfer device, A Luer lock connection port configured to connect to an external port of the fluid transfer device, A connector is provided, comprising an outer body covering at least a portion of a Luer lock connection port, and a separation assist mechanism configured to selectively take between an inseparable state that allows rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis of the Luer lock connection port, and a separable state that restricts rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least counterclockwise to allow separation of an external port from the Luer lock connection port.

[0045] The fluid transfer device can be a commonly known Luer lock connector used in medical systems, for example, drug mixing systems where it is necessary to safely transfer hazardous drugs from one container to another. In some embodiments, the fluid transfer device may be any connector that facilitates the transfer of fluids between containers.

[0046] The connector described above can be integrated with an adapter configured to facilitate connection between a container and a fluid transfer device, either directly or via a corresponding adapter. In some embodiments, the container may be a syringe, and the adapter can facilitate connection between the syringe, either directly or via a standard syringe adapter, and a conventional female Luer lock connection device. In some embodiments, the adapter facilitates the conversion of a standard female Luer lock port to a docking port for secure connection with the female connector of the syringe adapter.

[0047] The outer body can be a substantially cylindrical, hollow body having a proximal end positioned toward the fluid transfer device and a distal end positioned toward the container during use. A Luer lock connection port can be positioned at the proximal end within the outer body to receive the external port of the fluid transfer device. In certain applications, the external port is a standard female Luer lock port. The Luer lock connection port can be positioned within the outer body so as to have a common longitudinal axis with the outer body and so as to be able to rotate about that axis. The Luer lock connection port may include threads to receive the corresponding threads formed on the external port to which it is connected.

[0048] The outer body, when positioned within the Luer lock connection port and connected to the external port, can largely cover the Luer lock connection port so that it is not easily accessible, or at least not accessible with a fingertip. In some embodiments, the side wall of the outer body can have one or more openings, each opening smaller than the size of a child's fingertip, and therefore, especially when used in medical drug delivery systems, a child cannot access the Luer lock connection port with their fingertip. The inability of a child to access the Luer lock connection port ensures that a child cannot prevent the rotation of the Luer lock connection port, thereby preventing unintended separation of the Luer lock connection port from the external port. The average diameter of a child's fingertip between approximately 3 and 10 years of age is approximately 10 to 12 mm. Therefore, in some embodiments, the dimension of at least one of each of the one or more openings can be less than 10 mm. Thus, the connector can be configured as a tamper-proof connector.

[0049] A Luer lock connection port can rotate within the outer body after being coupled to an external port; therefore, to separate the Luer lock connection port from the external port, it is necessary to restrict the rotation of the Luer lock connection in the unscrew direction (which may be counterclockwise in common applications). In certain embodiments, if the unscrew direction is clockwise, the separation assist mechanism may be configured to restrict the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise in the separable state. The coupling assist mechanism may include any structure understood by those skilled in the art as capable of selectively preventing the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the unscrew direction within the outer body. In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism may include a button, key, lever, etc., located outside the connector or formed inside the outer body, which can be operated to prevent the rotation of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body. In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism may include at least one pair of projections and catchers, one formed on the Luer lock connection port and the other formed on the outer body or operable through the outer body, and the projections and catchers may engage with each other to prevent rotation of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body. The separation assist mechanism may be configured to remain in a non-separable state under normal circumstances and may be activated by an operator to achieve a separable state when separation is to be performed.

[0050] The isolation assist mechanism can be configured to be separable at least while the isolation of the Luer lock connection port from the external port is in progress. The isolation should be understood as being in progress after the isolation has begun and before the external port is completely isolated from the Luer lock connection port.

[0051] The outer body comprises a side wall having at least one opening formed therein, and the side wall may be configured to be used with a separation assist mechanism to provide access to the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, at least in a separable state. In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism may include a button, actuator, key, lever, etc., located outside the connector, and is used to access the side wall of the Luer lock connection port through an opening formed in the side wall of the outer body, to grip the Luer lock connection port and restrict its rotation, thereby facilitating the unscrewing of the outer port from the Luer lock connection port.

[0052] The separation assist mechanism may include an actuator at least partially positioned within the opening, the actuator having an inner surface facing the Luer lock connection port and an outer surface on the opposite side, and the separation assist mechanism is configured to enter a separable state when a pressing force is applied to the actuator and an inseparable state when the force is removed. In some embodiments, the actuator may be a button at least partially positioned within the opening in the side wall of the outer body. When attempting to separate the external port from the Luer lock connection port, the operator can press the button, and the inner surface of the button engages with the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, thereby restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port. If the separation assist mechanism includes an actuator, button, or lever fixed to the outer body, the corresponding opening may be larger than other openings on the side wall, but the actuator, button, or lever may be positioned within the opening such that no space is left around the opening that would allow direct fingertip access to the Luer lock connection port. If the separation assist mechanism includes an actuator, button, or lever as an external non-fixed element, it is possible to eliminate the need for an opening large enough to allow direct fingertip access to the Luer lock connection port.

[0053] In the separable state, the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the actuator can be smaller than the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the rim of the opening. In the separable state, at least a large portion of the outer surface of the actuator can be positioned below a virtual plane defined by the rim of the opening. In some embodiments, the actuator can be positioned within the opening such that the outer surface of the actuator, i.e., the surface of the actuator facing away from the Luer lock connection port, has at least some portion that is recessed into the opening so as to be further inward toward the Luer lock connection port than the rim of the opening. Thus, the actuator can be configured to be a hidden button that the operator would not normally expect to be a button for facilitating the separation of the external port from the Luer lock connection port.

[0054] The actuator may have a first portion extending from the outer body and a second portion extending from the first portion, the first portion of which may form part of the outer body. The first and second portions may constitute a lever. In some embodiments, the actuator may take the form of a lever. The actuator may have a first portion which is an extension of the outer body and a second portion which is a continuation of the first portion.

[0055] The separation assist mechanism may include a first engaging portion that forms part of the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port and a second engaging portion that forms part of the inner surface of the actuator. In the separable state, the first engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion, thereby restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction. In the non-separable state, the first engaging portion can be disengaged from the second engaging portion. The first engaging portion may include at least one projection formed on the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, and the second engaging portion may include at least one tooth protruding from the inner surface of the actuator. In the separable state, at least one tooth engages with at least one projection, thereby restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction. In the non-separable state, at least one tooth can be disengaged from at least one projection.

[0056] In some embodiments, the protrusions and teeth can be repositioned; that is, the teeth can be formed on the inner surface of the actuator, and the protrusions can be formed on the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port.

[0057] The actuator can be configured to be pressed only when at least one projection is radially displaced relative to at least one tooth. The at least one projection may have projection sides extending from the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port toward the actuator, and the at least one tooth may have tooth sides extending from the inner surface of the actuator toward the Luer lock connection port, with the tooth side engaging with the projection side in the detachable state.

[0058] The Luer lock connection port can be configured to be axially displaced along the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position. In some embodiments, the Luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the separation assist mechanism, as well as their relative positions, can be configured such that the separation assist mechanism can be displaced to a separable state only when the Luer lock connection port and the outer body are in a specific position relative to each other. The specific position can be defined by the range within the outer body along the longitudinal axis in which the Luer lock connection port lies.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the Luer lock connection port can be configured to displace from a first position to a second position when a pressing force is applied to the fluid transfer device by an operator during separation. The first position can be the normal position of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body, in which case the Luer lock connection port can rotate freely clockwise and counterclockwise about its longitudinal axis. When in the first position, the Luer lock connection port is in a first range within the outer body from the proximal end of the outer body. In the second position, the Luer lock connection port may be in a second range that is larger than the first range within the outer body from the proximal end of the outer body.

[0060] The Luer lock connection port can be configured to be axially displaced to a third position along the longitudinal axis. The Luer lock connection port can be configured to be displaced from a second position to a third position when a tensile force is applied to the fluid transfer device by an operator during separation. The third position can be any position between the first and second positions, and in certain embodiments, it can be the first position. In some embodiments, when separation is performed, the fluid transfer device is pulled away from the connector, thereby pulling the Luer lock connection port to the third position.

[0061] In some embodiments, the separation assist mechanism can be configured to enter a separable state when the Luer lock connection port is displaced to a second position.

[0062] The separation assist mechanism can be configured to become separable when the Luer lock connection port is displaced to a third position. The third position can be any position between the first and second positions, and in certain embodiments, it can be the first position.

[0063] In some embodiments, the Luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the separation assist mechanism, as well as their relative positions, can be configured such that the separation assist mechanism automatically displaces or can be displaced to a separable state by an operator only when the Luer lock connection port is in a third position.

[0064] Therefore, in order to separate the external port from the Luer lock connection port, the Luer lock connection port may need to be moved to a third position, which may be the first normal position as described above, and the teeth are positioned relative to the protrusions such that the teeth and protrusions are not radially aligned, i.e., not above / below each other, and then the separation assist mechanism is displaced into a separable state, thereby restricting the counterclockwise rotation of the Luer lock connection port. In such a state, the external port can be rotated counterclockwise and separated from the Luer lock connection port.

[0065] The connector may further include a coupling assist mechanism configured to selectively take between a connectable state that restricts rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise and a non-connectable state that allows rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise. The coupling assist mechanism may include any structure understood by those skilled in the art as capable of selectively preventing rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the threading direction (which may be clockwise in common applications) within the outer body. In certain embodiments, if the threading direction is counterclockwise, the coupling assist mechanism may be configured to restrict rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least counterclockwise in the connectable state. In some embodiments, the coupling assist mechanism may include a button, key, lever, etc., located outside the connector or formed within the outer body, which can be operated to prevent rotation of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body. In some embodiments, the coupling assist mechanism may include at least one pair of projections and catchers, one formed on the Luer lock connection port and the other formed on the outer body or operable through the outer body, and the projections and catchers may engage with each other to prevent rotation of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body. The coupling assist mechanism may be configured to take a non-coupling state and may be operated by an operator to achieve a coupling-ready state when coupling is to be performed.

[0066] The coupling begins when the external port makes contact with and screws into the Luer lock connection port. The coupling is in progress when the external port is being rotated to screw into the Luer lock connection port. At least before the coupling begins, the Luer lock connection port is rotatable within the outer body, and therefore, when coupling is performed, rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the screwing direction (which can be clockwise in common applications) must be prevented at least until the coupling is in progress. The coupling is complete when the external port is fully screwed into the Luer lock connection port. After the coupling is complete, the Luer lock connection port can rotate around its longitudinal axis.

[0067] The coupling assist mechanism can be configured to remain in a connectable state at least while the coupling between the Luer lock connection port and the external port is in progress.

[0068] The coupling assist mechanism can be configured to allow the Luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise around the longitudinal axis when the device is in a connectable state. The coupling assist mechanism can also be configured to allow the Luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise around the longitudinal axis when the device is not connectable.

[0069] In some embodiments, the Luer lock connection port may be rotatable at least counterclockwise around its longitudinal axis when connected to an external port.

[0070] In some embodiments, the unconnectable state can be associated with a first position, and the connectable state can be associated with a second position.

[0071] In some embodiments, the Luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the coupling auxiliary mechanism, as well as their relative positions, can be configured such that the coupling auxiliary mechanism can be displaced into a connectable state only when the Luer lock connection port and the outer body are in a specific position relative to each other. The first position can be the normal position of the Luer lock connection port within the outer body, in which case the Luer lock connection port can rotate freely clockwise and counterclockwise around its longitudinal axis. When in the first position, the Luer lock connection port is in a first range within the outer body from the proximal end of the outer body. In the second position, the Luer lock connection port may be in a second range greater than the first range from the proximal end of the outer body. When the Luer lock connection port is in the second position, the coupling auxiliary mechanism can automatically become connectable or be actuated to become connectable, and in response, the clockwise rotation of the Luer lock connection port is restricted. However, in the connectable state, the counterclockwise rotation of the Luer lock connection port may or may not be restricted.

[0072] The connecting auxiliary mechanism may include at least one locking member attached to the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port and at least one restraining member attached to the inner surface of the outer body, wherein in the second position, the locking member engages with the restraining member, thereby restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise. In the normal position, the locking member can be disengaged from the restraining member.

[0073] In some embodiments, the Luer lock connection port may have at least one side wall extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and a rear wall extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The side and rear walls of the Luer lock connection port may each have an outer surface facing the outer body and an inner surface on the opposite side. The outer body may have at least one side wall corresponding to the side wall of the Luer lock connection port and a rear wall corresponding to the rear wall of the Luer lock connection port. The side and rear walls of the outer body may each have an inner surface facing the Luer lock connection port and an inner surface on the opposite side. According to one embodiment, the outer surface of the rear wall of the Luer lock connection port may have at least one locking member, and the inner surface of the rear wall of the outer body may have a corresponding restraining member, both of which constitute a connecting auxiliary mechanism. When the Luer lock connection port is in a first position, the locking member is separated from the restraining member, and the Luer lock connection port can rotate at least clockwise. When the Luer lock connection port is further pushed within the outer body by the external port, for example at the start of coupling, the locking member engages with the restraining member and is restrained, thereby moving the coupling auxiliary mechanism into a coupling-ready state. The engagement between the locking member and the restraining member restricts the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction.

[0074] In another embodiment, the locking member can be formed on the outer surface of the side wall of the Luer lock connection port. The restraining member can be formed on the outer body in the form of a button, key, lever, or it can be an external member that is operated through an opening in the side wall of the outer body to engage with the locking member and restrict the rotation of the Luer lock connection port in at least the clockwise direction.

[0075] A Luer lock connection port can be a male Luer lock connection port comprising an elongated central member and a collar surrounding the elongated central member, and the male Luer lock connection port can be configured to connect to an external port by screwing and receiving the external port between the collar and the elongated central member such that when connected, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body, and the outer body covers at least a large portion of the collar from the outside. In some embodiments, the Luer lock connection port may be a male port having an elongated central member that constitutes a male member, which is inserted into a corresponding female connector. The central member may be surrounded at least radially by the collar. The collar may include threads on its inner surface facing the elongated central member. The threads may be configured to receive corresponding threads formed on the outer surface of the external port.

[0076] The collar can extend parallel to the elongated central member, and its length can range from 5.4 mm to 8 mm. The outer body can cover at least a large portion of the collar. The skirt member and the elongated central member can be formed integrally.

[0077] The outer body can radially cover at least a large portion of the Luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least 90% of the Luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least a large portion of the sidewall of the Luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least 90% of the sidewall of the Luer lock connection port.

[0078] According to a fourth aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure, an adapter is provided which is configured for use in a medical fluid transfer device and comprises the connector described above according to the first aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0079] The adapter may be configured to have a septum located at its distal end, through which at least one needle of a syringe can be received.

[0080] The connector can constitute the proximal portion of the adapter.

[0081] According to a fifth aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure, a connector for connecting to a fluid transfer device, An outer body having a longitudinal axis, A connector is provided comprising a Luer lock connection port located within an outer body and configured to connect to an external port of a fluid transfer device, the Luer lock connection port being rotatable in at least one of clockwise and counterclockwise directions about a longitudinal axis, at least before connection to the external port is initiated, and the outer body radially covers most of the Luer lock connection port.

[0082] According to a sixth aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure, an adapter configured for connection to a syringe having an air chamber and a liquid chamber, A liquid channel configured to communicate with a liquid chamber, An air channel configured to communicate with an air chamber, An adapter is provided, comprising a first valve that communicates with an air channel and has a first valve open state that allows air in the air channel to escape to the surroundings, and a first valve normally closed state.

[0083] In some embodiments, the adapter described above can be configured for use in drug delivery systems where the safe transport of drugs (e.g., hazardous drugs) is required.

[0084] The adapter described above can be configured to solve the problem of overpressure in a syringe having an air chamber that is sealed from fluid communication with the surroundings except through an air needle extending from the air chamber to the outside of the syringe. This problem can occur due to misuse and / or improper use of the syringe. In fact, in some embodiments, the operation of the syringe may even depend on the inhalation and / or expulsion of air into and / or from the air chamber. For example, a syringe may be configured to be used for injecting liquid into an external container or the human body, and for extracting liquid from an external container. Overpressure can occur during the extraction of liquid from an external container into the syringe when the air chamber of the syringe is not in fluid communication with the volume from which the air in the air chamber is expelled, and the air then needs to be expelled for continuous operation of the syringe.

[0085] In some embodiments, the adapter may be a Luer lock adapter configured to facilitate connection between the syringe and the external container for transferring liquid between the syringe and the external container, and may be similar to those described above, or may be a generally known Luer lock adapter. In some embodiments, the adapter may be a spike adapter configured to facilitate connection between the syringe and the IV bag for transferring liquid between them. The spike adapter may be connected between at least two other devices at once to establish a fluid connection between at least two other devices when the spike adapter is an intermediate device. It should be noted that spike adapters and their basic functionality are generally known in the art and are described concisely herein for clarity and completeness.

[0086] More specifically, a spike adapter can be used to transfer fluid in two directions between a syringe and an IV bag, namely from the IV bag to the syringe and vice versa. For example, some medical procedures require using a syringe to extract a certain volume of saline solution from an IV bag and then replacing the extracted volume of saline solution with a drug from another syringe (generally another syringe). To enable a single spike adapter to be used for both the operation between a syringe(s) and an IV bag, the spike adapter needs to be configured to facilitate bidirectional airflow between the syringe's air chamber and the surroundings, i.e., the expulsion of air from the air chamber and the inhalation of air into the air chamber, especially if the syringe used has an air chamber that is sealed from fluid communication with the surroundings except through an air needle extending from the air chamber to the outside of the syringe. The adapter described above can be configured to facilitate direct exchange of air pressure within the syringe's air chamber with the surroundings during fluid transfer.

[0087] The first valve may be configured to automatically displace to a first valve-open state in response to the air pressure in the air channel exceeding a first predetermined threshold. The first valve may also be configured to automatically displace to a first valve-closed state in response to the air pressure in the air channel falling below a first predetermined threshold.

[0088] The first valve operates in particular in conjunction with the syringe used to draw saline solution from the IV bag through the adapter. In some medical procedures, it is necessary as part of the protocol that only new / unused syringes are used to draw saline solution from the IV bag, because syringes that have already been used to handle hazardous drugs may have some harmful hazardous fumes in the air chamber that should be prevented from being released into the surroundings. Thus, since the operation of the first valve is associated with the operation of the syringe used to draw saline solution from the IV bag, the operation of the syringe can be controlled by controlling the operation of the first valve, as described below herein.

[0089] The first valve may include a first valve seat member that, in a first valve open state, at least partially defines a first valve passage that is in fluid communication with an air channel, and a first valve sealing member that, in a first valve normally closed state, engages with the first valve seat member and thereby seals the first valve passage.

[0090] In the first valve open state, the first valve sealing member detaches at least partially from the first valve seat member, thereby releasing the seal on the first valve passage.

[0091] In some embodiments, in the first valve open state, the first valve sealing member can be completely detached from the first valve seat member, thereby releasing the seal on the first valve passage.

[0092] The first valve passage can define at least a portion of a first flow path extending between the air channel and the surroundings, and the first flow path can be selectively sealed by the first valve in the normally closed state of the first valve.

[0093] The first valve can seal the first flow path when it is normally closed, and when it is open, it can release the seal on the first flow path, allowing the air in the air channel to escape to the surroundings.

[0094] The adapter may further include a second valve having a second valve open state that communicates with the air channel and allows air to enter the air channel from the surroundings, and a second valve normally closed state.

[0095] The second valve can be configured to automatically displace to a second valve open state in response to the air pressure in the air channel falling below a second predetermined threshold that is smaller than a first predetermined threshold. The second valve can also be configured to automatically displace to a second valve closed state in response to the air pressure in the air channel exceeding a second predetermined threshold.

[0096] The second valve operates in particular in conjunction with a syringe used to deliver drugs to an IV bag through an adapter.

[0097] The second valve may include a second valve seat member having a second valve passage that is in fluid communication with an air channel when the second valve is open, and a second valve sealing member that engages with the second valve seat member and thereby seals the second valve passage when the second valve is normally closed.

[0098] In the second valve open state, the second valve sealing member detaches at least partially from the second valve seat member, thereby releasing the seal on the second valve passage.

[0099] In some embodiments, in the second valve open state, the second valve sealing member can be completely detached from the second valve seat member, thereby releasing the seal on the second valve passage.

[0100] The second valve passage defines at least a portion of a second flow path extending between the air channel and the surroundings, and the second flow path can be selectively sealed by the second valve in the normally closed state of the second valve.

[0101] The second valve can seal the second flow path when it is normally closed, and release the seal on the second flow path when it is open, allowing air to enter the air channel from the surroundings.

[0102] The first and second valves can be housed within a single common valve housing. In some embodiments, the valve housing can be integrally formed within the adapter. In other embodiments, the valve housing can be formed separately and mounted to the adapter. The valve housing can constitute part of the adapter, but it can also comprise one or more parts of the adapter, or otherwise be additionally configured for different purposes. In other words, the first and second valves can be housed within the adapter to cooperate with each other to function as a common valve, and the portion of the adapter containing such a common valve constitutes the valve housing. In other embodiments, the valve housing is separate from the adapter and can be mounted to the adapter.

[0103] The first valve and the second valve can be integrated as a single valve device. The valve device may include first and second sealing members configured as a single integrated sealing member configured to displace the valve device between a first valve open state that allows air in the air channel to escape to the surroundings, a second valve open state that allows air to enter the air channel from the surroundings, and a normally fully closed state.

[0104] The valve device is normally in a fully closed state. In response to the air pressure inside the valve device rising above a first predetermined threshold, the valve device can automatically displace to a first valve open state. In response to the air pressure inside the valve device falling below a second predetermined threshold, the valve device can automatically displace to a second valve open state. The first predetermined threshold may be greater than the second predetermined threshold. The valve device can also automatically displace to a fully closed state in response to the air pressure inside the valve device being within the first and second predetermined thresholds.

[0105] The sealing member may be integrated into the structure.

[0106] The valve device further comprises a first valve seat member and a second valve seat member, and a single integrated sealing member may have a first portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the first valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve passage, and a second portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the second valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve passage.

[0107] The cooperation between the first portion of the sealing member and the first valve seat member acts as a first valve, and the cooperation between the second portion of the sealing member and the second valve seat member acts as a second valve.

[0108] In the normally fully closed state, the first portion of the sealing member engages with the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage, and the second portion of the sealing member engages with the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage. In the first valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member at least partially detaches from the first valve seat member, thereby releasing the seal on the first valve passage; and in the first valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member engages with the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage. In the second valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member detaches at least partially from the second valve seat member, thereby releasing the second valve passage, and in the second valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member engages with the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage.

[0109] In the first valve-open state, the valve device can release air from inside the valve device to the outside of the valve device through the first valve passage, and in the second valve-open state, it can allow air to flow from the outside of the valve device into the valve device through the second valve passage.

[0110] In some embodiments, the valve device can be configured to facilitate the exchange of air between the valve device and the surroundings. The valve device can be used in conjunction with a fluid transfer system where it is necessary to maintain a pressure within a certain range. In such a system, it is necessary to allow air to flow inward from the surroundings when it is below a first predetermined threshold and to allow air to flow outward to the surroundings when it is above a second predetermined threshold. The valve device can be used in conjunction with such a fluid transfer system so as to have a valve device that communicates with the system and exchanges air pressure between the system and the surroundings.

[0111] According to a first specific example of the sixth aspect of the present invention, in the first valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member is engaged with the second valve seat member more tightly than in the normally fully closed state, and in the second valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member is engaged with the first valve seat member more tightly than in the normally fully closed state.

[0112] The first portion of the sealing member and the second portion of the sealing member can be positioned at opposing ends of the sealing member.

[0113] The adapter may further comprise a first valve and a first outlet that is in fluid communication with the surroundings, the first outlet may be configured to receive a lever button therein that operates to detach the adapter from an external female connector. In some embodiments, the first valve may utilize an opening in the adapter that is additionally configured for another purpose to facilitate the exchange of air between the surroundings and the air channel.

[0114] The first flow path can extend through the first outlet.

[0115] The adapter may further include a second valve and a second outlet that is in fluid communication with the surroundings, the second outlet being an opening formed in the side wall of the outer body of the Luer lock connection port that constitutes the proximal end of the adapter.

[0116] A second flow path may extend through a second outlet.

[0117] In some embodiments, the sealing member may be a single unit. In other embodiments, the first and second sealing member portions may be formed separately and connected to one another.

[0118] In some embodiments, the sealing member may include a central portion having a first end and a second end that constitute a first part of the sealing member, and an elastic skirt portion extending from around the second end, and the skirt portion may be defined between a first rim proximal to the second end and a second rim distal to the second end. The skirt portion may have an outer surface facing the second valve seat member and an inner surface on the opposite side. In the normally fully closed state, the second rim can engage with the second valve seat member around the second valve passage, while maintaining a gap between the first rim and the second valve seat member, and the first end of the central portion can engage with the first valve seat member. In this state, the volume defined between the central portion, the inner surface of the skirt portion, the inner wall of the valve device, the first valve seat member and the second valve seat member defines the volume within the valve device. In response to an increase in air pressure within the valve device exceeding a first predetermined threshold, the pressure applied to the inner surface of the skirt member compresses the second end of the central member into the gap between the second end and the second valve seat member, thereby detaching the first end from the first valve seat member and further releasing the seal on the first valve passage. Thus, the increased air pressure can be released from within the valve device to the atmosphere through the first valve passage.

[0119] In response to a decrease in air pressure within the valve device that falls below a second predetermined threshold, the second rim detaches from the second valve seat member, thereby releasing the seal on the second valve passage.

[0120] According to a second specific example of a sixth aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure, the second valve seat member may comprise a valve seat having a valve seat opening, the first valve seat member may comprise a central member extending through the valve seat opening, and the sealing member is positioned at least partially within the valve seat opening and radially between the valve seat and the central member. In some embodiments, the central member may extend axially through the valve seat opening.

[0121] A first portion of the sealing member is configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the central member, thereby selectively displacing the valve device to a first valve-open state, allowing air to pass through a first valve passage defined between the central member and the sealing member; and a second portion of the sealing member is configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the valve seat, thereby selectively displacing the valve device to a second valve-open state, allowing air to pass through a second valve passage defined between the valve seat and the sealing member. In some embodiments, the sealing member may include a longitudinal member extending axially through the valve seat opening, the first portion of the sealing member may extend radially from the longitudinal member toward the central member, and the second portion of the sealing member may extend radially from the longitudinal member toward the valve seat.

[0122] The valve seat may have an inner surface facing the air channel and an outer surface on the opposite side, and a second portion of the sealing member engages with the inner surface of the valve seat, and the sealing member is configured to engage with the outer surface of the valve seat, thereby further comprising a third portion of the sealing member having a fixing member that holds the sealing member in place. In some embodiments, the fixing member may extend radially from a longitudinal member toward the valve seat and engage with the outer surface of the valve seat. The second portion of the sealing member and the fixing member that engages with the valve seat hold the sealing member in place relative to the valve seat. When the second portion of the sealing member disengages from the valve seat, the fixing member that engages with the outer surface of the valve seat prevents axial displacement of the sealing member.

[0123] The adapter may further include an actuator configured to selectively switch the adapter between a fully operational state in which the adapter is fully operational for the transfer of liquid through a liquid channel and an at least partially inoperable state in which the adapter is at least partially inoperable for the transfer of liquid through a liquid channel. Also, as described above, the adapter may be a dual-function adapter, i.e., the adapter may be configured to facilitate the transfer of liquid in two directions. The adapter may be configured to be used for drawing liquid from an external container into a syringe and for injecting liquid from within a syringe into an external container. The fully operational state of the adapter is referred herein to as the state in which the adapter can be used with a syringe for drawing liquid from an external container and for injecting liquid into an external container, the two syringes being generally different. The at least partially inoperable state of the adapter is referred herein to as the state in which the adapter cannot be used with a syringe for at least one of drawing liquid from an external container or delivering liquid into an external container. In one particular embodiment described herein, at least a partial inoperability of the adapter is referred herein to as a condition in which the adapter can be used with a syringe to deliver liquid into an external container, but cannot be used to draw liquid from the external container into the syringe.

[0124] In a particular embodiment where the adapter is a spike adapter, the adapter can be used with a syringe to draw saline solution from an IV bag and to deliver a drug into the IV bag. As described above, the protocol may require the physician to use a new / unused syringe to draw saline solution from the IV bag. The adapter can be selectively configured to at least partially working so as to alert the practitioner that a new syringe should be used to draw saline solution from the IV bag. For example, the adapter can be configured to at least partially inoperable so as to block the flow of fluid through the adapter in the direction from the IV bag to the syringe. Thus, if the practitioner wants to use the adapter for the purpose of drawing saline solution from the IV bag into the syringe, the adapter must be manually switched to fully working by the practitioner using an actuator, thereby preventing the practitioner from accidentally and carelessly using a syringe that has already been used for that purpose and alerting the practitioner that a new syringe should be used once the adapter is switched to fully working.

[0125] In some embodiments, the actuator can be configured to indirectly, at least partially, block the movement of liquid through the liquid channel in a state of at least partial inoperability. The adapter can be configured to indirectly prevent unidirectional movement of liquid through the liquid channel by controlling the passage of air between the surroundings and the air channel. Liquid flow depends on the discharge of air from and draw-in of air from the syringe's air chamber via the air channel. Therefore, liquid transfer can be indirectly controlled by controlling the passage of air through the air channel.

[0126] The movement of fluid through the liquid channel depends at least partially on the passage of air through the first valve, and the actuator can be configured to selectively prevent the passage of air, thereby displacing the adapter into at least a partial inoperable state, and thereby indirectly at least partially blocking the movement of the liquid through the liquid channel.

[0127] In a fully operational state, the adapter is capable of transporting liquid through the liquid channel in a first direction and a second direction opposite to it, and in at least a partially inoperable state, the adapter is incapable of transporting liquid through the liquid channel in at least one of the first and second directions.

[0128] The movement of liquid in a first direction through the liquid channel depends on the expulsion of air from within the adapter through a first valve, and in at least a partial inoperability state, the actuator prevents the expulsion of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperable with respect to the movement of liquid in the first direction through the liquid channel. In some embodiments, the first direction can be from the IV bag towards the syringe, and the second direction can be from the syringe towards the IV bag.

[0129] The movement of liquid in the second direction through the liquid channel depends on the intake of air into the adapter through the first valve, and in at least a partial inoperability state, the actuator can prevent the intake of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperable with respect to the movement of liquid in the second direction through the liquid channel.

[0130] In some embodiments, the actuator can be configured to directly, at least partially, block the movement of liquid through the liquid channel in at least a partial inoperability state.

[0131] An actuator may have a first actuator state associated with the fully operational state of the adapter and a second actuator state associated with at least a partially inoperable state of the adapter. For example, when the actuator is in the first actuator state, the adapter may be in a fully operational state, and when the actuator is in the second actuator state, the adapter may be in at least a partially inoperable state.

[0132] The actuator may be displaceable between a first actuator state and a second actuator state when an external force is applied. The external force can be a compressive force, a tensile force, a rotational force, or a combination of compressive / tensile force and rotational force.

[0133] In some embodiments, the actuator can be configured to remain in either a first or second actuator state once the external force is removed. For example, the actuator can be a switch configured to selectively switch between the first or second actuator state and hold that state until switched again.

[0134] In some embodiments, the actuator can be configured to normally be in one of two actuator states, displace to the other of the two actuator states when an external force is applied, and automatically return to the other of the two actuator states when the external force is removed. For example, the actuator may be a biased button configured to normally remain in one of the two actuator states. When an external force is applied, the button can be displaced to the other of the two actuator states, and then, when the external force is removed, return to the normal one of the two actuator states due to the biasing force.

[0135] An actuator can normally be configured in a second actuator state, displaced to a first actuator state when an external force is applied, and automatically returned to the second actuator state when the external force is removed. In certain embodiments, an actuator configured as a biasing button can normally be configured to be in the second actuator state, i.e., to keep the adapter in at least a partially inoperable state, thereby preventing the discharge of air from the air channel to the surroundings. When an external force is applied, the button displaces to the first actuator state, thereby displacing the adapter to a fully operational state, allowing air to be discharged from the air channel to the surroundings. When the external force is removed, the button returns to the second actuator state, thereby displacing the adapter in at least a partially inoperable state.

[0136] In the second actuator state, the actuator may be configured to engage with a third portion of the sealing member, preventing air from passing between the central member and the sealing member, thereby preventing air from being discharged from the valve device regardless of the state of the valve device. In certain embodiments, the actuator, configured as a switch, may be configured to engage with a fixed member constituting the third portion of the sealing member, thereby blocking air from passing between the central member and the sealing member, thereby preventing air from being discharged from the adapter regardless of whether the valve device is in the first valve-open state.

[0137] According to a seventh aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure, a valve device, A valve device is provided, which includes a sealing member configured to displace the valve device to a first valve open state that allows air to escape from inside the valve device to the surroundings, a second valve open state that allows air to enter the valve device from the surroundings, and a normally fully closed state.

[0138] The valve device can normally be in a fully closed state, and the sealing member automatically displaces the valve device to a first valve open state in response to the air pressure inside the valve device rising above a first predetermined threshold, and to a second valve open state in response to the air pressure inside the valve device falling below a second predetermined threshold. The sealing member automatically displaces the valve device to a fully closed state in response to the air pressure inside the valve device being within the first and second predetermined thresholds. The first predetermined threshold is greater than the second predetermined threshold.

[0139] The valve device may further include a first valve seat member that at least partially defines a first valve passage and a second valve seat member that at least partially defines a second valve passage, and the sealing member has a first portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the first valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve passage, and a second portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the second valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve passage.

[0140] In the normally fully closed state, the first portion of the sealing member engages with the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage, and the second portion of the sealing member engages with the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage. In the first valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member at least partially detaches from the first valve seat member, thereby releasing the seal on the first valve passage; and in the first valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member engages with the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage. In the second valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member detaches at least partially from the second valve seat member, thereby releasing the second valve passage, and in the second valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member engages with the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage.

[0141] In the first valve-open state, the valve device can release air from inside the valve device to the outside of the valve device through the first valve passage, and in the second valve-open state, it can allow air to flow from the outside of the valve device into the valve device through the second valve passage.

[0142] In some embodiments, the valve device can be configured to facilitate the exchange of air between the valve device and the surroundings. The valve device can be used in conjunction with a fluid transfer system where it is necessary to maintain a pressure within a certain range. In such a system, it is necessary to allow air to flow inward from the surroundings when it is below a first predetermined threshold and to allow air to flow outward to the surroundings when it is above a second predetermined threshold. The valve device can be used in conjunction with such a fluid transfer system so as to have a valve device that communicates with the system and exchanges air pressure between the system and the surroundings.

[0143] According to a first specific example of the seventh aspect of the present invention, in the first valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member is engaged with the second valve seat member more tightly than in the normally fully closed state, and in the second valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member is engaged with the first valve seat member more tightly than in the normally fully closed state.

[0144] The first portion of the sealing member and the second portion of the sealing member can be positioned at opposing ends of the sealing member.

[0145] In some embodiments, the sealing member may be a single unit. In other embodiments, the first and second sealing member portions may be formed separately and connected to one another.

[0146] In some embodiments, the sealing member may include a central portion having a first end and a second end that constitute a first part of the sealing member, and an elastic skirt portion extending from around the second end, and the skirt portion may be defined between a first rim proximal to the second end and a second rim distal to the second end. The skirt portion may have an outer surface facing the second valve seat member and an inner surface on the opposite side. In the normally fully closed state, the second rim can engage with the second valve seat member around the second valve passage, while maintaining a gap between the first rim and the second valve seat member, and the first end of the central portion can engage with the first valve seat member. In this state, the volume defined between the central portion, the inner surface of the skirt portion, the inner wall of the valve device, the first valve seat member and the second valve seat member defines the volume within the valve device. In response to an increase in air pressure within the valve device exceeding a first predetermined threshold, the pressure applied to the inner surface of the skirt member compresses the second end of the central member into the gap between the second end and the second valve seat member, thereby detaching the first end from the first valve seat member and further releasing the seal on the first valve passage. Thus, the increased air pressure can be released from within the valve device to the atmosphere through the first valve passage.

[0147] In response to a decrease in air pressure within the valve device that falls below a second predetermined threshold, the second rim detaches from the second valve seat member, thereby releasing the seal on the second valve passage.

[0148] According to a second specific example of a seventh aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure, the second valve seat member may comprise a valve seat having a valve seat opening, the first valve seat member may comprise a central member extending through the valve seat opening, and the sealing member is positioned at least partially within the valve seat opening and radially between the valve seat and the central member. In some embodiments, the central member may extend axially through the valve seat opening.

[0149] A first portion of the sealing member is configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the central member, thereby selectively displacing the valve device to a first valve-open state, allowing air to pass through a first valve passage defined between the central member and the sealing member; and a second portion of the sealing member is configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the valve seat, thereby selectively displacing the valve device to a second valve-open state, allowing air to pass through a second valve passage defined between the valve seat and the sealing member. In some embodiments, the sealing member may include a longitudinal member extending axially through the valve seat opening, the first portion of the sealing member may extend radially from the longitudinal member toward the central member, and the second portion of the sealing member may extend radially from the longitudinal member toward the valve seat.

[0150] The valve seat may have an inner surface facing the air channel and an outer surface on the opposite side, and a second portion of the sealing member engages with the inner surface of the valve seat, and the sealing member is configured to engage with the outer surface of the valve seat, thereby further comprising a third portion of the sealing member having a fixing member that holds the sealing member in place. In some embodiments, the fixing member may extend radially from a longitudinal member toward the valve seat and engage with the outer surface of the valve seat. The second portion of the sealing member and the fixing member that engages with the valve seat hold the sealing member in place relative to the valve seat. When the second portion of the sealing member disengages from the valve seat, the fixing member that engages with the outer surface of the valve seat prevents axial displacement of the sealing member.

[0151] In some embodiments, a first predetermined threshold and / or a second predetermined threshold are obtained based on the geometric shape, design, or material of the valve and its surrounding portions. In some embodiments, the first predetermined threshold may have a single value of 0.3 bar, and the second predetermined threshold may have a single value of 0.03 bar.

[0152] The valve device may further include an actuator configured to control the flow of air through the valve device. The actuator may be configured to switch the valve device from a normally fully closed state to at least one of a first valve open state and a second valve open state when an external force is applied. The actuator may be configured to selectively prevent the flow of air through the valve device regardless of the state of the valve device. The adapter according to the seventh aspect may include some or all of the features of the adapter according to the sixth aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0153] It should be understood that the valve device described above in relation to the seventh aspect can be used with any fluid transfer device that requires maintaining an air pressure within a certain range. Furthermore, the valve device described above in relation to the seventh aspect can be a dual-function valve and can be used with the adapter described above in relation to the sixth aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure, in which the first valve and the second valve (of the sixth aspect) can be combined to be realized as a dual-function valve device of the seventh aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure, in which the cooperation between the first part of the sealing member and the first valve seat member acts as the first valve and the cooperation between the second part of the sealing member and the second valve seat member acts as the second valve.

[0154] This specification should be understood to recognize that the application of a dual-function valve is advantageous over the application of two valves in that it requires the manufacture and assembly of a single sealing member instead of two separate sealing members. Furthermore, a single valve device occupies less space than two separate valves within the adapter housing.

[0155] According to the eighth aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure, an adapter, A liquid channel configured to facilitate the movement of the liquid, An adapter is provided, comprising an actuator configured to selectively switch the adapter between a fully operational state in which the adapter is fully capable of transferring a liquid and a partially inoperable state in which the adapter is at least partially inoperable for transferring a liquid.

[0156] In some embodiments, in at least a partial malfunction state, the adapter may be configured to indirectly block the transfer of liquid through the liquid channel by blocking the air channel of the adapter which communicates with the air chamber of the syringe, which is not in fluid communication with the surroundings except through another passage through the adapter, for example, an air needle which can be in fluid communication with the surroundings through the air channel of the adapter. The adapter may be a dual-function spike adapter similar to those described above and may be configured to facilitate the transfer of liquid in two directions. The adapter may be configured to be used for drawing liquid from an external container into the syringe and for injecting liquid from within the syringe into the external container. The fully functional state of the adapter is referred herein to as the state in which the adapter can be used with the syringe for drawing liquid from an external container and for injecting liquid into the external container. The at least partial malfunction state of the adapter is referred herein to as the state in which the adapter cannot be used with the syringe for at least one of drawing liquid from an external container or injecting / delivering liquid into the external container.

[0157] In embodiments where the actuator is configured to indirectly and at least partially block the movement of liquid through the liquid channel in at least a partial inoperability state, the adapter may further comprise an air channel configured to facilitate the passage of air, where the movement of fluid through the liquid channel depends at least partially on the passage of air through the air channel, and the actuator is configured to selectively prevent the passage of air, thereby displacing the adapter in at least a partial inoperability state and at least partially blocking the movement of liquid through the liquid channel. The adapter may be configured to indirectly prevent unidirectional movement of liquid through the liquid channel by controlling the passage of air between the surroundings and the air channel of the adapter. The liquid flow depends on the discharge of air from and the draw-in of air into the air chamber of the syringe via the air channel. Therefore, the transfer of liquid can be indirectly controlled by controlling the passage of air through the air channel.

[0158] In a fully operational state, the adapter is capable of transporting liquid through the liquid channel in a first and a second direction, and in at least a partially inoperable state, the adapter is incapable of transporting liquid through the liquid channel in at least one of the first and second directions.

[0159] The movement of liquid in a first direction through the liquid channel depends on the discharge of air from within the adapter through the air channel, and in at least a partial inoperability state, the actuator can prevent the discharge of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperable with respect to the movement of liquid in a first direction through the liquid channel.

[0160] The movement of liquid in a second direction through the liquid channel depends on the intake of air into the adapter, and in at least a partial inoperability state, the actuator can prevent the intake of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperable with respect to the movement of liquid in a second direction through the liquid channel.

[0161] In some embodiments, the first direction can be the direction from the IV bag to the syringe, and the second direction can be the direction from the syringe to the IV bag.

[0162] As described above, to use a single spike adapter for both operations, namely drawing saline solution from the IV bag into the syringe and delivering the drug from the syringe into the IV bag, a new, unused syringe used to draw saline solution from the IV bag through the adapter may be required as part of the protocol. The adapter can be configured to at least a partially operational state so as to alert the practitioner that a new syringe needs to be used to draw saline solution from the IV bag. For example, as described above, the adapter can typically be configured to at least a partially inoperable state in which the flow of fluid through the adapter in the direction from the IV bag to the syringe is blocked. Therefore, if the practitioner wants to use the adapter for the purpose of drawing saline solution from the IV bag into the syringe, the adapter must be manually switched to a fully operational state by the practitioner using an actuator, thereby preventing the practitioner from accidentally and inadvertently using a syringe that has already been used for this purpose, and alerting the practitioner that a new syringe should be used when the adapter is switched to a fully operational state.

[0163] In some embodiments, the actuator can be configured to directly, at least partially, block the movement of liquid through the liquid channel in at least a partial inoperability state. The actuator can be directly positioned at least partially within the liquid channel and selectively block the flow of liquid through it. The adapter can be a Luer lock adapter, and the actuator can be configured to block the flow of liquid in both first and second directions. The actuator may include a flow path that can be configured to selectively align with the liquid channel. When the flow path is aligned with the liquid channel, the adapter is in a fully operational state, and when the flow path is not aligned with the liquid channel, the adapter is in at least a partial inoperability state.

[0164] An actuator may have a first actuator state associated with the fully operational state of the adapter and a second actuator state associated with at least a partially inoperable state of the adapter. For example, when the actuator is in the first actuator state, the adapter may be in a fully operational state, and when the actuator is in the second actuator state, the adapter may be in at least a partially inoperable state.

[0165] The actuator may be displaceable between a first actuator state and a second actuator state when an external force is applied. The external force can be a compressive force, a tensile force, a rotational force, or a combination of compressive / tensile force and rotational force.

[0166] In some embodiments, the actuator can be configured to remain in either a first or second actuator state once the external force is removed. For example, the actuator can be a switch configured to selectively switch between the first or second actuator state and hold that state until switched again.

[0167] In some embodiments, the actuator can be configured to normally be in one of two actuator states, displace to the other of the two actuator states when an external force is applied, and automatically return to the other of the two actuator states when the external force is removed. For example, the actuator may be a biased button configured to normally remain in one of the two actuator states. When an external force is applied, the button can be displaced to the other of the two actuator states, and then, when the external force is removed, return to the normal one of the two actuator states due to the biasing force.

[0168] An actuator can normally be configured in a second actuator state, displaced to a first actuator state when an external force is applied, and automatically returned to the second actuator state when the external force is removed. In certain embodiments, an actuator configured as a biasing button can normally be configured to be in the second actuator state, i.e., to keep the adapter in at least a partially inoperable state, thereby preventing the discharge of air from the air channel to the surroundings. When an external force is applied, the button displaces to the first actuator state, thereby displacing the adapter to a fully operational state, allowing air to be discharged from the air channel to the surroundings. When the external force is removed, the button returns to the second actuator state, thereby displacing the adapter in at least a partially inoperable state.

[0169] Embodiment While more specific details will be provided in the detailed description, the following are non-limiting examples of different embodiments of the subject matter of this disclosure. Embodiments 1-36 should be understood to correspond to the first aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure. Embodiments 37-39 correspond to the second aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure. Embodiments 40-74 correspond to the third aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure. Embodiments 75-77 correspond to the fourth aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure. Embodiment 78 corresponds to the fifth aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure. Embodiments 79-121 correspond to the sixth aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure. Embodiments 122-137 correspond to the seventh aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure. Embodiments 138-149 correspond to the eighth aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure. 1. A connector for connecting to a fluid transfer device, comprising an outer body having a longitudinal axis, A Luer lock connection port located within the outer body and configured to connect to an external port of the fluid transfer device, comprising a Luer lock connection port that is rotatable in at least one of the clockwise and counterclockwise directions about its longitudinal axis, at least before connection to the external port is initiated, The outer body is structured to prevent an operator from directly accessing the outside of the Luer lock connection port with their fingertips through the outer body after the Luer lock connection port is connected to the external port, and the Luer lock connection port is located inside the outer body, forming a connector. 2. The connector according to Embodiment 1, wherein the Luer lock connection port is rotatable about the longitudinal axis in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions, at least before connection with an external port is initiated. 3. The connector according to Embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the Luer lock connection port is rotatable in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions around the longitudinal axis when connected to an external port. 4. The connector according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, further comprising a coupling assist mechanism configured to selectively take between a coupling-enabled state that restricts rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise and a non-coupling state that allows rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise. 5. The connector according to Embodiment 4, wherein the coupling assist mechanism is configured to remain in a connectable state at least while the coupling between the Luer lock connection port and the external port is in progress. 6. The connector according to embodiment 4 or 5, wherein the coupling assist mechanism is configured to allow the Luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis when in a connectable state. 7. The connector according to any one of embodiments 4 to 6, wherein the coupling assist mechanism is configured to allow the Luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis when the connector is not coupled. 8. The connector according to any one of embodiments 4 to 7, wherein the Luer lock connection port is configured to be displaced axially along the longitudinal axis between a first position associated with a non-connectable state and a second position associated with a connectable state. 9. The connector according to Embodiment 8, wherein the Luer lock connection port is configured to be freely displaced from a first position to a second position when a pressing force is applied by an external port during connection. 10. The connector according to embodiment 8 or 9, wherein the connecting auxiliary mechanism comprises at least one locking member attached to the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port and at least one restraining member attached to the inner surface of the outer body, wherein in a second position, the locking member engages with the restraining member, thereby restricting rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in a clockwise direction. 11. The connector according to embodiment 10, wherein, in the first position, the locking member detaches from the restraining member. 12. The connector according to any one of embodiments 4 to 11, further comprising a separation assist mechanism configured to selectively take between a non-separable state that allows rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis of the Luer lock connection port and a separable state that restricts rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least counterclockwise to allow release of an external port from the Luer lock connection port. 13. The connector according to Embodiment 12, wherein the outer body comprises a side wall having at least one opening formed therein, the side wall being configured to be used together with the separation assist mechanism to provide access to the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, at least in the separable state. 14. The connector according to Embodiment 13, wherein the separation assist mechanism comprises an actuator at least partially positioned within the opening, the actuator having an inner surface facing a Luer lock connection port and an outer surface on the opposite side of the actuator, and the separation assist mechanism is configured to enter a separable state when a pressing force is applied to the actuator and to enter a non-separable state when the force is removed. 15. The connector according to Embodiment 14, wherein, in the separable state, the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the actuator is less than the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the rim of the opening. 16. The connector according to embodiment 14 or 15, wherein, in the detachable state, at least a large portion of the outer surface of the actuator is positioned below a virtual plane defined by the rim of the opening. 17. The connector according to any one of embodiments 14 to 16, wherein the actuator has a first portion extending from an outer body and a second portion extending from the first portion, the first portion forming part of the outer body. 18. The connector according to embodiment 17, wherein the first and second parts constitute a lever. 19. The connector according to any one of embodiments 14 to 18, wherein the separation assist mechanism comprises a first engaging portion that constitutes a part of the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port and a second engaging portion that constitutes a part of the inner surface of the actuator, and in the separable state, the first engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion to restrict the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction. 20. The connector according to Embodiment 19, wherein in an inseparable state, the first engaging portion detaches from the second engaging portion. 21. The connector according to Embodiment 19 or 20, wherein the first engaging portion comprises at least one projection formed on the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, and the second engaging portion comprises at least one tooth protruding from the inner surface of the actuator, wherein in the detachable state, at least one tooth engages with at least one projection, thereby restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in a counterclockwise direction. 22. The connector according to embodiment 21, wherein the actuator is configured to be pressed only when at least one projection is radially displaced relative to at least one tooth. 23. The connector according to embodiment 21 or 22, wherein at least one projection has a projection side extending from the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port toward the actuator, and at least one tooth has a tooth side extending from the inner surface of the actuator toward the Luer lock connection port, and in the detachable state, the tooth side engages with the projection side. 24. The connector according to any one of embodiments 21 to 23, wherein in an inseparable state, at least one tooth detaches from at least one projection. 25. The connector according to Embodiment 8, or any one of Embodiments 9 to 24 if dependent on Embodiment 8, wherein the Luer lock connection port is configured to be axially displaced to a third position along the longitudinal axis. 26. The connector according to Embodiment 25, wherein the third position is the first position, or a position between the first position and the second position. 27. The connector according to embodiment 25 or 26, wherein the Luer lock connection port is configured to be freely displaced from a second position to a third position when a tensile force is applied while separating the external port from the Luer lock connection port. 28. The connector according to any one of embodiments 25 to 27, wherein the separation assist mechanism is configured to take a separable state when the Luer lock connection port is displaced to a third position. 29. The connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the Luer lock connection port is a male Luer lock connection port comprising an elongated central member and a collar surrounding the elongated central member, and the male Luer lock connection port is configured to be connected to an external port by screwing and receiving the external port between the collar and the elongated central member such that the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body when connected. 30. A connector according to Embodiment 29, wherein the collar extends parallel to the elongated central member, and the length of the collar is in the range of 5.4 mm to 8 mm. 31. The connector according to embodiment 30, wherein the outer body covers at least a large portion of the collar. 32. The connector according to any one of embodiments 29 to 31, wherein the collar and the elongated central member are integrally formed. 33. The connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a large portion of the Luer lock connection port. 34. The outer body of the connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of the Luer lock connection port. 35. The connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a large portion of the side wall of the Luer lock connection port. 36. The outer body of the connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of the side wall of the Luer lock connection port. 37. An adapter configured for use in a medical fluid transfer device, comprising a connector described in any one of the preceding embodiments. 38. An adapter according to embodiment 37, the adapter having a partition located at the distal end and configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe through the partition. 39. The adapter according to embodiment 37 or 38, wherein the connector constitutes the proximal portion of the adapter. 40. A connector for connecting to a fluid transfer device, comprising a Luer lock connection port configured to connect to an external port of the fluid transfer device, A connector comprising an outer body covering at least a portion of a Luer lock connection port, and a separation assist mechanism configured to selectively take between a non-separable state that allows rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis of the Luer lock connection port, and a separable state that restricts rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least counterclockwise to allow separation of an external port from the Luer lock connection port. 41. The connector according to embodiment 40, wherein the outer body comprises a side wall having at least one opening formed therein, the side wall being configured to be used together with the separation assist mechanism to provide access to the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, at least in the separable state. 42. The connector according to Embodiment 41, wherein the separation assist mechanism comprises an actuator at least partially positioned within the opening, the actuator having an inner surface facing a Luer lock connection port and an outer surface on the opposite side of the actuator, and the separation assist mechanism is configured to enter a separable state when a pressing force is applied to the actuator and to enter a non-separable state when the force is removed. 43. The connector according to embodiment 42, wherein, in the separable state, the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the actuator is less than the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the rim of the opening. 44. The connector according to embodiment 42 or 43, wherein, in the detachable state, at least a large portion of the outer surface of the actuator is positioned below a virtual plane defined by the rim of the opening. 45. The connector according to any one of embodiments 42 to 44, wherein the actuator has a first portion extending from an outer body and a second portion extending from the first portion, the first portion forming part of the outer body. 46. ​​The connector according to embodiment 42, wherein the first and second parts constitute a lever. 47. The connector according to any one of embodiments 42 to 46, wherein the separation assist mechanism comprises a first engaging portion that constitutes a part of the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port and a second engaging portion that constitutes a part of the inner surface of the actuator, and in the separable state, the first engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion to restrict the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction. 48. The connector according to embodiment 47, wherein, in an inseparable state, the first engaging portion detaches from the second engaging portion. 49. The connector according to embodiment 47 or 48, wherein the first engaging portion comprises at least one projection formed on the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, and the second engaging portion comprises at least one tooth protruding from the inner surface of the actuator, wherein in the detachable state, at least one tooth engages with at least one projection, thereby restricting rotation of the Luer lock connection port in at least a counterclockwise direction. 50. The connector according to embodiment 49, wherein the actuator is configured to be pressed only when at least one projection is radially displaced relative to at least one tooth. 51. The connector according to embodiment 49 or 50, wherein at least one projection has a projection side extending from the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port toward the actuator, and at least one tooth has a tooth side extending from the inner surface of the actuator toward the Luer lock connection port, and in the detachable state, the tooth side engages with the projection side. 52. The connector according to any one of embodiments 49 to 51, wherein in an inseparable state, at least one tooth detaches from at least one projection. 53. The connector according to any one of embodiments 40 to 52, wherein the Luer lock connection port is configured to be displaced axially along the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position. 54. The connector according to embodiment 53, wherein the Luer lock connection port is configured to displace from a first position to a second position when a pressing force is applied. 55. The connector according to embodiment 53 or 54, wherein the Luer lock connection port is configured to be axially displaced to a third position along the longitudinal axis. 56. The connector according to embodiment 55, wherein the third position is the first position, or any position between the first position and the second position. 57. The connector according to embodiment 56, wherein the Luer lock connection port is configured to displace from a second position to a third position when a tensile force is applied. 58. The connector according to any one of embodiments 53 to 57, wherein the separation assist mechanism is configured to take a separable state when the Luer lock connection port is displaced to a second position. 59. The connector according to any one of embodiments 53 to 57, wherein the separation assist mechanism is configured to take a separable state when the Luer lock connection port is displaced to a third position. 60. The connector according to any one of embodiments 40 to 59, further comprising a coupling assist mechanism configured to selectively take between a coupling-enabled state that restricts rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise and a non-coupling state that allows rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise. 61. The connector according to embodiment 60, wherein the coupling assist mechanism is configured to be in a connectable state at least while the coupling between the Luer lock connection port and the external port is in progress. 62. The connector according to embodiment 60 or 61, wherein the coupling assist mechanism is configured to allow the Luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis when in a connectable state. 63. The connector according to any one of embodiments 60 to 62, wherein the coupling assist mechanism is configured to allow the Luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis when the connector is not coupled. 64. A connector according to any one of embodiments 60 to 63, dependent on embodiment 59, wherein the non-connectable state is associated with a first position and the connectable state is associated with a second position. 65. The connector according to embodiment 64, wherein the connecting auxiliary mechanism comprises at least one locking member attached to the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port and at least one restraining member attached to the inner surface of the outer body, wherein in a second position, the locking member engages with the restraining member, thereby restricting rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least clockwise. 66. The connector according to embodiment 65, wherein, in the first position, the locking member detaches from the restraining member. 67. The connector according to any one of embodiments 40 to 66, wherein the Luer lock connection port is a male Luer lock connection port comprising an elongated central member and a collar surrounding the elongated central member, and the male Luer lock connection port is configured to be connected to an external port by screwing and receiving the external port between the collar and the elongated central member such that the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body when connected. 68. A connector according to Embodiment 67, wherein the collar extends parallel to the elongated central member, and the length of the collar is in the range of 5.4 mm to 8 mm. 69. The connector according to embodiment 68, wherein the outer body covers at least a large portion of the collar. 70. The connector according to any one of embodiments 67 to 69, wherein the collar and the elongated central member are integrally formed. 71. The connector according to any one of embodiments 40 to 70, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a large portion of the Luer lock connection port. 72. The connector according to any one of embodiments 40 to 71, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of the Luer lock connection port. 73. The connector according to any one of embodiments 40 to 72, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a large portion of the side wall of the Luer lock connection port. 74. The connector according to any one of embodiments 40 to 73, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of the side wall of the Luer lock connection port. 75. An adapter configured for use in a medical fluid transfer device, comprising a connector as described in any one of embodiments 40 to 74. 76. An adapter according to embodiment 75, the adapter having a partition located at the distal end and configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe through the partition. 77. The adapter according to embodiment 75 or 76, wherein the connector constitutes the proximal portion of the adapter. 78. A connector for connection to a fluid transfer device, An outer body having a longitudinal axis, A connector comprising a Luer lock connection port located within an outer body and configured to connect to an external port of a fluid transfer device, wherein the Luer lock connection port is rotatable in at least one of clockwise and counterclockwise directions about its longitudinal axis, at least before connection to the external port is initiated, and the outer body radially covers most of the Luer lock connection port. 79. An adapter configured for connection to a syringe having an air chamber and a liquid chamber, A liquid channel configured to communicate with a liquid chamber, An air channel configured to communicate with an air chamber, An adapter comprising a first valve that communicates with an air channel and has a first valve open state that allows air in the air channel to escape to the surroundings, and a first valve normally closed state. 80. The adapter according to embodiment 79, wherein the first valve is configured to automatically displace to a first valve open state in response to the air pressure in the air channel exceeding a first predetermined threshold. 81. The adapter according to embodiment 79 or 80, wherein the first valve comprises a first valve seat member that at least partially defines a first valve passage having fluid communication with an air channel in a first valve open state, and a first valve sealing member that engages with the first valve seat member and thereby seals the first valve passage in a first valve normally closed state. 82. The adapter according to embodiment 81, wherein, in the first valve open state, the first valve sealing member detaches at least partially from the first valve seat member, thereby releasing the seal on the first valve passage. 83. The adapter according to embodiment 81 or 82, wherein the first valve passage defines at least a portion of a first flow path extending between an air channel and the surroundings, and the first flow path can be selectively sealed by the first valve in the normally closed state of the first valve. 84. The adapter according to embodiment 83, wherein the first valve seals the first flow path when the first valve is normally closed, and releases the seal on the first flow path when the first valve is open, allowing air in the air channel to escape to the surroundings. 85. Air channels and fluids are in communication, The adapter according to any one of embodiments 79 to 84, further comprising a second valve having a second valve open state that allows air to enter the air channel from the surroundings and a second valve normally closed state. 86. The adapter according to embodiment 85, wherein the second valve is configured to automatically displace to a second valve open state in response to the air pressure in the air channel falling below a second predetermined threshold which is less than a first predetermined threshold. 87. The adapter according to embodiment 85 or 86, wherein the second valve comprises a second valve seat member having a second valve passage that is in fluid communication with an air channel when the second valve is open, and a second valve sealing member that engages with the second valve seat member and thereby seals the second valve passage when the second valve is normally closed. 88. The adapter according to embodiment 87, wherein, in the second valve open state, the second valve sealing member engages at least partially with the second valve seat member, thereby releasing the second valve passage. 89. The adapter according to embodiment 87 or 88, wherein the second valve passage defines at least a portion of a second flow path extending between the air channel and the surroundings, and the second flow path can be selectively sealed by the second valve in the normally closed state of the second valve. 90. The adapter according to Embodiment 89, wherein the second valve seals the second flow path when the second valve is normally closed, and unseals the second flow path when the second valve is open, allowing air to enter the air channel from the surroundings. 91. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 85 to 90, wherein the first valve and the second valve are located within a single common valve housing. 92. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 85 to 91, wherein the first valve and the second valve are integrated as a single valve device. 93. The adapter according to embodiment 92, wherein the valve device comprises first and second sealing members configured as a single, integrated sealing member that displaces the valve device to a first valve open state that allows air in the air channel to escape to the surroundings, a second valve open state that allows air to enter the air channel from the surroundings, and a normally fully closed state. 94. The adapter according to Embodiment 93, wherein the valve device is normally in a fully closed state, the valve device automatically displaces to a first valve open state in response to the air pressure inside the valve device rising above a first predetermined threshold, and the valve device automatically displaces to a second valve open state in response to the air pressure inside the valve device falling below a second predetermined threshold. 95. The adapter according to embodiment 94, wherein the first predetermined threshold is greater than the second predetermined threshold. 96. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 93 to 95, wherein the sealing member is integral. 97. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 93 to 96, wherein the valve device further comprises a first valve seat member and a second valve seat member, and a single integrated sealing member having a first portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the first valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing a first valve passage, and a second portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the second valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing a second valve passage. 98. In the normally fully closed state, the first portion of the sealing member engages with the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage, and the second portion of the sealing member engages with the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage. In the first valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member at least partially detaches from the first valve seat member, thereby releasing the seal on the first valve passage; and in the first valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member engages with the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage. The adapter according to Embodiment 97, wherein in a second valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member at least partially detaches from the second valve seat member, thereby unsealing the second valve passage, and in a second valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member engages with the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage. 99. The adapter according to Embodiment 98, wherein in a first valve open state, the valve device allows air to escape from inside the valve device to outside the valve device through a first valve passage, and in a second valve open state, the valve device allows air to enter the valve device from outside the valve device through a second valve passage. 100. In the first valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member engages with the second valve seat member more tightly than in the normally fully closed state. The adapter according to embodiment 98 or 99, wherein in the second valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member engages with the first valve seat member more tightly than in the normally fully closed state. 101. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 93 to 100, wherein the first portion of the sealing member and the second portion of the sealing member are positioned at opposing ends of the sealing member. 102. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 79 to 101, further comprising a first valve and a first outlet in fluid communication with the surroundings, wherein the first outlet is configured to receive therein a lever button that is operable to detach the adapter from an external female connector. 103. The adapter according to Embodiment 102, in which the first flow path extends through the first outlet, as described in Embodiment 83. 104. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 85 to 103, further comprising a second valve and a second outlet in fluid communication with the surroundings, wherein the second outlet is an opening formed in the side wall of the outer body of a Luer lock connection port constituting the proximal end of the adapter. 105. The adapter according to Embodiment 104, when dependent on Embodiment 89, wherein the second flow path extends through the second outlet. 106. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 92 to 101, wherein the second valve seat member comprises a valve seat having a valve seat opening, the first valve seat member comprises a central member extending through the valve seat opening, and the sealing member is positioned at least partially within the valve seat opening and radially between the valve seat and the central member. 107. The adapter according to Embodiment 106, wherein a first portion of the sealing member is configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the central member, thereby selectively displacing the valve device to a first valve-open state, allowing air to pass through a first valve passage defined between the central member and the sealing member, and a second portion of the sealing member is configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the valve seat, thereby selectively displacing the valve device to a second valve-open state, allowing air to pass through a second valve passage defined between the valve seat and the sealing member. 108. The adapter according to embodiment 106 or 107, wherein the valve seat has an inner surface facing an air channel and an outer surface facing the opposite side of the valve seat, a second portion of the sealing member engages with the inner surface of the valve seat, and the sealing member further comprises a third portion of the sealing member having a fixing member that engages with the outer surface of the valve seat and thereby holds the sealing member in place. 109. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 79 to 108, further comprising an actuator configured to selectively switch the adapter between a fully operational state in which the adapter is fully operational for the transfer of liquid through a liquid channel and a partially inoperable state in which the adapter is at least partially inoperable for the transfer of liquid through a liquid channel. 110. The adapter according to embodiment 109, wherein the actuator is configured to indirectly and at least partially block the transfer of liquid through the liquid channel in at least a partial inoperability state. 111. The adapter according to Embodiment 109 or 110, wherein the movement of fluid through the liquid channel depends at least in part on the passage of air through a first valve, and the actuator is configured to selectively prevent the passage of air, thereby displacing the adapter into at least a partial inoperable state, and thereby indirectly and at least partially blocking the movement of liquid through the liquid channel. 112. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 109 to 111, wherein in a fully operational state the adapter is operable to transfer liquid through the liquid channel in a first direction and in the opposite second direction, and in at least a partially inoperable state the adapter is not operable to transfer liquid through the liquid channel in at least one of the first and second directions. 113. The adapter according to Embodiment 112, wherein the movement of liquid in a first direction through the liquid channel depends on the discharge of air from within the adapter through a first valve, and in at least a partial inoperability state, the actuator prevents the discharge of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperable with respect to the movement of liquid in a first direction through the liquid channel. 114. The adapter according to embodiment 112 or 113, wherein the movement of liquid in a second direction through the liquid channel depends on the intake of air into the adapter through a first valve, and in at least a partial inoperability state, the actuator prevents the intake of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperable with respect to the movement of liquid in a second direction through the liquid channel. 115. An adapter according to embodiment 114, wherein, in at least a partial inoperability state, the actuator is configured to directly, at least partially, block the transfer of liquid through the liquid channel. 116. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 109 to 115, wherein the actuator has a first actuator state associated with a fully operational state of the adapter and a second actuator state associated with at least a partially inoperable state of the adapter. 117. The adapter according to embodiment 116, wherein the actuator is displaceable between a first actuator state and a second actuator state when an external force is applied. 118. The adapter according to embodiment 117, wherein the actuator is configured to remain in a first and a second actuator state, respectively, when the external force is removed. 119. The adapter according to embodiment 117, wherein the actuator is normally configured in one of a first and second actuator state, displaces to the other of the first and second actuator states when an external force is applied, and automatically returns to one of the first and second actuator states when the external force is removed. 120. The adapter according to embodiment 119, wherein the actuator is normally configured in a second actuator state, displaced to a first actuator state when an external force is applied, and automatically returns to the second actuator state when the external force is removed. 121. In a second actuator state, the actuator is configured to engage with a third portion of the sealing member, thereby preventing the passage of air between the central member and the sealing member, and thereby preventing the discharge of air from the valve device regardless of the state of the valve device, as described in any one of embodiments 116 to 120 dependent on embodiment 101. 122. Valve device, A valve device comprising a sealing member configured to displace the valve device to a first valve open state that allows air to escape from inside the valve device to the surroundings, a second valve open state that allows air to enter the valve device from the surroundings, and a normally fully closed state. 123. The valve device according to Embodiment 122, wherein the valve device is normally in a fully closed state, and the sealing member automatically displaces the valve device to a first valve open state in response to the air pressure inside the valve device rising above a first predetermined threshold, and automatically displaces the valve device to a second valve open state in response to the air pressure inside the valve device falling below a second predetermined threshold. 124. The valve device according to embodiment 123, wherein the first predetermined threshold is greater than the second predetermined threshold. 125. The valve device according to any one of embodiments 122 to 124, further comprising a first valve seat member that at least partially defines a first valve passage and a second valve seat member that at least partially defines a second valve passage, wherein the sealing member has a first portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the first valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve passage, and a second portion of the sealing member configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the second valve seat member, thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve passage. 126. In the normally fully closed state, the first portion of the sealing member engages with the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage, and the second portion of the sealing member engages with the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage. In the first valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member at least partially detaches from the first valve seat member, thereby releasing the seal on the first valve passage; and in the first valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member engages with the second valve seat member, thereby sealing the second valve passage. The valve device according to Embodiment 125, wherein in the second valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member at least partially detaches from the second valve seat member, thereby desealing the second valve passage, and in the second valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member engages with the first valve seat member, thereby sealing the first valve passage. 127. The valve device according to Embodiment 126, wherein in a first valve open state, the valve device allows air to escape from inside the valve device to the outside of the valve device through a first valve passage, and in a second valve open state, the valve device allows air to enter the valve device from the outside of the valve device through a second valve passage. 128. In the first valve open state, the second portion of the sealing member engages with the second valve seat member more tightly than in the normally fully closed state. The adapter according to embodiment 126 or 127, wherein in the second valve open state, the first portion of the sealing member engages with the first valve seat member more tightly than in the normally fully closed state. 129. A valve device according to any one of embodiments 125 to 128, wherein the first portion of the sealing member and the second portion of the sealing member are located at opposing ends of the sealing member. 130. The valve device according to any one of embodiments 122 to 129, wherein the sealing member includes a central portion having a first end and a second end that constitute a first part of the sealing member, and the elastic skirt portion extends from around the second end, and the skirt portion is defined between a first rim proximal to the second end and a second rim distal to the second end. 131. The valve device according to any one of embodiments 122 to 127, wherein the second valve seat member comprises a valve seat having a valve seat opening, the first valve seat member comprises a central member extending through the valve seat opening, and the sealing member is positioned at least partially within the valve seat opening and radially between the valve seat and the central member. 132. The valve device according to Embodiment 131, wherein a first portion of the sealing member is configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the central member, thereby selectively displacing the valve device to a first valve-open state, allowing air to pass through a first valve passage defined between the central member and the sealing member, and a second portion of the sealing member is configured to selectively engage with and at least partially disengage from the valve seat, thereby selectively displacing the valve device to a second valve-open state, allowing air to pass through a second valve passage defined between the valve seat and the sealing member. 133. The valve device according to embodiment 131 or 132, wherein the valve seat has an inner surface facing an air channel and an outer surface facing the opposite side of the valve seat, a second portion of the sealing member engages with the inner surface of the valve seat, and the sealing member further comprises a third portion of the sealing member having a flange configured to engage with the outer surface of the valve seat, thereby holding the sealing member in place. 134. A valve device according to any one of embodiments 122 to 133, wherein the sealing member is integral. 135. A valve device according to any one of embodiments 122 to 134, further comprising an actuator configured to control the flow of air through the valve device. 136. The valve device according to embodiment 135, wherein the actuator is configured to displace the valve device from a normally fully closed state to at least one of a first valve open state and a second valve open state when an external force is applied. 137. The valve device according to embodiment 135 or 136, wherein the actuator is configured to selectively prevent the flow of air through the valve device regardless of the state of the valve device. 138. Adapter, A liquid channel configured to facilitate the movement of the liquid, An adapter comprising an actuator configured to selectively switch the adapter between a fully operational state in which the adapter is fully capable of transferring a liquid and a partially inoperable state in which the adapter is at least partially inoperable for transferring a liquid. 139. The adapter according to embodiment 138, wherein the actuator is configured to indirectly and at least partially block the transfer of liquid through the liquid channel in at least a partial inoperability state. 140. The adapter according to embodiment 138 or 139, further comprising an air channel configured to facilitate the passage of air, wherein the movement of fluid through the liquid channel depends at least partially on the passage of air through the air channel, and the actuator is configured to selectively prevent the passage of air, thereby displacing the adapter into at least a partially inoperable state, and at least partially blocking the movement of liquid through the liquid channel. 141. An adapter according to any one of embodiments 138 to 140, wherein in a fully operational state, the adapter is operable to transfer liquid through the liquid channel in a first direction and a second direction, and in at least a partially inoperable state, the adapter is inoperable to transfer liquid through the liquid channel in at least one of the first and second directions. 142. The adapter according to claim 141, wherein the movement of liquid in a first direction through a liquid channel depends on the discharge of air from within the adapter through an air channel, and in at least a partial inoperability state, the actuator prevents the discharge of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperable with respect to the movement of liquid in a first direction through the liquid channel. 143. The adapter according to embodiment 141 or 142, wherein the movement of liquid in a second direction through the liquid channel depends on the intake of air into the adapter, and in at least a partial inoperability state, the actuator prevents the intake of air, thereby rendering the adapter inoperable with respect to the movement of liquid in a second direction through the liquid channel. 144. An adapter according to embodiment 138, wherein, in at least a partial inoperability state, the actuator is configured to directly, at least partially, block the transfer of liquid through the liquid channel. 145. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 138 to 144, wherein the actuator has a first actuator state associated with a fully operational state of the adapter and a second actuator state associated with at least a partially inoperable state of the adapter. 146. The adapter according to embodiment 145, wherein the actuator is displaceable between a first actuator state and a second actuator state when an external force is applied. 147. The adapter according to embodiment 146, wherein the actuator is configured to remain in a first and a second actuator state, respectively, when the external force is removed. 148. The adapter according to embodiment 146, wherein the actuator is normally configured in one of two actuator states, displaced to the other of the two actuator states when an external force is applied, and automatically returns to one of the two actuator states when the external force is removed. 149. The adapter according to embodiment 148, wherein the actuator is normally configured in a second actuator state, displaced to a first actuator state when an external force is applied, and automatically returns to the second actuator state when the external force is removed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0170] Embodiments are described herein, only as non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in order to better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it can actually be carried out. [Figure 1A] This is a front perspective view of an adapter relating to a first example of the subject matter of this disclosure, together with fluid transfer devices separated from each other. [Figure 1B] Figure 1A shows a front perspective view of the adapter and fluid transfer device connected to each other. [Figure 1C] This is a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 1B, showing the adapter in an inseparable state. [Figure 2A] Figure 1A is a side view of the adapter, showing the syringe and syringe adapter connected to each other but detached from the adapter. [Figure 2B] This is a cross-sectional view along line BB in Figure 2A. [Figure 2C] Figure 2A is a side view of the adapter, showing the syringe and syringe adapter connected to each other, and also connected to the adapter. [Figure 2D] Figure 2C is a cross-sectional view along the CC line. [Figure 2E] This is an enlarged view of section A2 in Figure 2D. [Figure 3A]Figure 1A is a side view of the adapter, with the Luer lock connection port exposed to the outside of the adapter for illustrative purposes. [Figure 3B] Figure 3A is a rear perspective view of the adapter. [Figure 3C] Figure 3A is a front perspective view of the adapter. [Figure 3D] This is an enlarged view of section A3 in Figure 3C. [Figure 3E] Figure 1A is a front perspective view of the adapter. [Figure 3F] This is a cross-sectional view along line DD in Figure 3E, showing an adapter in a non-connectable state. [Figure 3G] This is an enlarged view of section A4 in Figure 3F. [Figure 3H] This is a cross-sectional view along line DD in Figure 3E, showing the adapter in a connectable state. [Figure 3I] This is an enlarged view of section A5 in Figure 3H. [Figure 4A] This is the same diagram as Figure 1C, showing the adapter in a detachable state. [Figure 4B] This is an enlarged view of section A6 in Figure 4A. [Figure 4C] This is an enlarged view of section A1 in Figure 1C. [Figure 4D] Figure 1B is a rear perspective view of the adapter and external device, showing the adapter in a detachable state. [Figure 4E] Figure 4D is a cross-sectional view along the EE line. [Figure 4F] This is an enlarged view of section A7 in Figure 4E. [Figure 5A] This is a side perspective view of an adapter according to a second example of the subject matter of this disclosure, in an inseparable state. [Figure 5B] Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view along line FF showing the adapter with the Luer lock connection port in its normal position. [Figure 5C] This is an enlarged view of section A8 in Figure 5B. [Figure 5D] This is the same diagram as Figure 5C, which shows an adapter with a Luer lock connection port in the first position. [Figure 6A] Figure 1A is a side perspective view of the adapter. [Figure 6B] This is a cross-sectional view along the GG line in Figure 6A. [Figure 6C] This is an enlarged view of section A9 in Figure 6B. [Figure 6D] Figure 6A is a front perspective view of the adapter. [Figure 6E] Figure 6D is a cross-sectional view along the HH line. [Figure 7A] This is a side perspective view of an adapter relating to a third example of the subject matter of this disclosure. [Figure 7B] This is a cross-sectional view along line II in Figure 7A. [Figure 7C] This is an enlarged view of section A10 in Figure 7B. [Figure 7D] Figure 7A is a front perspective view of the adapter. [Figure 7E] This is a cross-sectional view along line JJ in Figure 7D. [Figure 8A] This is a top perspective view of an adapter relating to a fourth example of the subject matter of this disclosure. [Figure 8B] Figure 8A is a cross-sectional view along the KK line. [Figure 8C] Figure 8A is a side perspective view of the adapter. [Figure 8D] Figure 8C is a cross-sectional view along the line LL. [Figure 8E] Figure 8C is a cross-sectional view along the MM line. [Figure 9A] Figure 8A is a side view of the adapter. [Figure 9B] Figure 9A is a cross-sectional view along the NN line. [Figure 9C] This is an enlarged view of section A11 in Figure 9B. [Figure 10A] This is a rear perspective view of an adapter relating to a fifth example of the subject matter of this disclosure. [Figure 10B] This is a cross-sectional view along line OO in Figure 10A. [Figure 10C] This is an enlarged view of section A12 in Figure 10B. [Figure 10D]This is another cross-sectional view of the portion shown in Figure 10C, having a cross-section along a line perpendicular to line OO. [Figure 11A] This is a cross-sectional view of an adapter relating to a sixth example of the subject matter of this disclosure, showing a valve device and an actuator in a first actuator state. [Figure 11B] Figure 11A is a front view of the actuator. [Figure 11C] This is the same figure as Figure 11A, showing the actuator in the second actuator state. [Figure 11D] Figure 11C is a front view of the actuator. [Figure 12A] This is a cross-sectional view of an adapter according to a seventh example of the subject matter of this disclosure, showing a valve device and an actuator in a second actuator state. [Figure 12B] This is the same figure as Figure 12A, showing the actuator in the first actuator state. [Figure 13A] This is a side perspective view of an adapter according to a seventh example of the subject matter of this disclosure, showing an actuator configured to directly block a liquid channel, with the actuator in a first actuator state. [Figure 13B] Figure 13A is a cross-sectional view along the PP line. [Figure 13C] This is the same figure as Figure 13A, showing the actuator in the second actuator state. [Figure 13D] Figure 13C is a cross-sectional view along the QQ line. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0171] First, we focus on Figures 1A to 1C of the drawings, which show an adapter 1 according to an example of the subject matter of this disclosure, configured to connect to a fluid transfer device 300. The fluid transfer device 300 is a Luer lock connector known in the art, comprising an external port 310 which is a female Luer lock connector port. The external port 310 comprises a thread 320 configured to screw into a corresponding thread of another Luer lock connector port. The adapter 1 comprises a connector 10 having a Luer lock connector port 100 and an outer body 200. The adapter further comprises a housing 20 extending along a longitudinal axis X. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer body 200 and the housing 20 are integrally formed, and ultimately the outer body 200 constitutes part of the housing 20. However, in some other embodiments (not shown), the outer body 200 and the housing 20 may be manufactured separately and then connected to each other. In some embodiments, the housing 20 may be manufactured from two or more parts and then assembled together.

[0172] As shown in Figures 1B and 1C, the adapter 1 and the fluid transfer device 300 are connected by connecting the connector 10 to the external port 310. The connector 10 is a male Luer lock connector configured to accept the corresponding external port 310, i.e., the female Luer lock connector of the fluid transfer device 300. The Luer lock connection port 100 of the connector 10 is located within the outer body 200 and has a longitudinal axis X, which is also the longitudinal axis of the adapter 1. As shown in Figure 1A, the Luer lock connection port 100 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis X in either a clockwise direction represented by arrow R1 in Figure 1A, a counterclockwise direction represented by arrow R2 in Figure 1A, or both, prior to initiating connection with the fluid transfer device 300. The Luer lock connection port 100 is located inside the outer body 200, and as shown in Figures 1A to 1C, the outer body 200 is configured so that, after the Luer lock connection port 100 is connected to the external port 310, the operator cannot directly access the Luer lock connection port 100 through the outer body 200 with their fingertips. The Luer lock connection port 100 is rotatable in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions when connected to the fluid transfer device 300.

[0173] Since the Luer lock connection port 100 is configured to rotate within the outer body 200, the rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100 needs to be restricted in order to connect and disconnect the connector to and from the fluid transfer device 300. The connector 10 includes a connection assist mechanism configured to take a connectable state in which the rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100 is restricted in the clockwise direction to enable connection between the connector 10 and the fluid transfer device 300, and a non-connectable state in which the Luer lock connection port is allowed to rotate clockwise, which will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 3A to 3I. The connector 10 further includes a disconnection assist mechanism configured to take a disconnectable state in which the rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100 is restricted in the counterclockwise direction to enable disconnection of the connector 10 from the fluid transfer device 300, and a non-separable state in which the rotation of the Luer lock connection port is allowed to rotate counterclockwise, which will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 4A to 4F.

[0174] In this specification, clockwise and counterclockwise directions are referred to, for the purposes of this description, as viewed from the direction of the fluid transfer device 300 into the connector 10 along the longitudinal axis X.

[0175] Next, we consider Figures 2A to 2E of the drawings, which show adapter 1 together with syringe adapter 400 and syringe 500. Figure 2A shows the syringe adapter 400 and syringe 500 connected to each other, and the syringe adapter 1 not connected to syringe adapter 400. Syringe 500 is a syringe known in the art used for drug mixing and is adapted to draw a desired volume of drug from one container and then transfer the drug to a second container. Syringe 500 comprises a cylinder 510, a piston rod 520 having a cap 525, and a throat 530. The piston rod 520 extends from the cap 525 to a piston 540, which is sealed-engaged with the inner wall of cylinder 510 and displaceable relative to the cylinder. The piston 540 divides the internal volume of the cylinder 510 into two chambers, namely an air chamber 550 and a liquid chamber 560, having variable volumes defined by the position of the piston 540 within the cylinder 510. The piston rod 520 has an internal volume 570 that fluidly communicates with the air chamber 550 through a hole 580 formed in the piston rod 510, thereby making the internal volume 570 part of the air chamber 550. The syringe 500 further comprises an air needle 590 extending from the air chamber 550 to the outside of the syringe via a throat 530.

[0176] The syringe adapter 400 comprises a syringe adapter body 410 having a constriction 420 configured to connect to the throat 530 of a syringe. In the illustrated embodiment, the throat 530 is a male Luer lock connector and the constriction 420 is a female Luer lock connector, which are heat-welded to each other. The syringe adapter body 410 further comprises a flange 430 configured to lock with a corresponding element of the adapter 1 when the syringe adapter 400 is connected to the adapter 1. The syringe adapter 400 further comprises an internal locking structure 440 having a leaf 450 configured to lock with a corresponding element of the adapter 1 when the syringe adapter 400 is connected to the adapter 1. The internal locking structure 440 defines an air duct 460 and a liquid duct 470, both of which extend into a partition wall 480. The air duct 460 is configured to receive the tip of the air needle 590 when the syringe adapter 400 is connected to the syringe 500 and not to the adapter 1, as shown in Figure 2B. The syringe adapter 400 is in fluid communication with the liquid chamber 560 via the constriction 420 and throat 530 when the syringe adapter 400 is connected to the syringe 500, as shown in Figure 2B, and further comprises a liquid needle 490 extending from the constriction 420 to the liquid duct 470 when the syringe adapter 400 is not connected to the adapter 1. In some embodiments (not shown), the liquid needle 490 may be part of the syringe 500 extending from there.

[0177] Adapter 1 comprises a housing 20 having an outer notch 21 configured to receive and lock a leaf 450 when a syringe adapter 400 is connected to adapter 1. The housing 20 further comprises a lever 22 having a lever notch 23 configured to receive and lock a flange 430 when a syringe adapter 400 is connected to adapter 1. The housing 20 further comprises a first outlet 24, and the lever 22 comprises a lever button 25 located within the first outlet 24. The housing 20 further comprises a liquid channel 26 that is in fluid communication with connector 10 and is configured to receive a liquid needle 490 internally when a syringe adapter 400 is connected to adapter 1. The housing 20 further comprises an air channel 27 configured to receive an air needle 590 internally when a syringe adapter 400 with a syringe 500 connected to it is connected to adapter 1. The housing 20 further comprises a second outlet 28. Adapter 1 further comprises a partition wall 30 configured to engage with a partition wall 480, and configured to be punctured by an air needle 590 and a liquid needle 490 when a syringe adapter 400 to which a syringe 500 is connected is connected to adapter 1. Adapter 1 further comprises a first valve 40 that is in fluid communication with an air channel 27 and has a first valve open state that allows air in the air channel to escape to the surroundings, and a first valve normally closed state, which will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 6A to 6E. Adapter 1 further comprises a second valve 50 that is in fluid communication with the air channel 27 and has a second valve open state that allows air to enter the air channel 27 from the surroundings, and a second valve normally closed state, which will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 6A to 6E.

[0178] When adapter 1 is connected to syringe adapter 400 to which syringe 500 is connected, as shown in Figures 2C to 2E, partition wall 30 engages with partition wall 480, pushing partition wall 480 and internal locking structure 440 toward syringe 500, thereby causing air needle 590 and liquid needle 490 to first puncture partition wall 480 and then partition wall 30, with their tips entering air channel 27 and liquid channel 26, respectively. Furthermore, leaf 450 engages with and locks in notch 21, and flange 430 engages with and locks in lever notch 23. When adapter 1 is removed from syringe adapter 400, lever button 25 is further pushed into first outlet 24, thereby releasing flange 430 from lever notch 23.

[0179] Therefore, the adapter 1 facilitates the connection between the female connector of the syringe adapter 400 and the female external port 310 of the fluid transfer device 300, thereby facilitating the conversion of the standard female Luer lock port of the fluid transfer device 300 into a docking port for secure connection with the female connector of the syringe adapter 400.

[0180] As will be explained in more detail below with reference to Figures 6A to 6E, when overpressure is generated in the syringe 500, the overpressure is released into the atmosphere through the first valve 40. As will be explained in more detail below with reference to Figures 6A to 6E, when negative pressure is generated in the syringe 500, the second valve 50 is activated, allowing air to enter the air channel 27 from the atmosphere. The syringe adapter can be separated from the adapter 1 by pushing the lever button 25 into the first outlet 24, thereby disengaging the lever notch 23 from the flange 430.

[0181] Next, to describe the connector 10 in detail, refer to Figures 3A to 3I and Figures 4A to 4F. Figures 3A to 3D show various diagrams of the adapter 1 with the connector 10 having a Luer lock connection port 100 that extends from the outer body 200 along the longitudinal axis X of the adapter 1 for illustrative purposes. The Luer lock connection port 100 is a male Luer lock connection port comprising an elongated central member 110 that extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X. The elongated central member 110 has a front portion 110A, a middle portion 110B, and a rear portion 110C. The Luer lock connection port 100 further comprises a collar 120 surrounding the middle portion 110B of the elongated central member 110. The collar 120 has a side wall 121 that forms part of the side wall of the Luer lock connection port 100 and extends substantially parallel to the elongated central member 110, and a rear wall 122 that forms part of the rear wall of the Luer lock connection port 100 and extends substantially perpendicularly from the elongated central member 110. The length of the collar 120 in the direction along the longitudinal axis X, i.e., the length of the side wall 121 of the collar 120 designated as L1 (shown in Figure 3A), is in the range of 5.4 mm to 8 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated central member 110 and the collar 120 are integrally formed. However, in other embodiments (not shown), the elongated central member 110 and the collar 120 can be manufactured separately and then assembled together. The side wall 121 has an inner surface 121A facing the elongated central member 110 and an outer surface 121B on the opposite side. The inner surface 121A includes a thread 123 configured to screw onto the corresponding thread 320 of the fluid transfer device 300 when the fluid transfer device 300 is connected to the Luer lock connection port 100. As best shown in Figure 1C, the thread 123 screws onto the thread 320, thereby connecting the fluid transfer device 300 to the Luer lock connection port 100, and the external port 310 of the fluid transfer device 300 is received between the elongated central member 110 and the collar 120 so that the collar 120 is positioned between the external port 310 and the outer body 200. The outer surface 121B includes a plurality of projections 124 projecting outward from the outer surface 121B.Each of the projections 124 has a first projection side surface 124A and a second projection side surface 124B, with the thickness of the projection 124 defined between the two sides in a direction parallel to the outer circumference of the side wall 121. The projections 124 are provided with connecting members 121C that connect the projections 124 to each other along the outer surface 124B. In other embodiments, the outer surface 121B may comprise a single projection 124.

[0182] The rear wall 122 has an inner surface 122A (best shown in Figures 3F and 3G) facing the direction in which the fluid transfer device 300 is connected to the connector 10, and an outer surface 122B on the opposite side. The outer surface 122B is provided with a plurality of locking members 125 protruding therefrom. In other embodiments, the outer surface 122B may be provided with only one locking member 125. Each locking member 125 has a locking surface 125A that extends substantially perpendicularly to the outer surface 122B and the elongated central member 110, and has an edge 125B distal to the outer surface 122B. In other embodiments, the locking surface 125A may extend at an angle other than perpendicular to either or both of the outer surface 122B and the elongated central member 110. The locking surface 125A faces the clockwise rotational direction of the Luer lock connection port 100. The locking member 125 further comprises a slope 122C extending from the edge 125B to the outer surface 125B in the counterclockwise rotational direction of the Luer lock connection port 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the slope 125C is a gradient slope, but in other embodiments, the slope 125C may be a flat slope.

[0183] The outer body 200 includes a side wall 210 that corresponds to the side wall 121 of the Luer lock connection port 100 and extends substantially parallel to the side wall 121, and a rear wall 220 (best seen in Figure 3G) that corresponds to the rear wall 122 of the Luer lock connection port 100 and extends substantially parallel to the rear wall 122. The rear wall 220 has an inner surface 220A (shown in Figure 3G) that faces the Luer lock connection port 100 and an outer surface 220B on the opposite side. As shown in Figure 4B, the rear wall 220 further includes a through hole 221 that fluidly communicates with the liquid channel 26. The outer body 200 includes a central member 230 that extends from the inner surface 220A in a direction generally parallel to the side wall 210. The central member 230 receives the rear portion 110C of the elongated central member 110 of the Luer lock connection port 100, so that the elongated central member 110 is in fluid communication with the liquid channel 26 through the through hole 221. The central member 230 has a rim 231 (as shown in Figures 3C and 3D) substantially facing the rear wall 122 of the Luer lock connection port 100. As shown in Figure 3D, the rim 231 has a rim surface 231A extending parallel to the outer surface 122B of the rear wall 122 of the Luer lock connection port 100, and has a plurality of restraining members 232 protruding therefrom. In other embodiments, the rim 231 may have only one restraining member 232. Each of the restraining members 232 has a restraining surface 232A extending substantially parallel to the locking surface 231A and having an edge 232B distal to the rim surface 125A. The restraining surface 232A faces the counterclockwise rotational direction of the Luer lock connection port 100. The restraining member 232 further includes an inclined portion 231A extending from the edge 232B to the rim surface 232C in the clockwise rotational direction of the Luer lock connection port 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the restraining member 232 is connected to the inner surface 210A of the side wall 210 of the outer body 200 via a bridge 232D. In other embodiments, the adapter 1 may not include the bridge 232D.

[0184] In the illustrated example, the inclined portion 232C has a sloped surface, but in other embodiments, the inclined portion 232C may have a flat surface. The locking member 125 and the restraining member 232 constitute a coupling assist mechanism according to the illustrated example of the subject matter of this disclosure. The coupling assist mechanism is configured to selectively take between a connectable state, which restricts the rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100 at least in the clockwise direction R1, and a non-connectable state, which allows the Luer lock connection port to rotate at least in the clockwise direction R1. As shown in Figure 1A, when the coupling assist mechanism is in the non-connectable state, it is configured to take the connectable state when an operator applies a pressing force to the Luer lock connection port 100.

[0185] The side wall 210 of the outer body 200 has an inner surface 210A facing the central member 230 and an outer surface 210B on the opposite side. The side wall 210 further comprises an opening 211 extending between the inner surface 210A and the outer surface 210B. The opening 211 has a rim 212 (shown in Figure 4B) facing the Luer lock connection port 100 and having an inner surface 212A coinciding with the inner surface 210A and an outer surface 212B on the opposite side coinciding with the outer surface 210B. The connector 10 further comprises an actuator 240 at least partially positioned within the opening 211. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 240 is shown as being formed together with the housing 20. However, in other embodiments, the actuator 240 may be formed together with or connected to the outer body 200, for example, in the side wall 210, the rear wall 220, or the rim of the opening 211. The actuator 240 has an inner surface 240A facing the Luer lock connection port 100 and extending parallel thereto, and an outer surface 240B on the opposite side. The actuator 240 is formed of two parts, namely a first part 241 extending from the housing 20 and a second part 242 extending from the first part 241. The first part 241 and the second part 242 constitute a lever configured to pivot in and out of the opening 211 along either a connection between the first part 241 and the housing 20, or between the first part 241 and the second part 242. The inner surface 240A extends from the Luer lock connection port 100 (not necessarily perpendicular in the illustrated embodiment) and has teeth 243 having a first toothed side surface 243A parallel to the first and second projection side surfaces 124A and 124B of the projection 124, and a second side surface on the opposite side (not shown). The actuator 240 and the projection 124 constitute a separation assist mechanism according to an illustrated example of the subject matter of the present disclosure. The separation assist mechanism is configured to selectively take between a non-separable state that allows rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100 at least counterclockwise in R2 about the longitudinal axis X, and a separable state that restricts rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100 at least counterclockwise in R2, thereby enabling separation of an external port from the Luer lock connection port.As shown in Figure 4C, the separation assist mechanism is configured to be in a non-separable state, and when activated by the operator, as shown in Figure 4B, it takes on a separable state when separation occurs. Therefore, the separation assist mechanism needs to be maintained in the separable state only while separation is in progress.

[0186] In the illustrated embodiment, the adapter 1 further includes an O-ring 250 positioned between the rear portion 110C of the elongated central member 110 and the central member 230 of the Luer lock connection port 100, facilitating the efficient fitting of the rear portion 110C of the elongated central member 110 into the central member 230. In other embodiments, the adapter 1 may not include the O-ring 250.

[0187] To illustrate the connection of the connector 10 to the fluid transfer device 300, we will again refer to Figures 3A to 3I. As best shown in Figures 3F and 3G, the Luer lock connection port 100 is located within the outer body 200, so the locking member 125 does not engage with the restraining member 232, and the connection assist mechanism is in a non-connecting state. In this state, the Luer lock connection port 100 is in a first (normal) position within the outer body 200 along the longitudinal axis X and can rotate freely in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions about the longitudinal axis. In the first normal position of the Luer lock connection port 100, the proximal end 100A is in a first range E1 within the outer body 200 from the proximal end 200A of the outer body 200, as best shown in Figure 3F. Since the Luer lock connection port 100 can rotate freely in this position, the external element cannot be screwed into the threads 123 of the Luer lock connection port 100 unless the rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100 is restricted to at least the screwing direction (clockwise in the illustrated example). When the fluid transfer device 300 is connected to the connector 10, the connection assist mechanism needs to be displaced into a connectable state. The Luer lock connection port 100 is further pushed inward along the longitudinal axis X by the force applied by the fluid transfer device 300 when, for example, an operator pushes the fluid transfer device 300 along the longitudinal axis X while connecting it to the connector 10, as best shown in Figures 3H and 3I. As shown in Figures 3H and 3I, the Luer lock connection port 100 is in a second recessed position along the longitudinal axis X within the outer body 200, and the locking member 125 engages with the restraining member 232 such that the rotation of the Luer lock connection port is restricted to a clockwise direction, and thus the coupling auxiliary mechanism is in a connectable state, thereby enabling, for example, the connection between the connector 10 and the fluid transfer device 300. In the second recessed position of the Luer lock connection port 100, the proximal end 100A is in a second range E2 within the outer body 200 that is larger than the first range E1, from the proximal end 200A of the outer body 200, as best shown in Figure 3H.In this state, the Luer lock connection port 100 cannot rotate clockwise, so that the threads of the external port, for example, the threads of the fluid transfer device 300, can be screwed into the threads 123 of the Luer lock connection port, thereby connecting the Luer lock connection port to the connector 10. As shown in Figure 3I, in the connectable state, the locking surface 125A engages with the restraining surface 232A, thereby restricting the clockwise rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100. The inclined surface 125C engages with the inclined portion 232C, and the inclination of the inclined surface 125C and the inclined portion 232C allows the Luer lock connection port 100 to rotate counterclockwise. In other embodiments, the connecting auxiliary mechanism may have any other structure that can achieve a similar objective of restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100 relative to the outer body 200, at least in the screwing direction.

[0188] To illustrate the separation of the connector 10 from the fluid transfer device 300, we will again refer to Figures 1C and 4A-4F. As shown in Figures 1C and 4C, the fluid transfer device 300 is connected to the connector 10, the actuator 240 is not pressed, and therefore the separation assist mechanism is in a non-separable state. In the non-separable state of the separation assist mechanism, the Luer lock connection port 100 can rotate freely at least in the screwing direction (counterclockwise in the illustrated example). If the fluid transfer device 300 is rotated counterclockwise while connected to the connector 10, the Luer lock connection port 100 rotates with it, thereby preventing the separation of the fluid transfer device 300 from the connector 10. In order to perform separation, the rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100 needs to be restricted to the counterclockwise direction. However, as shown in Figures 1A-1C and 4A-4F, the opening 211 around the actuator 240 does not have enough space for an operator's (or even a child's) average (or smaller than average) fingertip to be inserted. Therefore, the outer body 200 prevents the operator from directly accessing the Luer lock connection port 100 with their fingertip, so the operator must access the Luer lock connection port 100 indirectly, facilitated by the actuator 240 in conjunction with the opening 211. Thus, when the fluid transfer device 300 is separated from the connector 10, the actuator 240 is pushed into the opening 211. As best shown in Figures 4A and 4D-4F, when the actuator 240 is pressed with a pressing force (by the operator), the teeth 243 engage with the projection 124, thereby shifting the separation assist mechanism into a detachable state. As shown in Figure 4F, the first tooth surface 243A of tooth 243 engages with the second tooth surface 124B of projection 124, thereby restricting the counterclockwise rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100. As is clear from Figure 4F, for the first tooth surface 243A of tooth 243 to engage with the second tooth surface 124B of projection 124, the actuator 240 must and can only be pressed when no portion of tooth 243 is directly above projection 124.In other words, in order to perform separation, the Luer lock connection port 100 needs to be rotated such that the teeth 243 and projection 124 are not radially aligned, and then the actuator 240 can be pressed. In fact, if the teeth 243 are directly above the projection 124, the projection prevents the actuator from being effectively pressed, thereby preventing the separation assist mechanism from effectively restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100. In embodiments where there are two or more projections (one embodiment shown in Figure 3B), the teeth must be aligned between two such projections, and then the actuator must be pressed to displace the separation assist mechanism into a separable state. In this state of the separation assist mechanism, when the fluid transfer device 300 is rotated counterclockwise, the Luer lock connection port 100 does not rotate with it, thereby allowing the operator to separate the fluid transfer device 300 from the connector 10 by rotating the fluid transfer device 300 counterclockwise. The actuator 240 returns to its original unpressed state when the pressing force applied by the operator is removed. In other embodiments, the separation assist mechanism may have any other structure that can achieve a similar objective of limiting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100 relative to the outer body 200, at least in the unscrew direction.

[0189] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, in the separable state, the actuator 240 is retracted into the opening 211 such that the minimum distance D1 between the outer surface 240B of the actuator 240 and the longitudinal axis X is smaller than the minimum distance D2 between the outer surface 212B of the rim 212 of the opening 211 and the longitudinal axis X. In other words, in the separable state, the outer surface 240B of the actuator 240 extends over the opening 211, is defined by the outer surface 212B of the rim 212, and / or is below the imaginary plane containing it.

[0190] As shown in Figure 4C, in the non-separable state, i.e., when the actuator 240 is not pressed, the outer surface 240B of the actuator 240, or at least a large portion thereof, is parallel to the outer body 200 and is below a virtual plane that includes the portion of the outer surface 210B furthest from the longitudinal axis, for example, portion 210BB as shown in Figure 4C. In other words, the maximum distance D3 between the outer surface 210B and the longitudinal axis X is greater than the maximum distance D4 between the outer surface 240B and the longitudinal axis X. Such a configuration of the actuator with an outer body 200 provides the actuator as a hidden button unless the operator assumes that the actuator 240 is an element equipped to facilitate the separation of the fluid transfer device 300 from the connector 10.

[0191] The drawings show two openings 211 and two corresponding actuators 240, but for ease of understanding, only one opening 211 and one actuator 240 are described herein, and it should be understood herein that the others operate in the same manner as those described herein. In fact, both actuators 240 can be used together from both sides of the connector 10 to improve the efficiency of the separation assist mechanism by more effectively restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100.

[0192] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1A-1C, 2A-2E, 3A-3I, and 4A-4F, the outer body 200 radially covers most of the Luer lock connection port 100, or at least the side wall 121. To facilitate connecting the connector 10 to or disconnecting the connector 10 from the fluid transfer device 300, the operator cannot access the Luer lock connection port 100 without using a separation assist mechanism or directly with their fingertips, thereby restricting rotation of the Luer lock connection port 100 in any direction. In other embodiments, the outer body 200 may have multiple openings or through-holes on the side wall 121 to radially cover at least 90 percent, or at least 80 percent, or at least 70 percent, or at least 60 percent, or at least 50 percent of the Luer lock connection port 100 or at least the side wall 210. However, each of such openings has at least one dimension smaller than the average diameter of a child's fingertip. For example, the average fingertip diameter of a child aged approximately 3 to 10 years is approximately 10 to 12 mm. Therefore, in some embodiments, all openings have at least one dimension smaller than 10 mm. Such a configuration of the outer body 200 having a Luer lock connection port 100 makes the connector 10 a tamper-proof connection, i.e., direct fingertip access to the Luer lock connection port 100 through the outer body 200 is prevented at least after the connector 10 is connected to the fluid transfer device 300.

[0193] Here, we focus on Figures 5A to 5D of the drawings, which show adapter 1' relating to another example of the subject matter of this disclosure. Adapter 1' has at least some elements corresponding to the elements of adapter 1 described above, and are indicated by corresponding reference numbers for ease of understanding. In addition, adapter 1' includes a raised portion 240C formed on the outer surface 240B' of actuator 240'. The raised portion 240C gives actuator 240' the appearance and feel of an actual button, unlike a hidden button such as the button of actuator 240 described above. In some embodiments (not shown), instead of the raised portion, there may be any other shape or structure, etc., for actuator to have the desired appearance and feel. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5C, teeth 243' are formed and positioned on the inner surface 240A' of actuator 240' such that teeth 243' are perpendicularly aligned on the connecting member 124C' when the Luer lock connection port 100' is in a second position along the longitudinal axis X' (for example, achieved during coupling and then left in that position). At this position of the Luer lock connection port 100', the connecting member 124C' prevents the actuator 240' from being pressed, thereby preventing the separation assist mechanism from achieving a separable state. In order to displace the separation assist mechanism and achieve a separable state, i.e., to press the actuator 240', the Luer lock connection port 100' needs to be pulled to a third position (the first position in the illustrated example) along the longitudinal axis X', as shown in Figure 5D. In some embodiments, the third position can be any position between the first and second positions. In some embodiments, the third position may be such that the first position can be located between the third and second positions. At this position of the Luer lock connection port 100', the connecting member 124C' is displaced from below the teeth 243', and therefore the actuator 240' can be pressed so that the separation assist mechanism achieves a separable state. The Luer lock connection port 100' can be pulled to a third position along the longitudinal axis X' by the tensile force applied when the operator pulls the fluid transfer device 300 when it is connected to the adapter 1'.

[0194] Next, we focus on Figures 6A to 6E of the drawings showing adapter 1, which is configured to connect to syringe 500 via syringe adapter 400, as described in relation to Figures 1A to 1C, Figures 2A to 2E, Figures 3A to 3I, and Figures 4A to 4F, as described in relation to Figures 2A to 2E. Adapter 1 is configured to solve the problem of overpressure and negative pressure that may occur in syringe 500. Adapter 1 is located within housing 20 and comprises a first valve 40 that is in fluid communication with a first outlet 24. The first valve 40 comprises a first valve seat member 41, which in the illustrated example is a valve seat defining a first valve passage 42 formed therein. The first valve seat member 41 has a first surface 41A facing the first outlet 24 and a second surface 41B on the opposite side, and the first valve passage 42 extends between the first surface 41A and the second surface 41B. The adapter 1 includes a first fluid path extending between the air channel 27 and the first outlet 24. The first fluid path passes through the first valve passage 42 and is selectively sealed by the first valve 40 in the first valve passage 42. The first valve 40 further includes a first valve sealing member 43 having a central portion 44 and a skirt portion 45 extending radially outward from there. The first valve sealing member 43 has a first surface 43A facing the first outlet 24 and a second surface 43B on the opposite side facing the first valve seat member 41. The portion of the second surface 43B corresponding to the central portion 44 includes a flange 46. The first valve 40 is positioned within the first valve passage 42 and further comprises a rigid central member 47 having a first end 47A and a second end 47B. The portion of the second surface 43B of the first valve sealing member 43 corresponding to the central portion 44 is attached to the first end 47A of the rigid central member 47 via a flange 46. The rigid central member 47 includes a bridge 47C (shown in Figure 6E) that connects the rigid central member 47 to the first valve seat member 41.

[0195] The adapter 1 is positioned within the housing 20 and further includes a second valve 50 that is in fluid communication with the second outlet 28. The second outlet 28 is defined by an opening 211 formed in the side wall 210 of the outer body 200. In the illustrated example, the second valve 50 includes a second valve seat member 51 that is a valve seat defining a second valve passage 52. The second valve seat member 51 has a first surface 51A facing the first valve seat member 41 and an opposite second surface 51B, and the second valve passage 52 extends between the first surface 51A and the second surface 51B. In the illustrated embodiment, the second surface 51B of the second valve seat member 51 forms a part of the inner surface 26A of the liquid channel 26. The adapter 1 includes a second flow path that extends between the air channel 27 and the second outlet 28. The first flow path passes through the second valve passage 52 and can be selectively sealed by the second valve 50 in the second valve passage 52. The second valve 50 further includes a second valve sealing member 53 having a central portion 54 and a skirt portion 55 extending radially outward therefrom. The second valve sealing member 53 has a first surface 53A facing the first valve seat member 41 and a second surface 53B facing the second valve seat member 51. The second end 47B of the rigid central member 47 is placed on the central portion 54 of the second valve sealing member 53.

[0196] The first and second valves have a structure as shown in FIGS. 6A-6E and are described above for purposes of illustration only as set forth herein, and the valves can have another structure that serves the same purpose, and examples thereof (particularly the first valve) are shown in FIGS. 5A-5D and are to be understood herein. In other words, it is to be understood herein that the valves shown in FIGS. 5A-5D (particularly the first valve) can be used in the example shown in FIGS. 6A-6E.

[0197] As shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C, the first valve 40 is normally in the first valve normally closed state, and the rim 45A of the skirt portion 45 is placed on the first surface 41A of the first valve seat member 41, thereby sealing the first valve passage 42, that is, preventing the air flow between the air channel 27 and the first outlet 24. As described above with reference to FIGS. 2A to 2E, when an overpressure is generated in the air channel 27, the air pressure in the air channel 27 applies a force to the second surface 43B of the first valve sealing member 43 through the first valve passage 42. When the air pressure in the air channel 27 exceeds a first predetermined threshold value (for example, having a value of 0.5 bar), the force applied to the second surface 43B thereby automatically lifts the rim 45A of the skirt portion 45 from the first surface 41A of the first valve seat member 41, thereby displacing the first valve 40 to the first valve open state and releasing the seal of the first valve passage 42. In this first valve open state of the first valve 40, air flows from the air channel 27 through the first valve passage 42 and escapes to the surroundings through the first outlet 24, thereby releasing the overpressure from the air channel 27. When the air pressure released from the air channel 27 drops below the first predetermined threshold value, the rim 45A returns to its original position, thereby automatically displacing the first valve 40 to the first valve normally closed state. It should be understood herein that the first predetermined threshold value is greater than the ambient pressure for air to flow from the air channel 27 to the surroundings. Further, the skirt portion 45 of the first valve sealing member 43 is an elastic member, and its elasticity is selected based on the first predetermined threshold value together with the geometric shape and the surrounding portion, and the first predetermined threshold value further depends on the magnitude of the pressure intended to be the maximum pressure that can be built up in the air channel 27 before being released to the atmosphere.

[0198] As further shown in Figures 6C and 6E, the second valve 50 is normally in the second valve normally closed state, and the rim 55A of the skirt portion 55 rests on the first surface 51A of the second valve seat member 51, thereby sealing the second valve passage 52, i.e., preventing airflow between the air channel 27 and the second outlet 28. The air pressure in the air channel 27 exerts a force on the first surface 53A of the second valve sealing member 53, counteracting the force applied by the ambient pressure on the second surface 53B of the second valve sealing member 53 through the second outlet 28, the air filter 56, and the second valve passage 52, thereby keeping the rim 55A engaged with the first surface 51A of the second valve seat member 51. When negative pressure is generated in the air channel 27 and the air pressure in the air channel 27 falls below a second predetermined threshold (for example, having a value of 0.2 bar), the force applied by the ambient pressure to the second surface 53B of the second valve sealing member 53 activates the second valve 50, thereby automatically lifting the rim 55A of the skirt portion 55 from the first surface 51A of the second valve seat member 51, thereby displacing the second valve 50 to the second valve open state and releasing the seal on the second valve passage 52. In the second valve open state of the second valve 50, air flows from the ambient into the air channel 27 through the second outlet 28, filter 56, and second valve passage 52, thereby balancing the negative pressure generated in the air channel 27. When the air pressure in the air channel 27 rises above the second predetermined threshold, the rim 55A returns to its original position, thereby automatically displacing the second valve 50 to the normally closed state of the second valve. In this specification, it should be understood that the second predetermined threshold is lower than the ambient pressure for air to flow from the surroundings into the air channel 27. Furthermore, the skirt portion 55 of the second valve sealing member 53 is an elastic member, and its elasticity is selected based on the second predetermined threshold, along with its geometric shape and surrounding components, and the second predetermined threshold further depends on the magnitude of the pressure intended to be the minimum pressure that can be tolerated in the air channel 27 before balancing from the surroundings.

[0199] In this specification, it should be understood that when the pressure in the air channel 27 is between a first predetermined threshold pressure and a second threshold pressure, both the first valve 40 and the second valve 50 are in their respective closed states. In particular, when the pressure in the air channel 27 is equal to the ambient pressure, both the first valve 40 and the second valve 50 are in their respective closed states.

[0200] It should be further understood herein that in the first valve open state, the second valve 50 remains in the normally closed state, and in the second valve open state, the first valve 40 remains in the normally closed state.

[0201] Next, we turn our attention to Figures 7A to 7E of the drawings, which show adapter 1'' relating to another example of the subject matter of this disclosure, configured to connect to syringe 500 via syringe adapter 400. Adapter 1'' has at least some elements corresponding to the elements of adapter 1 described above, and are indicated by corresponding reference numbers for ease of understanding. Instead of the first valve 40 and second valve 50 of adapter 1, adapter 1'' comprises a valve device 60 that fluidly communicates with the surroundings via a first outlet 24'' and a second outlet 28''. The valve device 60 is a dual-function valve configured to perform the functions of both the first valve 40 and the second valve 50. For example, adapter 1'' is configured to solve the problem of overpressure and negative pressure in syringe 500 that may occur in syringe 500, in that the valve device 60 is configured to facilitate the escape of air from inside the valve device 60 to the surroundings in the case of overpressure and to facilitate the flow of air from the surroundings into the valve device 60 in the case of negative pressure.

[0202] In the illustrated example, the valve device 60 includes a first valve seat member 61 which is a valve seat defining a first valve passage 62. The first valve seat member 61 has a first surface 61A facing the outlet 24'' and a second surface 61B on the opposite side, and the first valve passage 62 extends between the first surface 61A and the second surface 61B. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve device further includes a second valve seat member 71 which is a valve seat defining a second valve passage 72. The second valve seat member 71 has a first surface 71A facing the first valve seat member 61 and a second surface 71B on the opposite side, and the second valve passage 72 extends between the first surface 71A and the second surface 71B. The valve device 60 further includes a sealing member 63 which includes a central member 64 extending between the first valve seat member 61 and the second valve seat member 71. The central member 64 is positioned toward the first valve seat member 61 and has a first end 65 having a surface 65A facing the second surface 61B of the first valve seat member 61, constituting the first part of the sealing member. The central member 64 is positioned toward the second valve seat member 71 and has a second end 66 on the opposite side having a surface 66A facing the first surface 71A of the second valve. The sealing member 63 includes an elastic skirt portion 67 that extends from around the second end 66 toward the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71. The skirt portion 67 extends between a first rim 68 connected to the second end 66 of the central member 64 and a second rim 69 constituting the second part of the sealing member. The skirt portion 67 has a first surface 67A facing the first valve seat member 61 and a second surface 67B facing the second valve seat member 71. The first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71 has a projection 73 corresponding to a groove 66B formed in the surface 66A of the second end 66 of the central member 64. The sealing member 63 is positioned within the valve device 60 such that the groove 66B securely receives the projection 73 therein, preventing the sealing member 63 from moving in a plane parallel to the first and second valve seat members 61 and 71. The valve device 60 further comprises a side wall 70 extending from the first valve seat member 61 to the second valve seat member 71. The valve device 60 can communicate fluidly with a fluid transfer system, for example, an air channel 27'' in the illustrated embodiment, where the pressure needs to be maintained within a certain range through the side wall 70.However, in other embodiments, the valve device 60 can be used to serve a similar purpose in conjunction with fluid transfer systems not related to medical systems.

[0203] As shown in Figures 7C and 7D, the valve device 60 is normally in a fully closed state. The first portion 65A of the sealing member seals the first valve passage 62 by engaging with the second surface 61B of the first valve seat member 61. The second valve passage 72 is sealed by the second portion 69 of the sealing member engaging with the first surface 71A of the second valve seat. In this state, there is a gap G between surface 66A and the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71. Also, in this normally fully closed state, the volume V formed between the second surface 61B of the first valve seat member 61, the sealing member 63, the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71, and the side wall 70 becomes the volume inside the valve device 60.

[0204] When overpressure is generated within volume V, the air pressure within the valve device applies force to the first surface 67A of the skirt portion 67 of the skirt 63 of the sealing member 63. When the air pressure within the valve device 60 exceeds a first predetermined threshold, the force applied thereto to the first surface 67A causes the first rim 68 of the skirt portion 67 to bend toward the second valve seat member 71, and as a result, the surface 66A of the second end 66 of the central member 64 bends toward the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71 into the gap G. This causes the first portion 65A of the sealing member to detach from the second surface 61B of the first valve seat member 61, thereby releasing the seal on the first valve passage 62 and automatically displacing the valve device 60 into a first valve-open state. In the first valve-open state, air flows from volume V through the first valve passage 62 and escapes to the surroundings through the first outlet 24'', thereby releasing the overpressure from the valve device 60. When the air pressure released from the valve device 60 falls below a first predetermined threshold, the first rim 68 of the skirt portion 67 bends back to its normal position, thereby automatically displacing the valve device 60 to its normally fully closed state. It should be understood that, as used herein, the first predetermined threshold is selected based on the magnitude of the pressure intended to be greater than the ambient pressure for air to flow out of the valve device 60 and to be the maximum pressure that can be built within the valve device 60 before being released to the ambient.

[0205] In the normally fully closed state of the valve device 60, the air pressure inside the valve device 60 exerts a force on the first surface 67A of the skirt portion 67 against the force exerted on the second surface 67B of the skirt portion 67 by the ambient pressure through the second outlet 28'', the air filter 56'', and the second valve passage 72, thereby maintaining the second portion 69 of the sealing member engaged with the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71.

[0206] When negative pressure is generated within volume V, the force applied to the first surface 67A of the skirt portion 67 by the air pressure within the valve device 60 is reduced. When the air pressure within the valve device 60 falls below a second predetermined threshold, the second portion 69 of the sealing member automatically lifts from the first surface 71A of the second valve seat member 71, thereby displacing the valve device 60 to a second valve-open state and desealing the second valve passage 72. In the second valve-open state, air enters volume V from the ambient through the second outlet 28'', thereby balancing the negative pressure generated within the valve device 60. When the air pressure within the valve device 60 rises above a second predetermined threshold, the second portion 59 of the sealing member returns to its original position, thereby automatically displacing the valve device 60 to a normally fully closed state. It should be understood herein that the second predetermined threshold is selected based on the magnitude of the pressure that is intended to be less than the ambient pressure for air to flow from the ambient into the valve device 60 and to be the minimum acceptable pressure within the valve device 60 before balancing from the ambient.

[0207] In this specification, it should be understood that the valve device 60 is in a fully closed state when the pressure inside the valve device 60 is between a first predetermined threshold pressure and a second threshold pressure. In particular, the valve device 60 is in a fully closed state when the pressure inside the valve device 60 is equal to the ambient pressure.

[0208] Furthermore, it should be understood that the elasticity of the skirt portion 67 is selected based on a first predetermined threshold and a second predetermined threshold. It should be further understood that in the first valve-open state of the valve device 60, the second portion 69 of the sealing member seals the second valve passage 72, and in the second valve-open state, the first portion 65A of the sealing member seals the first valve passage 62.

[0209] The valve device 60 described above can be used with any fluid transfer device that requires maintaining air pressure within a certain range. Furthermore, the valve device 60 described above can be used with the adapter 1 described above, referring to Figures 6A to 6D, the first valve 40 and the second valve 50 can be realized as the valve device 60, and the sealing members 43 and 53 can be configured as a single common sealing member such as the sealing member 63.

[0210] This specification should be understood to acknowledge that the application of the dual-function valve 60 is advantageous over the application of the two valves 40 and 50 in that it requires the manufacture and assembly of a single sealing member instead of two separate sealing members. Furthermore, the single valve device occupies less space than two separate valves within the adapter housing.

[0211] Next, looking at Figures 8A to 8E of the drawings showing the adapter 600, the adapter 600 is a spike adapter configured to connect between at least two other devices in this non-limiting example, establishing a fluid connection between at least two other devices when the adapter 600 is an intermediate device. It should be noted that spike adapters and their basic functionality are generally known in the art and are described concisely herein for clarity and completeness.

[0212] As shown in the figure, the adapter 600 includes a body 601 having three body sections 610, 620, and 630, each terminating with at least one fluid inlet and / or outlet. Body section 610 includes a spike port 611 configured to receive a medical spike and establish fluid communication between the medical spike and the adapter 600. Thus, body section 610 is referred to as the spike receiving section. The medical spike essentially forms an inlet and / or outlet to a medical device, such as an infusion set, configured to connect to the patient's body to deliver a drug to the patient's body.

[0213] The main body 620 is configured as a second medical spike 621 terminating at least one fluid inlet / outlet 622. Thus, the main body 620 is referred to as the spike terminal. The medical spike 621 is connected to a spike port of a medical device and is configured to establish fluid communication with the spike port via at least one fluid inlet / outlet 622, so that fluid communication is established between the medical device and the adapter 600. For example, the medical device may be an IV bag having a spike port that accepts the spike 621, and fluid communication is established via the adapter 600 between the IV bag connected to the spike 621 and the patient connected to the spike accepted at the spike port 611.

[0214] The main body 630 is configured as a fluid transfer device 631 that utilizes contamination-free fluid transfer. The contamination-free fluid transfer device 631, called the drug injection section of the adapter 600, terminates at a fluid inlet 632, which is connected to an external fluid transfer device such as a syringe. From there, it receives fluid and is configured to transport it through a dedicated internal duct / flow path, through the adapter 600, to another external device such as an IV bag connected to the spike 621. This fluid transfer, controlled by the fluid transfer device 631, can be used to transfer a drug into an IV bag containing another drug or saline solution, and to transfer liquid from an IV bag to a syringe.

[0215] The syringe may be similar to the syringe 500 described above and may include at least some of the features of the syringe 500, in particular an air needle, a liquid needle, an air chamber, and a liquid chamber. As described above, the syringe can be used to deliver liquid from the syringe and to extract liquid into the syringe. When the syringe is connected to the adapter 600, for example, via a syringe adapter similar to the syringe adapter 400 described above, fluid communication is established between the air chamber of the syringe and the air channel 633 of the fluid transfer device 631 via an air needle, and fluid communication is established between the liquid chamber of the syringe and the liquid channel 634 of the fluid transfer device 631 via a liquid needle. The adapter 600 includes a partition wall 630A configured to facilitate the introduction of the needle into the fluid transfer device 631.

[0216] In some medical procedures, a syringe is required to extract a certain volume of saline solution from an IV bag and then replace the extracted volume of saline solution with a drug from another syringe (generally another syringe). To enable a single spike adapter to be used for both the operation between the syringe(s) and the IV bag, the spike adapter needs to be configured to facilitate bidirectional airflow between the syringe's air chamber and the surroundings, i.e., the expulsion of air from the air chamber and the inhalation of air into the air chamber, especially when the syringe used is similar to syringe 500, i.e., has an air chamber that is sealed from fluid communication with the surroundings except through an air needle extending from the air chamber to the outside of the syringe.

[0217] The flow of liquid (drug and saline) between the syringe and the IV bag through the adapter 600 is indicated by the double-sided arrow AR1, and the flow of air between the air channel 633 and the valve device (described in more detail below) associated with the adapter 600 is indicated by the arrow AR2. When the syringe is used to deliver liquid through the adapter 600, the air pressure in the air chamber of the syringe decreases, and when the syringe is operated in the opposite direction, i.e., when it is operated to withdraw liquid through the adapter 600, the air pressure in the air chamber of the syringe increases. If the pressure is not controlled, it may render the syringe at least partially inoperable. For example, if the decreased air pressure in the air chamber is not compensated, the syringe and the adapter 600 are not usable to deliver liquid from the syringe through the adapter 600, and if the increased pressure in the air chamber is not released, the syringe and the adapter 600 are not usable to withdraw liquid into the syringe through the adapter 600, thereby restricting the usability / operability of the adapter. Thus, the adapter 600 includes valves 640 and 650 for adjusting the pressure in the air channel of the adapter 600, and thus the pressure in the air chamber of the syringe, as described below.

[0218] Next, to explain the control of the air pressure in the adapter 600 and thus in the syringe, attention is drawn to FIGS. 9A - 9C of the drawings showing the adapter 600, more specifically, the valves 640 and 650. In the illustrated embodiment, the first valve 640 and the second valve 650 are positioned within the body 601 and form part of a common valve housing 602 that constitutes the fourth body portion of the body 601 of the adapter 600. In some embodiments, the valves can be positioned within a separate valve housing operably coupled to the body 601. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve housing 602, and thus the valves, are in fluid communication with the air channel 633 through a path 635 (seen in FIG. 8B) and an air filter 606.

[0219] The first valve 640 comprises a first valve seat member 641, which, in the illustrated example, is a valve seat defining a first valve passage 642 formed therein. The first valve seat member 641 has a first surface 641A and a second surface 641B on the opposite side, and the first valve passage 642 extends between the first surface 641A and the second surface 641B. The adapter 600 comprises a first flow path indicated by arrow AR3, which extends between the air channel 633 and the surroundings through the first valve passage 642 and is selectively sealed by the first valve 640 in the first valve passage 642. The first valve 640 further comprises a first valve sealing member 643 having a central portion 644 and a skirt portion 645 extending radially outward from there. The first valve sealing member 643 has a first surface 643A and a second surface 643B opposite to the first valve seat member 641. The first valve 640 further comprises a central member 647 extending from a central portion 644 through a first valve passage 642 and having a first end 647A toward the central portion 644 and a second end 647B opposite to the central portion 644. The central member 647 has a flange 646 extending from a second end 647B configured to engage with the second surface 641B of the first valve seat member 641, thereby securely holding the first valve sealing member 643 in place.

[0220] The first valve 640 operates in particular in conjunction with the syringe used to draw saline solution from the IV bag through the adapter 600. In some medical procedures, it is a protocol that only new / unused syringes should be used to draw saline solution from the IV bag, as syringes that have already been used to handle hazardous drugs may have some harmful hazardous fumes in the air chamber that should be prevented from being released into the surroundings. Thus, since the operation of the first valve 640 is associated with the operation of the syringe used to draw saline solution from the IV bag, the operation of the syringe can be controlled by controlling the operation of the first valve 650, as described below herein.

[0221] The adapter 600 further comprises a second valve 650 positioned within the housing 602. The second valve 650 includes a second valve seat member 651, which in the illustrated example is a valve seat defining a second valve passage 652. The second valve seat member 651 has a first surface 651A and a second surface 651B on the opposite side, and the second valve passage 652 extends between the first surface 651A and the second surface 651B. The adapter 600 includes a second flow path, indicated by arrow AR4, which extends between the air channel 633 and the surroundings through the second valve passage 652 and is selectively sealed by the second valve 650 in the second valve passage 652. The second valve 650 further comprises a second valve sealing member 653, which has a central portion 654 and a skirt portion 655 extending radially outward from there. The second valve sealing member 653 has a first surface 653A and a second surface 653B opposite to the second valve seat member 651. The central portion 654 is connected to the second valve seat member 651 by a rigid central member 656, thereby holding the second valve sealing member 653 in place.

[0222] As shown in Figure 9C, the first valve 640 is normally in the first valve normally closed state, and the rim 645A of the skirt portion 645 rests on the first surface 641A of the first valve seat member 641, thereby sealing the first valve passage 642, i.e., preventing airflow between the air channel 633 and the surroundings. If overpressure is generated in the air channel 633, for example, when a syringe is used to extract liquid into the syringe through the adapter 600, the air pressure in the air channel 633 exerts a force on the second surface 643B of the first valve sealing member 643 via the first valve passage 642. When the air pressure in the air channel 633 exceeds a first predetermined threshold (for example, having a value of 0.3 bar), the force applied thereto to the second surface 643B automatically lifts the rim 645A of the skirt portion 645 away from the first surface 641A of the first valve seat member 641, thereby displacing the first valve 640 to a first valve-open state and releasing the seal on the first valve passage 642. In the first valve-open state of the first valve 640, air flows from the air channel 633 through the first valve passage 642 and escapes to the surroundings as indicated by arrow AR3, thereby releasing the overpressure from the air channel 633. When the air pressure released from the air channel 633 falls below the first predetermined threshold, the rim 645A returns to its original position, thereby automatically displacing the first valve 640 to a first valve-closed state. In this specification, it should be understood that the first predetermined threshold is generally greater than the ambient pressure for air to flow out of the air channel 627. Furthermore, the skirt portion 645 of the first valve sealing member 643 is an elastic member, and its elasticity is selected based on the first predetermined threshold, along with its geometric shape and the portion surrounding it, and the first predetermined threshold further depends on the magnitude of the pressure that is intended to be the maximum pressure that can be built up in the air channel 633 before being released to the atmosphere.

[0223] As further shown in Figure 9C, the second valve 650 is normally in the closed position, and the rim 655A of the skirt portion 655 rests on the first surface 651A of the second valve seat member 651, thereby sealing the second valve passage 652, i.e., preventing airflow between the air channel 633 and the surroundings. The air pressure in the air channel 633 exerts a force on the first surface 653A of the second valve sealing member 653 against the force applied by the ambient pressure on the second surface 653B of the second valve sealing member 653 through the second valve passage 652, thereby keeping the rim 655A engaged with the first surface 651A of the second valve seat member 651. When negative pressure is generated in the air channel 633, for example, when a syringe is used to deliver a drug from the syringe through the adapter 600, and the air pressure in the air channel 633 falls below a second predetermined threshold (e.g., having a value of 0.03 bar), the force applied by the ambient pressure to the second surface 653B of the second valve sealing member 653 acts on the second valve 650, thereby automatically lifting the rim 655A of the skirt portion 655 from the first surface 651A of the second valve seat member 651, thereby displacing the second valve 650 into a second valve-open state and desealing the second valve passage 652. In the second valve-open state of the second valve 650, air flows from the atmosphere through the second valve passage 652 into the air channel 633, thereby balancing the negative pressure generated in the air channel 633. When the air pressure in the air channel 633 rises above a second predetermined threshold, the rim 655A returns to its original position, thereby automatically displacing the second valve 650 to the normally closed position of the second valve.

[0224] The second valve operates in particular in conjunction with a syringe used to deliver drugs to an IV bag through an adapter.

[0225] In this specification, it should be understood that the second predetermined threshold is generally lower than the ambient pressure required for air to flow from the surroundings into the air channel 633. Furthermore, the skirt portion 655 of the second valve sealing member 653 is an elastic member, and its elasticity is selected based on the second predetermined threshold, along with its geometric shape and surrounding components, and the second predetermined threshold further depends on the magnitude of the pressure intended to be the minimum acceptable pressure in the air channel 633 before balancing from the surroundings.

[0226] In this specification, it should be understood that when the pressure in the air channel 633 is between a first predetermined threshold pressure and a second threshold pressure, both the first valve 640 and the second valve 650 are in their respective closed states. In particular, when the pressure in the air channel 633 is equal to the ambient pressure, both the first valve 640 and the second valve 650 are in their respective closed states.

[0227] It should be further understood in this specification that in the first valve open state, the second valve 650 remains in the normally closed state, and in the second valve open state, the first valve 640 remains in the normally closed state.

[0228] Next, we look at Figures 10A to 10D of the drawings, which show an adapter 600' relating to another example of the subject matter of this disclosure, configured to connect to a syringe 500. The adapter 600' has at least some of the elements corresponding to the elements of the adapter 600 described above, and are indicated by corresponding reference numbers for ease of understanding. Instead of the first valve 640 and the second valve 650 of the adapter 600, the adapter 600' comprises a valve device 660 that is in fluid communication with the ambient. The valve device 660 is a dual-function valve configured to perform both the functions of the first valve 640 and the second valve 650. For example, the adapter 600' is configured to solve the problem of overpressure and negative pressure in the syringe 500, and the valve device 660 is configured to facilitate the outflow of air from inside the adapter 600' to the ambient in the case of overpressure and to facilitate the inflow of air from the ambient to the adapter 600' in the case of negative pressure.

[0229] The valve device 660 comprises a first valve seat member 661, which in the illustrated embodiment is a central member 661, and a second valve seat member 671, which in the illustrated embodiment is a valve seat 671 having a valve seat opening 672. The central member 661 extends through the seat opening 672. In the illustrated embodiment, the central member 661 extends from the bottom 604' of the valve housing 602'. In some embodiments, the central member 661 may extend from the bottom 631A' of the fluid transfer device 631' through the air filter 606'. The valve device 660 further comprises a sealing member 663 including a longitudinal member 664 having a first end 664A and a second end 664B opposite to it. The sealing member 663 further comprises a first portion 665 of the sealing member that extends radially from the first end 664A of the longitudinal member 664 toward the central member 661 and is configured to selectively engage with and disengage from the central member 661. The first portion 665 of the sealing member and the central member 661 define a first valve passage 662 between them. The sealing member 663 further comprises a second portion 666 of the sealing member that extends radially from the first end 664A of the longitudinal member 664 toward the valve seat 671 and is configured to selectively engage with and disengage from the valve seat 671. The second portion 666 of the sealing member and the valve seat 671 define a second valve passage 672 between them.

[0230] The valve seat 671 has an inner surface 671A facing the air channel 633 and an outer surface 671B on the opposite side. A second portion 666 of the sealing member engages with the inner surface 671A of the valve seat and selectively disengages. The sealing member 663 further comprises a third portion 667 of the sealing member, which in the illustrated embodiment is configured as a fixed member 667 extending radially from the second end 664B of the longitudinal member 664 toward the valve seat 671, and is configured to engage with the outer surface 671B of the valve seat 671 without obstructing the second valve passage 672, thereby holding the sealing member 663 in position. The second portion 666 and the fixed member 667 of the sealing member hold the sealing member 663 in position relative to the valve seat 671. For example, if the second portion 666 of the sealing member detaches from the valve seat 671, the fixing member 667 that engages with the outer surface 671B of the valve seat prevents axial displacement of the sealing member 663.

[0231] In the valve device 660, the cooperation between the central member 661 and the first portion 665 of the sealing member functions as the first valve, and the cooperation between the valve seat 671 and the second portion 666 of the sealing member functions as the second valve.

[0232] As shown in Figures 10C and 10D, the valve device 660 is normally in a fully closed state. The first portion 665 of the sealing member engages with the central member 661, thereby sealing the first valve passage 662. The second portion 666 of the sealing member engages with the first surface 671A of the valve seat 671, thereby sealing the second valve passage 672. In this normally fully closed state, the volume V defined between the sealing member 663, the portion 671' of the valve seat 671 not covered by the second portion of the sealing member, the bottom 631'A of the fluid transfer device 631', and the side wall 670 defines the volume within the valve device 660.

[0233] When overpressure is generated in the air channel 633', and therefore in volume V, the air pressure in the valve device exerts a force on the first portion 665 of the sealing member. When the air pressure in the valve device exceeds a first predetermined threshold, the force applied thereto to the first portion 665 of the sealing member bends the first portion 665 of the sealing member away from the central member 661, thereby detaching the first portion 665 of the sealing member from the central member 661, thereby desealing the first valve passage 662 and automatically displacing the valve device 660 to a first valve-open state. In the first valve-open state, air flows from the air channel 633 / volume V through the first valve passage 662 and escapes to the surroundings as shown by the flow indicated by arrow AR5 in Figure 10D. This releases the overpressure from the valve device 660. When the air pressure released from the valve device 660 falls below a first predetermined threshold, the first portion 665 of the sealing member bends back to its normal position, thereby automatically displacing the valve device 660 to its normally fully closed state. It should be understood herein that the first predetermined threshold is generally selected based on the magnitude of the pressure intended to be greater than the ambient pressure for air to flow out of the valve device 660 and to be the maximum pressure that can be built within the valve device 660 before being released to the ambient.

[0234] In the normally fully closed state of the valve device 660, the air pressure in the volume V of the valve device 660 or air channel 633 exerts a force on the second portion 666 of the sealing member against the force exerted on the second portion 666 of the sealing member through the second valve passage 672 by the ambient pressure, thereby keeping the second portion 666 of the sealing member engaged with the first surface 671A of the valve seat 671.

[0235] When negative pressure is generated within the air channel 633', and therefore within volume V, the force applied to the second portion 666 of the sealing member by the air pressure within the valve device 660 decreases. When the air pressure within the valve device 660 falls below a second predetermined threshold, the second portion 666 of the sealing member automatically lifts from the first surface 671A of the second valve seat member 671, thereby displacing the valve device 60 to a second valve-open state and desealing the second valve passage 672. In the second valve-open state, air flows from the surroundings into volume V through the second valve passage 672, as indicated by arrow AR6 in Figure 10C, thereby balancing the negative pressure generated within the valve device 660. When the air pressure within the valve device 660 rises above a second predetermined threshold, the second portion 666 of the sealing member returns to its original position, thereby automatically displacing the valve device 660 to a normally fully closed state. It should be understood that, in this specification, the second predetermined threshold is selected based on the magnitude of the pressure that is intended to be less than the ambient pressure for air to flow from the surroundings into the valve device 660, and to be the minimum acceptable pressure within the valve device 660 before balancing with the surroundings.

[0236] In this specification, it should be understood that the valve device 660 is in a fully closed state when the pressure inside the valve device 660 is between a first predetermined threshold pressure and a second threshold pressure. In particular, the valve device 660 is in a fully closed state when the pressure inside the valve device 660 is equal to the ambient pressure.

[0237] Furthermore, it should be understood that the elasticity of the first and second portions of the sealing member is selected based on a first predetermined threshold and a second predetermined threshold. It should be further understood that in the first valve-open state of the valve device 660, the second portion 666 of the sealing member seals the second valve passage 772, and in the second valve-open state, the first portion 665 of the sealing member seals the first valve passage 662.

[0238] The valve device 660 described above can be used with any fluid transfer device that requires maintaining air pressure within a certain range. Furthermore, the valve device 660 can be used with the adapter 600 described above, referring to Figures 8A to 9C, the first valve 640 and the second valve 650 can be implemented as the valve device 660, and the sealing members 643 and 653 can be configured as a single common sealing member such as sealing member 663.

[0239] This specification should be understood to acknowledge that the application of the dual-function valve 660 is advantageous over the application of the two valves 640 and 650 in that it requires the manufacture and assembly of a single sealing member instead of two separate sealing members. Furthermore, the single valve device occupies less space than two separate valves within the adapter housing.

[0240] Here, for the purpose of illustrating the selective use of adapter 700 in a fully operational state and in at least a partially inoperable state, we turn our attention to Figures 11A to 11D of the drawings, which show partial cross-sectional views of adapter 700 according to another example of the subject matter of this disclosure. Adapter 700 is similar in structure and operation to adapter 600' described above and incorporates at least some of the features of adapter 700' indicated by the corresponding reference numbers of adapter 600.

[0241] Adapter 700 has a valve device 760 that is similar in structure and operation to the valve device 660 described above, except that the central member 761 extends from the bottom 731A of the fluid transfer device 731. In addition to the features of adapter 600, adapter 700 includes an actuator 780, and Figures 11B and 11D are front views of the actuator 780. The actuator 780 is configured to switch adapter 700 between a fully operational state and at least a partially inoperable state.

[0242] As described above, in the illustrated embodiment, the adapter, which is a spike adapter, is configured to facilitate the transfer of liquid in two directions between the IV bag and the syringe via the liquid channel 734. Using the spike adapter, liquid can be injected from the syringe into the IV bag and liquid can be drawn from the IV bag into the syringe via the liquid channel 734. During liquid transfer, the air pressure in the air chamber of the syringe, and therefore in the air channel 733 of the adapter 700, changes based on whether the plunger of the syringe is pulled or pushed. The spike adapter is configured via a valve device 760 to facilitate the release and draw-in of air from and to the air channel, and therefore to the air chamber. In this application, the term "fully operational state" refers to a state in which the spike adapter is configured to facilitate the transfer of liquid in both directions, i.e., from the IV bag to the syringe and vice versa, and the term "at least partially inoperable state" refers to a state in which the spike adapter is configured to block the transfer of liquid in at least one of two directions, which in the illustrated example is from the syringe to the IV bag, preventing the transfer of liquid in the opposite direction, i.e., from the IV bag to the syringe through the liquid channel 734.

[0243] As described above, the protocol may require the healthcare worker to use a new / unused syringe to draw saline solution from the IV bag through the adapter 700. The adapter is selectively configured to at least partially operational so as to alert the practitioner that a new syringe should be used to draw saline solution from the IV bag. For example, the adapter 700 is typically configured to at least partially inoperable so as to block the flow of fluid through the adapter in the direction from the IV bag to the syringe. Therefore, if the practitioner wants to use the adapter for the purpose of drawing saline solution from the IV bag into the syringe, the adapter must be manually switched to fully operational by the practitioner using an actuator, thereby preventing the practitioner from accidentally and carelessly using a syringe that has already been used for that purpose, and alerting the practitioner that a new syringe should be used when the adapter is switched to fully operational.

[0244] In the illustrated embodiment, in at least a partial inoperability state, the actuator 780 is configured to partially block the movement of liquid through the liquid channel 733, i.e., in one direction, by controlling the passage of air between the surroundings and the air channel 734. As described above, the liquid flow depends on the discharge of air from and draw-in of the syringe's air chamber via the air channel 733. For example, if pressure is not released from the syringe's air chamber, the syringe cannot be operated to extract liquid into the syringe through the adapter 700, and the air pressure in the syringe's air chamber prevents the movement of the syringe plunger toward the air chamber, thereby rendering the syringe inoperable to extract liquid into the syringe when the air pressure is not released. Thus, the transfer of liquid can be indirectly controlled by controlling the passage of air through the air channel.

[0245] In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 780 is configured as a switch 780 configured to displace between a first actuator state shown in Figure 11A and a second actuator state shown in Figure 11B. In the illustrated embodiment, the switch 780 has a knob 781 configured to be held by a user to rotate the switch so as to displace between the first actuator state and the second actuator state. In some embodiments (not shown), the actuator can be displaced between the two actuator states by any movement other than rotation, for example, by pushing / pulling. The switch 780 has an actuator inner surface 782 configured to engage with a third portion 767 of the sealing member 763 in the second state of the actuator, as shown in Figure 11B.

[0246] In Figure 11A, when the actuator is in its first state, the valve device 760 facilitates the discharge and intake of air between the air channel 733 and the surroundings, as described above with reference to Figures 10A to 10D. Thus, the first state of the actuator is associated with the fully operational state of the adapter 700.

[0247] In Figure 11B, when the actuator is in its second state, the valve device 760 is configured to facilitate the intake of air through the second valve passage 772, but as shown in Figure 11B, the inner surface 782 of the actuator engages with the third portion 767 of the sealing member to seal off the discharge of air through the first valve passage 762. In this second state of the actuator, the release of air from the air channel 733 and therefore from the air chamber of the syringe is prevented, and thus the syringe, and by extension the adapter, is unable to operate in the direction of liquid transfer from the IV bag into the syringe, i.e., from the spike end portion toward the fluid transfer device, as described above. Thus, the second state of the actuator is associated with at least a partial inoperability of the adapter 700.

[0248] In the second actuator state, the actuator 780 engages with the third portion 767 of the sealing member, and the third portion of the sealing member tightly engages between the switch 780 and the second surface 771B of the valve seat 771. The valve device 760 can still be displaced to the first valve open state, but does not discharge air from the air channel because the tight engagement between the third portion of the sealing member and the actuator 780 prevents air from escaping. Therefore, the actuator 780 is configured to prevent air discharge in the second actuator state, regardless of the state of the valve device 760.

[0249] The actuator / switch 780 is typically configured in the first actuator state shown in Figure 11A, and in the illustrated embodiment, it is configured to displace to the second actuator state when a force is applied by the user to rotate the switch 780. The switch 780 is configured to remain in the second actuator state when the force is removed. The switch 780 can then be displaced back to the first actuator state by rotating it in the reverse direction.

[0250] Here, for the purpose of illustrating the selective use of adapter 800 in fully operational and at least partially inoperable states, we focus on Figures 12A and 12B of the drawings, which show partial cross-sectional views of adapter 800 relating to another example of the subject matter of this disclosure. Adapter 800 is similar in structure and operation to adapters 600' and / or 700 described above and incorporates at least some of the features of adapters 800' and / or 700 designated by the corresponding reference numbers for adapter 600. The main difference between adapter 800 and adapter 600' lies in the structure of the valve device, and the main difference between adapter 800 and adapter 700 lies in the structure of the valve device and actuator. Apart from these, adapter 800, like adapters 600' and 700, operates particularly in relation to the transfer of liquids and air.

[0251] The adapter 800 has a valve device 860 having a valve seat member 861 that defines a valve passage 862 configured to allow airflow (and discharge) between the surroundings and the air channel 833 of the adapter 800. The valve device 860 further comprises a sealing member 863 that extends through the valve passage 862 and includes a central portion 864 having a first end 864A and a second end 864B on the opposite side. The sealing member 863 has a skirt portion 865 that extends radially outward from the first end 864A of the central portion 864 and is configured to selectively engage with the valve seat member 761, thereby sealing the valve passage 862.

[0252] The valve device 860 is configured in a normally closed state in which the skirt portion 865 engages with the valve seat member 861 to seal the valve passage 862. When negative pressure is generated in the air channel 833 and the pressure in the air channel falls below a predetermined threshold, the force exerted on the skirt portion 865 by the air pressure in the air channel becomes smaller than the force exerted on the skirt portion 865 through the valve passage 862 by the ambient pressure. This causes the skirt portion 865 to be lifted and detached from the valve seat member 861, thereby releasing the seal on the valve passage 862 and displacing the valve device in an open state. Thus, ambient air can flow into the air channel 833 through the valve passage 862, as indicated by arrow AR7, and then into the air chamber of the syringe. However, if overpressure is generated in the air channel 833, the air pressure does not detach the skirt portion 865 from the valve seat member 861, and therefore the air pressure is not released through the valve passage 862.

[0253] The adapter 800 further comprises an actuator 880 configured to displace between a first actuator state, as shown in Figure 12B, and a second actuator state, as shown in Figure 12A. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 880 is a button configured to be pressed to displace from the normal second actuator state (Figure 12A) to the first actuator state (Figure 12B). As shown in Figure 12A, when the actuator is in the second actuator state, air can be drawn into the adapter, while air cannot be expelled, thereby rendering the syringe and adapter 700 inoperable for the transfer of liquid from the IV bag to the syringe, as described above with reference to the adapter 800. Thus, the second actuator state of the actuator is associated with at least a partial inoperability of the actuator.

[0254] As shown in Figure 12B, when the actuator 880 is in the first actuator state, the actuator 880 engages with the second end 864B of the central member 864 of the sealing member 863, lifting the central member 864, and consequently lifting the skirt portion 865 from the seating member 861, thereby unsealing the valve passage 862. In this state of the actuator, air can flow into and / or out of the adapter 800 through the valve passage 862, as indicated by arrow AR8, thereby making the adapter available for transporting liquid in both directions through the liquid channel, as described above with reference to the adapter 700. Thus, the first actuator state is associated with the fully operational state of the adapter 800.

[0255] In the valve device 860, when air is discharged through the valve passage 862, the valve device acts as a first valve, and when air enters the adapter from the surroundings, the valve device acts as a second valve.

[0256] In the illustrated example, the actuator includes a breakable tab 883 configured to prevent the actuator from being displaced from a normal second actuator state to a first actuator state. When it is necessary to displace the actuator to the first actuator state, the user can apply a pressing force to a button 880, thereby breaking the breakable tab 883 and pushing the button 880 into the first actuator state. As shown in Figure 12B, the actuator further includes a hinge 884 configured to facilitate the pivoting of the button 880 so that it is displaced between the first actuator state and the second actuator state. In the illustrated embodiment, the button is configured to automatically return to the second actuator state when the pressing force is released. Thus, when the adapter is intended to be fully operational, the user must press the button 880 until the desired fully operational state is intended, and then release the button when at least a partial inoperability state of the adapter is intended.

[0257] In the embodiments described herein, the actuators are described as constituting parts of the adapters 700 and 800, but it should be understood herein that in some embodiments (not shown), the actuators may constitute part of the valve device, and may be located within or part of the valve housing.

[0258] Next, for the purpose of describing an actuator configured to directly block the flow of liquid through an adapter by directly blocking the liquid channel of the adapter, we will focus on Figures 13A to 13D of the drawings, which show an adapter 900 relating to another example of the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0259] In the illustrated embodiment, adapter 900 is a Luer lock adapter configured to facilitate the transfer of liquid between a syringe and an external container through a liquid channel 926. A syringe (not shown) can be connected to adapter 900 by inserting the liquid needle of the syringe through a partition 930 of adapter 900. An external container (not shown) can be connected to a Luer lock connector 910 of adapter 900. The Luer lock connector 910 is similar in structure and operation to the Luer lock connector 10 described above. Adapter 900 has a valve device 920 configured to facilitate airflow between the surroundings and the interior of adapter 900.

[0260] The adapter 90 further includes an actuator 980 partially positioned within the liquid channel 926 to selectively block the passage of liquid. The actuator 980 has a knob 981 configured to be held by the user to displace the actuator 980 between a first actuator state as shown in Figures 13A and 13B and a second actuator state as shown in Figures 13C and 13D.

[0261] As shown in Figures 13B and 13D, the actuator is equipped with a flow path 82, which in the first actuator state shown in Figure 13B is aligned with the liquid channel 926, allowing liquid to flow through it in both directions, i.e., from the partition wall 930 to the connector 910 and vice versa, and therefore, in this actuator state, the adapter 900 is fully operational. In Figure 13D, the actuator is in a second actuator state, where the flow path 982 is not aligned with the liquid channel 926, thereby blocking liquid flow through it in both directions, and therefore, in this actuator state, the adapter 900 is at least partially inoperable. In the illustrated embodiment, in at least partially inoperable state, the adapter is completely inoperable to facilitate liquid flow through the adapter.

[0262] The actuator 980 is configured to be displaceable between a first actuator state and a second actuator state when a force, which is a rotational force in the illustrated example, is applied by the user. In some embodiments, the actuator may be displaceable between its states by push / pull, or a combination of push / pull and rotation. In some embodiments, the actuator may be configured to normally be in one of the first or second states, displace to the other state when a force is applied, and automatically return to the normal state when the force is removed. In some embodiments, the actuator may be configured to independently maintain both states when no force is applied.

[0263] In the illustrated embodiment, the adapter 900 differs from those described above; for example, unlike the Luer lock adapter 1 described above, it does not include an air channel, and unlike the syringe 500 described above, the adapter 900 can be used with a syringe having only a liquid needle. However, in some embodiments, the actuator 980 can be used with any of the aforementioned adapters (Luer lock adapter and spike adapter), while being positioned within the corresponding liquid channel of those adapters without affecting the additional functions of those adapters.

[0264] In some embodiments (not shown), a check valve or a one-way valve can be positioned within the actuator's flow path such that, in a second actuator state, the flow of liquid through the adapter's liquid channel is blocked in one direction and allowed in the opposite direction.

Claims

1. A connector for connecting to a fluid transfer device, An outer body having a longitudinal axis, A Luer lock connection port is located within the outer body and configured to connect to an external port of the fluid transfer device, wherein, at least before connection to the external port is initiated, the port is rotatable clockwise and counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis when viewed from the direction of the fluid transfer device into the connector along the longitudinal axis, the outer body is structured to prevent an operator from directly accessing the outside of the Luer lock connection port with their fingertips through the outer body after the Luer lock connection port is connected to the external port, and the Luer lock connection port is located within the outer body, A coupling assist mechanism configured to selectively take between a connectable state that restricts rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction, and a non-connectable state that allows rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction, A separation assist mechanism configured to selectively take between an inseparable state that allows rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis of the Luer lock connection port, and a separable state that restricts rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction so as to allow separation of the external port from the Luer lock connection port, Equipped with, The Luer lock connection port is configured to be displaced axially along the longitudinal axis between a first position associated with the unconnected state and a second position associated with the connectable state. The Luer lock connection port is configured to be axially displaced to a third position along the longitudinal axis, the third position being the first position, or any position between the first position and the second position. The Luer lock connection port is configured to be freely displaceable from the second position to the third position when a tensile force is applied while separating the external port from the Luer lock connection port. The separation assist mechanism is configured to take the separable state only when the Luer lock connection port is displaced to the third position.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the Luer lock connection port is rotatable in both the clockwise and counterclockwise directions about the longitudinal axis when connected to the external port.

3. The coupling assist mechanism is configured to maintain the connectable state at least while the connection between the Luer lock connection port and the external port is in progress, The coupling assist mechanism is configured to allow the Luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise around the longitudinal axis when in the connectable state. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the connecting assist mechanism is configured to allow the Luer lock connection port to rotate counterclockwise around the longitudinal axis when the connection is not possible.

4. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the Luer lock connection port is configured to be freely displaceable from the first position to the second position when a pressing or tensile force is applied by the external port during the connection.

5. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the connecting auxiliary mechanism comprises at least one locking member attached to the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port and at least one restraining member attached to the inner surface of the outer body, wherein in the second position the locking member engages with the restraining member, thereby restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction, and in the first position the locking member disengages from the restraining member.

6. The outer body comprises a side wall having at least one opening, the side wall being configured to be used together with the separation assist mechanism to provide access to the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, at least in the separable state. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the separation assist mechanism comprises an actuator at least partially positioned within the opening, the actuator having an inner surface facing the Luer lock connection port and an outer surface on the opposite side of the actuator, and the separation assist mechanism is configured to assume the separable state when a pressing force is applied to the actuator and the non-separable state when the pressing force is removed.

7. The connector according to claim 6, wherein, in the separable state, the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the actuator is smaller than the minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer surface of the rim of the opening.

8. The connector according to claim 6, wherein, in the detachable state, at least a large portion of the outer surface of the actuator is positioned below a virtual plane defined by the rim of the opening.

9. The connector according to claim 6, wherein the actuator has a first portion extending from the outer body and a second portion extending from the first portion, the first portion forming a part of the outer body, and the first portion and the second portion forming a lever.

10. The connector according to claim 6, wherein the separation assist mechanism comprises a first engaging portion that constitutes a part of the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port and a second engaging portion that constitutes a part of the inner surface of the actuator, wherein in the separable state, the first engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion, thereby restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction, and in the non-separable state, the first engaging portion disengages from the second engaging portion.

11. The connector according to claim 10, wherein the first engaging portion comprises at least one projection formed on the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port, and the second engaging portion comprises at least one tooth protruding from the inner surface of the actuator, wherein in the detachable state, the at least one tooth engages with the at least one projection, thereby restricting the rotation of the Luer lock connection port at least in the counterclockwise direction.

12. The connector according to claim 11, wherein the actuator is configured to be pressed only when the at least one protrusion is radially displaced relative to the at least one tooth.

13. The connector according to claim 11, wherein the at least one projection has a projection side surface extending from the outer surface of the Luer lock connection port toward the actuator, and the at least one tooth has a tooth side surface extending from the inner surface of the actuator toward the Luer lock connection port, wherein in the detachable state the tooth side surface engages with the projection side surface, and in the non-detachable state the at least one tooth disengages from the at least one projection.

14. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the Luer lock connection port is a male Luer lock connection port comprising an elongated central member and a collar surrounding the elongated central member, and the male Luer lock connection port is configured to be connected to the external port by screwing and receiving the external port between the collar and the elongated central member such that the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body when connected.

15. The connector according to claim 14, wherein the collar extends parallel to the elongated central member, and the length of the collar is in the range of 5.4 mm to 8 mm.

16. The connector according to claim 14, wherein the outer body covers at least a large portion of the collar.

17. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a large portion of the side wall of the Luer lock connection port.

18. An adapter configured for use in a medical fluid transfer device, wherein the adapter comprises the connector described in claim 1, the connector constituting the proximal portion of the adapter, and the adapter comprises a partition located at the distal end of the adapter, configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe through the partition.

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