Tube retention device

Abstract

In a method of retaining a tube on a barbed connection, a tube retention device is provided, including a head defining a channel and a band extending longitudinally from the head. The tube retention device is installed around the tube on the barbed connection, with a distal end of the band received through the channel. The tube retention device is tightened against the tube such that a first head shoulder portion and a first band shoulder portion compress the tube on a first side of a barbed portion of the barbed connection and a second head shoulder portion and a second band shoulder portion compress the tube on a second side of the barbed portion.

Description

TUBE RETENTION DEVICECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and all benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 582,198, filed September 12, 2023 and entitled TUBE RETENTION DEVICE, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a retainer for maintaining a tube over a barb connector, a system comprising such a retainer and a method of maintaining a tube against a barb connector. More particularly, the invention finds application in the biopharma or bioprocess industry for maintaining tubes to barb connectors.BACKGROUND

[0003] Bioprocessing and pharmaceutical manufacturing involve fluid transfer via biopharma tubing systems, which can include components such as barbed fittings or connectors, filters, and line sets. Line sets or tube sets refer to components including tubing, barbed fittings or connectors, and tubing retainers that are designed and assembled for a specific fluid transfer procedure. The volume inside the tubing and barb connector is important to the specific transfer procedure, because volume changes due to factors such as tubing expansion (ballooning) during fluid transfer can have negative effects.

[0004] The function of tube retainers is to decrease the chances of a leak path forming when ballooning occurs in the tubing under pressure. During this ballooning, the tube retainer also decreases the changes of inadvertently disconnecting a piece of tubing from a barbed fitting to which it is connected. For example, it may take 135 N of force to axially pull a tube with an inner diameter of 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) from a conventional barb connector, whereas the addition of conventional types of tube retainers can increase the force required to remove the tubing by about 25-60%, depending on the retainer used and the materials involved.

[0005] One common type of tube retainer used in biopharma tubing systems is a cable tie. Cable ties provide many benefits, as they are inexpensive and easy to use. Further, the force and tension that assembled cable ties apply to a particular piece of tubing and a barbed fitting may be easily controlled, such as by a cable tie gun that has adjustable tensioning features.Cable tie guns can also cut any excess length from the cable ties so that the end of a cable tie is flush with the cable tie lock. However, one problem with cable ties is that they are unable to completely engage the entire circumference of a piece of tubing. When the cable tie is locked, the normally square shape of the cable tie lock prevents the cable tie from crimping the entire circumference of the tubing, in particular the area directly under the lock. This can create an area with less radial tension applied, which can ultimately result in an unsealed region between the tubing and the barb connector. Because they are secured behind the large diameter of the barbed portion of the end connection (barb sharp), once ballooning occurs within the tubing, this can result in an area of trapped fluid between the barb sharp and the cable tie after the pressure has been released and the tubing returns to its original size.

[0006] Other known types of tube retainers include sleeve type elements, also referred to as barb locks, which are provided around the tube and can be pushed over a region of tubing that overlies a tapered portion of the barb connector. Barb locks may, to a certain degree, prevent the problem of ballooning, as they maintain the tube in close, continuous contact with the tapered portion of the barb connector. However, barb locks are relatively expensive and cannot be retrofitted to certain tube designs.

[0007] Another known alternative to cable ties are metal clamps that commonly have a greater width than cable ties and can include a texture or structured surface at a radially inner portion, which increases durability. However, metal clamps are expensive and do not address the problem of ballooning, as they are secured to the tubing and barb connector in a similar manner to cable ties. Also, if metal clamps are tied around the tapered portion of the barb connector, they may slip off during operation of the tubing system, which can result in a reduction in tightening force and ultimately may lead to an unsealed connection.SUMMARY

[0008] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a tube retention device for retaining a tube installed on a barb connector includes a head, a band, and a ratchet member. The head includes outer wall, an inner wall, and first and second side walls extending from a front side of the head to a rear side of the head to define a channel therebetween. The band extends longitudinally from a first end portion joined with the inner wall at the rear side of the head to a second end portion receivable through the channel from the front side of the head. The band defines a plurality of longitudinally spaced detents and includes an outer surface and an inner surface opposite the outer surface. The ratchet member has a first end portion joined with the head and a second end portion extending intoratcheting engagement with at least one of the plurality of detents when the second end portion of the band is inserted through the channel. The inner wall of the head defines an arcuate ramp having an outer surface shaped to receive the inner surface of the band thereon. When the tube retention device is installed on a tube, an inner surface of the ramp is flexed from a first radius of curvature to a second radius of curvature, wherein the second radius of curvature matches a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion of the band inner surface, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube.

[0009] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a tube retention device for retaining a tube installed on a barb connector includes a head, a band, and a ratchet member. The head includes an outer wall, an inner wall, and first and second side walls extending from a front side of the head to a rear side of the head to define a channel therebetween. The band extends longitudinally from a first end portion joined with the inner wall at the rear side of the head to a second end portion receivable through the channel from the front side of the head. The band defines a plurality of longitudinally spaced detents and includes an outer surface and an inner surface opposite the outer surface, with the inner surface defining longitudinally extending first and second band shoulder portions and a band recess extending between the first and second band shoulder portions. The ratchet member has a first end portion joined with the head and a second end portion extending into ratcheting engagement with at least one of the plurality of detents when the second end portion of the band is inserted through the channel. An inner surface of the head includes longitudinally extending first and second head shoulder portions aligned with the first and second band shoulder portions when the second end portion of the band is received through the channel to provide substantially continuous tube engaging shoulder portions around an inner circumference of the tube retention device, and a head recess extending between the first and second head shoulder portions.

[0010] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of retaining a tube on a barbed connection is contemplated. In an exemplary method, a tube retention device is provided, including a head defining a channel and a band extending longitudinally from the head. The tube retention device is installed around the tube on the barbed connection, with a distal end of the band received through the channel, such that a first head shoulder portion on an inner surface of the head and a first band shoulder portion on an inner surface of the band are positioned on a first side of the barbed connection, a second head shoulder portion on an inner surface of the head and a second band shoulderportion on an inner surface of the band are positioned on a second side of the barbed connection, and a head recess between the first and second head shoulder portions and a band recess between the first and second band shoulder portions are aligned with the barbed connection. The tube retention device is tightened against the tube such that the first head shoulder portion and the first band shoulder portion compress the tube on the first side of the barbed connection and the second head shoulder portion and the second band shoulder portion compress the tube on the second side of the barbed connection.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Further advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art after considering the following description and appended claims in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] FIG. 1A schematically illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a tube retention device, according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. IB schematically illustrates an end cross-sectional view of the tube retention device of FIG. 1A;

[0014] FIG. 2A schematically illustrates an end cross-sectional view of another tube retention device, according to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 2B schematically illustrates an end cross-sectional view of another tube retention device, according to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a tube retention device, according to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, shown in an uninstalled configuration;

[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the head portion of the tube retention device of FIG. 3;

[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the head portion of the tube retention device of FIG. 3;

[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective side cross-sectional view of the tube retention device of FIG. 3, shown in an installation configuration;

[0020] FIG. 7 illustrates an end cross-sectional view of the tube retention device of FIG. 3, shown in an installed configuration on a barbed tube connection;

[0021] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective side cross-sectional view of the tube retention device of FIG. 3, shown in an installed configuration on a barbed tube connection;

[0022] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a tube retention device, according to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure shown in an installation configuration;

[0023] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective end cross-sectional view of the tube retention device of FIG. 9, shown in an installation configuration;

[0024] FIG. 11 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the tube retention device of FIG. 9, shown in an installation configuration;

[0025] FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a tube retention device, according to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, shown in an installation configuration;

[0026] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective end cross-sectional view of the tube retention device of FIG. 12;

[0027] FIG. 14 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the tube retention device of FIG. 14;

[0028] FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of a tube retention device, according to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, shown in an uninstalled configuration;

[0029] FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of the tube retention device of FIG. 15;

[0030] FIG. 17 illustrates a side perspective view of a tube retention device similar to the tube retention device of FIG. 15, shown in an installation configuration;

[0031] FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective end cross-sectional view of the tube retention device of FIG. 17, shown in the installation configuration; and

[0032] FIG. 19 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the tube retention device of FIG. 17, shown in the installation configuration.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] This Detailed Description merely describes exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way. Indeed, the invention as claimed is broader than and unlimited by the described embodiments, and the terms used in the claims have their full ordinary meaning.

[0034] While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the inventions may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts and features may be used in many alternative embodiments, either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present inventions. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as to the various aspects, concepts and features of the inventions— such asalternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, circuits, devices and components, software, hardware, control logic, alternatives as to form, fit and function, and so on— may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether presently known or later developed. Those skilled in the art may readily adopt one or more of the inventive aspects, concepts or features into additional embodiments and uses within the scope of the present inventions even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein. Additionally, even though some features, concepts or aspects of the inventions may be described herein as being a preferred arrangement or method, such description is not intended to suggest that such feature is required or necessary unless expressly so stated. Still further, exemplary or representative values and ranges may be included to assist in understanding the present disclosure, however, such values and ranges are not to be construed in a limiting sense and are intended to be critical values or ranges only if so expressly stated. Parameters identified as “approximate” or “about” a specified value are intended to include both the specified value and values within 10% of the specified value, unless expressly stated otherwise. Further, it is to be understood that the drawings accompanying the present disclosure may, but need not, be to scale, and therefore may be understood as teaching various ratios and proportions evident in the drawings. Moreover, while various aspects, features and concepts may be expressly identified herein as being inventive or forming part of an invention, such identification is not intended to be exclusive, but rather there may be inventive aspects, concepts and features that are fully described herein without being expressly identified as such or as part of a specific invention, the inventions instead being set forth in the appended claims. Descriptions of exemplary methods or processes are not limited to inclusion of all steps as being required in all cases, nor is the order that the steps are presented to be construed as required or necessary unless expressly so stated.

[0035] According to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a tube retention device for retaining a tube on a barbed connection may include a head and a band defining tube engaging portions configured to provide a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube when the band is received through a channel in the head and tightened or constricted against the tube. In exemplary embodiments, an inner wall of the head includes an arcuate ramp having an outer surface shaped to receive an inner surface of the band thereon and a narrow leading edge providing a substantially continuous transition from the inner surface of the band to the inner surface of the arcuate ramp. In otherexemplary embodiments, the arcuate ramp may additionally or alternatively be configured for flexing engagement with the tube, such that an inner surface of the ramp is flexed from a first radius of curvature to a second radius of curvature matching a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion of the band inner surface.

[0036] FIGS. 1A and IB schematically illustrate an exemplary tube retention device 10 including a head 20, a ratchet member 30, and a band 40. The head 20 includes an outer wall 21, an inner wall 22, and first and second side walls 23, 24 extending from a front side 20a of the head to a rear side 20b of the head to define a channel 25 therebetween. The band 40 extends longitudinally from a first or proximal end portion 41 joined with (e.g., integrally formed with) the inner wall 22 at the rear side 20b of the head 20, to a second or distal end portion 42 receivable through the channel 25 from the front side 20a of the head. The band 40 includes a strap portion 46 having an outer surface 46a defining a plurality of longitudinally spaced detents 45 (e.g., teeth, sockets) and an inner surface 46b opposite the outer surface. In other embodiments (not shown), the longitudinally spaced detents may be defined by or disposed on the inner surface of the band.

[0037] The ratchet member 30 has a first end portion 31 joined with (e.g., integrally formed with) the head 20 (e.g., with the outer wall 21 of the head) and a second end portion 32 (e.g., including one or more teeth or other projections 33) extending into ratcheting engagement (e.g., permitting movement of the band in a tightening direction while preventing movement of the band in a loosening direction) with at least one of the plurality of detents 45 when the second end portion 42 of the band 40 is inserted through the channel 25.

[0038] The inner wall 22 of the head 20 defines an arcuate ramp 26 having an outer surface 26a shaped to receive the inner surface 46b of the band 40 thereon, and an inner surface 26b opposite the outer surface. When the tube retention device 10 is installed on a tube T (e.g., placed around the tube and tightened or constricted against the tube), the inner surface 26b of the ramp 26 is flexed to match a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion 46t of the band inner surface 46b, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous (e.g., discontinuity of less than about 7° or less than about 2% of the tube circumference) tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube T. A small discontinuity or gap g in circumferential tube engagement may be present between the inner surface 26b of the ramp 26 and the inner surface 46b of the band 40. This gap g may be minimized by providing the leading edge 26e of the ramp 26 with a small thickness or radius (e.g., less than about 0.050 inches thick, or approximately 0.010 inches thick), for example, to minimize a transition distance between the tube contactingportion 46t of the band inner surface 46b and a ramp contacting portion 46r of the band inner surface.

[0039] To retain a tube T on a tube connection C (e.g., a barbed connection), the tube retention device 10 is installed around the tube on the tube connection, with a distal end portion 42 of the band 40 received through the head channel 25. The tube retention device 10 is tightened against the tube T (e.g., by ratcheting advancement of the band 40 through the channel 25, with the ratchet member 30 engaging one or more of the plurality of detents 45), such that an inner surface 26b of the ramp 26 is flexed from a first radius of curvature to a second radius of curvature, wherein the second radius of curvature matches a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion 46t of the band inner surface 46b, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube. The first end portion 41 of the band 40 may define an arcuate inner surface in its natural, unflexed state, extending to the arcuate inner surface 26b of the ramp 26 to facilitate a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube upon installation. The device 10 may be formed from any suitable material to provide a desired amount of flexibility, elasticity, and strength, including, for example, nylon, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), Polyketone (PK), Polypropylene (PP), and / or other suitable plastic materials.

[0040] According to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a tube retention device for retaining a tube on a barbed connection may additionally or alternatively include tube engaging inner surfaces on the head and the band, with each having longitudinally extending first and second shoulder portions positioned to engage the tube on first and second sides of a barbed portion of the barbed connection on which the tube is installed, with recess portions of the head and band inner surfaces aligning with the barbed portion, such that when the tube retention device is tightened against the tube, the first shoulder portions of the head and band compress the tube on the first side of the barbed portion and the second shoulder portions of the head and band compress the tube on the second side of the barbed portion, for example, to impede unintentional or unauthorized removal of the tube from the barbed connection.

[0041] FIG. 2A schematically illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary tube retention device 10' including a head 20', a ratchet member 30', and a band 40' (e.g., similar to the tube retention device 10 of FIGS. 1A - IB). The head 20' includes an outer wall 21 ', an inner wall 22', and first and second side walls 23', 24' extending from a front side of the head to a rear side of the head to define a channel 25' therebetween. Similar to the device 10of FIGS. 1A and IB, the band 40' extends longitudinally from a first end portion joined with (e.g., integrally formed with) the inner wall 22' at the rear side of the head 20', to a second end portion 42' receivable through the channel 25' from the front side 20a' of the head. The band 40' includes an outer surface 46a' defining a plurality of longitudinally spaced detents 45' (e.g., teeth, sockets) and an inner surface 46b' opposite the outer surface. In other embodiments (not shown), the longitudinally spaced detents may be defined by or disposed on the inner surface of the band.

[0042] The ratchet member 30' has a first end portion 31 ' joined with (e.g., integrally formed with) the head 20' and a second end portion 32' (e.g., including one or more teeth or other projections 33') extending into ratcheting engagement (e.g., permitting movement of the band in a tightening direction while preventing movement of the band in a loosening direction) with at least one of the plurality of detents 45' when the second end portion 42' of the band 40' is inserted through the channel 25'.

[0043] An inner surface 46b' of the band 40' includes or defines longitudinally extending first and second band shoulder portions 49a', 49b' and a band recess 49c' extending between the band shoulder portions. An inner surface 26b' of the head 20' includes or defines longitudinally extending first and second head shoulder portions 29a', 29b' that align with the first and second band shoulder portions 49a', 49b' when the second end portion 42' of the band 40' is received through the channel 25' to provide substantially continuous tube engaging shoulder portions around an inner circumference of the tube retention device, and a head recess 29c' extending between the first and second head shoulder portions. To align the head shoulder portions 29a', 29b' with the band shoulder portions 49a', 49b', the channel 25' may include notches 25a', 25b' sized and positioned to receive the band shoulder portions.

[0044] The tube retention device 10' may be installed around the tube T on the barbed connection C, with the distal end 42' of the band 40' inserted through the channel 25', and the device positioned such that the first head shoulder portion 29a' and the first band shoulder portion 49a' are positioned on a first side of a barbed portion B of the barbed connection C, the second head shoulder portion 29b' and the second band shoulder portion 49b' are positioned on a second side of the barbed portion B, and the head recess 29c' and the band recess 49c' are aligned with the barbed portion. When the tube retention device 10' is tightened against the tube T, the first head shoulder portion 29a' and the first band shoulder portion 49a' compress the tube T on the first side of the barbed portion B and the second head shoulder portion 29b' and the second band shoulder portion 49b' compress the tube on thesecond side of the barbed portion, for example, to impede unintentional or unauthorized removal of the tube from the barbed connection C.

[0045] To retain a tube T on a barbed connection C, the tube retention device 10' is installed around the tube on the tube connection, with a distal end portion 42' of the band 40' received through the head channel 25', such that the first head shoulder portion 29a' and the first band shoulder portion 49a' are positioned on a first side of a barbed portion B of the barbed connection C, the second head shoulder portion 29b' and the second band shoulder portion 49b' are positioned on a second side of the barbed portion, and the head recess 29c' and the band recess 49c are aligned with the barbed portion. The tube retention device 10' is tightened against the tube T (e.g., by ratcheting advancement of the band 40' through the channel 25', with the ratchet member 30' engaging one or more of the plurality of detents 45'), such that the first head shoulder portion 29a' and the first band shoulder portion 49a' compress the tube T on the first side of the barbed portion B and the second head shoulder portion 29b' and the second band shoulder portion 49b' compress the tube on the second side of the barbed portion. As shown, the shoulder portions 29a', 29b', 49a', 49b' and the recesses 29c', 49c' may be dimensioned such that the head recess 29c' is recessed from the first and second band shoulder portions 49a', 49b' when the tube retention device 10' is installed on the tube T, to promote substantially continuous compression by the shoulder portions of the tube T around its circumference on either side of the barbed portion B.

[0046] The shoulder portions and recesses of the head and band may be provided in a variety of shapes and configurations. In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the shoulder portions 29a', 29b', 49a', 49b' of the head 20' and band 40' are generally rectangular or stepped in cross section, with substantially flat or linear (in cross-section) recesses 29c', 49c' between the shoulder portions. In other embodiments, the shoulder portions may form different shapes in cross-section, such as, for example, rounded / semicircular, triangular, and / or trapezoidal, and the recesses may be non-linear, such as, for example, concave, V-shaped, tapered, or stepped. In another exemplary embodiment, shown schematically in FIG. 2B, the inner surfaces 26b ", 46b" of the head 20" and band 40" are concave in a lateral cross-section, with first and second lateral sides of the head and band inner surfaces defining the first and second head and band shoulder portions 29a", 49a", 29b", 49b", and central portions of the head and band inner surfaces defining the head and band recesses 29c", 49c". In other embodiments (not shown), the shoulder portions and recess of the head may be provided in a first configuration, and the shoulder portions and recess of the band may be provided in a different second configuration.

[0047] FIGS. 3 - 8 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a tube retention device 100 including a head 120, a ratchet member 130, and a band 140. The head 120 includes an outer wall 121, an inner wall 122, and first and second side walls 123, 124 extending from a front side 120a of the head to a rear side 120b of the head to define a channel 125 therebetween. The band 140 extends longitudinally from a first or proximal end portion 141 joined with (e.g., integrally formed with) the inner wall 122 at the rear side 120b of the head 120, to a second or distal end portion 142 receivable through the channel 125 from the front side 120a of the head. The band 140 includes an outer surface 146a defining a plurality of longitudinally spaced, radially outward facing detents 145 (e.g., chamfered teeth, as shown) and an inner surface 146b opposite the outer surface. In other embodiments (not shown), the longitudinally spaced detents may be defined by or disposed on the inner surface of the band.

[0048] The ratchet member 130 has a first end portion 131 joined with (e.g., integrally formed with) the outer wall 121 of the head 120 and a second end portion 132 (e.g., having interlocking teeth 133) extending forward, into the channel 125, and biased radially inward for ratcheting engagement (e.g., permitting movement of the band in a tightening direction while preventing movement of the band in a loosening direction) with at least one of the plurality of detents 145 when the second end portion 142 of the band 140 is inserted through the channel 125. The first end portion 131 of the ratchet member 130 may be configured to flex radially outward for disengagement of the ratchet teeth 133 from the detent teeth 145 when tightening the band 140 through the channel 125 (e.g., by camming engagement of the band detent teeth 145 and the ratchet teeth 133). The band detent teeth 145 and the ratchet teeth 133 may be shaped to restrict movement of the band 140 through the channel 125 in a loosening direction. In other embodiments, other detent arrangements may be used, such as, for example, protrusions (e.g., pins, nubs) on one of the band and the ratchet member and sockets on the other of the band and the ratchet member.

[0049] By substantially limiting the ratchet member 130 to the channel 125, and thereby limiting access to, and manipulation of, the ratchet member 130, the tube retention device 100 may be provided as a single use or non-reusable device, for example, requiring cutting, breaking, or other such destruction of the device for removal from the tube connection. In other embodiments, the retention device 100 may be provided with a user engageable (e.g., movable or graspable) release lever (shown schematically in phantom at 138 in FIG. 5), for example, formed with the ratchet member 130 and extending beyond the channel 125 on the rear side 120b of the head 120, to facilitate release and loosening of the band 140, and reuse of the device.

[0050] The inner wall 122 of the head 120 defines an arcuate ramp 126 extending from a front side of the head and having an outer surface 126a shaped to receive the inner surface 146b of the band 140 thereon, and an inner surface 126b opposite the outer surface. When the tube retention device 100 is installed on a tube T (e.g., placed around the tube and tightened or constricted against the tube), the inner surface 126b of the ramp 126 is flexed (e.g., by radial inward forces from the band 140 or radial outward forces from the tube T) to match a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion 146t of the band inner surface 146b, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous (e.g., discontinuity of less than about 7° or less than about 2% of the tube circumference) tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube T. The first end portion 141 of the band 140 may define an arcuate inner surface in its natural, unflexed state, extending from a straight strap portion 146 to the arcuate inner surface 126b of the ramp 126 to facilitate a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube upon installation. The device 100 may be formed from any suitable material to provide a desired amount of flexibility, elasticity, and strength, including, for example, nylon, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), Polyketone (PK), Polypropylene (PP), and / or other suitable plastic materials.

[0051] The flexibility of the head inner surface 126b, defined by the flexible ramp 126, may provide a substantially uniform cylindrical tube engaging surface across a range of adjusted sizes, for example, with a maximum outer diameter greater than about 150% of a minimum outer diameter, or greater than about 175% of a minimum outer diameter, or greater than about 200% of a minimum outer diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the ramp may be configured to flex over an angle up to at least 15° in either direction from a flex or hinge point (e.g., at notches 123a, 124a, described below) of the ramp to provide for the above referenced range of adjusted sizes.

[0052] A small discontinuity or gap g in circumferential tube engagement may be present between the inner surface 126b of the ramp 126 and the inner surface 146b of the band 140. This gap g may be minimized by providing the leading edge 126e of the ramp 126 with a small thickness or radius (e.g., less than about 0.050 inches thick, or approximately 0.010 inches thick), for example, to minimize a transition distance between the tube contacting portion 146t of the band inner surface 146b and a ramp contacting portion 146r of the band inner surface. The small thickness of the ramp end portion may additionally provide for flexibility of the ramp inner surface 126b. Flexibility of the ramp end portion may additionally or alternatively be provided by extending the ramp in a cantilevered fashion fromthe front side 120a of the head 120. In the illustrated example, notches 123a, 124a are provided in the head side walls 123, 124 to provide for added flexibility of the forward extending ramp 126.

[0053] As shown, an inner surface 146b of the band 140 of the exemplary device 100 includes a laterally extending concave surface, with lateral ends defining longitudinally extending first and second band shoulder portions 149a, 149b and a central portion defining a longitudinally extending concave band recess 149c extending between the band shoulder portions. Likewise, an inner surface 126b of the head 120 or ramp 126 of the exemplary device 100 includes a laterally extending concave surface, with lateral ends defining longitudinally extending first and second head shoulder portions 129a, 129b and a central portion defining a longitudinally extending concave head recess 129c extending between the first and second head shoulder portions. In other embodiments, the inner surfaces of the head and band may include stepped or substantially rectangular shoulder portions and a substantially linear or flat (in cross-section) central recess, as schematically shown and described in the embodiment of FIGS. 2 A - 2B, and as shown and described below in the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 9 - 11.

[0054] When the second end portion 142 of the band 140 is received through the channel 125, the first and second head shoulder portions 129a, 129b align with the first and second band shoulder portions 149a, 149b to provide substantially continuous tube engaging shoulder portions around the inner circumference of the device 100. To align the head shoulder portions 129a, 129b with the band shoulder portions 149a, 149b, the channel 125 includes notches 125a, 125b sized and positioned to receive the band shoulder portions.

[0055] The tube retention device 100 may be installed around the tube T on the barbed connection C, with the distal end 142 of the band 140 inserted through the channel 125, and the device positioned such that the first head shoulder portion 129a and the first band shoulder portion 149a are positioned on a first side of a barbed portion B of the barbed connection C, the second head shoulder portion 129b and the second band shoulder portion 149b are positioned on a second side of the barbed portion B, and the head recess 129c and the band recess 149c are aligned with the barbed portion. The tube retention device 100 is tightened against the tube T, for example, by pulling the distal end 142 of the band 140 for ratcheting advancement of the band through the channel 125, such that the first head shoulder portion 129a and the first band shoulder portion 149a compress the tube T on the first side of the barbed portion B and the second head shoulder portion 129b and the second band shoulder portion 149b compress the tube on the second side of the barbed portion, forexample, to impede unintentional or unauthorized removal of the tube from the barbed connection C. The shoulder portions 129a, 129b, 149a, 149b and the recesses 129c, 149c may be dimensioned such that the head recess 129c is recessed from the first and second band shoulder portions 149a, 149b when the tube retention device 100 is installed on the tube T, to promote substantially continuous compression by the shoulder portions of the tube T around its circumference on either side of the barbed portion B.

[0056] This tightening of the device 100 on the tube T can cause the inner surface 126b of the ramp 126 to be flexed from a first radius of curvature to a second radius of curvature, wherein the second radius of curvature matches a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion 146t of the band inner surface 146b, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 3 - 8, the band 140 forms a linearly extending or substantially straight strap portion 146, in an unflexed, un-constricted, or unwrapped condition, that is sufficiently flexible so as to be easily wrapped around the tube during installation, and includes a user graspable endmost tab portion 147 that, may, but need not, be angled with respect to the strap portion 146, and that may be pulled for tightening the retention device 100 on the tube connection C. The strap portion 146 may be provided in a variety of lengths to accommodate a variety of tube sizes. In other embodiments, a tube retention device may include a shorter band or strap, flexible to be received through the head channel, without an easily graspable distal tab portion, but that includes a first flange portion extending from the head and a second flange portion extending orthogonally from the band, such that the first and second flange portions can be pulled or squeezed towards each other to advance the strap portion through the channel and tighten the retention device on the tube connection.

[0058] FIGS. 9 - 11 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a tube retention device 200 including a head 220, a ratchet member 230, and a band 240 that is bendable or flexible to form a substantially cylindrical or circular cuff portion. The head 220 includes an outer wall 221, an inner wall 222, and first and second side walls 223, 224 extending from a front side 220a of the head to a rear side 220b of the head to define a channel 225 therebetween. The band 240 includes a strap portion 246 extending longitudinally from a first or proximal end portion 241 joined with (e.g., integrally formed with) the inner wall 222 at the rear side 220b of the head 220, to a second or distal end portion 242 receivable through the channel 225 from the front side 220a of the head. The band 240 includes an outer surface 246a defining aplurality of longitudinally spaced, radially outward facing detents 245 (e.g., chamfered teeth, as shown) and an inner surface 246b opposite the outer surface. In other embodiments (not shown), the longitudinally spaced detents may be defined by or disposed on the inner surface of the band.

[0059] In a natural, unflexed condition (not shown, but similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 15 - 16), the strap portion 246 of the band 240 may be provided with a natural or unflexed radius of curvature, for example, to facilitate installation around the tube, and / or to permit use of a stiffer material (e.g., requiring less flexible bending from the natural state). In other embodiments (not shown), the strap portion of the band may extend substantially straight or linearly from the head portion in the natural, unflexed, un-constricted, or unwrapped condition, similar to the device 100 of FIGS. 3 - 8. The device 200 may be formed from any suitable material to provide a desired amount of flexibility, elasticity, and strength, including, for example, nylon, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), Polyketone (PK), Polypropylene (PP), and / or other suitable plastic materials.

[0060] The exemplary ratchet member 230 has a first end portion 231 joined with (e.g., integrally formed with) the outer wall 221 of the head 220 and a second end portion 232 (e.g., having an interlocking tooth 233) extending rearward of the channel 225 from a rear side of the head, and biased radially inward for ratcheting engagement (e.g., permitting movement of the band in a tightening direction while preventing movement of the band in a loosening direction) with at least one of the plurality of detents 245 when the second end portion 242 of the band 240 is inserted through the channel 225. The first end portion 231 of the ratchet member 230 may be configured to flex radially outward for disengagement of the ratchet tooth 233 from the detent teeth 245 when tightening the band 240 through the channel 225 (e.g., by camming engagement of the band detent teeth 245 and the ratchet tooth 233). The band detent teeth 245 and the ratchet tooth 233 may be shaped to restrict movement of the band 240 through the channel 225 in a loosening direction. In other embodiments, other detent arrangements may be used, such as, for example, protrusions (e.g., pins, nubs) on one of the band and the ratchet member and sockets on the other of the band and the ratchet member.

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, the outer wall 221 of the head 220 defines a first flange portion 227 and the band 240 includes a second flange portion 247 extending orthogonally from the band strap portion 246, such that the first and second flange portions 227, 247 can be pulled or squeezed towards each other (e.g., by grasping by hand or using plyers or othersuch tools) to advance the strap portion 246 through the channel 225 and tighten the retention device 200 on the tube connection.

[0062] The inner wall 222 of the head 220 defines an arcuate ramp 226 having an outer surface 226a shaped to receive the inner surface 246b of the band 240 thereon, and an inner surface 226b opposite the outer surface. When the tube retention device 200 is installed on a tube (e.g., placed around the tube and tightened or constricted against the tube, not shown), the inner surface 226b of the ramp 226 is flexed (e.g., by radial inward forces from the band 240 or radial outward forces from the tube) to match a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion 246t of the band inner surface 246b, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous (e.g., discontinuity of less than about 7° or less than about 2% of the tube circumference) tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube. The first end portion 241 of the band 240 may define an arcuate inner surface in its natural, unflexed state, extending to the arcuate inner surface 226b of the ramp 226 to facilitate a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube upon installation.

[0063] The flexibility of the head inner surface 226b, defined by the flexible ramp 226, may provide a substantially uniform cylindrical tube engaging surface across a range of adjusted sizes, for example, with a maximum outer diameter greater than about 150% of a minimum outer diameter, or greater than about 175% of a minimum outer diameter, or greater than about 200% of a minimum outer diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the ramp may be configured to flex over an angle up to at least 15° in either direction from a flex or hinge point of the ramp to provide for the above referenced range of adjusted sizes.

[0064] A small discontinuity or gap g in circumferential tube engagement may be present between the inner surface 226b of the ramp 226 and the inner surface 246b of the band 240. This gap g may be minimized by providing the leading edge 226e of the ramp 226 with a small thickness or radius (e.g., less than about 0.050 inches thick, or approximately 0.010 inches thick), for example, to minimize a transition distance between the tube contacting portion 246t of the band inner surface 246b and a ramp contacting portion 246r of the band inner surface. The small thickness of the ramp end portion may additionally provide for flexibility of the ramp inner surface 226b. Flexibility of the ramp end portion may additionally or alternatively be provided by extending the ramp in a cantilevered fashion from the front side of the head (not shown), and / or by providing notches in the head side walls to provide for added flexibility of the forward extending ramp (not shown), similar to the device 100 of FIGS. 3 - 8.

[0065] As shown, an inner surface 246b of the band 240 of the exemplary device 200 includes a laterally extending stepped surface, defining longitudinally extending first and second band shoulder portions 249a, 249b that are substantially rectangular in cross-section, and a substantially linear longitudinally extending central head recess 249c between the first and second band shoulder portions. Likewise, an inner surface 226b of the head 220 or ramp 226 of the exemplary device 200 includes a laterally extending stepped surface, defining longitudinally extending first and second head shoulder portions 229a, 229b that are substantially rectangular in cross-section, and a substantially linear longitudinally extending central head recess 229c between the first and second head shoulder portions. In other embodiments (not shown), the inner surfaces of the head and band may include laterally extending concave surfaces defining outer lateral shoulder portions and central concave recesses, as shown and described above in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 3 - 8, or other suitable shapes and contours of the outer lateral shoulder portions and central concave recesses.

[0066] When the second end portion 242 of the band 240 is received through the channel 225, the first and second head shoulder portions 229a, 229b align with the first and second band shoulder portions 249a, 249b to provide substantially continuous tube engaging shoulder portions around the inner circumference of the device 200. To align the head shoulder portions 229a, 229b with the band shoulder portions 249a, 249b, the channel 225 includes notches 225a, 225b sized and positioned to receive the band shoulder portions.

[0067] The tube retention device 200 may be installed around a tube on a barbed connection, with the distal end 242 of the band 240 inserted through the channel 225, and the device positioned such that the first head shoulder portion 229a and the first band shoulder portion 249a are positioned on a first side of a barbed portion of the barbed connection, the second head shoulder portion 229b and the second band shoulder portion 249b are positioned on a second side of the barbed portion, and the head recess 229c and the band recess 249c are aligned with the barbed portion. The tube retention device 200 is tightened against the tube by pulling or squeezing the first and second flange portions 227, 247 towards each other to advance the strap portion 246 through the channel 225 such that the first head shoulder portion 229a and the first band shoulder portion 249a compress the tube on the first side of the barbed portion and the second head shoulder portion 229b and the second band shoulder portion 249b compress the tube on the second side of the barbed portion, for example, to impede unintentional or unauthorized removal of the tube from the barbed connection. The shoulder portions 229a, 229b, 249a, 249b and the recesses 229c, 249c may be dimensionedsuch that the head recess 229c is recessed from the first and second band shoulder portions 249a, 249b when the tube retention device 200 is installed on the tube, to promote substantially continuous compression by the shoulder portions of the tube around its circumference on either side of the barbed portion.

[0068] This tightening of the device 200 on the tube can cause the inner surface 226b of the ramp 226 to be flexed from a first radius of curvature to a second radius of curvature, wherein the second radius of curvature matches a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion 246t of the band inner surface 246b, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube.

[0069] As shown, the shape and position of the ratchet member 230 may be configured to limit access to, and manipulation of, the ratchet member, such that the tube retention device 200 may be provided as a single use or non-reusable device, for example, requiring cutting, breaking, or other such destruction of the device 200 for removal from the tube connection. In other embodiments, the retention device may be provided with a user movable / graspable release lever, for example, formed with the ratchet member, to facilitate release and loosening of the band and reuse of the device.

[0070] FIGS. 12 - 14 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a reusable tube retention device 300 including a head 320, a ratchet member 330, and a band 340 that is bendable or flexible to form a substantially cylindrical or circular cuff portion. The head 320 includes an outer wall 321, an inner wall 322, and first and second side walls 323, 324 extending from a front side 320a of the head to a rear side 320b of the head to define a channel 325 therebetween. The band 340 includes a strap portion 346 extending longitudinally from a first or proximal end portion 341 joined with (e.g., integrally formed with) the inner wall 322 at the rear side 320b of the head 320, to a second or distal end portion 342 receivable through the channel 325 from the front side 320a of the head. The band strap portion 346 includes an outer surface 346a defining a plurality of longitudinally spaced, radially outward facing detents 345 (e.g., chamfered teeth, as shown) and an inner surface 346b opposite the outer surface. In other embodiments (not shown), the longitudinally spaced detents may be defined by or disposed on the inner surface of the band.

[0071] In a natural, unflexed condition, the strap portion 346 of the band 340 may be provided with a natural or unflexed radius of curvature, for example, to facilitate insertion of the band first end through the head channel, installation around the tube, and / or to permit use of a stiffer material (e.g., requiring less flexible bending from the natural state), similar to thedevice 400 of FIGS. 15 - 19. In other embodiments, the strap portion of the band may extend substantially straight or linearly from the head portion in the natural, unflexed condition, similar to the device 100 of FIGS. 3 - 8. The device 300 may be formed from any suitable material to provide a desired amount of flexibility, elasticity, and strength, including, for example, nylon, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), Polyketone (PK), Polypropylene (PP), and / or other suitable plastic materials.

[0072] The ratchet member 330 has a first end portion 331 joined with (e.g., integrally formed with) the outer wall 321 of the head 320 and a second end portion 332 (e.g., having an interlocking tooth 333) extending forward of the channel 325 from a front side of the head, and biased radially inward for ratcheting engagement (e.g., permitting movement of the band in a tightening direction while preventing movement of the band in a loosening direction) with at least one of the plurality of detents 345 when the second end portion 342 of the band 340 is inserted through the channel 325. The first end portion 331 of the ratchet member 330 may be configured to flex radially outward for disengagement of the ratchet tooth 333 from the detent teeth 345 when tightening the band 340 through the channel 325 (e.g., by camming engagement of the band detent teeth 345 and the ratchet tooth 333). The band detent teeth 345 and the ratchet tooth 333 may be shaped to restrict movement of the band 340 through the channel 325 in a loosening direction. In other embodiments, other detent arrangements may be used, such as, for example, protrusions (e.g., pins, nubs) on one of the band and the ratchet member and sockets on the other of the band and the ratchet member.

[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, the outer wall 321 of the head 320 defines a first flange portion 327 and the band 340 includes a second flange portion 347 extending orthogonally from the band strap portion 346, such that the first and second flange portions 327, 347 can be pulled or squeezed towards each other (e.g., by grasping by hand or using plyers or other such tools) to advance the strap portion 346 through the channel 325 and tighten the retention device 300 on the tube connection.

[0074] The inner wall 322 of the head 320 defines an arcuate ramp 326 having an outer surface 327 shaped to receive the inner surface 346b of the band 340 thereon, and an inner surface 326b opposite the outer surface. When the tube retention device 300 is installed on a tube (e.g., placed around the tube and tightened or constricted against the tube, not shown), the inner surface 326b of the ramp 326 is flexed (e.g., by radial inward forces from the band 340 or radial outward forces from the tube) to match a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion 346t of the band inner surface 346b, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous (e.g., discontinuity ofless than about 7° or less than about 2% of the tube circumference) tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube. The first end portion 341 of the band 340 may define an arcuate inner surface in its natural, unflexed state, extending to the arcuate inner surface 326b of the ramp 326 to facilitate a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube upon installation.

[0075] The flexibility of the head inner surface 326b, defined by the flexible ramp 326, may provide a substantially uniform cylindrical tube engaging surface across a range of adjusted sizes, for example, with a maximum outer diameter greater than about 150% of a minimum outer diameter, or greater than about 175% of a minimum outer diameter, or greater than about 200% of a minimum outer diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the ramp may be configured to flex over an angle up to at least 15° in either direction from a flex or hinge point of the ramp to provide for the above referenced range of adjusted sizes.

[0076] A small discontinuity or gap g in circumferential tube engagement may be present between the inner surface 326b of the ramp 326 and the inner surface 346b of the band strap portion 346. This gap g may be minimized by providing the leading edge 326e of the ramp 326 with a small thickness or radius (e.g., less than about 0.050 inches thick, or approximately 0.010 inches thick), for example, to minimize a transition distance between the tube contacting portion 346t of the band inner surface 346b and a ramp contacting portion 346r of the band inner surface. The small thickness of the ramp end portion may additionally provide for flexibility of the ramp inner surface 326b. Flexibility of the ramp end portion may additionally or alternatively be provided by extending the ramp 326 in a cantilevered fashion from the front side 320a of the head 320, as shown. In some embodiments (not shown), notches may be provided in the head side walls to provide for added flexibility of the forward extending ramp, similar to the device 100 of FIGS. 3 - 8.

[0077] As shown, an inner surface 346b of the band strap portion 346 of the exemplary device 300 includes a laterally extending stepped surface, defining longitudinally extending first and second band shoulder portions 349a, 349b that are substantially rectangular in crosssection, and a substantially linear or flat (in cross-section) longitudinally extending central head recess 349c between the first and second band shoulder portions. Likewise, an inner surface 326b of the head 320 or ramp 326 of the exemplary device 300 includes a laterally extending stepped surface, defining longitudinally extending first and second head shoulder portions 329a, 329b that are substantially rectangular in cross-section, and a substantially linear or flat (in cross-section) longitudinally extending central head recess 329c between the first and second head shoulder portions. In other embodiments (not shown), the innersurfaces of the head and band may include laterally extending concave surfaces defining outer lateral shoulder portions and central concave recesses, as shown and described above in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 3 - 8, or other suitable shapes and contours of the outer lateral shoulder portions and central concave recesses.

[0078] When the second end portion 342 of the band 340 is received through the channel 325, the first and second head shoulder portions 329a, 329b align with the first and second band shoulder portions 349a, 349b to provide substantially continuous tube engaging shoulder portions around the inner circumference of the device 300. To align the head shoulder portions 329a, 329b with the band shoulder portions 349a, 349b, the channel 325 includes notches 325a, 325b sized and positioned to receive the band shoulder portions.

[0079] The tube retention device 300 may be installed around a tube on a barbed connection, with the distal end 342 of the band 340 inserted through the channel 325, and the device positioned such that the first head shoulder portion 329a and the first band shoulder portion 349a are positioned on a first side of a barbed portion of the barbed connection, the second head shoulder portion 329b and the second band shoulder portion 349b are positioned on a second side of the barbed portion, and the head recess 329c and the band recess 349c are aligned with the barbed portion. The tube retention device 300 is tightened against the tube by pulling or squeezing the first and second flange portions 327, 347 towards each other to advance the strap portion 346 through the channel 325 such that the first head shoulder portion 329a and the first band shoulder portion 349a compress the tube on the first side of the barbed portion and the second head shoulder portion 329b and the second band shoulder portion 349b compress the tube on the second side of the barbed portion, for example, to impede unintentional or unauthorized removal of the tube from the barbed connection. The shoulder portions 329a, 329b, 349a, 349b and the recesses 329c, 349c may be dimensioned such that the head recess 329c is recessed from the first and second band shoulder portions 349a, 349b when the tube retention device 300 is installed on the tube, to promote substantially continuous compression by the shoulder portions of the tube around its circumference on either side of the barbed portion.

[0080] This tightening of the device 300 on the tube can cause the inner surface 326b of the ramp 326 to be flexed from a first radius of curvature to a second radius of curvature, wherein the second radius of curvature matches a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion 346t of the band inner surface 346b, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube.

[0081] As shown, the ratchet member 330 may be provided with a user engageable release lever 335 that is depressible or otherwise movable to flex the ratchet member 330 out of ratcheting engagement with the band 340, disengaging the ratchet tooth 333 from the band detent teeth 345 to permit loosening of the band, for example, for disassembly of the device 300 from the tube connection and / or reuse of the device. In other embodiments (not shown), the device may be configured to impede or prevent loosening of the band once the device has been installed, for example, to prevent improper removal of the retention device and disconnection of the tube, similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 3 - 8 and 9 - 11.

[0082] In the embodiments of FIGS. 3 - 8, 9 - 11, and 12 - 14, the band detents extend radially (i.e., with respect to a central axis of the retained tube) for engagement and disengagement with a radially flexible ratchet member. In other embodiments, the band detents may extend laterally (i.e., in the direction of the width of the device) for engagement and disengagement with one or more laterally flexible ratchet members.

[0083] FIGS. 15 - 19 illustrate exemplary embodiments of a tube retention device 400 including a head 420, a ratchet member 430, and a band 440 that is bendable or flexible to form a substantially cylindrical or circular cuff portion, or bendable or flexible to constrict the band beyond an unflexed substantially cylindrical or circular condition. The head 420 includes an outer wall 421, an inner wall 422, and first and second side walls 423, 424 extending from a front side 420a of the head to a rear side 420b of the head to define a channel 425 therebetween. The band 440 includes a strap portion 446 extending longitudinally from a first or proximal end portion 441 joined with (e.g., integrally formed with) the inner wall 422 at the rear side 420b of the head 420, to a second or distal end portion 442 receivable through the channel 425 from the front side 420a of the head. The band strap portion 446 includes an outer surface 446a defining a plurality of longitudinally spaced, laterally inward facing detents 445a, 445b (e.g., chamfered teeth, as shown) and an inner surface 446b opposite the outer surface. In other embodiments (not shown), the longitudinally spaced detents may be defined by or disposed on the inner surface of the band.

[0084] In a natural, unflexed or un-constricted condition, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the strap portion 446 of the band 440 may be provided with a natural or unflexed radius of curvature, for example, to facilitate insertion of the band first end through the head channel, and / or installation around the tube, and / or to permit use of a stiffer material (e.g., requiring less flexible bending from the natural state), similar to the devices 200, 300 of FIGS. 9 - 11 and 12 - 14. In other embodiments, the strap portion of the band may extend substantially straight or linearly from the head portion in the natural, unflexed or un-constricted condition,similar to the device 100 of FIGS. 3 - 8. The device 400 may be formed from any suitable material to provide a desired amount of flexibility, elasticity, and strength, including, for example, nylon, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), Polyketone (PK), Polypropylene (PP), and / or other suitable plastic materials.

[0085] The ratchet member 430 includes first and second arms 430a, 430b each having a first end portion 431a, 431b joined with (e.g., integrally formed with) the outer wall 421 of the head 420 and a second end portion 432a, 432b (e.g., having an interlocking tooth 433a, 433b) extending forward of the channel 425 and biased laterally outward for ratcheting engagement (e.g., permitting movement of the band in a tightening direction while preventing movement of the band in a loosening direction) with at least one of the plurality of detents 445a, 445b when the second end portion 442 of the band 440 is inserted through the channel 425. The first end portions 431a, 431b of the ratchet member arms 430a, 430b may be configured to flex laterally inward for disengagement of the ratchet teeth 433a, 433b from the detent teeth 445a, 445b when tightening the band 440 through the channel 425 (e.g., by camming engagement of the band detent teeth 445a, 445b and the ratchet tooth 433a, 433b). The band detent teeth 445a, 445b and the ratchet teeth 433a, 433b may be shaped to restrict movement of the band 440 through the channel 425 in a loosening direction. In other embodiments, other detent arrangements may be used, such as, for example, protrusions (e.g., pins, nubs) on one of the band and the ratchet member and sockets on the other of the band and the ratchet member.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 17 - 19, the outer wall 421 of the head 420 defines a first flange portion 427 and the band 440 includes a second flange portion 447 extending orthogonally from the band strap portion 446, such that the first and second flange portions 427, 447 can be pulled or squeezed towards each other (e.g., by grasping by hand or using plyers or other such tools) to advance the strap portion 446 through the channel 425 and tighten the retention device 400 on the tube connection.

[0087] The inner wall 422 of the head 420 defines an arcuate ramp 426 having an outer surface 426a shaped to receive the inner surface 446b of the band 440 thereon, and an inner surface 426b opposite the outer surface. When the tube retention device 400 is installed on a tube (e.g., placed around the tube and tightened or constricted against the tube, not shown), the inner surface 426b of the ramp 426 is flexed (e.g., by radial inward forces from the band 440 or radial outward forces from the tube) to match a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion 446t of the band inner surface 446b, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous (e.g., discontinuity ofless than about 7° or less than about 2% of the tube circumference) tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube. The first end portion 441 of the band 440 may define an arcuate inner surface in its natural, unflexed state, extending to the arcuate inner surface 426b of the ramp 426 to facilitate a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube upon installation. As shown in FIG. 16, the arcuate inner surface of the first end portion 441 may have a radius of curvature that is larger than a radius of curvature of the arcuate ramp inner surface 426b, for example, to compensate for the reduced flexibility of the ramp 426 relative to the band strap portion 446.

[0088] The flexibility of the head inner surface 426b, defined by the flexible ramp 426, may provide a substantially uniform cylindrical tube engaging surface across a range of adjusted sizes, for example, with a maximum outer diameter greater than about 150% of a minimum outer diameter, or greater than about 175% of a minimum outer diameter, or greater than about 200% of a minimum outer diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the ramp may be configured to flex over an angle up to at least 15° in either direction from a flex or hinge point of the ramp to provide for the above referenced range of adjusted sizes.

[0089] A small discontinuity or gap g in circumferential tube engagement may be present between the inner surface 426b of the ramp 426 and the inner surface 446b of the band strap portion 446. This gap g may be minimized by providing the leading edge 426e of the ramp 426 with a small thickness or radius (e.g., less than about 0.050 inches thick, or approximately 0.010 inches thick), for example, to minimize a transition distance between the tube contacting portion 446t of the band inner surface 446b and a ramp contacting portion 446r of the band inner surface. The small thickness of the ramp end portion may additionally provide for flexibility of the ramp inner surface 426b. Flexibility of the ramp end portion may additionally or alternatively be provided by extending the ramp 426 in a cantilevered fashion from the front side 420a of the head 420, as shown. In some embodiments (not shown), notches may be provided in the head side walls to provide for added flexibility of the forward extending ramp, similar to the device 100 of FIGS. 3 - 8.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 18, an inner surface 446b of the band strap portion 446 of the exemplary device 400 may include a laterally extending stepped surface, defining longitudinally extending first and second band shoulder portions 449a, 449b that are substantially rectangular in cross-section, and a substantially linear or flat (in cross-section) longitudinally extending central head recess 449c between the first and second band shoulder portions. Likewise, an inner surface 426b of the head 420 or ramp 426 of the exemplary device 400 includes a laterally extending stepped surface, defining longitudinally extendingfirst and second head shoulder portions 429a, 429b that are substantially rectangular in crosssection, and a substantially linear or flat (in cross-section) longitudinally extending central head recess 429c between the first and second head shoulder portions. In other embodiments (not shown), the inner surfaces of the head and band may include laterally extending concave surfaces defining outer lateral shoulder portions and central concave recesses, as shown and described above in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 3 - 8, or other suitable shapes and contours of the outer lateral shoulder portions and central concave recesses.

[0091] When the second end portion 442 of the band 440 is received through the channel 425, the first and second head shoulder portions 429a, 429b align with the first and second band shoulder portions 449a, 449b to provide substantially continuous tube engaging shoulder portions around the inner circumference of the device 400. To align the head shoulder portions 429a, 429b with the band shoulder portions 449a, 449b, the channel 425 includes notches 425a, 425b sized and positioned to receive the band shoulder portions.

[0092] The tube retention device 400 may be installed around a tube on a barbed connection, with the distal end 442 of the band 440 inserted through the channel 425, and the device positioned such that the first head shoulder portion 429a and the first band shoulder portion 449a are positioned on a first side of a barbed portion of the barbed connection, the second head shoulder portion 429b and the second band shoulder portion 449b are positioned on a second side of the barbed portion, and the head recess 429c and the band recess 449c are aligned with the barbed portion. The tube retention device 400 is tightened against the tube by pulling or squeezing the first and second flange portions 427, 447 towards each other to advance the strap portion 446 through the channel 425 such that the first head shoulder portion 429a and the first band shoulder portion 449a compress the tube on the first side of the barbed portion and the second head shoulder portion 429b and the second band shoulder portion 449b compress the tube on the second side of the barbed portion, for example, to impede unintentional or unauthorized removal of the tube from the barbed connection. The shoulder portions 429a, 429b, 449a, 449b and the recesses 429c, 449c may be dimensioned such that the head recess 429c is recessed from the first and second band shoulder portions 449a, 449b when the tube retention device 400 is installed on the tube, to promote substantially continuous compression by the shoulder portions of the tube around its circumference on either side of the barbed portion.

[0093] This tightening of the device 400 on the tube can cause the inner surface 426b of the ramp 426 to be flexed from a first radius of curvature to a second radius of curvature, wherein the second radius of curvature matches a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion 446tof the band inner surface 446b, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube.

[0094] As shown, the ratchet member 430 may be provided with user engageable release levers 435a, 435b that are squeezable or otherwise movable to flex the ratchet member arms 430a, 430b out of ratcheting engagement with the band 440, disengaging the ratchet teeth 433a, 433b from the band detent teeth 445a, 445b to permit loosening of the band, for example, for disassembly of the device 400 from the tube connection and / or reuse of the device. In other embodiments (not shown), the device may be configured to impede or prevent loosening of the band once the device has been installed, for example, to prevent improper removal of the retention device and disconnection of the tube, similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 3 - 8 and 9 - 11.

[0095] The inventive aspects have been described with reference to the exemplary embodiments. Modification and alterations will occur to others upon a reading and understanding of this specification. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.

Claims

We claim:

1. A tube retention device for retaining a tube installed on a barbed connector, the device comprising: a head having an outer wall, an inner wall, and first and second side walls extending from a front side of the head to a rear side of the head to define a channel therebetween; a band extending longitudinally from a first end portion joined with the inner wall at the rear side of the head to a second end portion receivable through the channel from the front side of the head, the band defining a plurality of longitudinally spaced detents and including an outer surface and an inner surface opposite the outer surface; and a ratchet member having a first end portion joined with the head and a second end portion extending into ratcheting engagement with at least one of the plurality of detents when the second end portion of the band is inserted through the channel; wherein the inner wall of the head defines an arcuate ramp having an outer surface shaped to receive the inner surface of the band thereon; and wherein when the tube retention device is installed on a tube, an inner surface of the ramp is flexed from a first radius of curvature to a second radius of curvature, wherein the second radius of curvature matches a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion of the band inner surface, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube.

2. The tube retention device of claim 1, wherein the ratchet member is integrally formed with the head.

3. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 and 2, wherein the first end portion of the ratchet member is joined with the outer wall of the head.

4. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 3, wherein the ratchet member extends beyond the front side of the head.

5. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 3, wherein the ratchet member extends beyond the rear side of the head.

6. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 5, wherein the ratchet member is biased radially inward into ratcheting engagement with at least one of the plurality of detents when the second end portion of the band is inserted through the channel.

7. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 5, wherein the ratchet member is biased laterally outward into ratcheting engagement with at least one of the plurality of detents when the second end portion of the band is inserted through the channel.

8. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 7, wherein outer lateral edge portions of the ramp are defined by notches in the first and second side walls.

9. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 8, wherein an inner surface of the ramp includes longitudinally extending first and second head shoulder portions aligned with the first and second band shoulder portions when the second end portion of the band is received through the channel, and a head recess extending between the first and second head shoulder portions.

10. The tube retention device of claim 9, wherein the head recess is recessed from the first and second band shoulder portions when the tube retention device is installed on the tube.

11. The tube retention device of any of claims 9 and 10, wherein the ramp defines a concave head wall, with first and second lateral sides of the concave head wall defining the first and second head shoulder portions and a central portion of the concave head wall defining the head recess.

12. The tube retention device of any of claims 9 - 11, wherein the band defines a concave band wall, with first and second lateral sides of the concave band wall defining the first and second head shoulder portions and a central portion of the concave band wall defining the band recess.

13. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 12, wherein the plurality of longitudinally spaced detents comprises chamfered teeth, and the ratchet member comprises one or more interlocking teeth.

14. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 12, wherein the plurality of longitudinally spaced detents comprises recessed sockets, and the ratchet member comprises one or more interlocking protrusions.

15. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 14, wherein the band is configured to be wrapped around a tube for assembly with the tube, with the band comprising a straight strap portion in an unwrapped configuration.

16. The tube retention device of claim 15, wherein the first end portion of the band defines an arcuate inner surface extending from the straight strap portion to the arcuate ramp.

17. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 14, wherein the band is configured to be constricted around a tube for assembly with the tube, with the band comprising an arcuate cuff portion in an un-constricted configuration.

18. The tube retention device of claim 17, wherein the first end portion of the band defines an arcuate inner surface extending to the arcuate ramp.

19. The tube retention device of claim 18 where in the arcuate inner surface of the first end portion has a radius of curvature that is larger than a radius of curvature of the arcuate ramp.

20. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 19, further comprising a first flange portion extending from the head and a second flange portion extending orthogonally from the band, such that the first and second flange portions can be pulled or squeezed towards each other to advance the band through the channel.

21. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 20, wherein the ratchet member includes a user engageable release lever for moving the ratchet member out of ratcheting engagement with the at least one of the plurality of detents on the band.

22. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 21, wherein the arcuate ramp extends from the front side of the head and beyond the channel.

23. The tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 22, wherein the plurality of longitudinally spaced detents are disposed on the outer surface of the band.

24. A tube retention device for retaining a tube installed on a barbed connector, the device comprising: a head having an outer wall, an inner wall, and first and second side walls extending from a front side of the head to a rear side of the head to define a channel therebetween; a band extending longitudinally from a first end portion joined with the inner wall at the rear side of the head to a second end portion receivable through the channel from the front side of the head, the band defining a plurality of longitudinally spaced detents and including an outer surface and an inner surface opposite the outer surface, the inner surface defining longitudinally extending first and second band shoulder portions and a band recess extending between the first and second band shoulder portions; and a ratchet member having a first end portion joined with the head and a second end portion extending into ratcheting engagement with at least one of the plurality of detents when the second end portion of the band is inserted through the channel; wherein an inner surface of the head includes longitudinally extending first and second head shoulder portions aligned with the first and second band shoulder portions when the second end portion of the band is received through the channel to provide substantially continuous tube engaging shoulder portions around an inner circumference of the tube retention device, and a head recess extending between the first and second head shoulder portions.

25. The tube retention device of claim 24, wherein the ratchet member is integrally formed with the head.

26. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 and 25, wherein the first end portion of the ratchet member is joined with the outer wall of the head.

27. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 26, wherein the ratchet member extends beyond the front side of the head.

28. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 26, wherein the ratchet member extends beyond the rear side of the head.

29. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 28, wherein the ratchet member is biased radially inward into ratcheting engagement with at least one of the plurality of detents when the second end portion of the band is inserted through the channel.

30. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 28, wherein the ratchet member is biased laterally outward into ratcheting engagement with at least one of the plurality of detents when the second end portion of the band is inserted through the channel.

31. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 30, wherein the band defines a concave band wall, with first and second lateral sides of the concave band wall defining the first and second head shoulder portions and a central portion of the concave band wall defining the band recess.

32. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 31, wherein the head inner surface defines a laterally concave head wall, with first and second lateral sides of the concave head wall defining the first and second head shoulder portions and a central portion of the concave head wall defining the head recess.

33. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 32, wherein the plurality of longitudinally spaced detents comprises chamfered teeth, and the ratchet member comprises one or more interlocking teeth.

34. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 32, wherein the plurality of longitudinally spaced detents comprises recessed sockets, and the ratchet member comprises one or more interlocking protrusions.

35. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 34, wherein the band is configured to be wrapped around a tube for assembly with the tube, with the band comprising a straight strap portion in an unwrapped configuration.

36. The tube retention device of claim 35, wherein the inner wall of the head includes an arcuate ramp defining the inner surface of the head, and the first end portion of the band defines an arcuate inner surface extending from the straight strap portion to the arcuate ramp.

37. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 34, wherein the band is configured to be constricted around a tube for assembly with the tube, with the band comprising a substantially circular cuff portion in an un-constricted configuration.

38. The tube retention device of claim 37, wherein the second end portion of the band is extendable through the channel in the un-constricted configuration.

39. The tube retention device of any of claims 37 and 38, wherein the inner wall of the head includes an arcuate ramp defining the inner surface of the head, and the first end portion of the band defines an arcuate inner surface extending to the arcuate ramp.

40. The tube retention device of claim 39 where in the arcuate inner surface of the first end portion has a radius of curvature that is larger than a radius of curvature of the arcuate ramp.

41. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 40, wherein the ratchet member includes a user engageable release lever for moving the ratchet member out of ratcheting engagement with the at least one of the plurality of detents on the band.

42. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 41, wherein the inner wall of the head includes an arcuate ramp having an inner surface defining the inner surface of the head and an outer surface shaped to receive the inner surface of the band thereon.

43. The tube retention device of claim 42, wherein when the tube retention device is installed on a tube, an inner surface of the ramp is flexed from a first radius of curvature to a second radius of curvature, wherein the second radius of curvature matches a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion of the band inner surface, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube.

44. The tube retention device of any of claims 42 and 43, wherein the arcuate ramp extends from the front side of the head and beyond the channel.

45. The tube retention device of any of claims 42 - 44, wherein outer lateral edge portions of the ramp are defined by notches in the first and second side walls.

46. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 45, wherein the head recess is recessed from the first and second band shoulder portions when the tube retention device is installed on the tube.

47. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 46, further comprising a first flange portion extending from the head and a second flange portion extending orthogonally from the band, such that the first and second flange portions can be pulled or squeezed towards each other to advance the band through the channel.

48. The tube retention device of any of claims 24 - 47, wherein the plurality of longitudinally spaced detents are disposed on the outer surface of the band.

49. A method of retaining a tube on a barbed connection, the method comprising: providing a tube retention device including a head defining a channel and a band extending longitudinally from the head; installing the tube retention device around the tube on the barbed connection, with a distal end of the band received through the channel, such that a first head shoulder portion on an inner surface of the head and a first band shoulder portion on an inner surface of the band are positioned on a first side of a barbed portion of the barbed connection, a second head shoulder portion on an inner surface of the head and a second band shoulder portion on an inner surface of the band are positioned on a second side of the barbed portion, and a head recess between the first and second head shoulder portions and a band recess between the first and second band shoulder portions are aligned with the barbed portion; and tightening the tube retention device against the tube such that the first head shoulder portion and the first band shoulder portion compress the tube on the first side of the barbed portion and the second head shoulder portion and the second band shoulder portion compress the tube on the second side of the barbed portion.

50. The method of claim 49, wherein the tube retention device comprises the tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 48.

51. A method of retaining a tube on a tube connection, the method comprising: providing a tube retention device including a head defining a channel and a band extending longitudinally from the head, wherein an inner wall of the head defines an arcuate ramp having an outer surface shaped to receive an inner surface of the band thereon; installing the tube retention device around the tube on the tube connection, with a distal end of the band received through the channel; and tightening the tube retention device against the tube such that an inner surface of the ramp is flexed from a first radius of curvature to a second radius of curvature, wherein the second radius of curvature matches a radius of curvature of a tube contacting portion of the band inner surface, such that the inner surface of the ramp and the inner surface of the band form a substantially continuous tube engaging surface around an outer circumference of the tube.

52. The method of claim 51, wherein the tube retention device comprises the tube retention device of any of claims 1 - 48.

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