Connection system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a fluid connection system of the type comprising a first connection arrangement and a matable second connection arrangement. When the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement are connected together, a fluid flowpath is established between the first connection arrangement and the second arrangement. Using the techniques described in the present disclosure, the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement to be connected together to form an aseptic fluid connection, without requiring the time-consuming removal of sealing members. Using the techniques described in the present disclosure, it may be possible to disconnect the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement without fluid dripping out of the first connection arrangement and / or second connection arrangement.

Description

P2021-1490CONNECTION SYSTEMFIELD

[0001] The present invention is directed to a fluid connection system of the type comprising a first connection arrangement and a matable second connection arrangement. When the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement are connected together, a fluid flowpath is established between the first connection arrangement and the second arrangement.BACKGROUND

[0002] In many industries (e.g. the biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, food, beverage, cosmetic, and medical industries) fluid processing systems are used in the production of products. One specific example of a fluid processing system is a depth filtration system for use in the manufacture of a biological product. In fluid processing systems, the fluid that is processed may comprise gases, liquids, or a mixture of two or more of gases, liquids and solids.

[0003] Many fluid processing systems (especially in industries such as the biopharmaceutical industry) have strict sterility requirements. The introduction of contaminants into the fluid, such as biological contaminants (e.g. viruses and bacteria) and environmental contaminants (e.g. dust and dirt), can render the resulting product unfit for use and / or of poor quality.

[0004] During the course of use, components of fluid processing systems may be assembled and disassembled (e.g. before a fluid processing process is performed, after a fluid processing process has been performed, when adding new functionality to an existing fluid processing system, and when repairing and / or replacing components of a fluid processing system). Assembly and disassembly may comprise making and breaking fluid connections between different components, subsystems or conduits. During assembly and disassembly of components in a fluid processing system, the sterility of components may be compromised (i.e. components may become contaminated).

[0005] To prevent contamination of components of a fluid processing system before assembly, it is common to use peel strips. A peel strip comprises a doubled-over membrane. When connecting two components, a peel strip may be provided over an opening in each component. As the two components are brought together, the peel strips become mated together. Then, when the two components are in a mid-connection position, the peel strips are removed (e.g. pulled back on themselves). As the peel strips are removed, features (e.g. lip seals) of the two components are energised to form an environmental seal in the place of the peel strips.

[0006] Peel strip systems suffer from several disadvantages. Peel strips need to be removed manually, e.g. peeled by hand. This is time-consuming and inefficient, especially in fluid processing systems comprising many fluid connections. Moreover, peel strips introduce complexity and risk into the connection procedure, which may mean that the connection between the two components is not aseptic after the connection process has been performed. Moreover, peel strips can be removed at the wrong time (e.g. before the two components are in the mid-connection position), allowing contaminants to enter theP2021-1490 two components before they are connected together. Moreover, peel strips are prone to damage and / or quality issues during use. Despite these disadvantages, peel strip systems remain favoured in many fluid processing systems, such as fluid processing systems for manufacturing biological products.

[0007] WO 2008 / 094707 discloses a fluid connection comprising a first connector and a second connector. The first connector includes a housing, a seal arrangement, and a valve which covers the seal arrangement to prevent contaminants from reaching the seal arrangement. The second connector includes a housing, a movable stem, and a valve which covers the movable stem to prevent contaminants from reaching the movable stem. When the first connector and the second connector are connected together, the housing of the first connector and the housing of the second connector become locked together. After the two housings are locked together, the movable stem is moved towards the first connector (relative to the housing of the second connector), such that the movable stem pushes through the valve of the second connector and then through the valve of the first connector. After pushing through the valves, the movable stem of the second connector forms a seal with the seal arrangement of the first connector, such that a fluid flowpath is formed between the first and second connectors.

[0008] By requiring the movable stem of the second connector to move relative to the housing of the second connector during the connection process, there is a high chance of the components of the second connector becoming damaged during use. Thus, the fluid connection disclosed in WO 2008 / 094707 is not robust. If the movement of the movable stem relative to the second housing were to fail (e.g. if the moveable stem were to become stuck relative to the second housing), the first connector would not be able to connect to the second connector. Thus, the fluid connection disclosed in WO 2008 / 094707 is unreliable. Further, the complexity involved in the second connector comprising a housing and a stem which are movable relative to one another means that the design and manufacture of the second connector may be expensive.

[0009] During disassembly of the fluid connection disclosed in WO 2008 / 094707, the first connector and the second connector may contain a volume of fluid. During disassembly, some of this fluid may drip out of the first connector and / or the second connector, contaminating the immediate environment. This may be because, for example, the valves of the first and second connector arrangements do not close when the moveable stem is withdrawn, or because fluid seeps through an opening in the valves after they have closed. This is undesirable.

[0010] In each fluid connector of WO 2008 / 094707, the valve is supported by a valve support system and a valve retainer. The valve retainer occupies the space between the valve support system and the housing. As a consequence of the valve retainers occupying this space, the fluid connectors of WO 2008 / 094707 may be heavy and expensive to manufacture.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] It is desirable to provide a reliable fluid connection system in which the sterility of the components of the connection system is maintained, without the need for time-consuming operations to be performed before the components of the connection system are connected. It is also desirable toP2021-1490 provide a fluid connection system which can be disassembled without the leakage of fluid.

[0012] According to a first aspect, there is provided a connection system comprising a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port for the passage of fluid therethrough and a sealing member configured to cover the first port when the connection system is in an unconnected state. The second connection arrangement may comprise a second port for the passage of fluid therethrough and a housing. The second port may be fixed relative to the second housing, and the connection system may be configured such that the second port pushes through the sealing member when the connection system transitions from the unconnected state to a connected state.

[0013] According to a second aspect, there is provided a method of connecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port and the second connection arrangement may comprise a housing and a second port. The method may comprise penetrating a sealing member of the first connection arrangement with the second port. The method may further comprise connecting the first port with the second port. The method may further comprise maintaining the position of the second port relative to the housing of the second connection arrangement as the second port penetrates the sealing member.

[0014] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method of disconnecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port. The second connection arrangement may comprise a housing and a second port. The method may comprise: disconnecting the first port from the second port; withdrawing the second port from a sealing member of the first connection arrangement; and maintaining the position of the second port relative to the housing of the second connection arrangement as the second port withdraws from the sealing member.

[0015] In the first to third aspects, the sealing member may maintain the sterility of the first port before the first connection arrangement is connected to the second connection arrangement. The sealing member may continue to maintain the sterility of the first port during the connecting of the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement by forming an environmental seal with the second port as the second port pushes through the sealing member. Further, there is no need to manually remove the sealing member, because the second port pushes through the sealing member when the connection system transitions from the unconnected state to a connected state. Thus, the sterility of the first port is maintained without requiring a time-consuming process before connecting the first connection arrangement with the second connection arrangement. Moreover, the sealing member may cover the first port as the first port and the second port are disconnected. This may prevent fluid from dripping out of the first port during the disassembly of the connection system. Moreover, by fixing the second port relative to the second housing, the connection system is robust and reliable, and the aforementioned advantages can be realised while keeping the design and manufacture of the second connection arrangement simple (relative to, e.g. a connection system in which a port moves relative to the surrounding housing).P2021-1490

[0016] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a connection arrangement for a connection system. The connection arrangement may comprise: a port for the passage of fluid therethrough; and a sealing member configured to cover the port. The support portion may extend around the port, and the support portion may be configured to support the sealing member. The connection arrangement may further comprise a housing extending around the support portion. An annular void is defined between the housing and the support portion.

[0017] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a method of connecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port, a sealing member configured to cover the first port, a support portion configured to support the sealing member, and a housing. An annular void may be defined between the housing and the support portion. The second connection arrangement may comprise a second port. The method may comprise: penetrating the sealing member of the first connection arrangement with the second port; and connecting the first port with the second port.

[0018] According to a sixth aspect, there is provided a method of disconnecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port, a sealing member configured to cover the first port, a support portion configured to support the sealing member, and a housing. An annular void may be defined between the housing and the support portion. The second connection arrangement may comprise a second port. The method may comprise: disconnecting the first port from the second port; and withdrawing the second port from the sealing member of the first connection arrangement.

[0019] In the third to sixth aspects, the annular void between the housing and the support portion provides several benefits. For example, the annular void provides a region in which components of another connection arrangement can be accommodated. Moreover, the annular void means that the housing can have the required outer diameter without increasing the overall mass of the connection arrangement excessively. Moreover, the annular void means that less material is required to manufacture the connection arrangement, so the connection arrangement is less expensive.

[0020] According to a seventh aspect, there is provided a connection arrangement for a connection system. The connection arrangement comprises a port for the passage of fluid therethrough and a sealing member covering the port. The sealing member may comprise one or more ribs.

[0021] According to an eighth aspect, there is provided a method of connecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port and the second connection arrangement may comprise a second port. The method may comprise: penetrating a sealing member of the first connection arrangement with the second port, the sealing member comprising one or more rib; and connecting the first port with the second port.

[0022] According to a ninth aspect, there is provided a method of disconnecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port and the second connection arrangement may comprise a second port. The method may comprise: disconnecting the first port from the second port; and withdrawing the second port from aP2021-1490 sealing member of the first connection arrangement, the sealing member comprising one or more rib.

[0023] In the seventh to ninth aspects, the sealing member may be configured to inhibit fluid from dripping out of the port (the first port) as the connection system is disassembled. The one or more ribs may prevent the movement of fluid towards the slit in the sealing member. Thus, the one or more ribs may reduce the amount of fluid that leaks through the slit in the sealing member during the disassembly of the connection system. Moreover, the one or more ribs may increase a stiffness of the sealing member. Thus, the sealing member may return to a closed position upon the withdrawal of the second port from the sealing member more reliably. Consequently, a sealing member with one or more ribs formed thereon may be more effective at preventing fluid from dripping out of the first port during disassembly of the connection system.

[0024] According to a tenth aspect, there is provided a connection arrangement for a connection system. The connection arrangement may comprise a port for the passage of fluid therethrough and a sealing member covering the port. The sealing member may comprise a slit formed therein. The sealing member may be curved so that the sealing member is convex from the perspective of the port.

[0025] According to an eleventh aspect, there is provided a method of disconnecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port and the second connection arrangement may comprise a second port. The method may comprise: disconnecting the first port from the second port; withdrawing the second port from a sealing member of the first connection arrangement; and directing liquid away from a slit formed in the sealing member by a curvature of the sealing member.

[0026] In the tenth and eleventh aspects, the sealing member may be configured to prevent fluid from dripping out of the port (the first port) as the connection system is disassembled. The curvature of the sealing member may inhibit the movement of fluid towards the slit in the sealing member. Thus, the curvature of the sealing member may reduce the amount of fluid that leaks through the slit in the sealing member during the disassembly of the connection system.

[0027] According to a twelfth aspect, there is provided a connection arrangement for a connection system. The connection arrangement may comprise a port for the passage of fluid therethrough, and a sealing member covering the port. The sealing member may comprise a slit formed therein. The slit may comprise a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, and the first longitudinal edge may be at least partially joined to the second longitudinal edge.

[0028] According to a thirteenth aspect, there is provided a method of connecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port and the second connection arrangement may comprise a second port. The method may comprise penetrating a sealing member of the first connection arrangement with the second port. Penetrating the sealing member may comprise breaking a bond between a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge of a slit formed in the sealing member. The method further may comprise connecting the first port with the second port.

[0029] According to a fourteenth aspect, there is provided a method of manufacturing a sealingP2021-1490 member for a connection arrangement of a connection system. The method may comprise: forming a slit in a membrane; and irradiating the membrane with radiation having a wavelength of less than 10-8m to at least partially join a first longitudinal edge of the slit to a second longitudinal edge of the slit.

[0030] In the twelfth to fourteenth aspects, by partially joining the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge, a risk that the first port becomes contaminated by contaminants which have moved through the slit of the sealing member is reduced. Moreover, the partial join between the longitudinal edges of the slit does not affect the ability of the second port to push through the sealing member during the connection of the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement.

[0031] According to a fifteenth aspect, there is provided a connection system comprising a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port for the passage of fluid therethrough. The second connection arrangement may comprise a second port for the passage of fluid therethrough. The second port may comprise a leading surface at a distal end thereof and a sealing surface recessed below the leading surface. When the connection system is in a connected state, the first port is in contact with the second port to form a flowpath therebetween, and when the connection system is in the connected state, the sealing surface of the second port forms a seal with the first port.

[0032] According to a sixteenth aspect, there is provided a method of connecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port and the second connection arrangement may comprise a second port. The method may comprise: penetrating a sealing member of the first connection arrangement with a leading surface of the second port; and forming a seal between a sealing surface of the second port and a surface of the first port, wherein the sealing surface of the second port is recessed below the leading surface of the second port.

[0033] In the fifteenth and sixteenth aspects, the seal formed between the sealing surface of the second port (which is recessed below the leading surface) and the first port may mean that the flowpath between the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement is isolated from the leading surface. When the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement are connected together, the leading surface may come into contact with contaminated surfaces, e.g. an outward facing surface of a sealing member on the first connection arrangement. Consequently, contamination may be transferred to the leading surface. By isolating the flow path between the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement from the leading surface, a risk that contamination on the leading surface is introduced into the fluid flowing through the connection system is reduced or eliminated. Moreover, as a result of recessing the sealing surface below the leading surface, when the sealing surface is sealed with the first port, the leading surface may be embedded within the first port in a non-fluid-flow area of the first port. Thus, a risk that contamination on the leading surface is introduced into the fluid flowing through the connection system is further reduced or eliminated. Moreover, by recessing the sealing surface below the leading surface, a risk that the sealing surface is damaged is reduced. Thus, theP2021-1490 seal that is formed between the sealing surface (of the second port) and the first port is made to be more reliable.

[0034] According to a seventeenth aspect, there is provided a connection system comprising a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise: a first port for the passage of fluid therethrough, and an annular protrusion extending around the first port. The second connection arrangement may comprise: a second port for the passage of fluid therethrough, and a sealing member configured to cover the second port when the connection system is in the unconnected state. The connection system may be configured such that the annular protrusion pushes against the sealing member to open the sealing member when the connection system transitions from the unconnected state to a connected state.

[0035] According to an eighteenth aspect, there is provided a method of connecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port, and the second connection arrangement may comprise a second port and a sealing member. The method may comprise pushing against the sealing member with an annular protrusion of the first connection arrangement to open the sealing member, and connecting the first port with the second port.

[0036] According to a nineteenth aspect, there is provided a method of disconnecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The first connection arrangement may comprise a first port and the second connection arrangement may comprise a second port and a sealing member. The method may comprise: disconnecting the first port from the second port; and removing a force exerted on the sealing member by an annular protrusion of the first connection arrangement.

[0037] In the seventeenth to nineteenth aspects, the sealing member may maintain the sterility of the second port before the first connection arrangement is connected to the second connection arrangement. By virtue of the annular protrusion of the first connection arrangement pushing against the sealing member during the transition from the unconnected state to the connected state, the sealing member is opened during the connecting of the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement. Opening the sealing member in this manner is less time consuming than, for example, providing a peel tab which must be manually removed prior to connection.

[0038] According to a twentieth aspect, there is provided a connection arrangement for a connection system. The connection arrangement may comprises: a port for the passage of fluid therethrough, and a sealing member covering the port. The sealing member may comprise a covering portion and a deformable support portion. The deformable support portion may extend around the port, and the covering portion may be supported by the deformable support portion.

[0039] In the twentieth aspect, by providing a sealing member with a covering portion and a deformable support portion, the sealing member can be made to uncover the port during the process of connecting the connection arrangements of the connection system, e.g. by pushing against the covering portion with another connection arrangement of the connection system. This may be quicker and easier than, e.g. manually removing a pull tab of a peel strip from the port. Further, it may allow an aseptic connection to be formed where access to a pull tab of a peel strip is impractical or impossible.P2021-1490

[0040] According to a twenty-first aspect of, there is provided a connection arrangement for a connection system. The connection arrangement may comprise: a port for the passage of fluid therethrough, and a sealing member. The sealing member may be configured to cover the port in a closed position. The sealing member may comprise one or more tabs configured to allow a user to pull the sealing member into the closed position.

[0041] According to a twenty-second aspect, there is provided a method of disconnecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement. The method may comprise moving the first connection arrangement and the second arrangement apart from one another to separate the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement. The method may further comprise, after separating the first connection arrangement and the second arrangement, pulling a sealing member into a closed position in which the sealing member covers a port of the second connection arrangement.

[0042] By pulling the sealing member into the closed position, the likelihood of fluid dripping out of the port of the second connection arrangement (during the disconnection process and in subsequent transportation processes) is reduced. By providing tabs on the sealing member, an operator may be able to easily pull the sealing member into the closed position.

[0043] Further advantages of the connection system of the present disclosure will become apparent from the Detailed Description below.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts.Figure 1A depicts a side view of a connection system in an unconnected state.Figure IB depicts a cross-section view of the connection system in the unconnected state.Figure 1C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system in the unconnected state. Figure 2A depicts a side view of the connection system during a connection process.Figure 2B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system during the connection process. Figure 2C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system during the connection process.Figure 3A depicts a side view of a connection system in a connected state.Figure 3B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system in the connected state.Figure 3C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system in the connected state. Figure 4A depicts a side view of a connection system during a disconnection process.Figure 4B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system during the disconnection process. Figure 4C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system during the disconnection process.Figure 5A depicts a side view of a connection system in the unconnected state, after the disconnection process has been performed.P2021-1490 Figure 5B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system in the unconnected state, after the disconnection process has been performed.Figure 5C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system in the unconnected state, after the disconnection process has been performed.Figure 6A depicts a side view of a connection system in an unconnected state.Figure 6B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system in the unconnected state.Figure 6C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system in the unconnected state. Figure 7A depicts a side view of the connection system during a connection process.Figure 7B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system during the connection process. Figure 7C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system during the connection process.Figure 8A depicts a side view of a connection system in a connected state.Figure 8B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system in the connected state.Figure 8C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system in the connected state. Figure 9A depicts a side view of a connection system during a disconnection process.Figure 9B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system during the disconnection process. Figure 9C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system during the disconnection process.Figure 10A depicts a side view of a connection system in the unconnected state, after the disconnection process has been performed.Figure 10B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system in the unconnected state, after the disconnection process has been performed.Figure 10C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system in the unconnected state, after the disconnection process has been performed.Figure 11A depicts a side view of a connection system in an unconnected state.Figure 1 IB depicts a cross-section view of the connection system in the unconnected state.Figure 11C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system in the unconnected state. Figure 12A depicts a side view of the connection system during a connection process.Figure 12B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system during the connection process. Figure 12C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system during the connection process.Figure 13A depicts a side view of a connection system in a connected state.Figure 13B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system in the connected state.Figure 13C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system in the connected state. Figure 14A depicts a side view of a connection system during a disconnection process.Figure 14B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system during the disconnection process. Figure 14C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system during the disconnection process.P2021-1490 Figure 15A depicts a side view of a connection system in the unconnected state, after the disconnection process has been performed.Figure 15B depicts a cross-section view of the connection system in the unconnected state, after the disconnection process has been performed.Figure 15C depicts a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system in the unconnected state, after the disconnection process has been performed.Figure 16A depicts a perspective view of a first sealing member.Figure 16B depicts another perspective view of the first sealing member depicted in Figure 16A. Figure 17 depicts a perspective view of a second sealing member.Figures 18A and 18B depict a perspective view of a fluid processing apparatus.Figures 19A and 19B depict exploded views of a fluid processing unit of the fluid processing apparatus depicted in Figures 18A and 18B.Figures 20A and 20B depict exploded views of a lower distribution plate of the fluid processing apparatus depicted in Figures 18A and 18B.Figures 21A and 2 IB depict exploded views of an upper distribution plate of the fluid processing apparatus depicted in Figures 18A and 18B.The features shown in the Figures are not necessarily to scale, and the size and / or arrangement depicted is not limiting. It will be understood that the Figures include optional features which may not be essential to the invention. Furthermore, not all of the features of the apparatus are depicted in each of the figures, and the Figures may only show some of the components relevant for describing a particular feature.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The drawings illustrate embodiments of a connection system. The connection system generally comprises a first connection arrangement 100 and a second connection arrangement 200. In a connected state, the first connection arrangement 100 is connected to the second connection arrangement 200. In an unconnected state, the first connection arrangement 100 is not connected to the second connection arrangement 200 (e.g. the first connection arrangement 100 is separated from the second connection arrangement 200). In the connected state, a fluid flow path is established between the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200. That is, in the connected state, fluid can flow from the first connection arrangement 100 to the second connection arrangement 200, or vice-versa.

[0046] The connection system of the present disclosure may be a component part of a wider fluid processing apparatus or a fluid processing system (not shown). The fluid processing apparatus / system may for example be a disposable depth filter apparatus for a bioprocessing system.

[0047] The fluid processing apparatus / system may comprise a first fluid processing unit (not shown) and a second fluid processing unit (not shown). The first fluid processing unit may be fluidly connected to the second fluid processing unit by the connection system of the present disclosure. One or both of the first fluid processing unit and the second fluid processing unit may be configured to perform a processing on fluid therein. For example, one or both of the first fluid processing unit and the second fluidP2021-1490 processing unit may be a filtration unit (e.g. a depth filtration unit) configured to perform filtration (e.g. depth filtration) of fluid passing therethrough.

[0048] The first connection arrangement 100 may be a part of the first fluid processing unit, and / or the second connection arrangement 200 is a part of the second fluid processing unit. This may be such that, when the first fluid processing unit is connected (e.g. directly connected) to the second fluid processing unit, the connection system described herein is formed.

[0049] The first connection arrangement 100 may be a part of the first fluid processing unit or the second fluid processing unit, and the second connection arrangement 200 is a part of (or coupled to an end of) a conduit. This may allow the conduit to be fluidly connected to the first fluid processing unit or the second fluid processing unit. Additionally or alternatively, the second connection arrangement 200 may be a part of the first fluid processing unit or the second fluid processing unit, and the first connection arrangement 100 may be a part of (or coupled to an end of) a conduit. This may also allow the conduit to be fluidly connected to the first fluid processing unit or the second fluid processing unit. Additionally or alternatively, the first connection arrangement 100 may be a part of (or coupled to an end of) one conduit, and the second connection arrangement 200 may be a part of (or coupled to an end of) another conduit. This may allow two conduits to be fluidly connected together

[0050] In some fluid processing apparatus / systems, there may be a plurality of the connection system described herein between the first fluid processing unit and the second fluid processing unit. That is, there may be a plurality of flowpaths between the first fluid processing unit and the second fluid processing unit, and one or more (e.g. all) of those flowpaths may comprise the connection system of the type described herein.

[0051] In some fluid processing apparatus / systems, one or both of the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 may be an independent component. The first connection arrangement and / or the second connection arrangement may be fitted to other components or subsystems of the fluid processing system to allow fluid connections to be made.

[0052] Fluid may flow through the connection system (i.e. from the first connection arrangement 100 to the second connection arrangement 200 or vice-versa) in an axial direction. The relative movement between the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 during connection and disconnection processes may be parallel to the axial direction.

[0053] The connection system of the present disclosure may be configured such that, in use, the first connection arrangement is disposed above the second connection arrangement in the gravitational direction. For example, in use, fluid may flow downwardly from the first connection arrangement to the second connection arrangement 200, or upwardly from the second connection arrangement 200 to the first connection arrangement 100. In other words, the axial direction may be a vertical direction.

[0054] In the following description, the radial direction is a direction that is perpendicular to the axial direction. The term “radially inward” may be used to mean towards the middle (i.e. radial centre) of the flowpath between the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200. The term “radially outward” may be used to mean away from the middle (i.e. radial centre) of the flowpathP2021-1490 between the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200.FIRST EMBODIMENT

[0055] Figures 1 to 5 depict a connection system in accordance with a first embodiment. Figures 1A, 2A, 3A, 4A and 5A depict a side view of the connection system. Figures IB, 2B, 3B , 4B and 5B depict a cross-section view of the connection system, Figures 1C, 2C, 3C, 4C and 5C depict a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system. Figures 1A-1C depict the connection system in an unconnected state, before the first connection arrangement 100 has been connected to the second connection arrangement 200. Figures 2A-C depict the connection system during a connection process (i.e. a process of connecting the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200). Figures 3A-C depict the connection system in the connected state (i.e. after the connection process has been completed). Figures 4A-C depict the connection system during a disconnection process (i.e. a process of disconnecting the first connection arrangement 100 from the second connection arrangement 200).Figures 5 A-C depict the connection system in an unconnected state, after the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement have been disconnected.

[0056] The first connection arrangement 100 may have a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end and the distal end of the first connection arrangement 100 may be separated from one another in the axial direction. When the connection system is in the unconnected state (as shown in Figures 1A-1C), the distal end of the first connection arrangement 100 is the end closest to the second arrangement 200. The proximal end of the first connection arrangement may be the end at which the first connection arrangement is configured to be connected to a fluid processing unit or a conduit.

[0057] The second connection arrangement 200 may have a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end and the distal end of the second connection arrangement 200 may be separated from one another in the axial direction. When the connection system is in the unconnected state (as shown in Figures 1A-1C), the distal end of the second connection arrangement 200 is the end closest to the first connection arrangement 100. The proximal end of the second connection arrangement 200 may be the end at which the second connection arrangement 200 is configured to be connected to a fluid processing unit or a conduit.

[0058] The first connection arrangement 100 may comprise a first port 130 for the passage of fluid therethrough. The second connection arrangement 200 may comprise a second port 230 for the passage of fluid therethrough. In the context of the present disclosure, a port may be a feature which defines an opening for the passage of fluid therethrough.

[0059] In the connected state, the first port 130 may be connected to the second port 230 to form a fluid flowpath therebetween (see Figure 3B). The flowpath passing through the first port 130 and the second port 230 may be watertight. The first port 130 may be the feature of the first connection arrangement 100 which interacts (e.g. mechanically interacts or comes into physical contact) with the second port 230 to form the sealed flowpath between the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200. The second port 230 may be the feature of the second connection arrangement 200 which interacts (e.g. mechanically interacts or comes into physical contact) with the first port 130 to formP2021-1490 the sealed flowpath between the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200.

[0060] The first connection arrangement may comprise a first housing 111-115. The first housing 111-115 may support the first port 130 and / or protect the first port 130. The first housing 111-115 may also facilitate the formation of a secure connection between the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200. The first housing 111-115 may be a single, integrally formed component. Alternatively, the first housing 111-115 may be formed of a plurality of sub-housings which are assembled together.

[0061] The first housing may comprise an outer wall 111. The outer wall 111 may extend circumferentially, radially outward of the first port 130. The outer wall 111 may protect the first port 130 and interface with the second connection arrangement 200. The first housing may further comprise a flanged connection 113. The flanged connection 113 may be integrally formed with the outer wall 111. The flanged connection 113 may allow the first connection arrangement to be coupled to, for example, a fluid processing unit or a conduit.

[0062] The first housing may further comprise a dividing wall 114. The dividing wall 114 may divide the volume within the outer wall into a proximal volume 143 and a distal volume 141, 142. The first connection arrangement 100 may further comprise an annular protrusion 121, 122. The annular protrusion 121, 122 may extend distally from the dividing wall 114. The annular protrusion 121, 122 may extend circumferentially around the first port 130. The annular protrusion 121, 122 may divide the distal volume 141, 142 into an annular void 141 and a central volume 142.

[0063] An opening 115 may be defined in the dividing wall 114 of the first housing to facilitate fluid communication between the proximal volume 143 and the central volume 142.

[0064] The opening 115, or the area of the dividing wall 114 immediately around the opening 115, may define the first port 130. However, in the embodiment depicted in Figures 1 to 5, the first port 130 is defined by an elastomeric component with a hole formed therethrough. The elastomeric component may be independent of the housing. The elastomeric component may be disposed within, or adjacent to, the opening 115 of the dividing wall 114. The elastomeric component may be configured such that, in the connected state, a watertight seal is formed between the first port 130 and the second port 230.

[0065] The annular protrusion 121, 122 may form part of the first housing. The annular protrusion 121, 122 may be fixed relative to the first housing 111-115. The annular protrusion 121, 122 may be integrally formed with the first housing 111-115.

[0066] The annular void 141 may extend between the annular protrusion 121, 122 and the outer wall 111 of the first housing. That is, the annular void 141 may be a volume radially outward of the annular protrusion 121, 122 and radially inward of the outer wall 111. The annular void 141 may provide several benefits. For example, the annular void 141 may mean that the first housing 111-115 can have the required outer diameter without increasing the overall mass of the first connection arrangement 100 excessively. Further, the annular void 141 means that less material is required to manufacture the first connection arrangement 100, so the first connection arrangement 100 is less expensive.P2021-1490

[0067] The central volume 142 may be the volume radially within the annular protrusion 121. The first port 130 may be within the central volume 142. The proximal volume 143 may be in fluid communication with the central volume 142 via the opening 115 in the dividing wall 114. In the case that the first port 130 comprises an elastomeric component with a hole formed therethrough (as described above), the proximal volume 143 may be in fluid communication with the central volume 142 via the hole formed through the elastomeric component which defines the first port 130 (in addition to the opening 115 in the dividing wall 114).

[0068] The first connection arrangement 100 may comprise a first sealing member 150. The first sealing member 150 may be configured to cover the first port 130 when the connection system is in the unconnected state. A distal end of the annular protrusion 121, 122 may define an entrance to the central volume 142. When the connection system is in the unconnected state, the first sealing member 150 may extend across the entrance to the central volume 142 so as to isolate the central volume 142 from the environment. By covering the first port 130 when the connection system is in the unconnected state, the first sealing member 150 may prevent contaminants from reaching the first port 130. In this way, the first sealing member 150 may be configured to maintain the sterility of the first port 130 when the connection system is in the unconnected state.

[0069] The first sealing member 150 may comprise a membrane. The first sealing member 150 may be a membrane. The first sealing member 150 may be a thin, pliable sheet of material which acts a barrier.

[0070] The first sealing member 150 may be formed of an elastic material. For example, the first sealing member 150 may be formed of a material which deforms (i.e. changes shape) upon the application of a contact force thereto, and which then returns to an original shape after the removal of said contact force. The original (i.e. undeformed) shape of the first sealing member 150 may be referred to as a closed shape.

[0071] The first sealing member 150 may be formed of a polymer. For example, the first sealing member 150 may be formed of an elastomer. For example, the first sealing member 150 may be formed of silicone. More specifically, the first sealing member 150 may be formed from a material comprising silicone, from a material substantially comprising silicone, from a material consisting essentially of silicone, or from a material consisting of silicone.

[0072] One example of a first sealing member 150 is depicted in Figures 16A and 16B. The first sealing member 150 may comprise a covering portion 151, which extends across the central volume 142 to cover the first port 130. The first sealing member 150 may comprise a slit 154 formed therein.Specifically, the slit 154 may be formed in the covering portion 151 of the first sealing member 150. The slit 154 in the first sealing member 150 may be configured to allow the second port 230 to penetrate the first sealing member 150 during the connection process. The slit 154 may be a longitudinal slit 154. The slit 154 may comprise a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge. When the connection system is in the unconnected state, the first longitudinal edge may be at least partially in contact with the second longitudinal edge. In this way, the passage of contaminants through the slit 154 may be substantially prevented. When the first longitudinal edge is at least partially in contact with the secondP2021-1490 longitudinal edge, the first sealing member 150 is in the closed shape.

[0073] Upon the application of a contact force to the first sealing member 150 (e.g. in a direction perpendicular to the first sealing member 150), the first sealing member may be deformed (i.e. the first sealing member 150 may change shape). During this deformation, the first longitudinal edge of the first sealing member 150 may be at least partially separated from the second longitudinal edge of the first sealing member 150. This may be such that there is a gap between the first longitudinal edge of the first sealing member 150 and the second longitudinal edge of the first sealing member 150, and the first sealing member 150 is opened. When the first longitudinal edge is separated from the second longitudinal edge, the first sealing member 150 may be said to be in an open shape. The deformation of the first sealing member 150 (e.g. in transitioning from the closed shape to the open shape) may be elastic deformation.

[0074] When the connection system is in the unconnected state and the first sealing member 150 is in the closed shape (covering the first port 130), the sealing member 150 may inhibit droplets of fluid dripping out of the first connection arrangement 100 from the first port. Consequently, during and after a disconnection process in which the first connection arrangement 100 is disconnected from the second connection arrangement 200, fluid may be prevented from leaking, e.g. onto the floor of the room in which the connection system is located.

[0075] The first sealing member 150 may comprise a plurality of slits formed therein (not shown). For example, the first sealing member 150 may comprise a first slit and a second slit, wherein the first slit is perpendicular to the second slit. The first and second slits may intersect one another (e.g. bisect one another) so as to form a cross. The relative orientations of the first and second slits is not particularly limited. That is, the angles formed at the intersection between the first and second slit may not be 90°.

[0076] Although not shown in the Figures, the first sealing member 150 may comprise more than two slits, e.g. three or more, four or more or five or more slits.

[0077] Although not shown in the Figures, the first sealing member 150 may comprise one or more slits formed in a first region of the first sealing member 150, and one or more slits formed in a second region of the first sealing member 150. This may be such that the first sealing member 150 can be penetrated (e.g. by one second port 230) in the first region of the first sealing member 150, and the first sealing member 150 can be penetrated (e.g. by another second port 230) in the second region of the first sealing member. As will be understood, there may be slits formed in any number of regions, such that the first sealing member can be penetrated in the any number of regions by any number of second ports 230.

[0078] The annular protrusion 121, 122 may be configured to support the first sealing member 150. Consequently, the annular protrusion 121, 122 may instead be referred to as a support portion. The annular protrusion 121, 122 may comprise an inward portion 121 and an outward portion 122. The first sealing member 150 may comprise a circumferential portion 152 (see Figures 16A and 16B). The circumferential portion 152 and the covering portion 151 of the first sealing member may be formed from a continuous piece of material. The first sealing member 150 may be secured to the annular protrusion 121, 122 by inserting the circumferential portion 152 of the first sealing member 150 into a space definedP2021-1490 between the inward portion 121 and the outward portion 122 of the annular protrusion 121, 122. The first sealing member 150 may seal against the annular protrusion 121, 122. Specifically, the first sealing member 150 may seal against a distal end of the inward portion 121 to prevent the passage of contaminants into the central volume 142.

[0079] The second connection arrangement 200 may comprise a second housing 211-215. The second housing 211-215 may support the second port 230 and / or protect the second port 230. The second housing 211-215 may also facilitate the formation of a secure connection between the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200. The second housing 211-215 may be a single, integrally formed component. Alternatively, the second housing 211-215 may be formed of a plurality of sub-housings which are assembled together.

[0080] The second housing 211-215 may comprise an outer wall 211. The outer wall 211 of the second housing may extend circumferentially around the second port 230, such that the outer wall 211 of the second housing is radially outward of the second port 230. The outer wall 211 of the second housing may protect the second port 230 and facilitate the formation of a secure connection with the first connection arrangement 100. The housing 211-215 may further comprise a flanged connection 213. The flanged connection 213 of the second housing may be integrally formed with the outer wall 211 of the second housing. The flanged connection 213 may allow the second connection arrangement 200 to be coupled to, for example, a fluid processing unit or a conduit. The outer wall 211 of the second housing may extend further distally than the second port 230, such that the second port 230 is recessed below the distal end of the outer wall 211. This may protect the second port 230 from damage and / or reduce the risk of contamination of the second port 230.

[0081] The second housing 211-215 may further comprise a dividing wall 214. The dividing wall 214 may define a base portion of the second housing. The dividing wall 214 may divide the volume within the outer wall 211 into a proximal volume 243 and a distal volume 241, 242. An opening 215 may be formed in the dividing wall 214 of the second housing. The opening 215 may be defined by the second port 230. Alternatively, the second port 230 may extend around the opening 215. The second port 230 may extend distally from the dividing wall 214 of the second port 230.

[0082] The second port 230 may be fixed relative to the second housing 211-215. That is, in use, the second port 230 may not be movable relative to the second housing 211-215. The second port 230 may be integrally formed with the second housing 211-215. Additionally or alternatively, the second port 230 may be fixedly coupled to the second housing 211-215.

[0083] The outer wall 111 of the first connection arrangement and the outer wall 211 of the second connection arrangement 200 may have corresponding profiles. As shown in Figures 1 to 15, the connection system may be configured such that the outer wall 111 of the first connection arrangement 100 fits inside the outer wall 211 of the second connection arrangement 200. It will be appreciated that the connection system may be configured such that the outer wall 211 of the second connection arrangement 200 fits inside the outer wall 111 of the first connection arrangement 100. By having corresponding profiles, the outer wall 111 of the first connection arrangement 100 and the outer wall 211P2021-1490 of the second connection arrangement 200 may align (e.g. radially align) the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 as the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 are brought together. Accurate alignment is important for ensuring that the second port 230 is able to penetrate the slit 154 in the first sealing member 130. Accurate alignment is also important for ensuring that the first port 130 comes into contact with, and forms a seal with, the second port 230.

[0084] As shown in Figures 1 to 15, the outer wall 111 of the first connection arrangement 100 comprises a distal edge 112. The distal edge 112 of the outer wall of the first connection arrangement 100 may be referred to as a mating portion. The housing 211-215 of the second connection arrangement comprises a receiving portion 212. In the embodiment depicted in Figures 1 to 15, the receiving portion 212 is an annular recess formed in the dividing wall 214 of the second housing 211-215. When the connection system is in the connected state, the mating portion 112 of the first connection arrangement 100 may be received by the receiving portion 212 of the second connection arrangement 200 (as shown in Figures 3A to 3B). The receiving portion 212 may be recessed within the dividing wall 214.Consequently, when the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 are connected together, a load exerted on the second connection arrangement 200 by the first connection arrangement 100 (or vice-versa) may be exerted through the first port 130 and the second port 230, thus maintaining the pressure seal between the first port 130 and the second port 230.

[0085] The second port 230 may comprise a leading surface 233 at a distal end thereof. The second port 230 may comprise a sealing surface 231. The sealing surface 231 may be recessed below the leading surface 233. That is, the sealing surface 231 may be proximal of the leading surface 233. The sealing surface 231 may be radially inward of the leading surface 233.

[0086] The connection system may be configured such that, when the connection system is in the connected state, the sealing surface 231 of the second port 230 forms a seal with the first port 130 (see Figures 3A to 3C). This may be such that, in the connected state, the leading surface 233 of the second port 230 is isolated from the fluid flow path (i.e. the flow path between the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200) by the seal formed between the sealing surface 231 and the first port 130. The second port 230 may comprise a tapered surface 232 extending between the leading surface 233 and the sealing surface 231.

[0087] The sealing surface 231 may be substantially perpendicular to the axial direction (i.e. the direction in which fluid flows through the second port and / or the direction in which the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 move relative to each other as the connection system is brought into the connected state).

[0088] The connection system may be configured such that the leading surface 233 of the second port 230 pushes through the slit 154 of the first sealing member 150 when the connection system transitions from the unconnected state to the connected state. To push through the slit 154 of the first sealing member 150, the leading surface 233 may come into contact with an outer surface of the first sealing member 150. The outer surface of the first sealing member may be exposed to the environment, and thusP2021-1490 may be contaminated. Thus, when the leading surface 233 comes into contact with the outer surface of the first sealing member 150, contamination may be transferred to the leading surface 233. The sealing surface 231 may not contact the first sealing member 150 as the second port 230 pushes through the first sealing member 150. By isolating the flow path between the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 from the leading surface 233 (i.e. by providing the sealing surface 231 in the manner described above), a risk that contamination on the leading surface 231 is introduced into the fluid flowing through the connection system is reduced.

[0089] A connection process of the connection system will now be described, with reference to Figures 1A to 3C. The connection process is the process in which the connection system transitions from the unconnected state to the connected state. As will be appreciated, the connection system, and individual components thereof, may be configured such that the connection process can be performed in the manner described below.

[0090] To connect the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200, the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 are moved towards each other, for example in the axial direction. Moving the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 towards each other may comprise moving the first connection arrangement 100 towards the second connection arrangement 200, moving the second connection arrangement towards the first connection arrangement 100, or a combination thereof. In one particular example, the connection process comprises moving the first connection arrangement 100 in the downward direction, while the second connection arrangement remains stationary. In this particular example, the first connection arrangement 100 may begin the connection process above the second connection arrangement 200.

[0091] Figures 2A to 2C depict the connection system during the connection process. As shown in Figures 2A to 2C, during the connection process (e.g. as the first connection arrangement 100 is moved towards the second connection arrangement 200), the second port 230 of the second connection arrangement 200 pushes through the first sealing member 150 of the first connection arrangement 100. In other words, the connection process comprises penetrating the first sealing member 150 with the second port 230. During the penetration of the first sealing member 150, it may be the leading surface 233 of the second port 230 which contacts the first sealing member 150.

[0092] As the second port 230 penetrates the first sealing member 150, the position of the second port 230 may be maintained (e.g. remain fixed or constant) relative to the second housing 211-215. In particular, the position of the second port 230 may remain fixed relative to the outer wall 211 of the second connection arrangement 200.

[0093] The penetration of the first sealing member 150 may result in the opening of the sealing member. The opening of the first sealing member 150 may comprise a deformation of the first sealing member 150, i.e. a change in the shape of the first sealing member 150. The deformation of the first sealing member 150 may result in the first longitudinal edge of the slit 154 in the first sealing member 150 being separated from the second longitudinal edge of the slit 154 in the first sealing member 150. This may be such that a gap is opened between the two longitudinal edges of the slit 154. The secondP2021-1490 port 230 may then push through the gap between the two longitudinal edges of the slit 154 in the first sealing member 150. By the second port 230 penetrating the slit 154 defined in the first sealing member 150, the second port 230 enters the central volume 142 of the first connection arrangement, and is thus able to connect to the first port 130.

[0094] As shown in Figures 2A to 2C, during the connection process, the second port 230 of the second connection arrangement 200 penetrates the first sealing member 150 of the first connection arrangement before the first port 130 comes into contact with the second port 230. As the first port 130 is fixedly coupled with the first housing, and the second port 230 is fixedly coupled with the second housing, the penetration of the first sealing member 150 occurs before the first housing and the second housing reach final positions relative to one another.

[0095] As the second port 230 pushes into the gap between the longitudinal edges of the slit 154, portions of the first sealing member 150 proximate to the slit 154 may be deformed such that they become closer to the dividing wall 114 of the first connection arrangement 100. The portions of the first sealing member 150 proximate to the slit 154 may conform to an outer wall of the second port 230. By portions of the first sealing member conforming to the outer wall of the second port 230, a seal may be formed between the first sealing member 150 and the outer wall of the second port 230. The seal between the first sealing member 150 and the outer wall of the second port 230 is formed as the first sealing member 150 is opened. Consequently, the first port 130 is never exposed to the environment: after the sealing member 150 has opened, the first port is within an isolated region bounded by the annular wall 121, 122, the first sealing member 150 and the second port 230.

[0096] Figures 3A to 3C depict the connection system after the connection process has been completed, and the connection system is in the connected state. At the completion of the connection process, a flowpath is established between the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200. This is achieved by the first port 130 of the first connection arrangement coming into contact with the second port 230 of the second connection arrangement.

[0097] The connecting the first port 130 with the second port 230 may comprise forming a seal between the first port 130 and the second port 230. As above, the first port 130 may be at least partially formed of an elastomeric material. Thus, upon contact with the second port 230, the first port 130 may be compressed to form the seal between the first port 130 and the second port 230. Connecting the first port 130 with the second port 230 may comprise forming a watertight and / or pressure tight seal between the first port 130 and the second port 230. The seal between the first port 130 and the second port 230 may be able to withstand continuous pressures of 5 bar (500 kPa) or greater. The seal between the first port 130 and the second port 230 may substantially prevent the leakage of fluid from the flowpath between the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement when the pressure within the flowpath is 5 bar (200 kPa) or greater, 10 bar (1,000 kPa) or greater or 15 bar (1,500 kPa) or greater. For example, the seal between the first port 130 and the second port 230 may be able to withstand continuous pressures of 18 bar (1,800 kPa) or greater.

[0098] When the connection system is in the connected state (as shown in Figures 3A to 3C), theP2021-1490 sealing surface 231 of the second port 230 forms a seal with the first port 130. In particular, a distal end surface of the first port 130 may form the seal with the sealing surface 231 of the second port 230. The seal between the sealing surface 231 of the second port and the first port 130 may be the seal closest to the flowpath between the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement 200. The first port 130 may have a profile which corresponds to (i.e. conforms with or is configured to fit with) the second port 230. That is, the first port 130 may comprise a surface corresponding to the sealing surface 231 of the second port 230, and the first port 130 may comprise a surface corresponding to the tapered surface 232 of the second port 230. The corresponding surfaces may be in contact with each other when the connection system is in the connected state.

[0099] When the connection system is in the connected state, the leading surface 233 of the second port 230 (which may be contaminated) may be buried / embedded in a radially outward portion of the first port 130 which is isolated from the flowpath between the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200.

[0100] In the connected state, the first sealing member 150 seals around an outer surface of the second port 230. This may provide an additional barrier between the inner volume 142 and contamination in the environment.

[0101] During the connection process, the outer wall 111 of the first housing and the outer wall 211 of the second housing encapsulate the first port 130 and the second port 230, providing protection and inhibiting the propagation of contaminants towards the first port 130 and the second port 230.

[0102] The deformation of the first sealing member 150 as the second port 230 pushes through the first sealing member 150 may be elastic deformation. That is, the deformation of the first sealing member 150 as the second port 230 pushes through the first sealing member 150 may be reversible deformation. As a result of the elastic deformation of the first sealing member as the second port 230 pushes through the first sealing member 150, a restoring force may be induced in the first sealing member 150. The restoring force may act in a direction which would cause the first sealing member 150 to transition back to the original shape of the first sealing member 150 (i.e. the closed shape of the first sealing member 150).

[0103] A diameter of the annular protrusion 121, 122 of the first connection arrangement may be greater than a diameter of the second port 230. Thus, in the connected state, the annular protrusion 121, 122 may extend around the second port 230 within the connection system. The first sealing member 150 may be compressed between the annular protrusion 121, 122 and the dividing wall 214 of the second housing to form an additional seal.

[0104] Before performing the connection process described above, the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection arrangement 200 may be sterilised. The first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 may be sterilised together or independently. In some cases, different components of each connection arrangement may be sterilised separately.

[0105] Sterilising the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection arrangement 200 may comprise irradiating the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection arrangement 200 with radiation having a wavelength of less than 10-8m (e.g. X-ray radiation or Gamma radiation).P2021-1490

[0106] In some cases, the second connection arrangement 200 may be provided with an end cap (not shown) which is coupled to the distal end of the outer wall 211 of the second housing. The end cap may prevent contamination of the second connection arrangement 200 during transportation of the second connection 200. The end cap may be removed before the connection process described above is performed.

[0107] A disconnection process of the connection system will now be described, with reference to Figures 4A-4C and 5A-5C. The disconnection process is the process in which the connection system transitions from the connected state to the unconnected state. As will be appreciated, the connection system, and individual components thereof, may be configured such that the disconnection process can be performed in the manner described below.

[0108] To disconnect the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200, the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 are moved apart from (i.e. away from) each other, for example in the axial direction. Moving the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 apart from each other may comprise moving the first connection arrangement 100 away from the second connection arrangement 200, moving the second connection arrangement 200 away from the first connection arrangement 100, or a combination thereof. In one particular example, the disconnection process comprises moving the first connection arrangement 100 in the upward direction, while the second connection arrangement remains stationary. In a particular example, the disconnection process begins with the second connection arrangement 200 below the first connection arrangement 100.

[0109] In the disconnection process, as the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 are moved apart from each other, the seal between the first port 130 and the second port 230 is broken, and the first port 130 becomes separated from the second port 230.

[0110] As the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 continue to be move apart from each other, the second port 230 may be withdrawn from the first sealing member 150.[oni] As the second port 230 is withdrawn from within the first sealing member 150, the first sealing member 150 may close. That is, the first sealing member 150 may transition from the open shape to the closed shape. That is, the first longitudinal edge of the slit 154 may come into at least partial contact with the second longitudinal edge of the slit 154. This may be such that the first sealing member 150 covers the first port 130 when the connection system transitions from the connected state to the unconnected state.

[0112] The first sealing member 150 may transition from the open shape to the closed shape in response to a restoring force, e.g. an elastic restoring force within the first sealing member. The restoring force may be a force which is induced by the elastic deformation of the first sealing member 150 when the second port 230 penetrates the first sealing member 150 to open the first sealing member 150 during the connection process. In other words, a restoral force arises due to the shape memory of the first sealing member 150.

[0113] By returning to the closed shape during the disconnection process, fluid remaining within theP2021-1490 first port 130 is inhibited from dripping out of the first connection arrangement 100 via the first port 130. Consequently, during and after a disconnection process, fluid may be prevented from leaking, e.g. onto the floor of the room in which the connection system is located. An operator of the connection system is not required to enact the closure of the first sealing member 150, because the first sealing member 150 returns to the closed shape as a result of the elastic restoring force. That is, the closure of the first sealing member 150 may be automatic. Thus, the drip-free disconnection process is fast and convenient.

[0114] During at least a portion (e.g throughout) the disconnection process, the position of the second port 230 relative to the second housing 211-215 may remain fixed. Particularly, during at least a portion (e.g. throughout) the disconnection process, the position of the second port 230 relative to outer wall 211 of the second housing 211-215 may remain fixed. The at least a portion of the disconnection process may comprise the period during which the second port 230 is withdrawn from within the first sealing member 150.

[0115] Before the disconnection process is performed, at least one of the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 may be purged. Purging of the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection system 200 may comprise releasing pressure within the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection system 200. Purging of the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection system 200 may comprise removing liquid from within the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection arrangement 200.Purging of the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection system 200 may comprise draining liquid under the force of gravity. Purging of the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection arrangement 200 may comprise providing a flow of air through the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection arrangement 200 to remove liquid from within the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection arrangement 200. Purging of the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection arrangement 200 may comprise providing a vacuum pressure to suck liquid out of the first connection arrangement 100 or the second connection arrangement 200. Additionally or alternatively, purging of the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection arrangement 200 may comprise blowing air through the first connection arrangement 100 and / or the second connection arrangement 200.

[0116] In some cases, such a purging step may remove a majority of the liquid from within the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200, but a small amount of liquid may remain. For example, a small amount of liquid may remain in and around the first port 130 even after the execution of a purging operation on the first connection arrangement 100. The first sealing member 150 may prevent the small amount of liquid from dripping out of the first connection arrangement during the disconnection process, as has been described above.

[0117] As shown in Figure 16A, the first sealing member 150 may comprise one or more ribs 156. The one or more ribs 156 may be formed on an internal surface of the covering portion 151 of the first sealing member 150. The internal surface of the covering portion 151 of the first sealing member 150 may face the first port 130. The one or more ribs 156 may protrude proximally (i.e. towards the dividing wall 114P2021-1490 of the first housing) from the internal surface of the first sealing member 150.

[0118] The one or more ribs 156 of the first sealing member may be configured to increase a stiffness of the first sealing member 150. Thus, the or more ribs 156 may increase the magnitude of the restoring force induced by the elastic deformation of the first sealing member 150 when the first sealing member 150 is opened (during the connection process). In this way, increasing the stiffness of the first sealing member 150 may increase the extent to which (e.g. the reliability with which or the speed with which) the first sealing member 150 returns to the closed shape upon the withdrawal of the second port 230 from within the first sealing member 150.

[0119] The one or more ribs 156 may be arranged to inhibit the movement of fluid e.g. liquid, towards the slit 154 in the first sealing member 150. By inhibiting the movement of liquid towards the slit in the first sealing member 150, the one or more ribs 156 may reduce the amount of liquid that leaks through the slit in the first sealing member 150 during the disconnection process.

[0120] The one or more ribs 156 may comprise one or more concentric rings. The one or more concentric rings may be radially outward of the slit in the first sealing member 150. Thus, the one or more concentric rings may inhibit the radial movement of liquid along the internal surface of the first sealing member 150. Consequently, the one or more concentric rings may inhibit the movement of liquid towards the slit 154 in the first sealing member 150.

[0121] The one or more ribs 156 may be arranged to form one or more pockets. The pockets may be configured to collect fluid, e.g. liquid. Liquid collected in a pocket may be prevented from moving towards the slit 154 in the first sealing member 150 by the one or more ribs 156 which define the pocket.

[0122] The first sealing member 150 may be curved. The curvature of the first sealing member may be such that the first sealing member 150 is convex from the perspective of the first port 130.

[0123] The connection system may be configured such that, in use, the first port 130 is above the first sealing member 150. Thus, when the first sealing member 150 is curved so as to be convex from the perspective of the first port 130, a radially inward portion of the first sealing member 150 is higher (in the gravitational direction) than a radially outward part of the first sealing member 150. Consequently, liquid on the internal surface of the first sealing member 150 may flow in the radially outward direction under the force of gravity. The slit 154 of the first sealing member 150 may be formed through the middle of the first sealing member 150. Thus, by the first sealing member 150 being curved so as to be convex from the perspective of the first port 130, fluid on the internal surface of the first sealing member 150 is directed away from the slit 154. Generally, the curvature of the first sealing member 150 may be configured to direct fluid on the internal surface of the first sealing member 150 away from the slit 154 formed therein. By directing liquid away from the slit 154 in the first sealing member 150, the curvature of the first sealing member may reduce the amount of liquid that leaks through the slit 154 during the disconnection process.

[0124] The first longitudinal edge of the slit 154 in the first sealing member 150 may be at least partially joined (e.g. bonded) to the second longitudinal edge of the slit 154 in the first sealing member 150. For example, the fist longitudinal edge may be at least partially knitted to the second longitudinalP2021-1490 edge. The at least partial join between the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge may comprise cross-links between polymer chains along the first longitudinal edge and polymer chains along the second longitudinal edge.

[0125] The first longitudinal edge of the first sealing member 150 may become at least partially joined to the second longitudinal edge of the first sealing member 150 during a process of manufacturing the first sealing member 150. As explained above, the first sealing member 150 may comprise a membrane. The manufacturing process may comprise forming the slit in the membrane, e.g. by cutting or slicing into the membrane. After the forming of the slit in the membrane, the first longitudinal edge of the slit and the second longitudinal edge of the slit may be in contact, but not joined together.

[0126] After forming the slit in the membrane, the membrane may be irradiated with radiation having a wavelength of less than 10-8m (e.g. Gamma radiation or X-ray radiation). The irradiation of the membrane may be a process performed primarily for the purpose of sterilising the membrane. The membrane (i.e. the first sealing member 150) may be irradiated during a process performed primarily for sterilising the first connection arrangement 100. The irradiation of the membrane may additionally cause the first longitudinal edge to become at least partially joined to the second longitudinal edge. For example, the irradiation of the membrane may initiate reactions which result in the formation of crosslinks between polymer chains along the first longitudinal edge and polymer chains along the second longitudinal edge. Additionally or alternatively, the first longitudinal edge may become at least partially joined to the second longitudinal edge by diffusive bonding between the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge, which occurs with the passing of time (i.e. instead of, or in addition to, in response to radiation).

[0127] The at least partial join (or bond) between the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge may be relatively weak (i.e. a strength of the at least partial join may be much less than a yield strength of the material from which the material is made). In this way, the first sealing member may be configured such that the at least partial join between the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge is broken upon the application of a contact force to the first sealing member 150 (e.g. a contact force in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the slit 154 in the first sealing member 150). Thus, the penetrating of the first sealing member 150 with the second port 230 of the second connection arrangement may break the at least partial join between a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge of the slit 154. Breaking the at least partial join between a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge of the slit 154 may allow the second port 230 to penetrate through the slit 154, as described above.

[0128] During a connection process involving the first embodiment, the second port 230 may be exposed to the environment, and thus become contaminated. Consequently, the connection system formed when the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 are connected together may not be aseptic. However, it will be appreciated that preventing contamination of the first port 130 reduces the overall contamination in the connection system, even if some contamination is introduced into the connection system by a contaminated second port 230. It will also be appreciatedP2021-1490 that conventional techniques (e.g. protective covers and end caps, such as the end cap described above) may be implemented with the second connection arrangement 200 to minimise contamination of the second port 230 during the connection process. It will also be understood that the advantages of the first sealing member 150 of the first connection arrangement 100 in relation to preventing dripping from the first connection arrangement 100 during disconnection of the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement are achieved irrespective of whether the second port 230 introduces contamination to the connection system or not.SECOND EMBODIMENT

[0129] Figures 6A to 10C depict a connection system in accordance with a second embodiment. The connection system depicted in Figures 6A to 10C may be substantially the same as (e.g. identical to) the connection system depicted in Figures 1A to 5C, except for as described below.

[0130] To summarise, the connection system depicted in Figures 6 to 10 differs from the connection system depicted in Figures 1 to 5 in that the second connection arrangement 200 comprises a second sealing member 250. Thus, the connection system depicted in Figures 6 to 10 comprises a first sealing member 150 (which is a part of the first connection arrangement 100) and a second sealing member 250 (which is a part of the second connection arrangement 200). The second sealing member 250 may be configured to maintain the sterility of the second port 230 before, and during, the connecting of the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connecting arrangement 200. The first sealing member 150 and the second sealing member 250 may interact such that the fluid flow path of the connection system remains fully isolated from the environment both before and during the connecting of the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200. Thus, in the second embodiment, a fully aseptic connection can be formed between the first port 130 and the second port 230. Consequently, the second embodiment may be a preferred embodiment.

[0131] Figures 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A and 10A depict a side view of the connection system. Figures 6B, 7B, 8B, 9B and 10B depict a cross-section view of the connection system. Figures 6C, 7C, 8C, 9C and 10C depict a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system. Figures 6A-6C depict the connection system in an unconnected state, before the first connection arrangement 100 has been connected to the second connection arrangement 200. Figures 7A-C depict the connection system during a connection process (i.e. a process of connecting the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200). Figures 8A-C depict the connection system in the connected state (i.e. after the connection process has been completed). Figures 9A-C depict the connection system during a disconnection process (i.e. a process of disconnecting the first connection arrangement 100 from the second connection arrangement 200). Figures 10A-C depict the connection system in an unconnected state, after the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement have been disconnected.

[0132] As shown in Figures 6A to 6C, when the connection system is in the unconnected state, the second sealing member 250 covers the second port 230. By covering the second port 230, the secondP2021-1490 sealing member may be configured to maintain the sterility of the second port 230 when the connection system is in the unconnected state (e.g. by preventing contaminants from reaching the second port 230). The provision of the second sealing member 250 may reduce the need for an end cap to be coupled to the outer wall 211 of the second housing during transportation of the second connection arrangement 200.

[0133] Figure 17 depicts a more-detailed view of a second sealing member 250 in accordance with the present disclosure. The second sealing member 250 may comprise a covering portion 251. The covering portion 251 may cover the second port 230 while the connection system is in the unconnected state. The covering portion 251 may extend in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the axial direction. The second sealing member 250 may further comprise a slit (not shown), which is formed in the covering portion 251. The slit formed in the second sealing member 250 may have characteristics similar to those of the slit formed in the first sealing member 150.

[0134] The second sealing member 250 may further comprise a deformable support portion 252. The covering portion 251 of the second sealing member 250 may be supported by the deformable support portion 252. The deformable support portion 252 may extend around (and radially outward of) the second port 230. The deformable support portion 252 may extend in the axial direction. The deformable support portion may extend proximally from the dividing wall 214 of the second housing. The deformable support portion 252 and the second port 230 may be concentric.

[0135] The deformable support portion 252 and the covering portion 251 may be integrally formed. The second sealing member 250 may be formed of a polymer. For example, the second sealing member 250 may be formed of an elastomer. For example, the second sealing member 250 may be formed of silicone. More specifically, the second sealing member 250 may be formed from a material comprising silicone, from a material substantially comprising silicone, from a material consisting essentially of silicone, or from a material consisting of silicone.

[0136] The deformable support portion may be configured so as to collapse or become flattened in response to the exertion of a contact force on the second sealing member 250 in the axial direction (in particular, in the axial direction towards the dividing wall 214 of the second housing).

[0137] The deformable support portion may comprise one or more features configured to encourage or facilitate the collapse / compression of the deformable support portion 252 upon the application of the contact force to the second sealing member 250. For example, the deformable support portion 252 may comprise one or more folding portions. The one or more folding portions may be configured such that, upon the application of a force to the second sealing member 250, the deformable support portion bends (i.e. folds) at the one or more folding portions. The one or more folding portions may be predefined areas of weakness in the deformable support portion 252. The one or more folding portions may extend circumferentially around the deformable support portion, and may extend in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the axial direction. The deformable support portion 252 may comprise a bellow-shaped structure or a concertina structure.

[0138] The second sealing member 250 may comprise a skirt portion 253. The skirt portion 253 may extend around (and radially outward of) the deformable support portion 252. The skirt portion 253 mayP2021-1490 be integrally formed with the deformable support portion 252.

[0139] As shown in Figures 7A to 7C, during the connection process, the first sealing member 150 and the covering portion 251 of the second sealing member 250 come into contact. In some cases, an environmental seal may be formed therebetween the first sealing member 150 and the covering portion 251 of the second sealing member 250. This environmental seal may be maintained through the connection process. This environmental seal may act to to prevent contaminants in the environment from reaching the first port 130 and / or the second port 230 during the connection process.

[0140] Then, the annular protrusion 121, 122 of the first connection arrangement 100 applies a contact force on the second sealing member 250. The annular protrusion 121, 122 may apply the contact force to the covering portion 251 of the second sealing member 250. The annular protrusion 121, 122 may apply the contact force to a radially outer portion of the second sealing member 250, i.e. to a portion of the second sealing member 250 radially outward of the second port 230.

[0141] The contact force applied to the second sealing member 250 by the annular protrusion 121, 122 is in the axial direction and towards the dividing wall 214 of the second housing (the downward direction as shown in Figures 7A to 7C). Thus, during the connection process, the annular protrusion 121, 122 of the first connection arrangement 100 pushes against the second sealing member 250 to compress the deformable support portion 252 of the second sealing member 250. The compression of the deformable support portion 252 may comprise bending or folding of the deformable support portion 252 at the one or more folding portions. The compression of the deformable support portion during the connection process may comprise reversible (e.g. elastic) deformation of the deformable support portion in the direction of the dividing wall 214 of the second housing.

[0142] The compression of the deformable support portion 252 means that the covering portion 251 of the second sealing member moves in the proximal direction. Consequently, the second port 230 pushes through (i.e. penetrates) the second sealing member 250. Specifically, the second port 230 pushes through the slit defined in the covering portion 251 of the second sealing member 250. In pushing through the slit defined in the covering portion 251, the second port causes a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge of the slit defined in the covering portion to become separated. That is, in pushing through the slit defined in the covering portion 251, the second port causes the second sealing member 250 to open.

[0143] At the same time as the second port 230 penetrates the second sealing member 250, the second port 230 may penetrate the first sealing member 150, in the manner described in connection with the first embodiment. By pushing through the slit defined in the second sealing member 250 and pushing through the slit defined in the first sealing member 150, the second port 230 enters the central volume 142 of the first connection arrangement, and is thus able to connect to the first port 130.

[0144] The annular void 141 of the first connection arrangement 100 may accommodate the compressed deformable support portion 252 of the second sealing member when the connection system is in the connected state and / or a retaining member for the second sealing member 250.

[0145] When the connection system is in the connected state (see Figures 8A to 8C), the second sealingP2021-1490 member 250 may be compressed between the annular protrusion 121, 122 and the dividing wall 214 of the second housing, forming an additional seal. Where both the first sealing member 150 and the second sealing member 250 are present, a further seal may be formed between the first sealing member 150 and the second sealing member 250.

[0146] Figures 9A to 9C depict the connection system of the second embodiment in the disconnection process. As the first connection arrangement 100 is moved away from the second connection arrangement 200, the contact force applied on the second sealing member 250 by the annular protrusion 121, 122 may be removed.

[0147] Upon the removal of said contact force, the deformable support portion may remain in the compressed state, such that the second sealing member does not return to its original shape and the second port 230 remains exposed (as shown in Figures 10A to 10C).

[0148] The connection system may be configured such that the second sealing member 250 closes to cover the second port 230 during the disconnection process. For example, the connection system may be configured such that the second sealing member 250 closes to cover the second port 230 as a result of a restoring force (e.g. an elastic restoring force). The restoring force may be a force that is induced by elastic deformation of the second sealing member 250 (and, in particular, the deformable support portion 252 of the sealing member) during the connection process. The restoring force may cause the deformable support portion 252 to extend back to its original shape upon the removal of the contact force applied by the annular protrusion 121, 122.

[0149] During or after the disconnection process, the second sealing member 250 may be pulled back into its original shape (i.e. so as to cover the second port). The pulling of the second sealing member 250 back into its original shape may be performed by an operator (i.e. human operator) or a machine.

[0150] The second sealing member 250 may comprise one or more tabs 255 (see Figure 17) configured to allow a user to pull the second sealing member 250 into the closed position (i.e. the position in which the second sealing member 250 covers the second port). The tabs may extend radially outwardly from the deformable support portion 252 of the second sealing member.THIRD EMBODIMENT

[0151] Figures 11 to 15 depict a connection system in accordance with a third embodiment. The connection system depicted in Figures 11 to 15 may be substantially the same as (e.g. identical to) the connection system depicted in Figures 6 to 10, except for as described below. To summarise, the connection system depicted in Figures 11 to 15 may be substantially the same as (e.g. identical to) the connection system depicted in Figures 6 to 10, but with the addition of valves to control the passage of fluid through the first port 130 and second port 230.

[0152] Figures 11A, 12A, 13A, 14A and 15A depict a side view of the connection system. Figures 1 IB, 12B, 13B, 14B and 15B depict a cross-section view of the connection system. Figures 11C, 12C, 13C, 14C and 15C depict a perspective, cutaway view of the connection system. Figures 11A-C depict the connection system in an unconnected state, before the first connection arrangement 100 has been connected to the second connection arrangement 200. Figures 12A-C depict the connection systemP2021-1490 during a connection process (i.e. a process of connecting the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200). Figures 13A-C depict the connection system in the connected state (i.e. after the connection process has been completed). Figures 14A-C depict the connection system during a disconnection process (i.e. a process of disconnecting the first connection arrangement 100 from the second connection arrangement 200). Figures 15A-C depict the connection system in an unconnected state, after the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement have been disconnected.

[0153] In the connection system depicted in Figures 11 to 15, the first connection arrangement 100 comprises a first valve 160. The first valve 160 may be disposed within the first port 130. The first valve 160 may be configured to be closed in the unconnected state and open in the connected state. When the first valve 160 is open, fluid may be able to flow through the first port 130. When the first valve 160 is closed, fluid may not be able to flow through the first port 130. The first valve 160 may be configured to open as part of the connection process, e.g. in response to the completion of the connection process.

[0154] In the connection system depicted in Figures 11 to 15, the second connection arrangement 200 comprises a second valve 260. The second valve 260 may be disposed within the second port 230. The second valve 260 may be configured to be closed in the unconnected state and open in the connected state. When the second valve 260 is open, fluid may be able to flow through the second port 230. When the second valve 260 is closed, fluid may not be able to flow through the second port 230. The second valve 260 may be configured to open as part of the connection process, e.g. in response to the completion of the connection process.

[0155] The first valve 160 may be configured to open in response to contacting a component of the second connection arrangement 200. For example, the first valve 160 may be configured to open in response to the first valve 160 contacting the second valve 260.

[0156] The second valve 260 may be configured to open in response to contacting a component of the first connection arrangement 100. For example, the second valve 260 may be configured to open in response to the second valve 260 contacting the first valve 160.

[0157] While the embodiment depicted in Figures 11 to 15 comprise both the first valve 160 and the second valve 260, it will be recognised that some embodiments may have either one of the first valve 160 and the second valve 260.

[0158] GENERAL

[0159] While a particularly advantageous connection system may be achieved by including both the first sealing member 150 and the second sealing member 250, it will be recognised that numerous advantages are realised by providing either one of the first sealing member 150 and the second sealing member 250. For instance, although not shown in the Figures, the connection system may comprise the second sealing member 250 and not the first sealing member 150 (e.g. the connection system may comprise the second sealing member 250 only). The provision of the second sealing member 250 may reduce the amount of contamination present in the connection system once the first connection arrangement 100 and the second connection arrangement 200 are connected together (by preventingP2021-1490 contamination of the second port 230).

[0160] The first connection arrangement 100 may further comprise one or more protrusions (not shown) configured to increase a tension in the first sealing member 150 along the slit. This may improve the extent to which the first sealing member 150 is able to isolate the first port 130 from contamination in the environment surrounding the connection system.

[0161] The second connection arrangement 200 may further comprise one or more protrusions (not shown) configured to increase a tension in the second sealing member 250 along the slit. The protrusions may be disposed inside of the deformable support portion and push outwardly into the deformable support portion to increase the tension in the covering portion 251 of the second sealing member 250. The protrusions may comprise one protrusion at one end of the slit and another protrusion at the other end of the slit. The protrusions may extend distally from the dividing wall 214 of the second housing. By increasing a tension in the second sealing member 250 along the slit, the longitudinal edges of the slit may be brought (e.g. pulled or drawn) together. This may improve the extent to which the second sealing member 250 is able to isolate the second port 230 from contamination in the environment surrounding the connection system.

[0162] The first connection arrangement 100 may further comprise one or more protrusions (not shown) configured to compress the first sealing member 150 in a direction perpendicular to the slit. By compressing the first sealing member 150 in a direction perpendicular to the slit, the longitudinal edges of the slit may be brought (e.g. pushed) together. This may improve the extent to which the first sealing member 150 is able to isolate the first port 130 from contamination in the environment surrounding the connection system.

[0163] As above, the connection system of the present disclosure may be a component part of a wider fluid processing apparatus or a fluid processing system. The fluid processing apparatus / system may, for example, be a disposable depth filter apparatus for a bioprocessing system. An example of a fluid processing apparatus will now be described, with reference to Figures 18A to 21B. Figures 18A and 18B depict a perspective view of the fluid processing apparatus 1000. The configuration depicted in Figures 18A to 21B may alternatively be referred to as a fluid processing system. Figures 19A and 19B depict exploded views of a fluid processing unit 300 of the fluid processing apparatus depicted in Figures 18A and 18B. Figures 20A and 20B depict exploded views of a lower distribution plate 400 of the fluid processing apparatus depicted in Figures 18A and 18B. Figures 21A and 21B depict exploded views of an upper distribution plate 500 of the fluid processing apparatus depicted in Figures 18A and 18B.

[0164] As shown in Figures 18A and 18B, the fluid processing apparatus comprises a chassis 600. The chassis 600 may be configured to support the other components of the fluid processing apparatus. The fluid processing apparatus may further comprise a fluid processing unit 300. The fluid processing unit 300 may be a filtration unit, e.g. a unit configured to perform depth filtration as part of a biological manufacturing process. The fluid processing apparatus may further comprise an upper distribution plate 500. The upper distribution plate 500 may be configured to be connected to an upper side of the fluid processing unit 300. The fluid processing apparatus may further comprise a lower distribution plate 400.P2021-1490 The lower distribution plate 400 may be configured to be connected to a lower side of the fluid processing unit 300. The upper distribution plate 500 and the lower distribution plate 400 may be connection manifolds for the fluid processing unit 300. The upper distribution plate 500, the fluid processing unit 300 and the lower distribution plate 400 may each be supported by the chassis 600. Though not depicted in Figures 18A and 18B, the fluid processing apparatus may comprise a plurality of fluid processing units 300.

[0165] The chassis 600 may be configured to clamp the upper distribution plate 500, the fluid processing unit 300 and the lower distribution plate 400. This may involve applying a vertical force to the upper distribution plate 500, the fluid processing unit 300 and the lower distribution plate 400, e.g. in the downward direction. Clamping the upper distribution plate 500, the fluid processing unit 300 and the lower distribution plate 400 together may cause sealing surfaces to be pushed towards and into each other, thus ensuring that seals in the fluid processing apparatus function as intended (e.g. are fluidtight).

[0166] As shown in Figures 19A and 19B, the fluid processing unit 300 may comprise a filter module 301. The fluid processing unit may further comprise a first connection module 3100 (which may be arranged on a lower side of the filter module 301) and / or a second connection module 3200 (which may be arranged on an upper side of the filter module 301). The first connection module 3100 may be fluidly coupled to the filtration module 301. A gasket 305 may be provided between opposing surfaces of the first connection module 3100 and the filtration module 301 to ensure that the connection therebetween is fluidtight. The second connection module 3200 may be fluidly coupled to the filtration module 301. A gasket 302 may be provided between opposing surfaces of the second connection module 3200 and the filtration module to ensure that the connection therebetween is fluidtight.

[0167] The filter module 301 may be configured for depth filtration. The filter module 301 may comprise a filtration medium with cellulose. Additionally or alternatively, the filter module 301 may comprise carbon depth filter cartridges or synthetic depth filter cartridges.

[0168] The first connection module 3100 may be a specific example of the first connection arrangement 100 described above. Additionally or alternatively, the first connection module 3100 may comprise one or more first connection arrangements 100. Generally, the first connection module 3100 may define (e.g. may form) one or more first connection arrangements 100. In the example depicted in Figures 19A and 19B, the first connection module 3100 defines two first connection arrangements 100. Each first connection arrangement 100 comprises a first sealing member 3150 and a first port 3130.Each first connection arrangement 100 in the first connection module 3100 may comprise the other components of the first connection arrangement 100 described above.

[0169] The first connection module 3100 may comprise collars 306 for (e.g. to retain) each first sealing member 3150. The collars 306 may each form a part of a first connection arrangement of the first connection module 3100.

[0170] The second connection module 3200 may be a specific example of the second connection arrangement 200 described above. Additionally or alternatively, the second connection module 3200 may comprise one or more second connection arrangements 200. Generally, the first connection module 3200P2021-1490 may define (e.g. may form) one or more second connection arrangements 200. In the example depicted in Figures 19A and 19B, the second connection module 3200 defines two second connection arrangements 200. Each second connection arrangement 200 comprises a second sealing member 3250. Each second connection arrangement 200 in the second connection module 3200 may comprise the other components of the second connection arrangement 200 described above.

[0171] The second connection module 3200 may comprise collars 304 for (e.g. to retain) each second sealing member 3250. The collars may each form a part of a second connection arrangement 200 of the second connection module 3200.

[0172] The lower distribution plate 400 depicted in Figures 20A and 20B defines two second connection arrangements 200, each second connection arrangement 200 comprising a second sealing member 4250. Each second connection arrangement 200 may further comprise a collar 404. The second connection arrangements 200 on the lower distribution plate 400 may be examples of the second connection arrangements 200 described above.

[0173] The upper distribution plate 500 depicted in Figures 21A and 2 IB defines two first connection arrangements 100, each first connection arrangement comprising a first sealing member 5150 and a first port 5130. Each first connection arrangement may further comprise a collar 506. The first connection arrangements 100 on the upper distribution plate 500 may be examples of the first connection arrangement 100 described above.

[0174] Each first connection arrangement 100 on the first connection module 3100 of the fluid processing unit 300 may be configured to be connected to a corresponding second connection arrangement 200 on another component of the fluid processing apparatus, e.g. on the lower distribution plate 400. The first connection arrangements 100 on the first connection module 3100 may interact with the second connection arrangements 200 on the lower distribution plate 400 to form a connection system comprising a sterile, fluidtight flowpath, as has been described in detail above.

[0175] Each second connection arrangement 200 on the second connection module 3200 of the fluid processing unit 300 may be configured to be connected to a corresponding first connection arrangement 100 on another component of the fluid processing apparatus, e.g. on the upper distribution plate 500. The second connection arrangements 200 on the second connection module 3200 may interact with the first connection arrangements 100 on the upper distribution plate 500 to form a connection system comprising a sterile, fluidtight flowpath, as has been described in detail above.

[0176] As shown in Figures 20A and 20B, the lower distribution plate 400 may comprise a fluid coupling interface 409. The fluid coupling interface 409 may be configured to allow the lower distribution plate 400 (and, therefore, the fluid processing apparatus 1000) to be connected to another fluid processing apparatus, e.g. the next fluid processing apparatus in the overall fluid processing system or a or previous fluid processing apparatus in the overall fluid processing system. A gasket 407 may be provided to ensure that the fluid coupling interface 409 is fluidtight. A clamp 408 may be provided to energise the gasket 407 and to secure the fluid coupling interface, gasket 408 and lower distribution plate 400 together.P2021-1490

[0177] As shown in Figures 21A and 2 IB, the upper distribution plate 500 may comprise a fluid coupling interface 509. The fluid coupling interface 509 may be configured to allow the upper distribution plate 500 (and, therefore, the fluid processing apparatus 1000) to be connected to another fluid processing apparatus, e.g. the next fluid processing apparatus in the overall fluid processing system or a or previous fluid processing apparatus in the overall fluid processing system. A gasket 507 may be provided to ensure that the fluid coupling interface 509 is fluidtight. A clamp 508 may be provided to energise the gasket 507 and to secure the fluid coupling interface, gasket 508 and upper distribution plate 500 together.

[0178] In use, fluid may flow into the upper distribution plate 500 of the fluid processing apparatus 1000 via the fluid coupling interface 509, through the second connection module 3200 of the fluid processing unit 300 and into the filter module 301 of the fluid processing unit 300. After passing through the filter module 301, filtered fluid may pass through the first connection module 3100 of the fluid processing unit 3200 and into the lower distribution plate 400. Fluid may flow out of the apparatus via the fluid coupling interface 409 of the lower distribution plate 400. As will be appreciated, fluid may flow through the fluid processing apparatus 1000 in the opposite direction.

[0179] As used herein, terms such as “first”, “second” and “third” are used to provide distinct labels for different features. These terms are not intended to carry their own meaning, or impart structural or functional limitations to the components / features with which they are used. The terms “upper” and “lower” have been used to define the relative positioning of components and features. The terms “upper” and “lower” may refer specifically to the gravitational direction. However, this is not essential, and “upper” and “lower” could be replaced with “rightward” and “leftward”, for example.

[0180] In the present disclosure, components and features which share the same reference sign are the same or corresponding features. Thus, description provided for a component having the reference sign 123 in connection to an embodiment may apply equally to a component having the reference sign 123 in a different embodiment.

[0181] While specific embodiments of the invention have been described above, it will be appreciated that the invention may be practiced otherwise than as described. The descriptions above are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Thus it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the invention as described without departing from the scope of the claims set out below.

[0182] Aspects of the invention are described in the following numbered clauses.

Claims

P2021-1490 CLAIMS1. A connection system comprising a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, wherein:the first connection arrangement comprises:a first port for the passage of fluid therethrough; anda sealing member configured to cover the first port when the connection system is in an unconnected state; andthe second connection arrangement comprises:a second port for the passage of fluid therethrough; anda housing, wherein the second port is fixed relative to the second housing, and the connection system is configured such that the second port pushes through the sealing member when the connection system transitions from the unconnected state to a connected state.

2. The connection system of claim 1, wherein the unconnected state is a state in which the first connection arrangement is separated from the second connection arrangement, and the connected state is a state in which the first port contacts the second port to form a fluid flow path therebetween.

3. The connection system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the second port is integrally formed with the housing.

4. The connection system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing member is opened when the second port pushes through the sealing member.

5. The connection system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first connection arrangement comprises a first housing and the housing of the second connection arrangement is a second housing, and the connection system is configured such that, when the connection system transitions from the unconnected state to the connected state, the second port pushes through the sealing member before a mating portion of the first housing is received by a receiving portion of the second housing.

6. The connection system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing member is configured to maintain the sterility of the first port when the connection system is in the unconnected state.

7. The connection system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the connection system is configured such that the sealing member closes to cover the first port when the connection system transitions from the connected state to the unconnected state.34P2021-1490 8. The connection system of claim 7, wherein the connection system is configured such that the sealing member closes to cover the first port when the connection system transitions from the connected state to the unconnected state as a result of a restoring force, wherein the restoring force is induced by elastic deformation of the sealing member during the transition from the unconnected state to the connected state.

9. The connection system of claim 7 or 8, wherein the sealing member is configured to close to inhibit droplets of fluid dripping out of the first connection arrangement from the first port.

10. The connection system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing member that is configured to cover the first port is a first sealing member, and the connection system further comprises a second sealing member, wherein the second sealing member is configured to cover the second port when the connection system is in the unconnected state.

11. The connection system of claim 10, wherein the second sealing member is configured to maintain the sterility of the second port when the connection system is in the unconnected state.

12. The connection system of claim 10 or claim 11, wherein, in the connected state, a seal is formed between the first sealing member and the second sealing member.

13. The connection system of any of claims 10 to 12, wherein, when the connection system transitions from the unconnected state to the connected state, the second port pushes through the second sealing member to open the second sealing member, optionally wherein the second port pushes through the second sealing member in response to compression of the second sealing member by an annular protrusion of the first connection arrangement, further optionally wherein the annular protrusion of the first connection arrangement is configured to support the first sealing member.

14. The connection system of the preceding claims, wherein the first connection arrangement comprises a first valve configured to be closed in the unconnected state and open in the connected state.

15. The connection system of claim 14, wherein the first valve is configured to open in response to the first valve contacting a second valve.

16. The connection system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the second connection arrangement comprises a second valve configured to be closed in the unconnected state and open in the connected state.

17. The connection system of claim 16 wherein the second valve is configured to open in response35P2021-1490 to the first valve contacting the second valve.

18. A method of connecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, the first connection arrangement comprising a first port and the second connection arrangement comprising a housing and a second port, the method comprising:penetrating a sealing member of the first connection arrangement with the second port; connecting the first port with the second port; andmaintaining the position of the second port relative to the housing of the second connection arrangement as the second port penetrates the sealing member.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising establishing a flowpath between the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement.

20. The method of claim 18 or 19, wherein the connecting the first port with the second port comprises forming a watertight seal between the first port and the second port.

21. The method of any of claims 18 to 20, further comprising moving the first connection arrangement in a downward direction to cause the penetrating of the sealing member and the connecting of the first port with the second port.

22. A method of disconnecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, the first connection arrangement comprising a first port and the second connection arrangement comprising a housing and a second port, the method comprising:disconnecting the first port from the second port;withdrawing the second port from a sealing member of the first connection arrangement; and maintaining the position of the second port relative to the housing of the second connection arrangement as the second port withdraws from the sealing member23. The method of claim 22, further comprising moving the first connection arrangement in an upward direction to disconnect the first port from the second port and to withdraw the second port from the sealing member.

24. A connection arrangement for a connection system, the connection arrangement comprising: a port for the passage of fluid therethrough;a sealing member configured to cover the port;a support portion extending around the port, wherein the support portion is configured to support the sealing member; anda housing extending around the support portion,P2021-1490 wherein an annular void is defined between the housing and the support portion.

25. The connection arrangement of claim 24, wherein the support portion defines an opening, and the sealing member covers the first port by extending across the opening.

26. The connection arrangement of claim 24 or 25, wherein the support portion is fixed relative to the housing.

27. The connection arrangement of any of claims 24 to 26, wherein the support portion is integrally formed with the housing.

28. A method of connecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, the first connection arrangement comprising a first port, a sealing member configured to cover the first port, a support portion configured to support the sealing member, and a housing, wherein an annular void is defined between the housing and the support portion, the second connection arrangement comprising a second port, the method comprising:penetrating the sealing member of the first connection arrangement with the second port; and connecting the first port with the second port.

29. A method of disconnecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, the first connection arrangement comprising a first port, a sealing member configured to cover the first port, a support portion configured to support the sealing member, and a housing, wherein an annular void is defined between the housing and the support portion, the second connection arrangement comprising a second port, the method comprising:disconnecting the first port from the second port; andwithdrawing the second port from the sealing member of the first connection arrangement.

30. A connection arrangement for a connection system, the connection arrangement comprising: a port for the passage of fluid therethrough; anda sealing member covering the port,wherein the sealing member comprises one or more ribs.

31. The connection arrangement of claim 30, wherein the connection arrangement further comprises a support portion extending around the port, wherein the support portion is configured to support the sealing member.

32. The connection system of claim 30 or 31, wherein the one or more ribs are formed on an internal surface of the sealing member, wherein the internal surface of the sealing member faces the port.P2021-149033. The connection arrangement of any of claims 30 to 32, wherein the sealing member comprises a slit.

34. The connection arrangement of any of claims 30 to 33, wherein the one or more ribs are configured to increase a stiffness of the sealing member.

35. The connection arrangement of any of claims 30 to 34, wherein the connection arrangement is configured such that the sealing member closes as the connection system transitions from a connected state to an unconnected state.

36. The connection arrangement of claim 35, wherein:when the sealing member is closed, longitudinal edges of the slit are at least partially in contact with one another;when the sealing member is open, the longitudinal edges of the slit are at least partially separated from one another;opening the sealing member comprises transitioning the sealing member from a closed shape to an open shape, wherein transitioning the sealing member from the closed shape to the open shape comprises elastic deformation of the sealing member; andclosing the sealing member comprises transitioning the sealing member from the open shape to the closed shape, wherein the sealing member transitions from the open shape to the closed shape in response to a restoring force, wherein the restoring force is induced by the elastic deformation of the sealing member when the sealing member is opened.

37. The connection arrangement of claim 36, wherein the one or more ribs are configured to increase the magnitude of the restoring force induced by elastic deformation of the sealing member when the sealing member is opened.

38. The connection system of any of claims 30 to 37, wherein the one or more ribs are arranged to form one or more pockets configured to collect fluid.

39. The connection system of any of claims 30 to 38, wherein the one or more ribs are arranged to inhibit the movement of fluid towards the slit.

40. A method of connecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, the first connection arrangement comprising a first port and the second connection arrangement comprising a second port, the method comprising:penetrating a sealing member of the first connection arrangement with the second port, the38P2021-1490 sealing member comprising one or more rib; andconnecting the first port with the second port.

41. A method of disconnecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, the first connection arrangement comprising a first port and the second connection arrangement comprising a second port, the method comprising:disconnecting the first port from the second port; andwithdrawing the second port from a sealing member of the first connection arrangement, the sealing member comprising one or more rib.

42. The method of claim 41, further comprising moving the first connection arrangement in an upward direction to cause the disconnecting of the first port from the second port and the withdrawing of the second port from the sealing member.

43. The method of claim 41 or 42, further comprising, while withdrawing the second port from the sealing member, closing the sealing member by a restoring force induced by elastic deformation of the sealing member during opening of the sealing member.

44. The method of any of claims 40 to 43, further comprising inhibiting, using the one or more rib, movement of fluid towards a slit formed in the sealing member.

45. A connection arrangement for a connection system, the connection arrangement comprising:a port for the passage of fluid therethrough; anda sealing member covering the port,wherein the sealing member comprises a slit formed therein, andwherein the sealing member is curved so that the sealing member is convex from the perspective of the port.

46. The connection arrangement of claim 45, wherein the curvature of the sealing member is configured to direct fluid on an internal surface of the sealing member away from the slit, wherein the internal surface of the sealing member faces the port.

47. The connection arrangement of claim 45 or 46, further comprising one or more protrusions configured to increase a tension in the sealing member along the slit.

48. The connection arrangement of any of claims 45 to 47, further comprising one or more protrusions configured to compress the sealing member in a direction perpendicular to the slit.39P2021-1490 49. A method of disconnecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, the first connection arrangement comprising a first port and the second connection arrangement comprising a second port, the method comprising:disconnecting the first port from the second port;withdrawing the second port from a sealing member of the first connection arrangement; and directing liquid away from a slit formed in the sealing member by a curvature of the sealing member.

50. The method of claim 49, further comprising, while withdrawing the second port from the sealing member, closing the sealing member by a restoring force induced by elastic deformation of the sealing member during opening of the sealing member.

51. The method of claim 49 or 50, wherein after the closing of the sealing member, the sealing member is curved so that the sealing member is convex from the perspective of the first port.

52. A connection arrangement for a connection system, the connection arrangement comprising: a port for the passage of fluid therethrough; anda sealing member covering the port,wherein the sealing member comprises a slit formed therein, the slit comprises a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, and the first longitudinal edge is at least partially joined to the second longitudinal edge.

53. The connection system of claim 52, wherein the first longitudinal edge is at least partially knitted to the second longitudinal edge.

54. The connection system of claim 52 or 53, wherein the first longitudinal edge is at least partially joined to the second longitudinal edge by irradiating the sealing member with radiation having a wavelength of less than 10-8m.

55. The connection system of claim 54, wherein the radiation is Gamma radiation or X-ray radiation.

56. The connection system of any of claims 52 to 55 wherein the sealing member is configured such that the first longitudinal edge is separated from the second longitudinal edge when a pressing member presses into the sealing member.

57. A method of connecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, the first connection arrangement comprising a first port and the second connection arrangement40P2021-1490 comprising a second port, the method comprising:penetrating a sealing member of the first connection arrangement with the second port, wherein penetrating the sealing member comprises breaking a bond between a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge of a slit formed in the sealing member; andconnecting the first port with the second port.

58. The method of claim 57, further comprising moving the first connection arrangement in a downward direction towards the second connection arrangement to cause the penetrating of the sealing member and the connecting of the first port with the second port.

59. The method of claim 58, further comprising, before penetrating the sealing member of the first connection arrangement, irradiating the sealing member with radiation having a wavelength of less than 10-8m to at least partially join the first longitudinal edge to the second longitudinal edge .

60. A method of manufacturing a sealing member for a connection arrangement of a connection system, the method comprising:forming a slit in a membrane; andirradiating the membrane with radiation having a wavelength of less than 10-8m to at least partially join a first longitudinal edge of the slit to a second longitudinal edge of the slit.

61. The method of claim 60, wherein the at least partially joining the first longitudinal edge of the slit to the second longitudinal edge of the slit comprises at least partially knitting the at first longitudinal edge of the slit to the second longitudinal edge of the slit.

62. The method of claim 60 or 61, wherein the radiation is Gamma radiation or X-ray radiation.

63. A connection system comprising a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, wherein:the first connection arrangement comprises a first port for the passage of fluid therethrough; the second connection arrangement comprises a second port for the passage of fluid therethrough, the second port comprising a leading surface at a distal end thereof and a sealing surface recessed below the leading surface;when the connection system is in a connected state, the first port is in contact with the second port to form a flowpath therebetween; andwhen the connection system is in the connected state, the sealing surface of the second port forms a seal with the first port.

64. The connection system of claim 63, wherein the sealing surface is substantially perpendicular to41P2021-1490 a direction in which fluid flows through the second port.

65. The connection system of claim 63 or 64, wherein the connection system is configured such that, in the connected state, the leading surface of the second port is isolated from the fluid flow path by the seal formed between the sealing surface and the first port.

66. The connection system of any of claims 63 to 65, wherein the sealing surface is radially inward of the leading surface.

67. The connection system of any of claims 63 to 66, wherein the first connection arrangement comprises a sealing member configured to cover the first port when the connection system is in the unconnected state, and the connection system is configured such that the leading surface of the second port pushes through the sealing member when the connection system transitions from an unconnected state to the connected state.

68. A method of connecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, the first connection arrangement comprising a first port and the second connection arrangement comprising a second port, the method comprising:penetrating a sealing member of the first connection arrangement with a leading surface of the second port; andforming a seal between a sealing surface of the second port and a surface of the first port, wherein the sealing surface of the second port is recessed below the leading surface of the second port.

69. A connection system comprising a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, wherein:the first connection arrangement comprises:a first port for the passage of fluid therethrough; andan annular protrusion extending around the first port,the second connection arrangement comprises:a second port for the passage of fluid therethrough; anda sealing member configured to cover the second port when the connection system is in the unconnected state,wherein the connection system is configured such that the annular protrusion pushes against the sealing member to open the sealing member when the connection system transitions from the unconnected state to a connected state.

70. The connection system of claim 69, wherein the unconnected state is a state in which the first connection arrangement is separated from the second connection arrangement, and the connected state is42P2021-1490 a state in which the first port is in contact with the second port to form a fluid flow path therebetween.

71. The connection system of claim 69 or 70, wherein the connection system is configured such that, when the connection system transitions from the unconnected state to the connected state, the annular protrusion pushes against an outer portion of the sealing member, wherein the outer portion of the sealing member is radially outward of the second port.

72. The connection system of any of claims 69 to 71, wherein the connection system is configured such that, the second port pushes through a slit defined in the sealing member when the annular protrusion pushes against the sealing member.

73. The connection system of any of claims 69 to 72, wherein the sealing member comprises a covering portion and a deformable support portion, wherein the deformable support portion extends around the second port, and wherein the covering portion is supported by the deformable support portion.

74. The connection system of claim 73, wherein the connection system is configured such that the annular protrusion pushes against the sealing member to compress the deformable support portion of the second sealing member.

75. The connection system of claim 74, wherein the connection system is configured such that the compression of the deformable support portion causes the second port to push through the slit defined in the sealing member.

76. The connection system of any of claims 69 to 75, wherein the second port extends from a base portion of the second housing, and wherein the opening of the sealing member comprises elastic deformation of the sealing member in the direction of the base portion of the second housing.

77. The connection system of any of claims 69 to 76, wherein the connection system is configured such that the sealing member closes to cover the second port when the connection system is transitioned from the connected state to the unconnected state.

78. The connection system of claim 77, wherein the connection system is configured such that the sealing member closes to cover the second port when the connection system is transitioned from the connected state to the unconnected state as a result of a restoring force, wherein the restoring force is induced by elastic deformation of the sealing member during the transition from the unconnected state to the connected state.

79. The connection system of any of claims 69 to 78, wherein the annular protrusion is a support43P2021-1490 portion configured to support another sealing member, wherein the another sealing member is configured to cover the first port when the connection system is in the unconnected state.

80. A method of connecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, the first connection arrangement comprising a first port and the second connection arrangement comprising a second port and a sealing member, and the method comprising:pushing against the sealing member with an annular protrusion of the first connection arrangement to open the sealing member; andconnecting the first port with the second port.

81. The method of claim 80, further comprising, as a result of the pushing against the sealing member with the annular protrusion, compressing a deformable support portion of the sealing member.

82. The method of claim 81, wherein the compressing of the sealing member causes the second port to push through a slit defined in the sealing member.

83. A method of disconnecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, the first connection arrangement comprising a first port and the second connection arrangement comprising a second port and a sealing member, the method comprising:disconnecting the first port from the second port; andremoving a force exerted on the sealing member by an annular protrusion of the first connection arrangement.

84. The method of claim 83, further comprising, after the removing of the force exerted on the sealing member by the annular protrusion of the first connection arrangement, closing the sealing member to cover the second port.

85. A connection arrangement for a connection system, the connection arrangement comprising: a port for the passage of fluid therethrough; anda sealing member covering the port,wherein the sealing member comprises a covering portion and a deformable support portion, wherein the deformable support portion extends around the port, and wherein the covering portion is supported by the deformable support portion.

86. The connection arrangement of claim 85, wherein the deformable support portion comprises a bellow-shaped structure or a concertina structure.

87. The connection arrangement of claim 86, wherein the deformable support portion comprises one44P2021-1490 or more folding portions configured such that, upon the application of a force to the covering portion, the deformable support portion bends at the one or more folding portions.

88. A connection arrangement for a connection system, the connection arrangement comprising:a port for the passage of fluid therethrough; anda sealing member,wherein the sealing member is configured to cover the port in a closed position, and wherein the sealing member comprises one or more tabs configured to allow a user to pull the sealing member into the closed position.

89. A method of disconnecting a first connection arrangement and a second connection arrangement, the method comprising:moving the first connection arrangement and the second arrangement apart from one another to separate the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement; andafter separating the first connection arrangement and the second arrangement, pulling a sealing member into a closed position in which the sealing member covers a port of the second connection arrangement.

90. The method of claim 87, wherein the pulling the sealing member into the closed position comprises pulling one or more tabs provided on the sealing member.

91. The connection system, connection arrangement or method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing member(s) comprise a membrane.

92. The connection system, connection arrangement or method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing member(s) are formed of a polymer.

93. The connection system, connection arrangement or method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing member(s) are formed of an elastomer.

94. The connection system, connection arrangement or method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing member(s) are formed from a material comprising silicone, optionally wherein the sealing member(s) are formed from a material substantially comprising silicone, optionally wherein the sealing member(s) are formed from a material consisting essentially of silicone, optionally wherein the sealing member(s) are formed from a material consisting of silicone.

95. A fluid processing apparatus comprising a first fluid processing unit and a second fluid processing unit, wherein the first fluid processing unit is fluidly connected to the second fluid processing45P2021-1490 unit by the connection system of any claims 1-17, 63-67 or 69-79.

96. The fluid processing apparatus of claim 95, wherein the first fluid processing unit comprises the first connection arrangement of the connection system and the second fluid processing unit comprises the second connection arrangement of the connection system.

97. A fluid processing apparatus comprising a first fluid processing unit and a second fluid processing unit, the first fluid processing unit comprising the connection arrangement of any of claims 24-27, 30-39, 45-48, or 52-56 and / or the second fluid processing unit comprising the connection arrangement of any of claims 52-56, 85-87, or 88.

98. The fluid processing apparatus of any of claims 95 to 97, wherein the first fluid processing unit is configured to be arranged above the second fluid processing unit in the gravitational direction.

99. The fluid processing apparatus of any of claims 95 to 98, wherein the first fluid processing unit comprises a filtration unit and / or the second fluid processing unit comprises a filtration unit.

100. The fluid processing apparatus of any of claims 95 to 99, wherein a plurality of flow paths are defined between the first fluid processing unit and the second fluid processing unit.

101. The fluid processing apparatus of any of claims 95 to 100, wherein the fluid processing apparatus is a disposable depth filter apparatus for a bioprocessing system.

102. The fluid processing apparatus of any of claims 95 to 101, wherein the fluid processing apparatus further comprises a filter module.

103. A fluid processing apparatus, comprising:a filtration unit;an upper distribution plate fluidly connected to the filtration unit by the connection system of any of claims any claims 1-17, 63-67 or 69-79;a lower distribution plate fluidly connected to the filtration unit by the connection system of any claims 1-17, 63-67 or 69-79.

104. A fluid processing apparatus, comprising:a filtration unit comprising: (i) the connection arrangement of any of claims 24-27, 30-39, 45-48, or 52-56 as a first connection arrangement; and (ii) the connection arrangement of any of claims 52-56, 85-87, or 88 as a second connection arrangement;an upper distribution plate comprising the connection arrangement of any of claims 24-27, 30-46P2021-1490 39, 45-48, or 52-56; anda lower distribution plate comprising the connection arrangement of any of claims 52-56, 85-87, or 88,wherein the connection arrangement of the upper distribution plate is connected to the second connection arrangement of the filtration unit, andwherein the connection arrangement of the lower distribution plate is connected to the first connection arrangement of the filtration unit.

105. The method of any of claims 18-21, 28, 40, 57-59, 68, or 80-82, further comprising, before penetrating the sealing member with the second port, sterilising the first connection arrangement and / or the second connection arrangement.

106. The method of claim 104, wherein sterilising the first connection arrangement and the second connection arrangement comprises irradiating the first connection arrangement and the second connection with radiation having a wavelength of less than 10-8m.

107. The method of any of claims 22-23, 29, 41-45, 49-51, 78-84 or 89-90, further comprising, before disconnecting the first port from the second port, purging the first connection arrangement and / or the second connection arrangement.

108. The method of claim 106, wherein the purging of the first connection arrangement and / or the second connection arrangement comprises providing a flow of air through the first connection arrangement and / or the second connection arrangement to remove liquid from within the first connection arrangement and / or the second connection arrangement.47

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