Slide and twist connector design for medical fluid container and peritoneal dialysis solution generation device connection

Abstract

A connector designed to use in conjunction with a solution generation system. Solution generation devices (SGD) are used to deliver ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (APD) therapy to users, specifically, to produce peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions on-site, in a patient's home, prior to and during therapy. The SGD automatically prepares reconstituted PD solution from appropriate volumes of water and concentrates. The connector assembly includes a design to securely lock a first connector and a second connector in place, to prevent leaks in between the first and second connectors, to avoid contamination, and to allow users of this device with limited dexterity to rotate the connector with ease.

Description

12604.W001 (3726223.02430)TITLE SLIDE AND TWIST CONNECTOR DESIGN FOR MEDICAL FLUID CONTAINER AND PERITONEAL DIALYSIS SOLUTION GENERATION DEVICE CONNECTIONBACKGROUND

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to medical fluid treatments, and in particular, to a connector or connection system to use alongside, for example, a solution generation device used to produce peritoneal dialysis (“PD”) solutions.

[0002] Due to various causes, a person’s renal system can fail. Renal failure produces several physiological derangements. It is no longer possible to balance water and minerals or to excrete daily metabolic load. Toxic end products of metabolism, such as, urea, creatinine, uric acid, and others may accumulate in a patient’s blood and tissue.

[0003] Reduced kidney function and, above all, kidney failure is treated with dialysis. Dialysis removes waste, toxins, and excess water from the body that normal functioning kidneys would otherwise remove. Dialysis treatment for replacement of kidney functions is critical to many people because the treatment is lifesaving.

[0004] One type of kidney failure therapy is Hemodialysis (“HD”), which in general uses diffusion to remove waste products from a patient’s blood. A diffusive gradient occurs across the semi-permeable dialyzer between the blood and an electrolyte solution called dialysate or dialysis fluid, which causes diffusion.

[0005] Hemofiltration (“HF”) is an alternative renal replacement therapy that relies on a convective transport of toxins from the patient’s blood. HF is accomplished by adding substitution or replacement fluid to the extracorporeal circuit during treatment. The substitution fluid and the fluid accumulated by the patient in between treatments is ultrafiltered over the course of the HF treatment, providing a convective transport mechanism that is particularly beneficial in removing middle and large molecules.

[0006] Hemodiafiltration (“HDF”) is a treatment modality that combines convective and diffusive clearances. HDF uses dialysis fluid flowing through a dialyzer, similar to standard hemodialysis, to provide diffusive clearance. In addition, substitution solution is provided directly to the extracorporeal circuit, providing convective clearance.

[0007] Most HD, HF, and HDF treatments occur in centers. A trend towards home hemodialysis (“HHD”) exists today in part because HHD can be performed daily: offering therapeutic benefits over in-center hemodialysis treatments, which typically occur bi- or tri-12604.W001 (3726223.02430)weekly. Studies have shown that more frequent treatments remove more toxins and waste products and render less interdialytic fluid overload than a patient receiving less frequent but perhaps longer treatments. A patient receiving more frequent treatments does not experience as much of a down cycle (swings in fluids and toxins) as does an in-center patient, who has built-up two or three days’ worth of toxins prior to a treatment. In certain areas, the closest dialysis center can be many miles from the patient’s home, causing door-to-door treatment time to consume a large portion of the day. Treatments in centers close to the patient’s home may also consume a large portion of the patient’s day. HHD can take place overnight or during the day while the patient relaxes, works, or is otherwise productive.

[0008] Another type of kidney failure therapy is peritoneal dialysis (“PD”), which infuses a dialysis solution, also called dialysis fluid or PD fluid, into a patient’s peritoneal chamber via a catheter. The PD fluid comes into contact with the peritoneal membrane in the patient’s peritoneal chamber. Waste, toxins, and excess water pass from the patient’s bloodstream, through the capillaries in the peritoneal membrane, and into the PD fluid due to diffusion and osmosis, i.e., an osmotic gradient occurs across the membrane. An osmotic agent in the PD fluid provides the osmotic gradient. Used PD fluid is drained from the patient: removing waste, toxins, and excess water from the patient. This cycle can be repeated multiple times.

[0009] There are various types of peritoneal dialysis therapies, including continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (“CAPD”), automated peritoneal dialysis (“APD”), tidal flow dialysis (“TFD”), and continuous flow peritoneal dialysis (“CFPD”). CAPD is a manual dialysis treatment. Here, the patient manually connects an implanted catheter to a drain to allow used PD fluid to drain from the patient’s peritoneal cavity. The patient then switches fluid communication so that the patient catheter communicates with a bag of fresh PD fluid to infuse the fresh PD fluid through the catheter and into the patient. The patient disconnects the catheter from the fresh PD fluid bag and allows the PD fluid to dwell within the patient’s peritoneal cavity, wherein the transfer of waste, toxins, and excess water takes place. After a dwell period, the patient repeats the manual dialysis procedure, for example, four times per day. Manual peritoneal dialysis requires a significant amount of time and effort from the patient, leaving ample room for improvement.

[0010] APD is similar to CAPD, in that the dialysis treatment includes drain, fill, and dwell cycles. APD machines, however, perform the cycles automatically, typically while the patient sleeps. APD machines free patients from having to manually perform the treatment12604.W001 (3726223.02430)cycles and from having to transport supplies during the day. APD machines connect an implanted catheter a source or bag of fresh PD fluid, and a fluid drain. APD machines pump fresh PD fluid from a dialysis fluid source, through the catheter, and into the patient’s peritoneal chamber. APD machines also allow for the PD fluid to dwell within the chamber and for the transfer of waste, toxins, and excess water to take place. The source may include multiple liters of dialysis fluid, including several solution bags.

[0011] APD machines pump used PD fluid from the patient’s peritoneal cavity, though the catheter, to drain. As with the manual process, several drain, fill, and dwell cycles occur during dialysis. A “last fill” may occur at the end of the APD treatment. The last fill fluid may remain in the peritoneal chamber of the patient until the start of the next treatment, or may be manually emptied at some point during the day.

[0012] Any of the above treatment modalities may operate with a solution generation device (“SGD”). An SGD automatically prepares reconstituted PD solution from appropriate volumes of water and concentrates. This device must be user friendly for home use. The SGD produces PD solution in a concentrate bag. The resulting PD solution is used for one or more APD treatments. The SGD device comprises a connector and the concentrate bag comprises a connector for fluid coupling. These connectors must be able to couple together to create a connector assembly, allowing for fluid flow between the device and the bag.

[0013] There exists a need for an improved connector. First, connectors of both the concentrate bag and the SGD must be adequately secured to reduce the risk of potential disengagement during use. Further, the connector pieces should fit together to prevent PD solution leaks and prevent external contaminants from entering PD solution. Further, many users performing APD treatments at home have limited dexterity. Thus, there exists a need for the connectors to allow for easier use, such that a user with limited dexterity can secure the connectors more easily.

[0014] A need exists accordingly for an improved slide and twist connectology design.SUMMARY

[0015] The present disclosure involves the use of a slide and twist connector assembly. The connector assembly is used to connect a concentrate bag containing a medical fluid or a solution located within a solution container or bag operable with any type of dialysis treatment, including any type of peritoneal dialysis (“PD”) treatment, hemodialysis12604.W001 (3726223.02430)(“HD”) treatment, hemofiltration (“HF”) treatment, hemodiafiltration (“HDF”) treatment, or continuous renal replacement therapy (“CRRT”) treatment. It should be appreciated that the slide and twist connector of the present disclosure may be used in any type of medical treatment having a bagged or otherwise stored medical fluid, which needs to be connected to a machine. The slide and twist connector may therefore be used additionally with any type of bagged medical infusion or intravenous fluid, saline, lactated ringers, etc.

[0016] The connector assembly system in one embodiment includes a first connector and a second connector. In one example embodiment the first connector and the second connector are connected to a first fluid line and a second fluid line (not disclosed) where the first fluid line or the second fluid line is connected to a connection line from a concentrate bag. Further, the first fluid line or the second fluid line is connected to a line in connection with a solution generation device. The design of the connector assembly system is configured to provide a connection point between a solution generation device and a concentrate bag. Moreover, it is foreseeable for the first connector or the second connector to be part of or molded to a concentrate bag. The first connector comprises a first end, a second end, and an outer ring. The second connector further comprises a first end, a second end, and an outer ring. The first connector and the second connector are designed such that they can slidably connect. The first and second connector are designed to be in disengaged and unlocked position or state, an engaged and unlocked position or state, or an engaged and locked position or state.

[0017] The first end of the first connector engages the second connector in the engaged and unlocked or engaged and locked position or state. The first end of the first connector includes ribs, which protrude from the first end. The ribs allow the first end of the first connector to engage and lock to the second connector.

[0018] The connector assembly system further includes a second end of the first connector, which includes one or more flanges. The flanges can be in a variety of shapes, but the flanges must provide a flat surface over the round second end of the first connector, such to provide a place to grip the second end of the first connector when rotating.

[0019] In a second aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the first connector comprises an outer cylinder of the first connector and an inner cylinder of the first connector.12604.W001 (3726223.02430)

[0020] In a third aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the outer cylinder of the first connector comprises an outer surface of the first connector and an inner surface of the first connector.

[0021] In a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the one or more ribs protrude from the outer surface of the first connector.

[0022] In a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the outer cylinder of the first connector is a hollow cylinder with an equivalent diameter throughout, and the inner cylinder of the first connector is a cylinder with an inconsistent diameter throughout.

[0023] In a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the first end of the second connector comprises an outer cylinder of the second connector and an inner cylinder of the second connector.

[0024] In a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the first end of the second connector comprises an outer surface of the second connector and an inner surface of the second connector.

[0025] In an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the inner surface of the second connector comprises one or more grooves.

[0026] In a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the one or more grooves are in an L-shape.

[0027] In a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the one or more ribs are positioned on the outer surface of the outer cylinder such that they fit inside the one or more grooves positioned on the inner surface of the second connector.

[0028] In an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, there are two ribs, two grooves, and the one or more flanges are positioned on the second end of the first connector such that the user can rotate the first connector and the second connector into the engaged and locked position. It is preferable that the system includes the same number of grooves as there are ribs.

[0029] In a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, a connector assembly includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector comprises a first end, a second end, and an outer ring. The12604.W001 (3726223.02430)second connector comprised a first end, a second end, and an outer ring. The first connector and the second connector are designed such that they can slidably connect. The first and second connector are designed to be in disengaged and unlocked position or state, an engaged and unlocked position or state, or an engaged and locked position or state.

[0030] In a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the first end of the first connector comprises an outer cylinder of the first connector and an inner cylinder of the first connector.

[0031] In a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the outer cylinder of the first connector comprises an outer surface of the first connector and an inner surface of the first connector.

[0032] In a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the one or more ribs protrude from the outer surface of the first connector.

[0033] In a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, a method for transferring a medical fluid between a device and medical fluid bag, providing a connector assembly. The connector assembly includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector comprises a first end, a second end, and an outer ring. The second connector comprises a first end, a second end, and an outer ring. The first connector and the second connector are designed such that they can slidably connect. The first and second connector are designed to be in disengaged and unlocked position or state, an engaged and unlocked position or state, or an engaged and locked position or state.

[0034] In a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the method includes engaging and locking the first connector and the second connector. When the connector assembly is in the engaged and locked position, the connector assembly allows for fluid flow between the device and medical fluid bag.

[0035] In an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the first connector is connected to either a solution generation device or a PD fluid container.

[0036] In a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the second connector is connected to either a solution generation device or a PD fluid container.12604.W001 (3726223.02430)

[0037] In a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, or portion thereof, the method includes preventing the leakage of medical fluid.

[0038] In light of the above aspects and the present disclosures set forth herein, it is accordingly an advantage of the present disclosure to provide a connector assembly having ribs and grooves which lock the connector assembly in place.

[0039] It is another advantage of the present disclosure to provide a connector assembly having inner cylinders with a clearance fit to avoid leakage.

[0040] It is a further advantage of the present disclosure to provide a connector assembly with an outer ring which allows the user holding the connectors to avoid touch contamination.

[0041] It is yet another advantage of the present disclosure to provide a flange designed to hold the connector and aid in twisting the connector while locking. This proposed design helps make connection and disconnection easier for the user, especially users with limited dexterity.

[0042] Additional features and advantages are described in, and will be apparent from, the following Detailed Description and the Figures. The features and advantages described herein are not all-inclusive and, in particular, many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, in view of the figures and description. Also, any particular embodiment does not have to have all of the advantages listed herein, and it is expressly contemplated to claim individual advantageous embodiments separately. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been selected principally for readability and instructional purposes, and not to limit the scope of the inventive subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0043] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of Connector A for operation with Connector B of the present disclosure.

[0044] Fig. 2 is a side view of one embodiment of Connector A for operation with Connector B of the present disclosure.

[0045] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of Connector B for operation with Connector A of the present disclosure.12604.W001 (3726223.02430)

[0046] Fig. 4 is a side view of one embodiment of Connector B for operation with Connector A of the present disclosure.

[0047] Fig. 5 is a side view of one embodiment of Connector A and Connector B of the present disclosure in a disengaged condition or state.

[0048] Fig. 6 is a side view illustrating one embodiment of Connector A and Connector B of the present disclosure during an engaged condition or state in an unlocked condition or state.

[0049] Fig. 7 is a side view illustrating one embodiment of Connector A and Connector B of the present disclosure during an engaged condition or state but before a locked condition or state.

[0050] Fig. 8 is a top peripheral view illustrating one embodiment of Connector A and Connector B of the present disclosure in a locked condition or state.

[0051] Fig. 9 is a side view illustrating one embodiment of Connector A and Connector B of the present disclosure in a locked condition or state.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Referring now to the drawings and, in particular, to Figs. 1 to 9, one embodiment for a slide and twist connector assembly 10 for use with a medical fluid container or bag is illustrated. The slide and twist connector assembly 10 comprises a first connector 100 and a second connector 200, which may be operable with any type of dialysis treatment, including any type of peritoneal dialysis (“PD”) treatment, hemodialysis (“HD”) treatment, hemofiltration (“HF”) treatment, hemodiafiltration (“HDF”) treatment, or continuous renal replacement therapy (“CRRT”) treatment. It should be appreciated that connectors comprising the slide and twist connector assembly 10 may be used alternatively in any type of medical treatment that uses a bagged or otherwise stored medical fluid, which needs to be opened aseptically for use. The slide and twist connector assembly 10 may therefore be used additionally with any type of bagged medical infusion, including intravenous fluids or drugs, saline, lactated ringers, etc.

[0053] Figures 5 to 9 illustrate that the slide and twist connector assembly 10 in one embodiment includes a first connector 100 and a second connector 200, where either the first connector 100 or the second connector 200 operates with either a solution generation device or other fluid-producing device, and a connection element which is connected to a medical fluid container or bag. The first connector 100 or the second connector 200 can be connected12604.W001 (3726223.02430)to multiple mechanisms such as a tube, container, or other mechanisms allowing for fluid flow. The slide and twist connector assembly 10 and its components may be formed, or molded, from a thermoplastic, such as polyetherimide (“PEI”), polyethersulfone (“PES”), polyamide / nylon (“PA”), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (“ABS”), polycarbonate (“PC”) polyetheretherketone (“PEEK”), or polyvinylchloride (“PVC”).

[0054] Fig. 1 provides an illustration of one embodiment of a first connector 100 of the slide and twist connector assembly 10, where the first connector 100 includes a first end 104, a second end 106, and an outer ring 102. The outer ring 102 is between the first end 104 and the second end 106. Preferably, the user has contact with the second end 106 and avoids contact with the first end 104. The outer ring 102 further allows the user holding the slide and twist connector assembly 10 to avoid touch contamination. The outer ring 102 allows for the user to only touch the outer ring 102 portion and avoid accidentally touching the first end 104, which is on the other side of the outer ring 102 as the second end 106. Although not illustrated, the outer ring 102 may be any additional shape. For instance, the outer ring 102 may have a rectangular shape. Further, the outer ring 102 may have a geometric shape with a plurality of flat portions, for example, a hexagon or an octagon. The plurality of flat portions provide areas for a user to grip the first connector 100 easier allowing for a reduced risk of contamination.

[0055] The illustrative embodiment of a first connector 100, as disclosed in Fig. 1, includes a first end 104, a second end 106, and an outer ring 102, which sits at a distance from a distal end of the first end 104 and at a distance from a distal end of the second end 106. The first end 104 of the first connector 100 includes an outer cylinder 108, an inner cylinder 110, and one or more ribs 112. The outer cylinder 108 includes an outer surface 118 and an inner surface 120. The outer cylinder 108 can be a variety of hollow shapes but is disclosed as a hollow cylinder in the illustrative embodiment of Fig. 1. Preferably, but not required, the diameter of the outer cylinder 108 is a consistent distance from the distal end of the first end 104 to the outer ring 102.

[0056] The inner cylinder 110 is located inside the outer cylinder 108. The inner cylinder 110 is a hollow cylinder shape and the diameter of the inner cylinder 110 is slightly tapered. Preferably, the inner cylinder 110 of the first connector 100 is tapered such that an end of the inner cylinder 110 with a larger diameter is secured to or proximal to the outer ring 102 and an end of the inner cylinder 110, with a smaller diameter located at the end furthest away or distal from the outer ring 102.12604.W001 (3726223.02430)

[0057] Moreover, the first connector 100 may include one or more ribs 112. The one or more ribs 112 are located on and protrude a distance from the outer surface 118 of the outer cylinder 108. The one or more ribs 112 are positioned on the outer surface 118 located on a terminal end or a distal end of the first end 104. The one or more ribs 112 can be a variety of shapes such as but not limited to a rectangular prism or a cube. Moreover, the chape of the one or more ribs 112 may have irregular sides meaning the sides and angles of the shape are not equal. Preferably, but not required, the one or more ribs 112 of the first connector 100 are two ribs. Preferably, but not required, the two ribs are placed on the first connector 100 at 180° from one another on the outer surface 118.

[0058] Fig. 2 illustrates the first connector 100 of Fig. 1 in a cross-sectional view. The illustrated first connector 100 includes one or more flanges 114, more specifically, a pair of flanges. The one or more flanges 114 may be connected to an outer ring 102 and / or connected to the second end 106 of the first connector 100. The one or more flanges 114 are configured to make it easier for a user with limited dexterity to maneuver the first connector 100. Specifically, the one or more flanges 114 allow a user to hold the first connector 100 and twist the first connector 100 into an engaged and locked position or state easier. Similarly, the one or more flanges 114 provide the first connector 100 with a method which allows for a user to hold the first connector 100 and aid in twisting the first connector 100 such that the first connector 100 is disconnected and placed into an unlocked position. The one or more flanges 114 are configured to give the users fingers a flat surface to press against, which reduces the required grip strength to grip and twist the first connector 100. Further, the flat portions of the one or more flanges 114 reduse the need for such precise finger placement on the first connector 100.

[0059] Moreover, the one or more flanges 114 can be a variety of shapes as long as the shape includes at least one but preferably two flat faces. For example, the one or more flanges 114 may be a rectangular shape, a square shape, or a D-shape. Further, the one or more flanges 114 may include additional grip aids on the flat surface such as a pad made from a material selected from the group consisting of a rubber, a silicone, an elastomer, neoprene, or a foam. Examples of a rubber material that may be used include natural rubber, neoprene, EPDM rubber, and nitrile rubber. Examples of a silicone material that may be used include silicone rubber, liquid silicone rubber (LSR), and high-temperature silicone elastomers. Examples of an elastomeric material that may be used include thermoplastic12604.W001 (3726223.02430)elastomers (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and urethane elastomers. Moreover, materials including a combination of these elements may be used.

[0060] Further, a pad located on the one of more flanges 114 may be secured to the one or more flanges 114 with an adhesive, The adhesive may include pressure-sensitive adhesives, epoxy adhesives, cyanoacrylate adhesives, silicone-based adhesives, polyurethane adhesives, acrylic adhesives, hot-melt adhesives, solvent-based adhesives and combinations thereof. Securing a grip aid to the one or more flanges 114 with an adhesive allows a user to replace the grip aid in the event of gradual wear or material degradation occurs with use over time without having to replace the first connector 100.

[0061] Fig. 3 illustrates a second connector 200 of a slide and twist connector assembly 10, wherein the second connector 200 includes a first end 204, a second end 206, and an outer ring 202. The outer ring 202 sits in the seam of the first end 204 and the second end 206. The outer ring 202 allows the user holding the slide and twist connector assembly 10 to avoid touch contamination. The outer ring 202 allows for the user to only touch the outer ring 202 portion and avoid touching the first end 204, which is on the other side of the outer ring 202 as the second end 206. Although not illustrated, the outer ring 202 may be any additional shape.

[0062] The illustrative embodiment of a second connector 200 of a slide and twist connector assembly 10, which includes the first end 204, the second end 206, and the outer ring 202, which sits in the seam of the first end 204 and the second end 206. The first end 204 of the second connector 200 further includes an outer cylinder 208 and an inner cylinder 210. For illustrative purposes, the outer cylinder 208 is illustrates as transparent. The outer cylinder 208 further comprises an outer surface 218 and an inner surface 220. The outer cylinder 208 further comprises one or more grooves 216, which is cut into the inner surface 220 of the outer cylinder 208. Preferably, the one or more grooves 216 are L-shaped. Even more preferably, there are two grooves 216 on the inner surface 220 of the outer cylinder 208.

[0063] Fig. 4 illustrates a second connector 200 of a slide and twist connector assembly 10 and, as disclosed in Fig. 3, includes a first end 204, a second end 206, and an outer ring 202, which sits in the seam of the first end 204 and the second end 206. The first end 204 of the second connector 200 further includes an outer cylinder 208 and an inner cylinder 210. The outer cylinder 208 includes an outer surface 218 and an inner surface 220. The outer cylinder 208 can be a variety of hollow shapes but is disclosed as a hollow cylinder12604.W001 (3726223.02430)in the illustrative embodiment of Fig. 3. Preferably, but not required, the diameter of the outer cylinder 208 is consistent throughout. The inner cylinder 210 is located inside the outer cylinder 208. The inner cylinder 210 is a hollow cylinder shape and the diameter of the inner cylinder 210 is slightly tapered. Preferably, the diameter of the inner cylinder 210 of the second connector 200 is tapered outwards, such that the end of the inner cylinder 210 with the smaller diameter is secured to the outer ring 202, and the end of the inner cylinder 210 with a larger diameter is the end furthest away from the outer ring 202.

[0064] Fig. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a slide and twist connector assembly 10 including a first connector 100 and a second connector 200. Highlighted here, the first connector 100 includes a first end 104 and a second end 106. The first end 104 includes an outer cylinder 108 and an inner cylinder 110. The outer cylinder 108 includes an outer surface 118 and an inner surface 120. The outer cylinder 108 further includes one or more ribs 112, which protrude from the outer surface 118 of the outer cylinder 108. The second connector 200 includes a first end 204 and a second end 206. The first end 204 includes an outer cylinder 208 and an inner cylinder 210. The outer cylinder 208 includes an outer surface 218 and an inner surface 220. The outer cylinder 208 further comprises one or more grooves 216, which are cut into the inner surface 220 of the first end 208. The one or more grooves 216 and the one or more ribs 112 are designed such that the one of more grooves 216 of the second connector 200 will match the one or more ribs 112 protruding from the outer surface 112 of first connector 100. Specifically, the one or more grooves 216 and the one or more ribs 112 are designed of such that the one or more ribs 112 protruding from the outer surface 112 of first connector 100 will slide inside the one of more grooves 216 of the second connector 200 for a distance. After sliding for a distance, first connector 100 will then be rotated to 90° clockwise inside the one or more grooves 216 of the second connector 200 to lock the slide and twist connector assembly 10.

[0065] Figs. 5 to 8 disclose illustrative embodiments of the slide and twist connector assembly 10. Specifically, Figs. 7 to 8 illustrate that one or more grooves 216 and one or more ribs 112 are designed such that the one or more grooves 216 of a second connector 200 will match the one or more ribs 112 protruding from an outer surface 112 and outer cylinder 108 of first connector 100. Before the first connector 100 and the second connector 200 form a connection, the slide and twist connector assembly 10 is in the disengaged and unlocked position or state (Fig. 5). The one or more grooves 216 and the one or more ribs 112 are designed such that the one or more ribs 112 protruding from the outer surface 112 of first12604.W001 (3726223.02430)connector 100 will slide inside the one or more grooves 216 of second connector 200 for some distance. In the unlocked and unlocked position or state, the first connector 100 and the second connector 200 are not connected in any way. In this regard, the one or more ribs 112 are not inserted into the one or more grooves 216. After the one or more ribs slide into the one or more grooves 216, but before the first connector 100 is rotated 90° clockwise or the second connector 200 is rotated 90° counterclockwise, the slide and twist connector assembly 10 is in the engaged and unlocked position or state (Figs. 6 and 7). As illustrated in Figs. 6 and 7, the one or more ribs 112 is resting inside the one or more grooves 216 but the first connector 100 or the second connector 200 have not been rotated such that the one or more ribs 112 is at the end of the one or more grooves 216. After sliding for some distance, first connector 100 will then be rotated to 90° clockwise inside the one or more grooves 216 of second connector 200 to lock the slide and twist connector assembly 10. After rotating the first connector 100 90° clockwise inside the one or more grooves 216 of second connector 200, the slide and twist connector assembly 10 is in the engaged and locked position or state (Fig. 8). As illustrated in Fig. 8, the first connector 100 and the second connector 200 are in the engaged and locked position or state when the one or more ribs 112 is resting at the end of the one or more grooves 216. In this position, if a user attempts to exert force on the first connector 100 and / or the second connector 200 in a horizontal direction, the one or more ribs 112 will oppose this force and not allow the first connector 100 or the second connector 200 to disengage. In other words, the difference between the engaged and unlocked position or state and the engaged and locked position or state is that in the engaged and unlocked position to state, a user could exert horizontal force on the first connector 100 and / or the second connector 200 and the slide and twist connector assembly 10 would not be positioned to repel or oppose such force.

[0066] In the example embodiments illustrated herein, the one or more grooves 216 are provided in an L-shape, allowing a user to align the one or more grooves 216 with the one or more ribs 112, insert the one or more ribs 112 into the one or more grooves 216, and twist or rotate the first connector 100 90° clockwise to lock the slide and twist connector assembly 10. However, the one or more grooves 216 can be configured in a variety of other shapes. In one example embodiment, the one or more grooves 216 may include a bayonet lock or an additional square or recess connected to the L-shape to further enhance the security of the locking feature. These additional features prevent unintended disengagement by adding mechanical security and stability.12604.W001 (3726223.02430)

[0067] Further, a first connector 100 of a slide and twist connector assembly 10 include one or more flanges 114. Fig. 2 is an illustrative embodiment disclosing a pair of flanges. The one or more flanges 114 may be connected to an outer ring 102 and / or connected to the second end 106 of the first connector 100. The one or more flanges 114 make it easier for a user with limited dexterity to maneuver the first connector 100. It is preferred that the user grip the one or more flanges 114 when rotating the first connector 100 to the engaged and locked state. In an illustrative embodiment, a user will grip the one or more flanges 114 and an outer ring 202 of the second connector 200 when transferring the slide and twist connector assembly 10 from the disengaged and unlocked position or state to the engaged and unlocked position or state.

[0068] In transferring the slide and twist connector assembly 10 from the disengaged and unlocked position or state to the engaged and unlocked position or state, a user should grip the outer ring 202 of the second connector 200 and rotate the one or more flanges 114 of the first connector 100. The rotational force translates to the first connector 100, which causes the first connector 100 to rotate 90° clockwise inside the one or more grooves 216 of second connector 200. Once this occurs, the slide and twist connector assembly 10 is in an engaged and locked state or position (Fig. 8).

[0069] Fig 9. illustrates a slide and twist connector assembly 10 where there is a clearance fit between first connector 100 and second connector 200. A first connector 100 as disclosed in Fig. 1 includes a first end 104, a second end 106, and an outer ring 102 which sits in the seam of the first end 104 and the second end 106. The first end 104 of the first connector 100 includes an outer cylinder 108, an inner cylinder 110, and one or more ribs 112. The outer cylinder 108 includes an outer surface 118 and an inner surface 120. The outer cylinder 108 can be a variety of hollow shapes but is disclosed as a hollow cylinder in the illustrative embodiment of Fig. 1. Preferably, but not required, the diameter of the outer cylinder 108 is consistent throughout. The inner cylinder 110 is located inside the outer cylinder 108. The inner cylinder 110 is a hollow cylinder shape and the diameter of the inner cylinder 110 is slightly tapered. Preferably, the inner cylinder 110 of the first connector 100 is tapered inwards such that the end of the inner cylinder 110 with the larger diameter is secured to the outer ring and the end of the inner cylinder 110 with a smaller diameter is the end furthest away from the outer ring 102. Second connector 200 of a slide and twist connector assembly 10 as disclosed in Fig. 3 includes a first end 204, a second end 206, and an outer ring 202 which sits in the seam of the first end 204 and the second end 206. The first12604.W001 (3726223.02430)end 204 of the second connector 200 further includes an outer cylinder 208 and an inner cylinder 210. The outer cylinder 208 includes an outer surface 218 and an inner surface 220. The outer cylinder 208 can be a variety of hollow shapes but is disclosed as a hollow cylinder in the illustrative embodiment of Fig. 3. Preferably, but not required, the diameter of the outer cylinder 208 is consistent throughout. The inner cylinder 210 is located inside the outer cylinder 208. The inner cylinder 210 is a hollow cylinder shape and the diameter of the inner cylinder 210 is slightly tapered. Preferably, the diameter of the inner cylinder 210 of the second connector 200 is tapered outwards such that the end of the inner cylinder 210 with the smaller diameter is secured to the outer ring 202 and the end of the inner cylinder 210 with a larger diameter is the end furthest away from the outer ring 202. Fig. 9 illustrates the slide and twist connector assembly 10 in an engaged and locked position or state. Both connectors, after engaging, have a clearance fit between them due to the opposing tapering nature of an inner cylinder 110 of the first connector 100 and the inner cylinder 210 of the second connector 200, which mate properly with each other such that leakages or contamination is avoided.

[0070] It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. It is therefore intended that any or all of such changes and modifications may be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

12604.W001 (3726223.02430)CLAIMSThe invention is claimed as follows:

1. A connector assembly system comprising:a first connector comprisinga first end comprising one or more ribs,a second end comprising one or more flanges, andan outer ring; anda second connector comprisinga first end comprising one or more grooves,a second end, andan outer ring,wherein the first connector and the second connector are slidably connectable such that the first connector and the second connector can be in a disengaged and unlocked position or state, an engaged and unlocked position or state, or an engaged and locked position or state,wherein the first connector and the second connector are not connected in the disengaged and unlocked position or state,wherein the one or more ribs are inserted in the one or more grooves in the engaged and unlocked position or state, andwherein the one or more ribs are inserted and rotated in the one or more grooves in the engaged and locked position or state .

2. The connector assembly system of Claim 1, wherein the first end of the first connector comprises an outer cylinder and an inner cylinder.

3. The connector assembly system of Claim 2, wherein the outer cylinder of the first connector comprises an outer surface and an inner surface.

4. The connector assembly system of Claim 4, wherein the one or more ribs protrude from the outer surface of the first connector.12604.W001 (3726223.02430)5. The connector assembly system of Claim 2, wherein the outer cylinder of the first connector is a hollow cylinder with an equivalent diameter throughout and the inner cylinder of the first connector is a cylinder with an inconsistent diameter throughout.

6. The connector assembly system of Claim 1, wherein the first end of the second connector comprises an outer cylinder and an inner cylinder.

7. The connector assembly system of Claim 6, wherein the first end of the second connector comprises an outer surface and an inner surface.

8. The connector assembly system of Claim 7, wherein the one or more grooves are located on the inner surface of the second connector.

9. The connector assembly system of Claim 8, wherein the one or more grooves are in an L-shape.

10. The connector assembly system of Claim 9, wherein the one or more ribs are positioned on the outer surface of the outer cylinder such that they fit inside the one or more grooves positioned on the inner surface of the second connector.

11. The connector assembly system of Claim 10, wherein there are two ribs, two grooves, and the one or more flanges are positioned on the second end of the first connector such that the user can rotate the first connector and the second connector into the engaged and locked position.

12. A connector comprising:a first connector comprising,a first end comprising one or more ribs ,a second end comprising one or more flanges,an outer ring; anda second connector comprising,a first end,a second end,12604.W001 (3726223.02430)an outer ring,wherein the first connector and the second connector are slidably connectable such that the first connector and the second connector can be in a disengaged and unlocked position or state, an engaged and unlocked position or state, or an engaged and locked position or state.

13. The connector of Claim 12, wherein the first end of the first connector comprises an outer cylinder and an inner cylinder.

14. The connector of Claim 13, wherein the outer cylinder of the first connector comprises an outer surface and an inner surface.

15. The connector of Claim 14, wherein the one or more ribs protrude from the outer surface of the first connector.

16. A method for transferring a medical fluid comprising:providing a first connector comprising,a first end of the first connector comprising one or more ribs,a second end of the first connector comprising one or more flanges,an outer ring; andproviding a second connector comprising,a first end comprising one or more grooves,a second end,an outer ring,wherein the first connector and the second connector are slidably connectable such that the first connector and the second connector can be in a disengaged and unlocked position or state, an engaged and unlocked position or state, or an engaged and locked position or state,wherein the first connector and the second connector are not connected in the disengaged and unlocked position or state,wherein the one or more ribs are inserted in the one or more grooves in the engaged and unlocked position or state, and12604.W001 (3726223.02430)wherein the one or more ribs are inserted and rotated in the one or more grooves in the engaged and locked position or state .

17. The method of Claim 16, which includes engaging and locking the first connector and the second connector.

18. The method of Claim 17, wherein the first connector is connected to either a solution generation device or a PD fluid container.

19. The method of Claim 18, wherein the second connector is connected to either a solution generation device or a PD fluid container.

20. The connector of Claim 15, wherein the inner surface of the second connector comprises one or more grooves.

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