JP2001170188A - Connector - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a connector of which the structure is simple, and wherein the volume of a fluid channel does not substantially change in the vicinity of the connection of tubes. SOLUTION: This connector 1 is used to connect the duct 6, and has a connector main body 10 having a fluid channel inside, an approximately cylindrical valve disc 5 which is constituted of an elastic material (flexible material), and an air suspension mechanism 4. The connector main body 10 is constituted of an approximately cylindrical lid section 3, and an outlet section 2 which is bonded to the distal end section of the lid section 3. The lid section 3 is constituted of a smaller diametrical section 31 which becomes a connecting port for the connection (holding) of the tube 6, a tapered section 32 and a larger diametrical section 33. The air suspension mechanism 4 has a cylindrical supporting section which is provided on the proximal end section of the outlet section 2. The valve disc 5 is constituted of an approximately cylindrical base body section 52 and a section 51 to be pressed, is inserted in the supporting section 41 from the distal end side, and is supported movably in the axial direction (longitudinal direction) to the connector main body 10 by the supporting section 41.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a connector for connecting a pipe, for example, used in various medical devices, infusion containers, and liquid delivery devices.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A connector for connecting a tubular body includes a housing and a valve body made of an elastic material attached to a connection port of the housing. The valve body ensures that the tubular body and the connector are connected to each other. It is configured to be connected. Fluid (liquid or the like) flowing through the tube is sent into the connector.

Conventionally, as this type of connector, for example, a connector disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-108361 is known.

This connector has a valve body having a bellows-like portion (bellows portion). When the tube is connected to the connector, the bellows portion of the valve is contracted by the tube, and the end face of the valve is pressed against the tube. This allows
Liquid leakage from the slit of the valve body is prevented.

However, in the conventional connector,
When the tube is connected to the connector, the valve body contracts, and the flow volume inside the valve body, that is, the flow volume of the connector, is reduced as compared to when the valve body is closed, thereby causing various problems.

For example, when the connector is used by connecting to a catheter placed in a blood vessel, a tube is connected to the connector, and a blood anticoagulant is injected from the tube into the catheter via the connector. Thereafter, when the tubular body is removed from the connector, the bellows portion of the valve body extends, thereby increasing the volume of the flow passage of the connector, and the negative pressure at that time causes blood to be sucked into the catheter.

[0007] As a result, blood coagulates in the catheter to form a thrombus, and the catheter becomes clogged and unusable. For this reason, the catheter must be removed, and the burden on the patient increases, for example, the number of operations increases.

[0008]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a connector which has a simple structure and whose volume of a fluid passage does not substantially change before and after connection of a tube.

[0009]

This and other objects are achieved by the present invention which is defined below as (1) to (15).

(1) A connector body having a connection port for connecting a pipe, a fluid passage, a valve body, and the valve body being supported by the connector body so as to be movable in the axial direction of the connector body. And an air suspension mechanism, wherein the connection port is opened and closed by movement of the valve element.

(2) The connector according to (1), wherein the valve body is urged toward the connection port by the air suspension mechanism.

(3) The connector according to (1) or (2), wherein at least a part of the fluid passage is provided on an outer peripheral side of the air suspension mechanism.

(4) The connector according to any one of the above (1) to (3), further comprising an urging means for urging the valve body toward the connection port.

(5) A connector body having a connection port for connecting a pipe, a fluid passage, a valve body, and the valve body being supported by the connector body so as to be movable in the axial direction of the connector body. A connector, comprising: a supporting portion that biases the valve body toward the connection port side; and wherein the connection port is configured to be opened and closed by movement of the valve body. .

(6) The connector according to (5), wherein at least a part of the fluid passage is provided on an outer peripheral side of the support portion.

(7) The urging means is constituted by a helical spring, a bellows spring or a step spring.
The connector according to any one of (6) to (6).

(8) The connector according to any one of (4) to (7), wherein the urging means and the valve body are integrally formed.

(9) The valve body is configured to be movable to a first position for sealing the connection port and to a second position for communicating the pipe with the fluid passage. 1)
Or the connector according to any one of (8) to (8).

(10) The connector according to any one of the above (1) to (9), wherein the surface of the valve body on the side where the distal end surface of the tube comes into contact is not flat.

(11) The connector according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein a concave portion and / or a convex portion are formed on a side of the valve body where the distal end surface of the tubular body comes into contact.

(12) The surface of the valve body on the side in contact with the distal end surface of the tubular body is a surface that is non-parallel to a surface normal to the axis of the connector body. The connector according to any one of (9) to (9).

(13) The valve body has a pressed portion provided with a slit portion which is open in a natural state on the side where the distal end surface of the tube comes into contact, and one end portion is provided. The slit is closed by communicating with the slit and having a hole whose other end is open to the valve, and the shape of the valve is regulated by the connector body. The connector according to any one of the above (1) to (9).

(14) When the pipe is not connected to the connection port, there is provided position regulating means for regulating the position of the valve so that a part of the valve is exposed near the connection port. The connector according to any one of the above (1) to (13).

(15) At least a part of the valve body is
The connector according to any one of (1) to (14), which is made of an elastic material.

[0025]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A connector according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.

It should be noted that, for convenience of explanation, FIGS.
The horizontal direction in FIGS. 12 to 14 is the “axial direction”, the left side is the “proximal end”, the right side is the “distal end”, the vertical direction in FIGS. 5 and 6 is the “axial direction”, and the upper side is the “proximal end”. , And the lower side is referred to as the “tip”.

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a first embodiment of the connector of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a first embodiment of the connector of the present invention, in which a pipe is not connected (a valve body). Is the first
FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the state
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 2, and FIG. 4 shows a first embodiment of the connector of the present invention in a state where a pipe is connected (when the valve is located at a second position). FIG.

The connector 1 shown in these figures is for connecting the tube 6, and is substantially composed of a connector body 10 having a fluid passage (flow passage) therein and an elastic material (flexible material). Cylindrical valve element 5 and air suspension mechanism 4
And

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the connector body 10 includes a substantially cylindrical lid (lid member) 3 and the lid 3.
And an outlet (outlet member) 2 joined to the tip of the.

The lid 3 has a small diameter portion 31 and a tapered portion 32.
And a large diameter portion 33. The small diameter portion 31 is disposed on the proximal end side, the large diameter portion 33 is disposed on the distal end side, and the tapered portion 32 is disposed between the small diameter portion 31 and the large diameter portion 33.

The small diameter portion 31 is a portion serving as a connection port (connection portion) for connecting (holding) the tube 6.

The inside diameter of the small diameter portion 31 is constant from the base end to the tip end, is the smallest in the lid portion 3 and
It is smaller than the outer diameter of a rib 521 of the valve body 5 described later.

A ring-shaped flange 311 is formed at the base end of the small diameter portion 31. This flange 311
A double thread (Luer lock screw) that can be screwed into a Luer lock screw (not shown) on the tube body 6 side is formed on the outer peripheral portion of the tube body 6. Therefore, when the tube 6 is connected to the connector 1 (connection port), the double-threaded screw is screwed into a luer lock screw (not shown) on the tube 6 side.
Is locked.

In the present invention, instead of the flange 311, the small diameter portion 31 may be formed with two protrusions which can be screwed to a luer lock screw (not shown) on the tube 6.

In the present invention, the flange 311 and the projection of the small diameter portion 31 may be omitted.

The inner diameter of the tapered portion 32 gradually decreases from the distal end to the proximal end. That is, the inner peripheral surface 3 of the tapered portion 32
21 has a tapered surface whose inner diameter gradually decreases from the distal end to the proximal end.

The tapered portion 32 and a rib 521, which will be described later, of the valve body 5 constitute a position regulating means for regulating the position of the valve body 5.

The inner diameter of the large diameter portion 33 is constant from the base end to the front end, and is the largest in the lid 3.

The outlet portion 2 has a substantially cylindrical inner portion 21 and a substantially cylindrical outer portion 22 provided concentrically on the outer peripheral side of the inner portion 21.

On the outer peripheral side of the inner portion 21, there is formed a tapered surface whose outer diameter gradually decreases from the base end toward the front end.
That is, the outer peripheral side of the inner portion 21 has a Luer taper shape.

The outer portion 22 is a portion to be a luer lock portion, and a helical rib (luer lock screw) 221 is formed on the inner peripheral surface thereof.

A flexible tube (not shown), for example, is connected to the distal end side of the outlet portion 2 in a liquid-tight manner directly or through a predetermined jig. The fluid passage communicates with the lumen of the tube. Examples of the tube include a tube of an infusion set and the like.

In order to connect a tube to the distal end of the outlet section 2, for example, the inner portion 21 of the outlet section 2 is fitted into the tube.

Further, the inside 21 of the outlet 2 is fitted into the tube, and a flange or a Luer lock screw (not shown) on the tube is screwed into the rib 221 to be locked.

In the present invention, the outer portion 22 and the rib 221 thereof may be omitted.

In the present invention, the outer diameter of the inner portion 21 of the outlet 2 may be constant in the axial direction (longitudinal direction).

A step 23 is formed on the outer periphery of the base end of the outlet 2 so as to be able to engage with the tip of the lid 3.

At the base end side of the outlet part 2, the valve body 5 is supported movably in the axial direction (longitudinal direction) with respect to the connector body 10, and the valve body 5 is connected to the base end side (connection port). side)
There is provided an air suspension mechanism 4 for urging the air suspension.

The air suspension mechanism 4 has a cylindrical (cylindrical) support portion 41 provided at the base end of the outlet portion 2.
have.

The support section 41 is arranged concentrically with respect to the lid section 3. Further, the tip side of the support portion 41
It is closed.

The inner diameter of the support portion 41 is constant from the base end to the distal end, and is larger than the inner diameter of the small diameter portion 31.

The outer diameter of the support portion 41 is constant from the base end to the distal end, and is smaller than the inner diameter of the large diameter portion 33.

The support portion 41 and the outlet portion 2 may be formed separately, but are preferably formed integrally. By integrally forming the support portion 41 and the outlet portion 2, the number of components can be reduced, and the labor and time required for assembly can be reduced.

The valve body 5 of the air suspension mechanism 4
Can be arbitrarily set by, for example, changing the inner diameter of the support portion 41.

The inner peripheral surface of the support portion 41 may be coated with a lubricant such as silicone oil (forming a lubricating film) in order to improve the slidability of the valve element 5.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, a side hole (through hole) 24 is formed at the base end of the outlet 2.

Both ends of the side hole 24 communicate with an annular hollow portion 101 surrounded by the outer peripheral surface of the support portion 41 and the inner peripheral surface of the lid 3, respectively. It communicates with the hollow part 211 of the inner part 21 of the part 2.

The main part of the fluid passage of the connector body 10 is constituted by the hollow part 101, the side hole 24 and the hollow part 211.

The outlet 2 and the lid 3 may be joined by, for example, fitting (especially fitting or screwing with caulking),
For example, when the outlet 2 and the lid 3 are made of a resin, fusion by heat fusion, ultrasonic fusion, or the like may be used.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the valve body 5
It is composed of a substantially cylindrical base part 52 and a pressed part 51 provided on one end side (base end side) of the base part 52 in the axial direction. The base portion 52 and the pressed portion 51 are preferably formed integrally.

On the outer peripheral portion of the pressed portion 51, a ring-shaped first rib (the first rib) which can be fitted in a liquid-tight (airtight) manner with the small diameter portion 31 is provided.
Is formed.

The pressed portion 51 is formed in the opening 3 of the small diameter portion 31.
12 (connection port), and a pipe 6
The surface of the pressed portion 51 on the side where the distal end surface 62 of the tubular body 6 contacts (hereinafter, simply referred to as “base end side”) is flat (flat). is not. That is, a concave portion and / or a convex portion are formed on the base end side of the pressed portion 51.

In the present embodiment, the shape (shape in FIG. 2) of the pressed portion 51 in the vertical section on the base end side is an arc shape (curve shape) in which the center in the vertical direction in FIG. No. That is, the protrusions 512 protruding toward the base end are respectively provided at both ends in the vertical direction on the base end side of the pressed portion 51 in FIG.
Are formed.

A ring-shaped rib (locking portion) 521 that can be engaged (locked) with the tapered portion 32 is formed on the outer peripheral portion at the axial center portion of the base portion 52.

Further, on the outer peripheral portion on the tip side of the base portion 52,
Two ring-shaped second ribs (second fitting portions) 522 that can be fitted airtight with the support portion 41 are formed. By the rib 522, the inside of the support portion 41 (the inside of the air chamber 411)
Airtightness is maintained.

The valve element 5 is inserted into the support portion 41 from the distal end side, and supported by the support portion 41 so as to be movable in the axial direction (longitudinal direction) with respect to the connector body 10.

On the other hand, when the tube 6 is not connected to the connector 1 (connection port), the air suspension mechanism 4
The air pressure (pressure) inside the support portion 41 (in the air chamber 411) is configured to be slightly higher than the air pressure outside the connector main body 10.

Therefore, when the pipe 6 is not connected to the connector 1, the valve body 5 is urged toward the base end side (connection port side) by the air suspension mechanism 4, and the valve body 5 is turned on as shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 7, the rib 521 engages with the base end of the tapered portion 32, thereby restricting the position of the valve body 5 with respect to the connector body 10, and the valve body 5 is opened 312 (connection port) of the small diameter portion 31. Is located at the first position for sealing.

When the valve body 5 is located at the first position, as shown in FIG. 2, the pressed portion 51 projects outward from the base end of the small diameter portion 31 of the lid 3 by a predetermined amount (see FIG. 2). The rib 511 is fitted to the base end of the small-diameter portion 31 in a liquid-tight (air-tight) manner, and the ribs 522 are fitted to the support portion 41 in a gas-tight manner. In this case, the two ribs 52
Of the two, the rib 522 on the base end side is fitted airtightly to the base end of the support part 41.

In the connector 1, as described above, a part of the fluid passage cut off from the air chamber 411 is provided on the outer peripheral side of the valve body 5. That is, the hollow portion 101
Constitute a part of the entire fluid passage of the connector body 10.

In this connector 1, before and after the tube 6 is connected to the connector 1 (connection port) (in a disconnected state and a connected state), the volume of the entire fluid passage of the connector main body 10 (flow volume) For example, various conditions such as the dimensions of each part are set so that the values of ()) do not substantially change.

In this embodiment, in the connection state shown in FIG. 4, the volume including the fluid passage 61 of the tube 6 inserted into the cover 3 and the base end of the support 41 from the valve body 5 It is configured such that the volume of the valve element 5 up to the rib 522 on the proximal end side is substantially equal.

In the present invention, the tube 6 is connected to the connector 1.
When not connected to the (connection port) (when the valve body 5 is located at the first position), the air pressure in the air chamber 411 is substantially equal to the air pressure outside the connector body 10. May be.

In the present invention, when the tube 6 is not connected to the connector 1, the axial position of the base end (apex) of the convex portion 512 in the pressed portion 51 of the valve body 5 and the lid 3 May be configured so that the base end of the small diameter portion 31 substantially coincides with the axial position.

In the present invention, the locking portion of the valve body 5 is not limited to the ring-shaped rib 521, but may be any member that can engage (lock) with the tapered portion 32, such as a projection.

In the present invention, the first rib 5
The number of 11 may be 2 or more. In the present invention, the number of the second ribs 522 of the valve body 5 may be one or three or more.

Examples of the constituent materials of the outlet part 2, the lid part 3, and the support part 41 include polyolefins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-propylene copolymer, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), and polychloride. Vinyl, polyvinylidene chloride, polystyrene, polyamide, polyimide, polyamideimide, polycarbonate, poly- (4-methylpentene-1), ionomer, acrylic resin, polymethyl methacrylate, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS)
Resin), acrylonitrile-styrene copolymer (AS resin), butadiene-styrene copolymer, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polycyclohexane terephthalate (PC
T) and other polyesters, polyethers, polyetherketone (PEK), polyetheretherketone (PEE)
K), polyetherimide, polyacetal (PO
M), various resin materials such as polyphenylene oxide, modified polyphenylene oxide, polysulfone, polyether sulfone, polyphenylene sulfide, polyarylate, aromatic polyester (liquid crystal polymer), polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, and other fluorine-based resins; Alternatively, a blend, a polymer alloy or the like containing one or more of these may be used. In addition, it can be made of various glass materials, ceramic materials, and metal materials.

The outlet 2, the lid 3, and the support 41
Can be easily formed into an arbitrary shape by, for example, injection molding.

The valve body 5 is made of an elastic material (flexible material) that can be elastically deformed. Examples of the elastic material include natural rubber, isoprene rubber, butadiene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, nitrile rubber, chloroprene rubber, butyl rubber, acryl rubber, ethylene-propylene rubber, hydrin rubber, urethane rubber, silicone rubber, and fluorine rubber. And various thermoplastic elastomers such as styrene, polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, polyester, polyamide, polybutadiene, trans polyisoprene, fluoro rubber, and chlorinated polyethylene. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

The tube 6 is connected to the connection port (small-diameter portion 3) of the connector 1.
A part or device connected to 1). Examples of the tube 6 include a protruding portion of a syringe (a syringe) (a portion for connecting a needle tube) and a tubular device such as a hub or a sheath that is independent of itself.

The tube 6 has a fluid passage (flow passage) 6 therein.
One. The outer peripheral side of the tube 6 is formed with a tapered surface whose outer diameter gradually decreases from the base end toward the tip end. That is, the outer peripheral side of the tube 6 has a Luer taper shape.

The outer diameter of the distal end of the tube 6 is slightly smaller than the inner diameter (connection diameter) of the small diameter portion 31 of the lid 3.
Is larger than the inner diameter of the small diameter portion 31. Thus, the distal end of the tube 6 can be inserted into the lid 3 from the opening 312 of the small diameter portion 31 and fitted (fitted) into the small diameter portion 31 at a desired depth.

As a constituent material of the tube 6, for example,
The same materials as those described as the constituent materials of the outlet 2, the lid 3, and the support 41 can be used.

Next, the operation of the connector 1 will be described. FIG.
As shown in the figure, when the pipe 6 is not connected to the connector 1 (connection port) (when not connected), the air suspension mechanism 4 causes the valve body 5 to move a relatively weak force toward the base end side. And the rib 521 of the valve body 5 is locked by the base end of the tapered portion 32 of the lid 2, whereby the valve body 5
Is regulated (held) at the first position.

In this disconnected state, the pressed portion 51 of the valve body 5 projects outward from the base end of the small diameter portion 31 of the lid 3 by a predetermined amount (exposed to the connection port). Then, the ribs 511 of the pressed portion 51 are fitted to the base end of the small diameter portion 31 in a liquid-tight (air-tight) manner,
The opening 312 (connection port) is sealed by the pressed portion 51, the liquid tightness (airtightness) inside the connector main body 10 (inside the hollow portion 101) is maintained, and each rib 522 of the base portion 52 is connected to each other. The airtight fitting in the air chamber 411 is maintained by airtightly fitting to the support portion 41.

As described above, in the non-connection state, the valve element 5
Since the base end side of the pressed portion 51 is exposed at the connection port,
For example, the surface on the base end side of the pressed portion 51 of the valve element 5 can be washed or wiped off, so that the surface on the base end side of the pressed portion 51 can be kept clean.

In the non-connection state, the pressed portion 51
Since the ribs 511 are fitted in a liquid-tight (air-tight) manner to the base end of the small-diameter portion 31, leakage of fluid (liquid, gas, etc.) from the base end of the small-diameter portion 31 can be reliably prevented.

When connecting the tube 6 to the connector 1 (connection port), as shown in FIG.
Positioning is performed so that the central axis of the (opening 312) coincides with the center axis.

Then, from this state, the tube 6 is moved toward the distal end (in the direction shown by the arrow in FIG. 2), and the opening 312 of the lid 3 is opened.
Then, the tube 6 is inserted into the connector 1 (inside the lid 3). At this time, the valve element 5 is moved to the distal end side against the urging force of the air suspension mechanism 4.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, the volume (volume) of the air chamber 411 of the air suspension mechanism 4 decreases, the air in the air chamber 411 is compressed, and the air pressure in the air chamber 411 increases. I will do it.

As described above, the valve body 5 moves to the second position shown in FIG. 4, and the tube 6 is connected to the connector 1.

As shown in FIG. 4, when the tube 6 is connected to the connector 1 (when in a connected state), the air suspension mechanism 4 moves the valve 5 toward the base end with a relatively strong force. And each convex portion 5 of the pressed portion 51 of the valve body 5
12 contacts (presses) the distal end surface 62 of the tube 6, whereby the position of the valve body 5 is regulated (held) at the second position.

When the connection state is established, the connection port is opened.
That is, the distal end face 62 of the tube 6 and the pressed portion 51 of the valve body 5
A gap 71 is formed between the fluid passage 61 and the fluid passage 61 of the tube 6 and the fluid passage of the connector body 10 via the gap 71.

In the connected state, the ribs 522 of the base portion 52 are fitted airtightly to the support portion 41, whereby the airtightness in the air chamber 411 is maintained.

In the connected state, the pipe 6 is liquid-tight (air-tight) to the small-diameter portion 31 at a portion where the outer diameter matches the inner diameter (diameter of the opening 312) of the small-diameter portion 31 serving as the connection port. Fit. Thereby, the tube 6 can be prevented from easily coming off from the connector 1, the liquid tightness (airtightness) in the connector main body 10 can be maintained, and the base end of the small diameter portion 31 can be maintained. Fluid (liquid, gas, etc.) can be reliably prevented from leaking.

In this connector 1, for example, the fluid flowing through the fluid passage 61 of the tube 6 from the proximal end to the distal end is
The gas flows into the hollow portion 101 through the gap 71, and flows to the distal end side in the hollow portion 101. Then, the fluid flows into the hollow portion 211 through the side hole 24 and the hollow portion 211.
1 flows to the distal end side, flows into a tube (not shown) connected to the distal end side of the outlet part 2, and flows to the distal end side in the tube.

When removing the tube 6 from the connector 1, the tube 6 is moved from the state shown in FIG.
Pull out from.

Since the valve body 5 is urged toward the base end by the air suspension mechanism 4, when the tube 6 is pulled out from the lid 3, the valve body 5 is moved back with respect to the connector body 10. Move to the end side. In this case, since the inner peripheral surface 321 of the tapered portion 32 of the lid 3 is a tapered surface, the valve element 5 can move smoothly along the inner peripheral surface 321.

Then, as shown in FIG. 2, the rib 521 of the valve body 5 comes into contact with the base end of the tapered portion 32 of the lid 3, whereby the valve body 5 stops at the first position (returns). ). That is, as described above, the rib 521 of the valve body 5 is locked by the base end of the tapered portion 32 of the lid 3, whereby the valve body 5 is pressed against the connector body 10 by the pressed portion 51. The lid 3 is positioned so as to protrude outward from the base end of the small diameter portion 31 by a predetermined amount, and the state shown in FIG.

As described above, in the disconnected state, that is, when the valve element 5 is located at the first position, the rib 511 of the pressed part 51 is liquid-tight to the base end of the small diameter part 31. (Airtight) fitting prevents the fluid from flowing out (leakage) from the proximal end of the connector 1 even if the fluid flows backward to the proximal end after the tube 6 is removed from the connector 1, for example. can do.

Also, in this connector 1, a part of the fluid passage of the connector body 10 is provided on the outer peripheral side of the valve body 5, and when the pipe 6 is attached to and detached from the connector 1, the valve 5 and the pipe 6 Moves on the inner peripheral side of the fluid passage, and since the fluid passage and the air chamber 411 are shut off, the connector body before and after the connection of the tube 6 (in the disconnected state and the connected state) The volume (flow channel volume) of the entire 10 fluid passages does not substantially change.

For this reason, when the connector 1 is connected to, for example, a catheter indwelled in a blood vessel and used, the tube 6
Since the volume of the entire fluid passage of the connector body 10 does not substantially change even when the connector is removed from the connector 1, blood is not sucked into the catheter, thereby preventing (or suppressing) the formation of a thrombus in the catheter. And the need to inject more medication than necessary can be eliminated.

Since the connector 1 is not of the type in which the valve element 5 moves in the fluid passage of the connector main body 10, it is necessary to provide a ventilation hole (through hole) for communicating the inside of the fluid passage with the outside. Absent. Thereby, the connector body 1
0 can prevent contamination in the fluid passage.

In the connector 1, since the tube 6 is directly connected and used without using a needle, there is no problem such as erroneous puncture of a medical worker, and the safety is high.

Further, in the connector 1, the operation of attaching and detaching the tube can be performed with a small force, and the operability is excellent.

The connector 1 is configured so that the valve body 5 is moved in the axial direction with respect to the connector main body 10 by the air suspension mechanism 4, so that the number of parts is relatively small and the structure is simple. is there. This allows
The labor and time required for assembling can be reduced.

In the connector 1, the valve body 5 is configured to move in the axial direction with respect to the connector main body 10 by the air suspension mechanism 4.
Can be moved more smoothly.

The connector 1 is advantageous for miniaturization, and can be easily applied to, for example, the inside of a tube of an infusion set or a liquid inlet.

In the present invention, the valve element 5 is not limited to the first embodiment. Hereinafter, another configuration example of the valve element 5 will be described.

FIG. 5 is a longitudinal sectional view showing an example of the structure of the valve element 5. As shown in FIG. For convenience of description, the vertical direction in FIG. 5 will be described as “axial direction”, the upper side as “base end”, and the lower side as “distal end”. In addition, description of common points with the valve element 5 of the connector 1 of the first embodiment described above is omitted, and main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG. 5, the valve element 5 includes a substantially cylindrical hard member 53 and two O-rings 54 formed of an elastically deformable elastic material (flexible material). ing.

One of the two O-rings 54 is joined to the outer periphery of the base end of the hard member 53 to form a first rib (first fitting portion) 511, and the other is a hard member 53. The second rib (second fitting portion) 522 is joined to the outer peripheral portion of the distal end portion of the second member 53.

A cross-shaped rib (convex stripe) 513 is formed at the base end of the hard member 53, and a ring-shaped rib (locking part) 521 is formed at the outer peripheral portion at the center in the axial direction. ing.

As the constituent material of the hard member 53, for example, the same material as the constituent material of the outlet part 2, the lid part 3, and the support part 41 of the connector 1 of the first embodiment is used. Can be.

The material of the O-ring 54 may be, for example, the valve 5 of the connector 1 of the first embodiment.
The same materials as those described above can be used.

When the tube 6 is connected to the connector 1 (in a connected state), the rib 5 of the pressed portion 51 of the valve 5
13 abuts (presses) on the distal end surface 62 of the tube 6, and a gap is formed between the distal end surface 62 of the tube 6 and the pressed portion 51 of the valve body 5. The fluid passage 61 of the body 6 and the fluid passage of the connector body 10 communicate with each other.

Next, another configuration example of the valve element 5 will be described. FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating a configuration example of the valve element 5. For convenience of description, the vertical direction in FIG. 6 will be described as “axial direction”, the upper side as “base end”, and the lower side as “distal end”. In addition, description of common points with the valve element 5 of the connector 1 of the first embodiment described above is omitted, and main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG. 6, the valve body 5 has a substantially cylindrical hard member 53 and a substantially cylindrical elastic member (packing) formed of an elastically deformable elastic material (flexible material). 5
5 is comprised. The elastic member 55 includes the hard member 53
Are joined to the outer periphery. The valve body 5 is preferably formed by two-color molding.

The first peripheral portion of the elastic member 55
(First fitting portion) 511 is formed, a rib (locking portion) 521 is formed on an outer peripheral portion at a central portion in the axial direction, and a second rib (first 2 fitting part) 522
Are formed.

Further, at the base end of the hard member 53, a cross-shaped rib (convex streak) 513 is formed.

As the constituent material of the hard member 53, for example, the same material as the constituent material of the outlet part 2, the lid part 3, and the support part 41 of the connector 1 of the first embodiment is used. Can be.

The constituent material of the elastic member 55 is, for example, the valve element 5 of the connector 1 of the first embodiment described above.
The same materials as those described above can be used.

When the tube 6 is connected to the connector 1 (in a connected state), the rib 5 of the pressed portion 51 of the valve 5
13 abuts (presses) on the distal end surface 62 of the tube 6, and a gap is formed between the distal end surface 62 of the tube 6 and the pressed portion 51 of the valve body 5. The fluid passage 61 of the body 6 and the fluid passage of the connector body 10 communicate with each other.

Next, another configuration example of the valve element 5 will be described. FIG. 7 is a plan view and a longitudinal sectional view showing a configuration example of the valve element 5. For convenience of description, the vertical direction in the longitudinal sectional view in FIG. 7 will be described as “axial direction”, the upper side as “proximal end”, and the lower side as “distal end”. In addition, description of common points with the valve element 5 of the connector 1 of the first embodiment described above is omitted, and main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG. 7, a cross-shaped rib (ridge) 513 is formed at the base end of the pressed portion 51 of the valve element 5.

When the tube 6 is connected to the connector 1 (in a connected state), the rib 5 of the pressed portion 51 of the valve 5
13 abuts (presses) on the distal end surface 62 of the tube 6, and a gap is formed between the distal end surface 62 of the tube 6 and the pressed portion 51 of the valve body 5. The fluid passage 61 of the body 6 and the fluid passage of the connector body 10 communicate with each other.

Next, another configuration example of the valve element 5 will be described. FIG. 8 is a plan view and a longitudinal sectional view showing a configuration example of the valve element 5. For convenience of explanation, the vertical direction in the longitudinal sectional view in FIG. 8 will be described as “axial direction”, the upper side as “proximal end”, and the lower side as “distal end”. In addition, description of common points with the valve element 5 of the connector 1 of the first embodiment described above is omitted, and main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG. 8, the surface (proximal surface 514) of the pressed portion 51 of the valve body 5 on the side (proximal surface) with which the distal end surface 62 of the tubular body 6 comes into contact is flat (flat). And
It is non-parallel (inclined by a predetermined angle) with respect to a plane (plane) whose normal line is the axis (center axis) of the connector body 10.

When the tube 6 is connected to the connector 1 (in a connected state), a predetermined portion of the base end surface 514 of the pressed portion 51 of the valve body 5 which is relatively located on the base end side. 8 (a predetermined portion on the left side in FIG. 8) abuts (presses) on the distal end surface 62 of the tubular body 6, and the distal end surface 62 of the tubular body 6 and the pressed portion 5 of the valve body 5 are pressed.
1, a gap is formed, and the fluid passage 61 of the tube 6 and the fluid passage of the connector body 10 communicate with each other through the gap.

Next, another configuration example of the valve element 5 will be described. FIG. 9 is a plan view and a longitudinal sectional view showing a configuration example of the valve element 5. For convenience of description, the vertical direction in the vertical sectional view in FIG. 9 will be described as “axial direction”, the upper side as “base end”, and the lower side as “distal end”. In addition, description of common points with the valve element 5 of the connector 1 of the first embodiment described above is omitted, and main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG. 9, a strip-shaped groove 515 is formed on the pressed portion 51 of the valve body 5 on the side (the base end side) where the distal end surface 62 of the tube 6 comes into contact.

The groove 515 is formed on the base end face 5 of the pressed portion 51.
14 and is formed along its proximal end surface 514.
Extends from one end to the other end.

When the tubular body 6 is connected to the connector 1 (in a connected state), the base end face 514 of the pressed portion 51 of the valve body 5 abuts (presses) on the distal end face 62 of the tubular body 6. , Tube 6
A gap formed by the groove 515 is formed between the distal end surface 62 of the valve body 5 and the pressed portion 51 of the valve body 5. The fluid passage 61 of the pipe 6 and the fluid of the connector body 10 are formed through the gap (groove 515). It communicates with the passage.

Next, another configuration example of the valve element 5 will be described. FIG. 10 is a plan view and a longitudinal sectional view showing a configuration example of the valve body 5,
FIG. 11 is a plan view and a vertical cross-sectional view showing the valve body 5 shown in FIG. 10 when the shape of the valve body 5 is regulated by the lid 3 of the connector body 10. In addition,
For convenience of explanation, the vertical direction in the vertical sectional view in FIG. 10 and the vertical sectional view in FIG. 11 will be described as “axial direction”, the upper side as “base end”, and the lower side as “distal end”. In addition, description of common points with the valve element 5 of the connector 1 of the first embodiment described above is omitted, and main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG. 10, a slit portion 516 which is open in a natural state is formed at the center of the pressed portion 51 of the valve element 5. This slit part 51
Numeral 6 penetrates the pressed part 51 in the axial direction, and is formed up to a predetermined position of the base part 52. Here, the “natural state” refers to a state in which no external force acts on the valve element 5.

The outer shape (contour shape) of the pressed portion 51 in plan view, that is, the outer shape of the pressed portion 51 when the pressed portion 51 is projected on a plane perpendicular to the axial direction is in a natural state. In the case of, it is elliptical (non-circular).

Further, the distal end surface 6 of the tube 6 of the pressed portion 51
The surface (proximal surface 514) on the side (proximal side) with which 2 contacts
It is a plane (flat) and substantially parallel to a plane (plane) whose normal line is the axis (center axis) of the connector main body 10.

A hole 523 is formed at the base end of the base portion 52, that is, at a predetermined position between the rib 521 and the pressed portion 51. One end of this hole 523 is
The other end communicates with the slit portion 516 and the base portion 52
Open to the public.

When the connector 1 provided with the valve element 5 is assembled (the valve element 5 is mounted on the connector 1), and the pipe 6 is not connected to the connector 1 (when not connected).
The valve element 5 is located at the first position (see FIG. 2), and the shape of the valve element 5 is regulated by the small diameter portion 31 of the lid 3.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 11, the outer shape of the pressed portion 51 in a plan view becomes substantially circular (the same shape as the inner shape of the small diameter portion 31), the slit portion 516 is closed, and the liquid A tight state (airtight state) is maintained.

When the pipe 6 is connected to the connector 1, the valve 5 moves to the second position (see FIG. 4), and the restriction on the shape of the valve 5 by the small diameter portion 31 is released. You.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 10, the outer shape of the pressed portion 51 in a plan view returns to the original shape, that is, an elliptical shape (non-circular shape), and the slit portion 516 is opened. The fluid passage 61 of the tube 6 and the fluid passage of the connector body 10 communicate with each other via the portion 516 and the hole 523.

In this valve element 5, when the pipe 6 is connected to the connector 1, the distal end face 62 of the pipe 6 presses against the base end face 514 of the valve 5, and the slit 516 of the valve 5 is The fluid passage 61 of the tube 6 communicates with the fluid passage 61 in a liquid-tight (air-tight) manner, so that the fluid flowing out of the fluid passage 61 of the tube 6 flows from the slit 516 through the hole 523 to the outer periphery of the valve body 5. Flows through the inside of the part or the hollow part 101. As described above, the base end surface 514 of the valve element 5 becomes a part of a packing (connection portion) that connects the valve element 5 and the pipe 6 in a liquid-tight (airtight) manner, and the pipe 6 and the valve element 5
And the fluid (residual liquid) from the tube 6 is less likely to remain on the base end surface 514 of the valve body 5 when the tube 6 is removed, so that the tube 6 can be closed more cleanly. it can.

Next, a description will be given of a second embodiment of the connector according to the present invention. FIG. 12 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a second embodiment of the connector of the present invention, showing a state where the pipe is not connected (a state where the valve body is located at the first position). The description of the common points with the connector 1 of the first embodiment is omitted, and the main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG. 12, the connector 1 has a bellows-like spring (biasing means) 81 for biasing the valve body 5 toward the base end side (connection port side) with respect to the connector main body 10. are doing. The spring 81 is an auxiliary biasing mechanism for assisting the air suspension mechanism 4.

The spring 81 is set in the air chamber 411 in a slightly contracted state from a no-load state (natural length) or in a no-load state. The base end of the spring 81 is joined to the tip of the valve body 5, and the tip is joined to the tip of the support portion 41.

In this case, it is preferable that the spring 81 and the valve body 5 are formed integrally. By forming the spring 81 and the valve element 5 integrally, the number of parts can be reduced, and the labor and time required for assembling can be reduced.

When the tube 6 is connected to the connector 1, the spring 81 contracts, and the valve 5 moves to the second position (see FIG. 4).

When the tube 6 is removed from the connector 1, as shown in FIG. 12, the valve body 5 is instantaneously actuated by the action of the air suspension mechanism 4 and the restoring force (biasing force) of the spring 81. Move to position 1.

As described above, according to the connector 1, the same effects as those of the connector 1 of the first embodiment can be obtained.

Since the connector 1 is provided with the spring 81 for assisting the air suspension mechanism 4, the valve element 5 is instantly and more reliably moved to the first position shown in FIG. be able to.

Next, a description will be given of a third embodiment of the connector according to the present invention. FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a third embodiment of the connector of the present invention, showing a state where the pipe is not connected (a state where the valve body is located at the first position). The description of the common points with the connector 1 of the first embodiment is omitted, and the main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG. 13, the connector 1 has a step-like (step-like) spring (biasing means) for biasing the valve body 5 toward the base end side (connection port side) with respect to the connector main body 10. ) 82. The spring 82 is an auxiliary biasing mechanism for assisting the air suspension mechanism 4.

The spring 82 is installed in the air chamber 411 in a state where the two movable portions 821 are slightly bent (in a contracted state) from a no-load state (natural length), or in a no-load state. The base end of the spring 82 is joined to the tip of the valve body 5, and the tip is joined to the tip of the support portion 41.

In this case, it is preferable that the spring 82 and the valve body 5 are formed integrally. By forming the spring 82 and the valve element 5 integrally, the number of parts can be reduced, and the labor and time required for assembly can be reduced.

When the pipe 6 is connected to the connector 1, each movable portion 821 of the spring 82 is bent, and the valve 5
Moves to the second position (see FIG. 4).

When the tube 6 is detached from the connector 1, as shown in FIG. 13, the valve 5 is instantaneously turned to the second position by the action of the air suspension mechanism 4 and the restoring force (biasing force) of the spring 82. Move to position 1.

As described above, according to the connector 1, the same effects as those of the connector 1 of the first embodiment can be obtained.

Since the connector 1 is provided with the spring 82 for assisting the air suspension mechanism 4, the valve element 5 is instantly and more reliably moved to the first position shown in FIG. be able to.

Next, a description will be given of a fourth embodiment of the connector according to the present invention. FIG. 14 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a fourth embodiment of the connector of the present invention, in which a pipe is not connected (a valve is located at a first position). The description of the common points with the connector 1 of the first embodiment is omitted, and the main differences will be described.

As shown in FIG. 14, the connector 1 has a spiral spring (biasing means) 83 for biasing the valve body 5 toward the base end side (connection port side) with respect to the connector main body 10. are doing. The spring (coil spring) 83 is an auxiliary biasing mechanism for assisting the air suspension mechanism 4.

The spring 83 is set in the air chamber 411 in a slightly contracted state from a no-load state (natural length) or in a no-load state. The proximal end of the spring 83 is joined to the distal end of the valve body 5, and the distal end is joined to the distal end of the support portion 41.

In this case, it is preferable that the spring 83 and the valve body 5 are formed integrally. By forming the spring 83 and the valve element 5 integrally, the number of parts can be reduced, and the labor and time required for assembly can be reduced.

When the tube 6 is connected to the connector 1, the spring 83 contracts, and the valve 5 moves to the second position (see FIG. 4).

When the tube 6 is detached from the connector 1, as shown in FIG. 14, the valve body 5 instantaneously moves to the second position by the action of the air suspension mechanism 4 and the restoring force (biasing force) of the spring 83. Move to position 1.

As described above, according to the connector 1, the same effects as those of the connector 1 of the first embodiment can be obtained.

Since the connector 1 is provided with the spring 83 for assisting the air suspension mechanism 4, the valve element 5 is instantly and more reliably moved to the first position shown in FIG. be able to.

As described above, the connector of the present invention has been described based on the illustrated embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and the configuration of each part may be any configuration having the same function. Can be replaced by For example, in the present invention, any configurations of the above embodiments may be appropriately combined.

In the present invention, the valve body 5 may be made of two or more kinds of elastic materials having different compositions and properties (flexibility, flexural modulus, rubber hardness, etc.).

[0170]

As described above, according to the connector of the present invention, the valve body is moved in the axial direction of the connector body by the air suspension mechanism, and the air chamber of the air suspension mechanism and the fluid passage are shut off. So
A change in the volume of the fluid passage accompanying the movement of the valve body can be prevented. That is, the volume of the fluid passage does not substantially change before and after the connection of the tube.

Thus, when attaching and detaching the tube to and from the connector, fluid (liquid, gas, etc.) is unnecessarily sucked,
Discharge can be prevented.

For example, when the connector is used by connecting it to a catheter placed in a blood vessel, blood is not sucked into the catheter even if the tube is removed from the connector, whereby a thrombus is formed in the catheter. It can be prevented (or suppressed) from occurring.

Since the valve body is moved in the axial direction of the connector body by the air suspension mechanism, the movement of the valve body can be performed more smoothly, the number of parts is relatively small, and the structure is simple. is there.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a first embodiment of a connector according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a first embodiment of the connector of the present invention, showing a state where a pipe is not connected (a state where a valve body is located at a first position).

FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a first embodiment of the connector of the present invention, showing a state in which a tube is connected (a state in which the valve body is located at a second position).

FIG. 5 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a configuration example of a valve body according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a configuration example of a valve body according to the present invention.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are a plan view and a vertical sectional view showing a configuration example of a valve body according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a plan view and a longitudinal sectional view showing a configuration example of a valve body according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a plan view and a longitudinal sectional view showing a configuration example of a valve body according to the present invention.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are a plan view and a longitudinal sectional view illustrating a configuration example of a valve body according to the present invention.

11A and 11B are a plan view and a vertical cross-sectional view illustrating a state where the shape of the valve body is restricted by the cover of the connector main body, which is the valve body shown in FIG.

FIG. 12 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a second embodiment of the connector according to the present invention, showing a state where the pipe is not connected (a state where the valve body is located at the first position).

FIG. 13 is a vertical sectional view showing a third embodiment of the connector according to the present invention, in which a pipe is not connected (a valve is located at a first position).

FIG. 14 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a fourth embodiment of the connector according to the present invention, in which a pipe is not connected (a valve is located at a first position).

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Connector 10 Connector main body 101 Hollow part 2 Outlet part 21 Inner part 211 Hollow part 22 Outer part 221 Rib 23 Step part 24 Side hole 3 Cover part 31 Small diameter part 311 Flange 312 Opening 32 Taper part 321 Inner peripheral surface 33 Large diameter part 4 Air suspension mechanism 41 Support section 411 Air chamber 5 Valve element 51 Pressed section 511 First rib 512 Convex section 513 Rib 514 Base end face 515 Groove 516 Slit section 52 Base section 521 Rib 522 Second rib 523 Hole section 53 Hard member 54 O-ring 55 Elastic member 6 Tubular body 61 Fluid passage 62 End face 71 Gap 81 Bellows-like spring 82 Step-like spring 821 Movable part 83 Helical spring

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 3H017 BA01 3J106 AA02 AA04 AA06 AB01 BA02 BB01 BC04 BD01 BE32 BE40 CA01 EA01 EB20 EC06 ED11 EE01 EF02 GA01 GA12 GA27 GB02 4C066 AA09 CC01 JJ05 4C077 AA05 BB01 CC03 DD03 PP10 PP12 PP13 PP14 PP15 PP16 PP19 PP24 PP27

Claims (15)

[Claims] 1. A connector body having a connection port for connecting a pipe, a fluid passage, a valve body, and the valve body being supported by the connector body so as to be movable in an axial direction of the connector body. An air suspension mechanism, wherein the connection port is opened and closed by movement of the valve element. 2. The valve body is urged toward the connection port by the air suspension mechanism.
A connector as described in. 3. The connector according to claim 1, wherein at least a part of the fluid passage is provided on an outer peripheral side of the air suspension mechanism. 4. The connector according to claim 1, further comprising an urging means for urging the valve body toward the connection port. 5. A connector body having a connection port for connecting a pipe, a fluid passage, a valve body, and the valve body being supported by the connector body so as to be movable in an axial direction of the connector body. A connector, comprising: a support portion; and an urging means for urging the valve body toward the connection port, wherein the connection port is opened and closed by movement of the valve body. 6. The connector according to claim 5, wherein at least a part of the fluid passage is provided on an outer peripheral side of the support portion. 7. The urging means comprises a helical spring, a bellows spring, or a step spring.
The connector according to any one of the above. 8. The connector according to claim 4, wherein said urging means and said valve element are integrally formed. 9. A first valve for sealing said connection port, wherein said valve element seals said connection port.
And a second connecting the pipe body and the fluid passage.
9. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:
The connector according to any one of the above. 10. The connector according to claim 1, wherein a surface of the valve body on a side where the distal end surface of the tubular body contacts is not flat. 11. The connector according to claim 1, wherein a concave portion and / or a convex portion are formed on a side of the valve body where the distal end surface of the tubular body contacts. 12. The valve body according to claim 1, wherein a surface of the valve body on a side where the distal end surface of the tube body comes into contact is a non-parallel surface with respect to a plane normal to an axis of the connector main body. 10. The connector according to any one of 9 above. 13. The valve body has a pressed part formed with a slit part which is open in a natural state on a side where the distal end face of the pipe body comes into contact, and one end part is The other end has a hole opening to the valve body, communicating with the slit portion,
The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the shape of the valve body is regulated by the connector main body so that the slit portion is closed. 14. A valve having a position regulating means for regulating a position of the valve body such that a part of the valve body is exposed near the connection port when the pipe is not connected to the connection port. Item 14. The connector according to any one of Items 1 to 13. 15. The connector according to claim 1, wherein at least a part of the valve body is made of an elastic material.