IL281248A - A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor - Google Patents

A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor

Info

Publication number
IL281248A
IL281248A IL281248A IL28124821A IL281248A IL 281248 A IL281248 A IL 281248A IL 281248 A IL281248 A IL 281248A IL 28124821 A IL28124821 A IL 28124821A IL 281248 A IL281248 A IL 281248A
Authority
IL
Israel
Prior art keywords
luer lock
valve
connection port
lock connection
valve seat
Prior art date
Application number
IL281248A
Other languages
Hebrew (he)
Inventor
Kriheli Marino
Tavor Raanan
Shem-Tov Eric
Original Assignee
Equashield Medical Ltd
Kriheli Marino
Tavor Raanan
Eric Shem Tov
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Equashield Medical Ltd, Kriheli Marino, Tavor Raanan, Eric Shem Tov filed Critical Equashield Medical Ltd
Priority to IL281248A priority Critical patent/IL281248A/en
Priority to IL287544A priority patent/IL287544A/en
Priority to EP23195130.2A priority patent/EP4302796A3/en
Priority to PCT/IL2022/050236 priority patent/WO2022185313A1/en
Priority to EP22762739.5A priority patent/EP4297840A4/en
Priority to JP2023553663A priority patent/JP2024518674A/en
Priority to CA3207812A priority patent/CA3207812A1/en
Priority to AU2022230100A priority patent/AU2022230100A1/en
Priority to IL305598A priority patent/IL305598A/en
Publication of IL281248A publication Critical patent/IL281248A/en
Priority to CL2023002595A priority patent/CL2023002595A1/en
Priority to US18/241,728 priority patent/US20240009082A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16LPIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L37/00Couplings of the quick-acting type
    • F16L37/08Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
    • F16L37/084Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking
    • F16L37/091Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of a ring provided with teeth or fingers

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)

Description

A TAMPER PROOF LUER LOCK CONNECTOR AND A VALVE ARRANGEMENT FOR AN ADAPTOR TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD The presently disclosed subject matter relates to a tamper proof luer lock connector for use with an adaptor in spill proof fluid transfer systems, and a valve arrangement for maintaining a desired air pressure within the adaptor.
BACKGROUND In fluid transfer systems, especially where transfer of hazardous fluids is involved, the exposure of the fluids to the environment is highly undesirable, and in some cases may even lead to fatal accidents. Thus, the apparatus, such as fluid transfer devices, adaptors, connectors, valves, etc. that are to be used in such systems need to be completely spill proof and contamination free. In certain examples, the connections between some devices need to be such that the connections cannot be accidentally or mischievously disconnected, and at the same time such that those can be disconnected by an operator with proper care and proper technique.
Furthermore, in certain applications, the air pressure keeps on building and/or falling within the systems during transfer of the fluids. Such air pressure, when increased or decreased in an uncontrolled manner, may lead to malfunction of any apparatus or even the whole system.
Thus, there is a need and desire for a fluid transfer apparatus that solves at least some of the problems discussed above.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION According to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a connector for connection with a fluid transfer device, said connector comprising: an outer body having a longitudinal axis; and a luer lock connection port positioned within the outer body and configured to be coupled with an external port of said fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable about the longitudinal axis at least in one of a clockwise direction and a counter­ clockwise direction at least prior to initiation of coupling thereof with the external port; wherein the outer body is structured, and the luer lock connection port is positioned therewithin, such that to prevent an operator to access, through the outer body, directly by fingertips an exterior of the luer lock connection port after the luer lock connection port has been coupled with the external port. 1The fluid transfer device can be a generally known luer lock connection device to be used in medical systems, for example in drug mixing systems where safe transfer of hazardous drugs from one container to another is required. In some examples, the fluid transfer device can be any connection device facilitating the transfer of fluids between containers.
The above mentioned connector can be integrated with an adaptor configured to facilitate the connection between a container, either directly or via another corresponding adaptor, and the fluid transfer device. In some examples, the container can be a syringe, and the adaptor can facilitate the connection between the syringe, directly or via a standard syringe adaptor, and a normal female luer lock connection device. In some examples, the adaptor facilitates the conversion of a standard female luer lock port into a docking port for safe connection with female connector of a syringe adaptor.
The outer body can be a generally cylindrical hollow body having a proximal end to be positioned towards the fluid transfer device and a distal end to be positioned towards the container during use thereof. The luer lock connection port can be positioned within the outer body at the proximal end thereof to receive an external port of the fluid transfer device. In specific applications, the external port is the standard female luer lock port. The luer lock connection port can be positioned within the outer body so as to have a common longitudinal axis with the outer body, and such that the luer lock connection port can rotate about that axis.
The luer lock connection port can include threads to receive corresponding threads formed on the external port to be coupled thereto. When the external port is brought in contact with the luer lock connection port to be threaded therewith, the coupling is initiated. The coupling is under a process when the external port is being rotated so as to be threaded with the luer lock connection port. As prior to the initiation of the coupling, the luer lock connection port is rotatable within the outer body, thus, when the coupling is to be done, the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the direction of the threading, which in general applications can be clockwise, needs to be prevented at least while the coupling is under process. When the external port has been completely threaded with the luer lock connection port, the coupling is completed. The luer lock connection port can rotate about the longitudinal axis after the coupling is completed.
The outer body generally covers the luer lock connection port, when positioned therewithin and coupled to the external port, in such a way that there is no easy access to the luer lock connection port, or at least by fingertips. In some examples, side wall of the outer body may have one or more openings, each smaller in size than that of fingertip of a child, so that, especially when in use in medical drug delivery systems, a child cannot access the luer 2lock connection port by fingertips. The inability of the child to access the luer lock connection port assures inability of the child to prevent rotation of the luer lock connection port thereby preventing unintentional decoupling of the luer lock connection port from the external port.
The average diameter of the fingertips of a child of about 3-10 years of age is approximately -12 mm. Accordingly, in some examples, at least one dimension of each of the one or more openings can be smaller than 10 mm. Therefore, the connector is configured as a tamper proof connector.
The luer lock connection port can be rotatable about the longitudinal axis in both of the clockwise direction and the counter-clockwise direction at least prior to the initiation of coupling thereof with the external port.
The luer lock connection port can be rotatable about the longitudinal axis in both of the clockwise direction and the counter-clockwise direction upon coupling thereof with the external port.
The connector can further comprise a coupling facilitating mechanism configured to selectively assume a coupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction, and a coupling disabled state at which it allows the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction.
The coupling facilitating mechanism can include any structure as understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art as being capable of selectively preventing the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body at least in the direction of threading, which in general applications can be clockwise. If in a particular example, the direction of threading is counter-clockwise, then the coupling facilitating mechanism, in coupling enabled state, can be configured to restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter­ clockwise direction. In some examples, the coupling facilitating mechanism can include a button, key, lever, or the like being external to the connector or being formed in the outer body which can be operated to prevent the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. In some examples, the coupling facilitating mechanism can include at least one pair of a projection and a catcher, one formed on the luer lock connection port and the other one formed on or operable through the outer body, in that the projection and the catcher can engage each other so as to prevent the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. The coupling facilitating mechanism can be configured to normally remain in coupling disabled state and can be actuated by an operator to attain the coupling enabled state when the coupling is to be done. 3The coupling facilitating mechanism can be configured to assume the coupling enabled state at least during the time when coupling of the luer lock connection port with the external port is under process.
The coupling facilitating mechanism, in its coupling enabled state, can be configured to allow rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis in a counter­ clockwise direction. Moreover, the coupling facilitating mechanism, in its coupling disabled state, can be configured to allow rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis in a counter-clockwise direction and/or the clockwise direction.
The luer lock connection port can be configured to axially displace along the longitudinal axis between a first position associated with the coupling disabled state, and a second position associated with the coupling enabled state. In some examples, the luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the coupling facilitating mechanism and positioning thereof with respect to each other can be configured such that the coupling facilitating mechanism can be displaced into the coupling enabled state only when the luer lock connection port and the outer body are at a particular position with respect to each other. The particular position can be defined by an extent to which the luer lock connection port is within the outer body along the longitudinal axis.
According to an example, the luer lock connection port can be configured to freely displace from the first position to the second position upon application of a pushing force by the external port, i.e., the pushing force applied by an operator on the fluid transfer device during the coupling. The first position can be a normal position of the luer lock connection port within the outer body at which it can freely rotate in clockwise as well as counter-clockwise direction about the longitudinal axis. When in the first position, the luer lock connection port is spaced from the proximal end of the outer body at a first extent. At the second position, the luer lock connection port is spaced from the proximal end of the outer body at a second extent being greater than the first extent. When the luer lock connection port is in the second position, the coupling facilitating mechanism either automatically attains or can be actuated to attain the coupling enabled state and in response thereto, the rotation of the luer lock connection port in the clockwise direction is restricted. Although, at the coupling enabled state, the rotation of the luer lock connection port in the counter-clockwise direction may or may not be restricted.
The coupling facilitating mechanism can comprise at least one locking member mounted on an external surface of the luer lock connection port and at least one arresting member mounted on an internal surface of the outer body, wherein at the second position, the locking member engages with the arresting member, thereby restricting the rotation of the luer 4lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction. At the first position, the locking member can disengage from the arresting member. In some examples, the luer lock connection port can have at least one sidewall extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis and a back wall extending generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The side wall and the back wall of the luer lock connection port can have respective exterior surfaces facing the outer body and opposite interior surfaces. The outer body can have at least one sidewall corresponding to that of the luer lock connection port, and a back wall corresponding to that of the luer lock connection port. The side wall and the back wall of the outer body can have respective interior surfaces facing the luer lock connection port and opposite interior surfaces.
According to one example, the exterior surface of the back wall of the luer lock connection port can have at least one locking member, and the interior surface of the back wall of the outer body can have corresponding arresting member, both constituting the coupling facilitating mechanism. When the luer lock connection port is in the first position, the locking member is distant from the arresting member, and the luer lock connection port can rotate at least in the clockwise direction. When the luer lock connection port is pushed further within the outer body, for example by the external port (upon being pushed an operator) at the initiation of the coupling, the locking member engages, and gets arrested with, the arresting member, thereby shifting the coupling facilitating mechanism into the coupling enabled state. The engagement of the locking member and the arresting member restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction.
According to another example, the locking member can be formed on the external surface of the side wall of the luer lock connection port. The arresting member can be formed in the form of a button, key, lever, etc. on the outer body or can be an external member to be operated through an opening in the side wall of the outer body to engage the locking member to restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction.
The connector can further comprise a decoupling facilitating mechanism configured to selectively assume a decoupling disabled state at which it allows rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis thereof at least in a counter-clockwise direction, and a decoupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction so as to allow decoupling of the external port from the luer lock connection port.
The decoupling facilitating mechanism can include any structure as understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art as being capable of selectively preventing the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body at least in the direction of unthreading, 5which in general applications can be counter-clockwise. If in a particular example, the direction of unthreading is clockwise, then the decoupling facilitating mechanism, in decoupling enabled state, can be configured to restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction. In some examples, the decoupling facilitating mechanism can include a button, key, lever, or the like being external to the connector or being formed in the outer body which can be operated to prevent the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. In some examples, the decoupling facilitating mechanism can include at least one pair of a projection and a catcher, one formed on the luer lock connection port and the other one formed on or operable through the outer body, in that, the projection and the catcher can engage each other so as to prevent the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body.
The decoupling facilitating mechanism can be configured to be in decoupling disabled state, and can be actuated by an operator (e.g., by a pushing force) to attain the decoupling enabled state when the decoupling is to be done.
The decoupling facilitating mechanism can be configured to assume the decoupling enabled state at least during the time when decoupling of the luer lock connection port from the external port is under process.
The outer body can comprise a side wall with at least one opening formed therein and configured to be used in conjunction with said decoupling facilitating mechanism so as to provide access to an external surface of the luer lock connection port at least at said decoupling enabled state. In some examples, the decoupling mechanism includes a button, actuator, key, lever, or the like being external to the connector and can be used to access the sidewall of the luer lock connection port via an opening formed in the sidewall of the outer body so as to get hold of the luer lock connection port to restrict the rotation thereof, thereby facilitating unthreading of the external port from the luer lock connection port.
The decoupling facilitating mechanism can comprise an actuator at least partially positioned in the opening, the actuator having an actuator internal surface facing the luer lock connection port and an opposite actuator external surface, the decoupling facilitating mechanism being configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon application of a pressing force on the actuator, and the decoupling disabled state upon removal of said force. In some examples, the actuator can be a button at least partially positioned in the opening of the side wall of the outer body. When it is intended to decouple the external port from the luer lock connection port, an operator can press the button and the internal surface of the button engages the exterior surface of the luer lock connection port thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port. In cases when the decoupling facilitating mechanism comprises an 6actuator, button, or lever or the like fixed with the outer body, the corresponding opening can be bigger than the other openings on the sidewall, however, the actuator, button, or lever or the like can be positioned in the opening so as to leave no enough space around the same to allow direct access by the fingertip to the luer lock connection port. In cases when the decoupling facilitating mechanism comprises an actuator, button, or lever or the like as external non-fixed elements, no opening can be big enough to allow to allow direct access by the fingertips to the luer lock connection port.
At the decoupling enabled state, a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the actuator external surface is lesser than a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and an external surface of a rim of the opening. At the decoupling enabled state, at least a majority of the actuator external surface is positioned below an imaginary surface defined by a rim of the opening. In some examples, the actuator can be positioned in the opening such that the external surface of the actuator, i.e., the surface of the actuator facing away from the luer lock connection port, has at least some portion being sunk into the opening so as to be further inwardly towards the luer lock connection port than the rim of the opening. Accordingly, the actuator can be structured to be a hidden button which an operator would not normally assume to be a button for facilitating decoupling the external port from the luer lock connection port.
The actuator can have a first portion extending from the outer body, and a second portion extending from the first portion, wherein the first portion forms a part of the outer body.
The first portion and the second portion can constitute a lever. In some examples, the actuator can be in the form of a lever. The actuator can have a first portion being an extension of the outer body, and a second portion being a continuation of the first portion.
The decoupling mechanism can comprise a first engaging portion formed on an external surface of the luer lock connection port, and a second engaging portion formed on the actuator internal surface, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, the first engaging portion can engage with the second engaging portion thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction. At the decoupling disabled state, the first engaging portion can disengage from the second engaging portion. The first engaging portion can comprise at least one protrusion formed on the external surface of the luer lock connection port, and the second engaging portion can comprise at least one tooth projecting from the actuator internal surface, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, the at least one tooth can engage with the at least one protrusion thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction. At the decoupling disabled state, the at least one tooth can disengage from the at least one protrusion. 7In some examples, the protrusion and the tooth can switch positions, i.e., the tooth can be formed on the actuator internal surface and the projection can be formed on the external surface of the luer lock connection port.
The luer lock connection port can be configured to axially displace along the longitudinal axis into a third position, in a direction opposite to that of the second position with respect to the first position. The third position can be any position between the first position and the second position, and in a particular example, can be the first position. In some examples, the first position can be a normal position of the luer lock connection port within the outer body and the luer lock connection port is the first extent within the outer body from the proximal end of the outer body. At the second position, the luer lock connection port can be second extent, greater than the first extent, within the outer body from the proximal end of the outer body.
The luer lock connection port can be configured to freely displace from the first position to the third position upon application of a pulling force during decoupling the external port from the luer lock connection port. In some examples, when decupling is to be done, the fluid transfer device can be pulled in a direction away from the connector, thereby pulling the luer lock connection port into the third position. The third position can be any position between the first position and the second position, and in a particular example, can be the first position.
The decoupling facilitating mechanism can be configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon the luer lock connection port displacing into the third position. In some examples, the decoupling facilitating mechanism can be configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon the luer lock connection port displacing into the second position. In some examples, the luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the decoupling facilitating mechanism and positioning thereof with respect to each other can be configured such that the decoupling facilitating mechanism displaces automatically or can be displaced by the operator into the decoupling enabled state only when the luer lock connection port is at the third position, or at the second position. The third position can be any position between the first position and the second position, and in a particular example, can be the first position.
In some examples, the coupling facilitating mechanism and the decoupling facilitating mechanism can be the same mechanism configured to facilitate coupling as well as decupling.
For instance, the mechanism, when actuated, can be configured to restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection port in any and both of the clockwise and counter-clockwise directions.
The luer lock connection port can be a male luer lock connection port comprising an elongate central member and a collar surrounding the elongate central member, wherein the 8male luer lock connection port can be configured to be coupled to the external port by threadingly receiving the external port between the collar and the elongate central member, such that upon coupling, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body, and the outer body covers at least a majority of the collar from outside. In some examples, the luer lock connection port can be a male port having an elongate central member constituting the male member thereof, to be inserted into a corresponding female connector. The central member can be at least radially surrounded by a collar. The collar can include threads on its internal surface facing the elongate central member. The threads can be configured to receive corresponding threads formed on an external surface of the external port.
The collar can extend parallel to the elongate central member, and a length of the collar can range between 5.4 mm to 8 mm. The outer body can cover at least a majority of the collar. The skirt member and the elongate central member can be integrally formed.
The outer body can radially cover at least a majority of the luer lock connection port.
The outer body can radially cover at least 90% of the luer lock connection port. The outer body radially can cover at least a majority of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least 90% of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port.
According to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided an adaptor configured for use in medical fluid transfer devices, the adaptor comprising the connector as described above according to the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.
The adaptor can comprise a septum positioned at a distal end thereof configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe therethrough.
The connector can constitute a proximal portion of the adaptor.
According to a third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a connector for connection with a fluid transfer device, said connector comprising: a luer lock connection port configured to be coupled with an external port of said fluid transfer device; an outer body covering at least a portion of the luer lock connection port; and a decoupling facilitating mechanism configured to selectively assume a decoupling disabled state at which it allows rotation of the luer lock connection port about a longitudinal axis thereof at least in a counter-clockwise direction, and a decoupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction so as to allow decoupling of the external port from the luer lock connection port. 9The fluid transfer device can be a generally known luer lock connection device to be used in medical systems, for example in drug mixing systems where safe transfer of hazardous drugs from one container to another is required. In some examples, the fluid transfer device can be any connection device facilitating transfer of fluids between containers.
The above mentioned connector can be integrated with an adaptor configured to facilitate connection between a container, either directly or via a corresponding adaptor, and the fluid transfer device. In some examples, the container can be a syringe, and the adaptor can facilitate connection between the syringe, directly or via a standard syringe adaptor, and a normal female luer lock connection device. In some examples, the adaptor facilitates conversion of a standard female luer lock port into a docking port for safe connection with female connector of a syringe adaptor.
The outer body can be a generally cylindrical hollow body having a proximal end to be positioned towards the fluid transfer device and a distal end to be positioned towards the container during use thereof. The luer lock connection port can be positioned within the outer body at the proximal end thereof to receive an external port of the fluid transfer device. In specific applications, the external port is the standard female luer lock port. The luer lock connection port can be positioned within the outer body so as to have a common longitudinal axis with the outer body, and such that the luer lock connection port can rotate about that axis.
The luer lock connection port can include threads to receive corresponding threads formed on the external port to be coupled thereto.
The outer body can generally cover the luer lock connection port, when positioned therewithin and coupled to the external port, in such a way that there is no easy access to the luer lock connection port, or at least by fingertips. In some examples, side wall of the outer body can have one or more openings, each smaller in size than that of fingertip of a child, so that, especially when in use in medical drug delivery systems, a child cannot access the luer lock connection port by fingertips. The inability of the child to access the luer lock connection port assures inability of the child to prevent rotation of the luer lock connection port thereby preventing unintentional decoupling of the luer lock connection port from the external port.
The average diameter of the fingertips of a child of about 3-10 years of age is approximately -12 mm. Accordingly, in some examples, at least one dimension of each of the one or more openings can be smaller than 10 mm. Therefore, the connector can be configured as a tamper proof connector.
The luer lock connection port can rotate within the outer body after having been coupled to the external port, thus, in order to decouple the luer lock connection port from the 10external port, it is necessary to restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection in the direction of unthreading, which in general applications can be counter-clockwise. If in a particular example, the direction of unthreading is clockwise, then the decoupling facilitating mechanism, in decoupling enabled state, can be configured to restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction. The coupling facilitating mechanism can include any structure as understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art as being capable of selectively preventing the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body at least in the direction of unthreading. In some examples, the decoupling facilitating mechanism can include a button, key, lever, or the like being external to the connector or being formed in the outer body which can be operated to prevent the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. In some examples, the decoupling facilitating mechanism can include at least one pair of a projection and a catcher, one formed on the luer lock connection port and the other one formed on or operable through the outer body, in that, the projection and the catcher can engage each other so as to prevent the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. The decoupling facilitating mechanism can be configured to normally remain in decoupling disabled state, and can be actuated by an operator to attain the decoupling enabled state when the decoupling is to be done.
The decoupling facilitating mechanism can be configured to assume the decoupling enabled state at least during the time when decoupling of the luer lock connection port from the external port is under process.
The outer body can comprise a side wall with at least one opening formed therein and configured to be used in conjunction with said decoupling facilitating mechanism so as to provide access to an external surface of the luer lock connection port at least at said decoupling enabled state. In some examples, the decoupling mechanism can include a button, actuator, key, lever, or the like being external to the connector and can be used to access the sidewall of the luer lock connection port via an opening formed in the sidewall of the outer body so as to get hold of the luer lock connection port to restrict the rotation thereof, thereby facilitating unthreading of the external port from the luer lock connection port.
The decoupling facilitating mechanism can comprise an actuator at least partially positioned in the opening, the actuator having an actuator internal surface facing the luer lock connection port and an opposite actuator external surface, the decoupling facilitating mechanism being configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon application of a pressing force on the actuator, and the decoupling disabled state upon removal of said force. In some examples, the actuator can be a button at least partially positioned in the opening of the 11side wall of the outer body. When it is intended to decouple the external port from the luer lock connection port, an operator can press the button and the internal surface of the button engages the exterior surface of the luer lock connection port thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port. In cases when the decoupling facilitating mechanism comprises an actuator, button, or lever or the like fixed with the outer body, the corresponding opening can be bigger than the other openings on the sidewall, however, the actuator, button, or lever or the like can be positioned in the opening so as to leave no space around the same to allow direct access by the fingertips to the luer lock connection port. In cases when the decoupling facilitating mechanism comprises an actuator, button, or lever or the like as external non-fixed elements, no opening can be big enough to allow to allow direct access by the fingertips to the luer lock connection port.
At the decoupling enabled state, a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the actuator external surface can be lesser than a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and an external surface of a rim of the opening. At the decoupling enabled state, at least a majority of the actuator external surface can be positioned below an imaginary surface defined by a rim of the opening. In some examples, the actuator can be positioned in the opening such that the external surface of the actuator, i.e., the surface of the actuator facing away from the luer lock connection port, can have at least some portion being sunk into the opening so as to be further inwardly towards the luer lock connection port than the rim of the opening. Accordingly, the actuator can be structured to be a hidden button which an operator would not normally assume to be a button for facilitating decoupling the external port from the luer lock connection port.
The actuator can have a first portion extending from the outer body, and a second portion extending from the first portion, wherein the first portion can form a part of the outer body. The first portion and the second portion can constitute a lever. In some examples, the actuator can be in the form of a lever. The actuator can have a first portion being an extension of the outer body, and a second portion being a continuation of the first portion.
The decoupling mechanism can comprise a first engaging portion formed on an external surface of the luer lock connection port, and a second engaging portion formed on the actuator internal surface, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, the first engaging portion can engage with the second engaging portion thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction. At the decoupling disabled state, the first engaging portion can disengage from the second engaging portion. The first engaging portion can comprise at least one protrusion formed on the external surface of the luer lock 12connection port and the second engaging portion can comprise at least one tooth projecting from the actuator internal surface, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, the at least one tooth can engage with the at least one protrusion thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction. At the decoupling disabled state, the at least one tooth can disengage from the at least one protrusion.
In some examples, the protrusion and the tooth can switch positions, i.e., the tooth can be formed on the actuator internal surface and the projection can be formed on the external surface of the luer lock connection port.
The luer lock connection port can be configured to axially displace along the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position. In some examples, the luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the decoupling facilitating mechanism and positioning thereof with respect to each other can be configured such that the decoupling facilitating mechanism can be displaced into the decoupling enabled state only when the luer lock connection port and the outer body are at a particular position with respect to each other.
The particular position can be defined by an extent to which the luer lock connection port is within the outer body along the longitudinal axis.
According to an example, the luer lock connection port can be configured to displace from the first position to the second position upon application of a pushing force applied by an operator on the fluid transfer device during coupling. The first position can be a normal position of the luer lock connection port within the outer body at which it can freely rotate in clockwise as well as counter-clockwise direction about the longitudinal axis. When in the first position, the luer lock connection port is a first extent within the outer body from the proximal end of the outer body. At the second position, the luer lock connection port can be a second extent, greater than the first extent, within the outer body from the proximal end of the outer body.
The luer lock connection port can be configured to axially displace along the longitudinal axis into a third position in a direction opposite to that of the second position with respect to the first position. The luer lock connection port can be configured to displace from the first position to the third position upon application of a pulling force applied by an operator on the fluid transfer device during decoupling. The third position can be any position between the first position and the second position, and in a particular example, can be the first position.
In some examples, when decupling is to be done, the fluid transfer device can be pulled in a direction away from the connector, thereby pulling the luer lock connection port into the third position. 13The decoupling facilitating mechanism can be configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon the luer lock connection port displacing into the second position.
The decoupling facilitating mechanism can be configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon the luer lock connection port displacing into the third position. The third position can be any position between the first position and the second position, and in a particular example, can be the first position.
In some examples, the luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the decoupling facilitating mechanism and positioning thereof with respect to each other can be configured such that the decoupling facilitating mechanism displaces automatically or can be displaced by the operator into the decoupling enabled state only when the luer lock connection port is at any one of the second position or third position.
The connector can further comprise a coupling facilitating mechanism configured to selectively assume a coupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in a clockwise direction, and a coupling disabled state at which it allows the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction. The coupling facilitating mechanism can include any structure as understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art as being capable of selectively preventing the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body at least in the direction of threading, which in general applications can be clockwise. If in a particular example, the direction of threading is counter-clockwise, then the coupling facilitating mechanism, in coupling enabled state, can be configured to restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction.
In some examples, the coupling facilitating mechanism can include a button, key, lever, or the like being external to the connector or being formed in the outer body which can be operated to prevent the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. In some examples, the coupling facilitating mechanism can include at least one pair of a projection and a catcher, one formed on the luer lock connection port and the other one formed on or operable through the outer body, in that, the projection and the catcher can engage each other so as to prevent the rotation of the luer lock connection port within the outer body. The coupling facilitating mechanism can be configured to assume the coupling disabled state, and can be actuated by an operator to attain the coupling enabled state when the coupling is to be done.
When the external port is brought in contact with the luer lock connection port to be threaded therewith, the coupling is initiated. The coupling is under process when the external port is being rotated so as to be threaded with the luer lock connection port. At least prior to the initiation of the coupling, the luer lock connection port is rotatable within the outer body, 14thus, when the coupling is to be done, the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the direction of the threading, which in general applications can be clockwise, needs to be prevented at least until the coupling is under process. When the external port has been completely threaded with the luer lock connection port, the coupling is completed. The luer lock connection port can rotate about the longitudinal axis after the coupling is completed.
The coupling facilitating mechanism can be configured to assume the coupling enabled state at least during the time when coupling of the luer lock connection port with the external port is under process.
The coupling facilitating mechanism, in its coupling enabled state, can be configured to allow rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis in the counter­ clockwise direction. The coupling facilitating mechanism, in its coupling disabled state, can be configured to allow rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis in a counter-clockwise direction.
In some examples, the coupling disabled state can be associated with the first position and the coupling enabled state can be associated with the second position.
In some examples, the luer lock connection port, the outer body, and the coupling facilitating mechanism and positioning thereof with respect to each other can be configured such that the coupling facilitating mechanism can be displaced into the coupling enabled state only when the luer lock connection port and the outer body are at a particular position with respect to each other. The first position can be a normal position of the luer lock connection port within the outer body at which it can freely rotate in clockwise as well as counter­ clockwise direction about the longitudinal axis. When in the first position, the luer lock connection port is a first extent within the outer body from the proximal end of the outer body.
At the second position, the luer lock connection port can be a second extent, greater than the first extent, from the proximal end of the outer body. When the luer lock connection port is in the second position, the coupling facilitating mechanism either automatically attains or can be actuated to attain the coupling enabled state and in response thereto, the rotation of the luer lock connection port in the clockwise direction is restricted. Although, at the coupling enabled state, the rotation of the luer lock connection port in the counter-clockwise direction may or may not be restricted.
The coupling facilitating mechanism can comprise at least one locking member mounted on an external surface of the luer lock connection port and at least one arresting member mounted on an internal surface of the outer body, wherein at the second position, the locking member can engage with the arresting member thereby restricting the rotation of the 15luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction. At the normal position, the locking member can disengage from the arresting member.
In some examples, the luer lock connection port can have at least one sidewall extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis and a back wall extending generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The side wall and the back wall of the luer lock connection port can have respective exterior surfaces facing the outer body and opposite interior surfaces. The outer body can have at least one sidewall corresponding to that of the luer lock connection port, and a back wall corresponding to that of the luer lock connection port. The side wall and the back wall of the outer body can have respective interior surfaces facing the luer lock connection port and opposite interior surfaces. According to one example, the exterior surface of the back wall of the luer lock connection port can have at least one locking member, and the interior surface of the back wall of the outer body can have corresponding arresting member, both constituting the coupling facilitating mechanism. When the luer lock connection port is in the first position, the locking member is distant from the arresting member, and the luer lock lock connection port can rotate at least in the clockwise direction. When the luer lock connection port is pushed further within the outer body, for example by the external port at the initiation of the coupling, the locking member engages, and gets arrested with, the arresting member, thereby shifting the coupling facilitating mechanism into the coupling enabled state. The engagement of the locking member and the arresting member restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction.
According to another example, the locking member can be formed on the exterior surface of the side wall of the luer lock connection port. The arresting member can be formed in the form of a button, key, lever, etc. on the outer body or can be an external member to be operated through an opening in the side wall of the outer body to engage the locking member to restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction.
The luer lock connection port can be a male luer lock connection port comprising an elongate central member and a collar surrounding the elongate central member, wherein the male luer lock connection port can be configured to be coupled to the external port by threadingly receiving the external port between the collar and the elongate central member, such that upon coupling, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body, and the outer body covers at least a majority of the collar from outside. In some examples, the luer lock connection port can be a male port having an elongate central member constituting the male member thereof, to be inserted into a corresponding female connector. The central member can be at least radially surrounded by a collar. The collar can include threads on its 16internal surface facing the elongate central member. The threads can be configured to receive corresponding threads formed on an external surface of the external port.
The collar can extend parallel to the elongate central member, and a length of the collar can range between 5.4 mm to 8 mm. The outer body can cover at least a majority of the collar. The skirt member and the elongate central member can be integrally formed.
The outer body can radially cover at least a majority of the luer lock connection port.
The outer body can radially cover at least 90% of the luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least a majority of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port. The outer body can radially cover at least 90% of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port.
According to a fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided an adaptor configured for use in medical fluid transfer devices, the adaptor comprising the connector as described above according the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.
The adaptor can comprise a septum positioned at a distal end thereof configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe therethrough.
The connector can constitute a proximal portion of the adaptor.
According to a fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided an adaptor configured for connection to a syringe having an air chamber and a liquid chamber, the adaptor comprising: a liquid channel configured to be in communication with the liquid chamber; an air channel configured to be in communication with the air chamber; a first valve in fluid communication with the air channel, and having a first valve open state at which it allows air in the air channel to escape into ambiance, and a first valve normally closed state.
In some examples, the above mentioned adaptor can be configured to be used in drug delivery systems where safe transfer of drugs (e.g., hazardous drugs) is required.
The above mentioned adaptor can be configured to solve the problem of overpressure in the syringes comprising air chambers which are sealed from fluid communication with the ambiance other than through an air needle extending from the air chamber to an exterior of the syringe. This problem can occur because of misuse and/or improper use of the syringe.
The above mentioned adaptor can be configured to facilitate exchange of air pressure within the air chamber of the syringe, during transfer of the drug, directly with the ambiance.
The adaptor can be configured to be connected to the syringe either directly or via a syringe adaptor. The adaptor can comprise a septum positioned at or close to a distal end of the 17adaptor, i.e., the end towards the syringe. The septum can be punctured by at least one needle of the syringe when the adaptor is connected to the syringe.
The first valve can be configured to automatically displace into the first valve open state in response to air pressure within the air channel exceeding a first pre-determined threshold. The first valve is configured to automatically displace into the first valve closed state in response to air pressure within the air channel falling below the first pre-determined threshold.
The first valve can comprise a first valve seat having a first valve seat opening being in fluid communication with the air channel at said first valve open state, and a first valve sealing member engaging the first valve seat at said first valve normally closed state thereby sealing said first valve seat opening.
At the first valve open state, the first valve sealing member can at least partially disengage from the first valve seat thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening.
In some examples, at the first valve open state, the first valve sealing member can completely disengage from the first valve seat thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening.
The first valve seat opening can define at least a portion of a first fluid path extending between the air channel and the ambiance, the first fluid path being selectively sealable by the first valve at the first valve normally closed state.
The first valve, at the first valve normally closed state, can seal the first fluid path, and at the first valve open state, can unseal the first fluid path to allow air in the air channel to escape into the ambiance.
The adaptor can further comprise a first outlet in fluid communication with the first valve and the ambiance, wherein the first outlet can be configured to receive therewithin a lever button operational to disconnect the adaptor from an external female connector. In some examples, the first valve can utilize an opening in the adaptor otherwise and additionally configured for another purpose, to facilitate exchange of air between the ambiance and the air channel.
The first fluid path can extend via the first outlet.
The adaptor can further comprise a second valve in fluid communication with the air channel, and having a second valve open state at which it allows air to enter into the air channel from the ambiance, and a second valve normally closed state.
The second valve can be configured to automatically displace into the second valve open state in response to air pressure within the air channel falling below a second pre­ determined threshold. The second valve can be configured to automatically displace into the 18second valve closed state in response to air pressure within the air channel exceeding the second pre-determined threshold.
The second valve can comprise a second valve seat having a second valve seat opening being in fluid communication the with air channel at said second valve open state, and a second valve sealing member engaging the second valve seat at said second valve normally closed state thereby sealing said second valve seat opening.
At the second valve open state, the second valve sealing member can at least partially disengage from the second valve seat thereby unsealing the second valve seat opening.
In some examples, at the second valve open state, the second valve sealing member can completely disengage from the second valve seat thereby unsealing the second valve seat opening.
The second valve seat opening can define at least a portion of a second fluid path extending between the air channel and the ambiance, the second fluid path being selectively sealable by the second valve at the second valve normally closed state.
The second valve, at the second valve normally closed state, can seal the second fluid path, and at the second valve open state, can unseal the second fluid path to allow air to enter in the air channel from the ambiance.
The adaptor can further comprise a second outlet in fluid communication with the second valve and the ambiance, wherein the second outlet can be an opening formed in a side wall of an outer body of a luer lock connection port constituting a proximal end of the adaptor.
The second fluid path can extend via the second outlet The first valve and the second valve can be positioned within a single common valve housing. In some examples, the valve housing can be integrally formed within the adaptor. In other examples, the valve housing can be separately formed and mounted to the adaptor.
The first valve and the second valve can be integrated as a single valve arrangement.
The valve arrangement can comprise: a first valve seat having a first valve seat opening; a second valve seat having a second valve seat opening; and a sealing member having a sealing member first portion configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage the first valve seat thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve seat opening, and a sealing member second portion configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage the second valve seat thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve seat opening.
The valve arrangement can have: 19a normal fully closed state at which the sealing member first portion engages with the first valve seat thereby sealing the first valve seat opening and the sealing member second portion engages with the second valve seat thereby sealing the second valve seat opening; a first valve open state at which the sealing member first portion at least partially disengages from the first valve seat thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening, wherein at the first valve open state, the sealing member second portion engages with the second valve seat further tighter as compared to that at the normally fully closed state, thereby sealing the second valve seat opening; and a second valve open state at which the sealing member second portion at least partially disengages from the second valve seat thereby unsealing the second valve seat opening, wherein at the second valve open state, the sealing member first portion engages with the first valve seat further tightly as compared to that at the normally fully closed state, thereby further tightly sealing the first valve seat opening.
The valve arrangement can be normally at the normal fully closed state, wherein the valve arrangement can automatically displace into the first valve open state in response to an air pressure within the valve arrangement rising above a first predetermined threshold, wherein the valve arrangement can automatically displace into the second valve open state in response to the air pressure within the valve arrangement falling below a second predetermined threshold. The valve arrangement can automatically displace into the normal fully closed state in response to the air pressure within the valve arrangement being within the first predetermined threshold and the second predetermined threshold.
At the first valve open state, the valve arrangement can allow the air to escape from within the valve arrangement to outside the valve arrangement via the first valve seat opening, and at the second valve open state, the valve arrangement can allow the air to enter into the valve arrangement from outside the valve arrangement via the second valve seat opening.
In some examples, the valve arrangement can be configured to facilitate exchange of air between within the valve arrangement and the ambiance. The valve arrangement can be used with a fluid transfer system where pressure needs to be maintained within a range. In such a system, the air pressure needs to be allowed to flow inwards in case of the same falling below a first predetermined threshold, and be allowed to flow outwards in case of the same rising above a second predetermined threshold. The valve arrangement can be used with such a fluid transfer system so as to have the valve arrangement in fluid communication with the system to exchange the air pressure between therewithin and the ambiance. 20The sealing member first portion and the sealing member second portion can be positioned at opposite ends of the sealing member.
In some examples, the sealing member can be monolithic. In other examples, the first and the second sealing member portions can be separately formed and connected to each other.
In some examples, the sealing member can include a central portion having a first end constituting the sealing member first portion and a second end, wherein a resilient skirt portion can extend from a periphery of the second end, the skirt portion being defined between a first rim proximal to the second end and a second rim distal from the second end. The skirt portion can have an external surface facing the second valve seat and an opposite internal surface. At the normal fully closed state, the second rim can engage the second valve seat around the second seat opening, whereas maintaining a gap between the first rim and the second valve seat, and the first end of the central portion can engage the fist valve seat. In this state, the volume defined between the central portion, the internal surface of the skirt portion, internal walls of the valve arrangement, the first valve seat, and the second valve seat defines the volume within the valve arrangement. In response to an increase in air pressure beyond the first predetermined threshold within the valve arrangement, the pressure exerted on the internal surface of the skirt member can cause the second end of the central member to be compressed into the gap between the second end and the second valve seat, thereby disengaging the first end from the first valve seat, further thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening. The increased air pressure can thus get released from within the valve arrangement into the ambiance via the first valve seat opening.
In response to a decrease in air pressure below the second predetermined threshold within the valve arrangement, the second rim can disengage from the second valve seat, thereby unsealing the second valve seat opening.
According to a sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a valve arrangement comprising: a first valve seat having a first valve seat opening; a second valve seat having a second valve seat opening; and a sealing member having a sealing member first portion configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage the first valve seat thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve seat opening, and a sealing member second portion configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage the second valve seat thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve seat opening.
The valve arrangement can have: 21a normal fully closed state at which the sealing member first portion engages with the first valve seat thereby sealing the first valve seat opening and the sealing member second portion engages with the second valve seat thereby sealing the second valve seat opening; a first valve open state at which the sealing member first portion at least partially disengages from the first valve seat thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening, wherein at the first valve open state, the sealing member second portion engages with the second valve seat further tighter as compared to that at the normally fully closed state, thereby sealing the second valve seat opening; and a second valve open state at which the sealing member second portion at least partially disengages from the second valve seat thereby unsealing the second valve seat opening, wherein at the second valve open state, the sealing member first portion engages with the first valve seat further tightly as compared to that at the normally fully closed state, thereby further tightly sealing the first valve seat opening.
The valve arrangement can be normally at the normal fully closed state, wherein the valve arrangement can automatically displace into the first valve open state in response to an air pressure within the valve arrangement rising above a first predetermined threshold, wherein the valve arrangement can automatically displace into the second valve open state in response to the air pressure within the valve arrangement falling below a second predetermined threshold. The valve arrangement can automatically displace into the normal fully closed state in response to the air pressure within the valve arrangement being within the first predetermined threshold and the second predetermined threshold.
At the first valve open state, the valve arrangement can allow the air to escape from within the valve arrangement to outside the valve arrangement via the first valve seat opening, and at the second valve open state, the valve arrangement can allow the air to enter into the valve arrangement from outside the valve arrangement via the second valve seat opening.
In some examples, the valve arrangement can be configured to facilitate exchange of air between within the valve arrangement and the ambiance. The valve arrangement can be used with a fluid transfer system where pressure needs to be maintained within a range. In such a system, the air pressure needs to be allowed to flow inwards in case of the same falling below a first predetermined threshold, and be allowed to flow outwards in case of the same rising above a second predetermined threshold. The valve arrangement can be used with such a fluid transfer system so as to have the valve arrangement in fluid communication with the system to exchange the air pressure between therewithin and the ambiance. 22The sealing member first portion and the sealing member second portion can be positioned at opposite ends of the sealing member.
In some examples, the sealing member can be monolithic. In other examples, the first and the second sealing member portions can be separately formed and connected to each other.
In some examples, the sealing member can include a central portion having a first end constituting the sealing member first portion and a second end, wherein a resilient skirt portion can extend from a periphery of the second end, the skirt portion being defined between a first rim proximal to the second end and a second rim distal from the second end. The skirt portion can have an external surface facing the second valve seat and an opposite internal surface. At the normal fully closed state, the second rim can engage the second valve seat around the second seat opening, whereas maintaining a gap between the first rim and the second valve seat, and the first end of the central portion can engage the fist valve seat. In this state, the volume defined between the central portion, the internal surface of the skirt portion, internal walls of the valve arrangement, the first valve seat, and the second valve seat defines the volume within the valve arrangement. In response to an increase in air pressure beyond the first predetermined threshold within the valve arrangement, the pressure exerted on the internal surface of the skirt member can cause the second end of the central member to be compressed into the gap between the second end and the second valve seat, thereby disengaging the first end from the first valve seat, further thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening. The increased air pressure can thus get released from within the valve arrangement into the ambiance via the first valve seat opening.
In response to a decrease in air pressure below the second predetermined threshold within the valve arrangement, the second rim can disengage from the second valve seat, thereby unsealing the second valve seat opening.
In some examples, the first predetermined threshold and/or the second predetermined threshold is obtain based on the geometry, design, or material of the valves and their surrounding parts. In some examples, the first predetermined threshold can have a single value of 0.5 bar and the second predetermined threshold can have a single value of 0.2 bar.
It is to be understood herein that the valve arrangement, as described above with respect to the sixth aspect, can be used with any fluid transfer apparatus that requires an air pressure to be maintained within a range. Also, the valve arrangement as described above with respect to the sixth aspect can be a dual function valve and can be used with the adaptor as described above with respect to the fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, wherein the first valve and the second valve (of the fifth aspect) can be combined to be realized 23as the dual function valve arrangement of the sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.
It should be understood herein that the application of the dual function valve 60 is advantageous over application of two valves, in that, a single sealing member needs to be manufactured and assembled instead of two separate sealing members. Further, the single valve arrangement occupies lesser space than the two separate valves within the housing of the adaptor.
According to a seventh aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a connector for connection with a fluid transfer device, said connector comprising: an outer body having a longitudinal axis; and a luer lock connection port positioned within the outer body and configured to be coupled with an external port of said fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable about the longitudinal axis at least in one of a clockwise direction and a counter­ clockwise direction at least prior to initiation of coupling thereof with the external port, wherein the outer body radially covers a majority of the luer lock connection port.
EMBODIMENTS A more specific description is provided in the Detailed Description whilst the following are non-limiting examples of different embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter. It should be appreciated that Embodiments 1 to 33, correspond to the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter; Embodiments 34 to 36, correspond to the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter; Embodiments 37 to 68, correspond to the third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter; Embodiments 69 to 71, correspond to the fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter; Embodiments 72 to 95, correspond to the fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter; Embodiments 96 to 102, correspond to the sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter; Embodiment 103, corresponds to the seventh aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter; 1. A connector for connection with a fluid transfer device, said connector comprising: an outer body having a longitudinal axis; and a luer lock connection port positioned within the outer body and configured to be coupled with an external port of said fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable about the longitudinal axis at least in one of a clockwise direction and a counter­ clockwise direction at least prior to initiation of coupling thereof with the external port; 24wherein the outer body is structured, and the luer lock connection port is positioned therewithin, such that to prevent an operator to access, through the outer body, directly by fingertips an exterior of the luer lock connection port after the luer lock connection port has been coupled with the external port. 2. The connector according to Embodiment 1, wherein the luer lock connection port is rotatable about the longitudinal axis in both of the clockwise direction and the counter­ clockwise direction at least prior to the initiation of coupling thereof with the external port. 3. The connector according to Embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the luer lock connection port is rotatable about the longitudinal axis in both of the clockwise direction and the counter­ clockwise direction upon coupling thereof with the external port. 4. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 3, further comprising a coupling facilitating mechanism configured to selectively assume a coupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction, and a coupling disabled state at which it allows the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction.
. The connector according to Embodiment 4, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism is configured to assume the coupling enabled state at least during the time when coupling of the luer lock connection port with the external port is under process. 6. The connector according to Embodiment 4 or 5, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism, in its coupling enabled state, is configured to allow rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis in a counter-clockwise direction. 7. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 4 to 6, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism, in its coupling disabled state, is configured to allow rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis in a counter-clockwise direction. 8. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 4 to 7, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to axially displace along the longitudinal axis between a first position associated with the coupling disabled state, and a second position associated with the coupling enabled state. 9. The connector according to Embodiment 8, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to freely displace from the first position to the second position upon application of a pushing force by the external port during the coupling.
. The connector according to Embodiment 8 or 9, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism comprises at least one locking member mounted on an external surface of the luer lock connection port and at least one arresting member mounted on an internal surface of the 25outer body, wherein at the second position, the locking member engages with the arresting member thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction. 11. The connector according to Embodiment 10, wherein at the first position, the locking member disengages from the arresting member. 12. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 4 to 11, further comprising a decoupling facilitating mechanism configured to selectively assume a decoupling disabled state at which it allows rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis thereof at least in a counter-clockwise direction, and a decoupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction so as to allow decoupling of the external port from the luer lock connection port. 13. The connector according to Embodiment 12, wherein the outer body comprises a side wall with at least one opening formed therein and configured to be used in conjunction with said decoupling facilitating mechanism so as to provide access to an external surface of the luer lock connection port at least at said decoupling enabled state. 14. The connector according to Embodiment 13, wherein the decoupling facilitating mechanism comprises an actuator at least partially positioned in the opening, the actuator having an actuator internal surface facing the luer lock connection port and an opposite actuator external surface, the decoupling facilitating mechanism being configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon application of a pressing force on the actuator, and the decoupling disabled state upon removal of said force.
. The connector according to Embodiment 14, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the actuator external surface is lesser than a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and an external surface of a rim of the opening. 16. The connector according to Embodiment 14 or 15, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, at least a majority of the actuator external surface is positioned below an imaginary surface defined by a rim of the opening. 17. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 14 to 16, wherein the actuator has a first portion extending from the outer body, and a second portion extending from the first portion, wherein the first portion forms a part of the outer body. 18. The connector according to Embodiment 17, wherein the first portion and the second portion constitute a lever. 2619. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 14 to 18, wherein the decoupling mechanism comprises a first engaging portion formed on an external surface of the luer lock connection port, and a second engaging portion formed on the actuator internal surface, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, the first engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction.
. The connector according to Embodiment 19, wherein at the decoupling disabled state, the first engaging portion disengages from the second engaging portion. 21. The connector according to Embodiment 19 or 20, wherein the first engaging portion comprises at least one protrusion formed on the external surface of the luer lock connection port, and the second engaging portion comprises at least one tooth projecting from the actuator internal surface, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, the at least one tooth engages with the at least one protrusion thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction. 22. The connector according to Embodiment 21, wherein at the decoupling disabled state, the at least one tooth disengages from the at least one protrusion. 23. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 7 to 22, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to axially displace along the longitudinal axis into a third position in a direction opposite to that of the second position with respect to the first position. 24. The connector according to Embodiment 23, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to freely displace from the first position to the third position upon application of a pulling force during decoupling the external port from the luer lock connection port.
. The connector according to Embodiment 23 or 24, wherein the decoupling facilitating mechanism is configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon the luer lock connection port displacing into the third position. 26. The connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the luer lock connection port is a male luer lock connection port comprising an elongate central member and a collar surrounding the elongate central member, wherein the male luer lock connection port is configured to be coupled to the external port by threadingly receiving the external port between the collar and the elongate central member, such that upon coupling, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body. 27. The connector according to Embodiment 26, wherein the collar extends parallel to the elongate central member, and a length of the collar ranges between 5.4 mm to 8 mm. 2728. The connector according to Embodiment 27, wherein the outer body covers at least a majority of the collar. 29. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 26 to 28, wherein the collar and the elongate central member are integrally formed.
. The connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of the luer lock connection port. 31. The connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of the luer lock connection port. 32. The connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port. 33. The connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port. 34. An adaptor configured for use in medical fluid transfer devices, the adaptor comprising the connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments.
. The adaptor according to Embodiment 34, the adaptor comprising a septum positioned at a distal end thereof configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe therethrough. 36. The adaptor according to Embodiment 34 or 35, wherein the connector constitutes a proximal portion of the adaptor. 37. A connector for connection with a fluid transfer device, said connector comprising: a luer lock connection port configured to be coupled with an external port of said fluid transfer device; an outer body covering at least a portion of the luer lock connection port; and a decoupling facilitating mechanism configured to selectively assume a decoupling disabled state at which it allows rotation of the luer lock connection port about a longitudinal axis thereof at least in a counter-clockwise direction, and a decoupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction so as to allow decoupling of the external port from the luer lock connection port. 38. The connector according to Embodiment 37, wherein the outer body comprises a side wall with at least one opening formed therein and configured to be used in conjunction with said decoupling facilitating mechanism so as to provide access to an external surface of the luer lock connection port at least at said decoupling enabled state. 39. The connector according to Embodiment 38, wherein the decoupling facilitating mechanism comprises an actuator at least partially positioned in the opening, the actuator having an actuator internal surface facing the luer lock connection port and an opposite actuator 28external surface, the decoupling facilitating mechanism being configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon application of a pressing force on the actuator, and the decoupling disabled state upon removal of said force. 40. The connector according to Embodiment 39, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the actuator external surface is lesser than a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and an external surface of a rim of the opening. 41. The connector according to Embodiment 39 or 40, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, at least a majority of the actuator external surface is positioned below an imaginary surface defined by a rim of the opening. 42. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 39 to 41, wherein the actuator has a first portion extending from the outer body, and a second portion extending from the first portion, wherein the first portion forms a part of the outer body. 43. The connector according to Embodiment 42, wherein the first portion and the second portion constitute a lever. 44. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 39 to 43, wherein the decoupling mechanism comprises a first engaging portion formed on an external surface of the luer lock connection port, and a second engaging portion formed on the actuator internal surface, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, the first engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction. 45. The connector according to Embodiment 44, wherein at the decoupling disabled state, the first engaging portion disengages from the second engaging portion. 46. The connector according to Embodiment 44 or 45, wherein the first engaging portion comprises at least one protrusion formed on the external surface of the luer lock connection port and the second engaging portion comprises at least one tooth projecting from the actuator internal surface, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, the at least one tooth engages with the at least one protrusion thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction. 47. The connector according to Embodiment 46, wherein at the decoupling disabled state, the at least one tooth disengages from the at least one protrusion. 48. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 37 to 47, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to axially displace along the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position. 2949. The connector according to Embodiment 48, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to displace from the first position to the second position upon application of a pushing force. 50. The connector according to Embodiment 48 or 49, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to axially displace along the longitudinal axis into a third position in a direction opposite to that of the second position with respect to the first position. 51. The connector according to Embodiment 50, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to displace from the first position to the third position upon application of a pulling force, and the third position can be any position between the first position and the second position, and in particular, the first position. 52. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 48 to 51, wherein the decoupling facilitating mechanism is configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon the luer lock connection port displacing into the second position. 53. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 48 to 51, wherein the decoupling facilitating mechanism is configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon the luer lock connection port displacing into the third position. 54. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 37 to 53, further comprising a coupling facilitating mechanism configured to selectively assume a coupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in a clockwise direction, and a coupling disabled state at which it allows the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction. 55. The connector according to Embodiment 54, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism is configured to assume the coupling enabled state at least during the time when coupling of the luer lock connection port with the external port is under process. 56. The connector according to Embodiment 54 or 55, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism, in its coupling enabled state, is configured to allow rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis in the counter-clockwise direction. 57. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 54 to 56, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism, in its coupling disabled state, is configured to allow rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis in a counter-clockwise direction. 58. The connector according to any of Embodiments 54 to 57, when dependent on any one of Claims 48 to 53, wherein the coupling disabled state is associated with the first position and the coupling enabled state is associated with the second position. 3059. The connector according to Embodiment 58, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism comprises at least one locking member mounted on an external surface of the luer lock connection port and at least one arresting member mounted on an internal surface of the outer body, wherein at the second position, the locking member engages with the arresting member thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction. 60. The connector according to Embodiment 59, wherein at the normal position, the locking member disengages from the arresting member. 61. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 37 to 60, wherein the luer lock connection port is a male luer lock connection port comprising an elongate central member and a collar surrounding the elongate central member, wherein the male luer lock connection port is configured to be coupled to the external port by threadingly receiving the external port between the collar and the elongate central member, such that upon coupling, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body. 62. The connector according to Embodiment 61, wherein the collar extends parallel to the elongate central member, and a length of the collar ranges between 5.4 mm to 8 mm. 63. The connector according to Embodiment 62, wherein the outer body covers at least a majority of the collar. 64. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 61 to 63, wherein the collar and the elongate central member are integrally formed. 65. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 37 to 64, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of the luer lock connection port. 66. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 37 to 65, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of the luer lock connection port. 67. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 37 to 66, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port. 68. The connector according to any one of Embodiments 37 to 67, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port. 69. An adaptor configured for use in medical fluid transfer devices, the adaptor comprising the connector according to any one of Embodiments 37 to 68. 70. The adaptor according to Embodiment 69, the adaptor comprising a septum positioned at a distal end thereof configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe therethrough. 71. The adaptor according to Embodiment 69 or 70, wherein the connector constitutes a proximal portion of the adaptor. 3172. An adaptor configured for connection to a syringe having an air chamber and a liquid chamber, the adaptor comprising: a liquid channel configured to be in communication with the liquid chamber; an air channel configured to be in communication with the air chamber; a first valve in fluid communication with the air channel, and having a first valve open state at which it allows air in the air channel to escape into ambiance, and a first valve normally closed state. 73. The adaptor according to Embodiment 72, wherein the first valve is configured to automatically displace into the first valve open state in response to air pressure within the air channel exceeding a first pre-determined threshold. 74. The adaptor according to Embodiment 72 or 73, wherein the first valve comprises a first valve seat having a first valve seat opening being in fluid communication with the air channel at said first valve open state, and a first valve sealing member engaging the first valve seat at said first valve normally closed state thereby sealing said first valve seat opening. 75. The adaptor according to Embodiment 74, wherein at the first valve open state, the first valve sealing member at least partially disengages from the first valve seat thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening. 76. The adaptor according to Embodiment 74 or 75, wherein the first valve seat opening defines at least a portion of a first fluid path extending between the air channel and the ambiance, the first fluid path being selectively sealable by the first valve at the first valve normally closed state. 77. The adaptor according to Embodiment 76, wherein the first valve, at the first valve normally closed state, seals the first fluid path, and at the first valve open state, unseals the first fluid path to allow air in the air channel to escape into the ambiance. 78. The adaptor according to any one of Embodiments 72 to 77, wherein the adaptor further comprises a first outlet in fluid communication with the first valve and the ambiance, wherein the first outlet is configured to receive therewithin a lever button operational to disconnect the adaptor from an external female connector. 79. The adaptor according to Embodiment 78, when dependent on Claim 76 or 77, wherein the first fluid path extends via the first outlet. 80. The adaptor according to any one of Embodiments 72 to 79, further comprising a second valve in fluid communication with the air channel, and having a second valve open state at which it allows air to enter into the air channel from the ambiance, and a second valve normally closed state. 3281. The adaptor according to Embodiment 80, wherein the second valve is configured to automatically displace into the second valve open state in response to air pressure within the air channel falling below a second pre-determined threshold. 82. The adaptor according to Embodiment 80 or 81, wherein the second valve comprises a second valve seat having a second valve seat opening being in fluid communication the with air channel at said second valve open state, and a second valve sealing member engaging the second valve seat at said second valve normally closed state thereby sealing said second valve seat opening. 83. The adaptor according to Embodiment 82, wherein at the second valve open state, the second valve sealing member at least partially disengages from the second valve seat thereby unsealing the second valve seat opening. 84. The adaptor according to Embodiment 82 or 83, wherein the second valve seat opening defines at least a portion of a second fluid path extending between the air channel and the ambiance, the second fluid path being selectively sealable by the second valve at the second valve normally closed state. 85. The adaptor according to Embodiment 84, wherein the second valve, at the second valve normally closed state, seals the second fluid path, and at the second valve open state, unseals the second fluid path to allow air to enter in the air channel from the ambiance. 86. The adaptor according to any one of Embodiments 80 to 85, wherein the adaptor further comprises a second outlet in fluid communication with the second valve and the ambiance, wherein the second outlet is an opening formed in a side wall of an outer body of a luer lock connection port constituting a proximal end of the adaptor. 87. The adaptor according to Embodiment 86, when dependent on Embodiment 84 or 85, wherein the second fluid path extends via the second outlet 88. The adaptor according to any one of Embodiments 80 to 87, wherein the first valve and the second valve are positioned within a single common valve housing. 89. The adaptor according to any one of Embodiments 80 to 88, wherein the first valve and the second valve are integrated as a single valve arrangement. 90. The adaptor according to Embodiment 89, wherein the valve arrangement comprises the first valve seat, the second valve seat, and the first and second sealing members configured as a single integrated sealing member, the single integrated sealing member having a sealing member first portion configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage the first valve seat thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve seat opening, and a sealing 33member second portion configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage the second valve seat thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve seat opening. 91. The adaptor according to Embodiment 90, wherein the valve arrangement has: a normal fully closed state at which the sealing member first portion engages with the first valve seat thereby sealing the first valve seat opening and the sealing member second portion engages with the second valve seat thereby sealing the second valve seat opening; a first valve open state at which the sealing member first portion at least partially disengages from the first valve seat thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening, wherein at the first valve open state, the sealing member second portion engages with the second valve seat further tighter as compared to that at the normally fully closed state, thereby sealing the second valve seat opening; and a second valve open state at which the sealing member second portion at least partially disengages from the second valve seat thereby unsealing the second valve seat opening, wherein at the second valve open state, the sealing member first portion engages with the first valve seat further tightly as compared to that at the normally fully closed state, thereby further tightly sealing the first valve seat opening. 92. The adaptor according to Embodiment 91, the valve arrangement being normally at the normal fully closed state, wherein the valve arrangement automatically displaces into the first valve open state in response to an air pressure within the valve arrangement rising above a first predetermined threshold, wherein the valve arrangement automatically displaces into the second valve open state in response to the air pressure within the valve arrangement falling below a second predetermined threshold. 93. The adaptor according to Embodiment 91 or 92, wherein at the first valve open state, the valve arrangement allows the air to escape from within the valve arrangement to outside the valve arrangement via the first valve seat opening, and at the second valve open state, the valve arrangement allows the air to enter into the valve arrangement from outside the valve arrangement via the second valve seat opening. 94. The adaptor according to any one of Embodiments 90 to 93, wherein the sealing member first portion and the sealing member second portion are positioned at opposite ends of the sealing member. 95. The adaptor according to any one of Embodiments 90 to 94, wherein the sealing member is monolithic. 96. A valve arrangement comprising: a first valve seat having a first valve seat opening; 34a second valve seat having a second valve seat opening; and a sealing member having a sealing member first portion configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage the first valve seat thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve seat opening, and a sealing member second portion configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage the second valve seat thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve seat opening. 97. The valve arrangement according to Embodiment 96, wherein the valve arrangement has: a normal fully closed state at which the sealing member first portion engages with the first valve seat thereby sealing the first valve seat opening and the sealing member second portion engages with the second valve seat thereby sealing the second valve seat opening; a first valve open state at which the sealing member first portion at least partially disengages from the first valve seat thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening, wherein at the first valve open state, the sealing member second portion engages with the second valve seat further tighter as compared to that at the normally fully closed state, thereby sealing the second valve seat opening; and a second valve open state at which the sealing member second portion at least partially disengages from the second valve seat thereby unsealing the second valve seat opening, wherein at the second valve open state, the sealing member first portion engages with the first valve seat further tightly as compared to that at the normally fully closed state, thereby further tightly sealing the first valve seat opening. 98. The valve arrangement according to Embodiment 97, the valve arrangement being normally at the normal fully closed state, wherein the valve arrangement automatically displaces into the first valve open state in response to an air pressure within the valve arrangement rising above a first predetermined threshold, wherein the valve arrangement automatically displaces into the second valve open state in response to the air pressure within the valve arrangement falling below a second predetermined threshold. 99. The valve arrangement according to Embodiment 97 or 98, wherein at the first valve open state, the valve arrangement allows the air to escape from within the valve arrangement to outside the valve arrangement via the first valve seat opening, and at the second valve open state, the valve arrangement allows the air to enter into the valve arrangement from outside the valve arrangement via the second valve seat opening. 35100. The valve arrangement according to any one of Embodiments 96 to 99, wherein the sealing member first portion and the sealing member second portion are positioned at opposite ends of the sealing member. 101. The valve arrangement according to any one of Embodiments 96 to 100, wherein the sealing member is monolithic. 102. The valve arrangement according to any one of Embodiments 96 to 101, wherein the sealing member includes a central portion having a first end constituting the sealing member first portion and a second end, wherein a resilient skirt portion extends from a periphery of the second end, the skirt portion being defined between a first rim proximal to the second end and a second rim distal from the second end. 103. A connector for connection with a fluid transfer device, said connector comprising: an outer body having a longitudinal axis; and a luer lock connection port positioned within the outer body and configured to be coupled with an external port of said fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable about the longitudinal axis at least in one of a clockwise direction and a counter-clockwise direction at least prior to initiation of coupling thereof with the external port, wherein the outer body radially covers a majority of the luer lock connection port BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1A is a front perspective view of an adaptor according to a first example of the presently disclosed subject matter along with a fluid transfer device disconnected from each other; Fig. 1B is a front perspective view of the adaptor and the fluid transfer device of Fig. 1A connected to each other; Fig. 1C is a cross-sectional view along line A-A in Fig. 1B, illustrating the adaptor in its decoupling disabled state; Fig. 2A is a side view of the adaptor of Fig. 1A along with a syringe and a syringe adaptor connected to each other, but disconnected from the adaptor; 36Fig. 2B is a cross-sectional view along line B-B in Fig. 2A; Fig. 2C is a side view of the adaptor, and the syringe and the syringe adaptor of Fig. 2A connected to each other as well as to the adaptor; Fig. 2D is a cross-sectional view along line C-C in Fig. 2C; Fig. 2E is an enlarged view of section A2 of Fig. 2D; Fig. 3A is a side view of the adaptor of Fig. 1A with its luer lock connection port extracted outside the adaptor for illustration purposes; Fig. 3B is a rear perspective view of the adaptor of Fig. 3A; Fig. 3C is a front perspective view of the adaptor of Fig. 3A; Fig. 3D is an enlarged view of section A3 of Fig. 3C; Fig. 3E is a top perspective view of the adaptor of Fig. 1A; Fig. 3F is a cross-sectional view along line D-D in Fig. 3E, illustrating the adaptor in its coupling disabled state; Fig. 3G is an enlarged view of section A4 of Fig. 3F; Fig. 3H is a cross-sectional view along line D-D in Fig. 3E illustrating the adaptor in its coupling enabled state; Fig. 3I is an enlarged view of section A5 of Fig. 3H; Fig. 4A is the same view as Fig. 1C illustrating the adaptor in its decoupling enabled state; Fig. 4B is an enlarged view of section A6 of Fig. 4A; Fig. 4C is an enlarged view of section A1 of Fig. 1C; Fig. 4D is a rear perspective view of the adaptor and the external device of Fig. 1B, illustrating the adaptor in its decoupling enabled state; Fig. 4E is a cross-sectional view along line E-E in Fig. 4D; Fig. 4F is an enlarged view of section A7 of Fig. 4E; 37Fig. 5A is a side perspective view of an adaptor according to a second example of the presently disclosed subject matter, in its decoupling disabled state; Fig. 5B is a cross-sectional view along line F-F in Fig. 5A, illustrating the adaptor with its luer lock connection port in its normal position; Fig. 5C is an enlarged view of section A8 of Fig. 5B; Fig. 5D is the same view as Fig. 5C, illustrating the adaptor with its luer lock connection port in its first position; Fig. 6A is a side perspective view of the adaptor of Fig. 1A; Fig. 6B is a cross-sectional view along line G-G in Fig. 6A; Fig. 6C is an enlarged view of section A9 of Fig. 6B; Fig. 6D is a front perspective view of the adaptor of Fig. 6A; Fig. 6E is cross-sectional view along line H-H in Fig. 6D; Fig. 7A is a side perspective view of an adaptor according to a third example of the presently disclosed subject matter; Fig. 7B is a cross-sectional view along line I-I in Fig. 7A; Fig. 7C is an enlarged view of section A10 of Fig. 7B; Fig. 7D is a front perspective view of the adaptor of Fig. 7A; and Fig. 7E is cross-sectional view along line J-J in Fig. 7D.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Attention is first directed to Figs. 1A-1C of the drawings illustrating an adaptor 1 according to one example of the presently disclosed subject matter, configured for connection with a fluid transfer device 300. The fluid transfer device 300 is a known in the art luer lock connection device comprising an external port 310 which is a female luer lock connection port.
The external port 310 comprises threads 320 configured to be threaded to corresponding threads of another luer lock connection port. The adaptor 1 comprises a connector 10 having a luer lock connection port 100 and an outer body 200. The adaptor further comprises a housing 3820 extending along a longitudinal axis X. In the illustrated example, the outer body 200 and the housing 20 are integrally formed, and eventually, the outer body 200 constitutes part of the housing 20. However, in some other examples (not shown), the outer body 200 and the housing can be separately manufactured and then connected to each other. In some examples, the housing 20 can be manufactured in more than two parts and then assembled together.
As shown in Figs. 1B and 1C, the connector 10 and the external port 310 are connected to each other, thereby connecting the adaptor 1 and the fluid transfer device 300 together. The connector 10 is a male luer lock connector configured to receive the corresponding external port 310, i.e, the female luer lock connector of the fluid transfer device 300. The luer lock connection port 100 of the connector 10 is positioned within the outer body 200 and has a longitudinal axis X, which is also the longitudinal axis of the adaptor 1. The luer lock connection port 100 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis X in either or both of a clockwise direction, represented by arrow R1 in Fig. 1A, and a counter-clockwise direction, represented by arrow R2 in Fig. 1A, prior to initiation of coupling with the fluid transfer device 300, as shown in Fig. 1A. The luer lock connection port 100 is so placed in the outer body 200, and the outer body 200 is so structured as shown in Figs. 1A-1C that an operator cannot access the luer lock connection port 100 through the outer body 200 directly by fingertips after the luer lock connection port 100 has been coupled to the external port 310. The luer lock connection port 100 is rotatable in the clockwise direction and the counter-clockwise direction upon coupling thereof with the fluid transfer device 300.
As the luer lock connection port 100 is configured to rotate within the outer body 200, thus, in order to couple and decouple the connector with or from the fluid transfer device 300, the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 needs to be restricted to enable the coupling and decoupling. The connector 10 comprises a coupling facilitating mechanism configured to assume a coupling enabled state to restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 in the clockwise direction to enable coupling of the connector 10 with the fluid transfer device 300, and a coupling disabled state in which it allows the rotation of the luer lock connection port in the clockwise direction, explained in detail later herein below with reference to Figs. 3A to 3I. The connector 10 further comprises a decoupling facilitating mechanism configured to assume a decoupling enabled state to restrict the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 in the counter-clockwise direction to enable decoupling of the connector 10 from the fluid transfer device 300, and a decoupling disabled state in which it allows the rotation of the luer lock connection port in the counter-clockwise direction, explained in detail later herein below with reference to Figs. 4A to 4F. 39It is to be understood herein that the directions clockwise and counter-clockwise have been referred to for the purposes of this description as being seen from the direction of the fluid transfer device 300 into the connector 10 along the longitudinal axis X.
Attention is now directed to Figs. 2A-2E of the drawings illustrating the adaptor 1 along with a syringe adaptor 400 and a syringe 500. Fig. 2A illustrates the syringe adaptor 400 and the syringe 500 connected to each other, and the adaptor 1 not connected to the syringe adaptor 400. The syringe 500 is a known in the art syringe used for drug mixing, and adapted to draw a desired volume of a drug from one container and to subsequently transfer the drug to a second container. The syringe 500 comprises a cylinder 510, a piston rod 520 having a cap 525, and a throat 530. The piston rod 520 extends from the cap 525 to a piston 540, which sealingly engages the inner wall of, and is displaceable with respect to, the cylinder 510. The piston 540 divides an internal volume of the cylinder 510 into two chambers having variable volumes defined by position of the piston 540 within the cylinder 510 - an air chamber 550 and a liquid chamber 560. The piston rod 520 has an internal volume 570, which is in fluid communication with the air chamber 550 through a hole 580 formed in the piston rod 510, thereby rendering the internal volume 570 a part of the air chamber 550. The syringe 500 further comprises an air needle 590 extending from the air chamber 550 to an exterior of the syringe via the throat 530.
The syringe adaptor 400 comprises a syringe adaptor body 410 having a neck 420 configured to be connected to the throat 530 of the syringe. In the illustrated example, the throat 530 is a male luer lock connector and the neck 420 is a female luer lock connector, and they are heat-welded to each other. The syringe adaptor body 410 further comprises flanges 430 configured to get locked with a corresponding element of the adaptor 1 when the syringe adaptor 400 is connected to the adaptor 1. The syringe adaptor 400 further comprises an internal locking arrangement 440 comprising leaves 450 configured to get locked with a corresponding element of the adaptor 1 when the syringe adaptor 400 is connected to the adaptor 1. The internal locking arrangement 440 defines an air duct 460 and a liquid duct 470, both the air duct 460 and the liquid duct 470 extending into a septum 480. The air duct 460 is configured to receive the tip of the air needle 590 when the syringe adaptor 400 is connected to the syringe 500 and is not connected to the adaptor 1, as shown in Fig. 2B. The syringe adaptor 400 further comprises a liquid needle 490 in fluid communication with the liquid chamber 560 via the neck 420 and the throat 530 when the syringe adaptor 400 is connected to the syringe 500, and extending from the neck 420 to the liquid duct 470 when the syringe adaptor 400 is not 40connected to the adaptor 1, as shown in Fig. 2B. In some examples (not shown), the liquid needle 490 can be a part of the syringe 500 extending therefrom.
The adaptor 1 comprises the housing 20 having on an external surface thereof, a notch 21 configured to receive and lock thereto the leaves 450 when the syringe adaptor 400 is connected to the adaptor 1. The housing 20 further comprises a lever 22 having a lever notch 23 configured to receive and lock thereto the flange 430 when the syringe adaptor 400 is connected to the adaptor 1. The housing 20 further comprises a first outlet 24 and the lever 22 comprises a lever button 25 positioned in the first outlet 24. The housing 20 further comprises a liquid channel 26 in fluid communication with the connector 10, and configured to receive therewithin the liquid needle 490 when the syringe adaptor 400 is connected to the adaptor 1.
The housing 20 further comprises an air channel 27 configured to receive therewithin the air needle 590 when the syringe adaptor 400, having the syringe 500 connected thereto, is connected to the adaptor 1. The housing 20 further comprises a second outlet 28. The adaptor 1 further comprises a septum 30 configured to engage with the septum 480 and configured to be punctured by the air needle 590 and the liquid needle 490 when the syringe adaptor 400, having the syringe 500 connected thereto, is connected to the adaptor 1. The adaptor 1 further comprises a first valve 40 in fluid communication with the air channel 27, and having a first valve open state at which it allows air in the air channel to escape into ambiance, and a first valve normally closed state, explained in detail later herein below with reference to Figs. 6A to 6E. The adaptor 1 further comprises a second valve 50 in fluid communication with the air channel 27, and having a second valve open state at which it allows air to enter into the air channel 27 from the ambiance, and a second valve normally closed state, explained in detail later herein below with reference to Figs. 6A to 6E.
When the adaptor 1 is connected to the syringe adaptor 400 having the syringe 500 connected thereto, as shown in Figs. 2C to 2E, the septum 30 engages with the septum 480 and pushes the septum 480 and the internal locking arrangement 440 towards the syringe 500, thereby causing the air needle 590 and the liquid needle 490 to puncture first the septum 480 and then the septum 30 so that the tips thereof enters into the air channel 27 and the liquid channel 26, respectively. Further, the leaves 450 engage and get locked with the notch 21, and the flange 430 engages and gets locked with the lever notch 23. When the adaptor 1 is to be disconnected from the syringe adaptor 400, the lever button 25 is pressed further into the first outlet 24, thereby releasing the flange 430 from the lever notch 23.
Thus, the adaptor 1 can facilitate connection between the female connector of the syringe adaptor 400 and the female external port 310 of the fluid transfer device 300, thereby 41facilitating the conversion of a standard female luer lock port of the fluid transfer device 300 into a docking port for safe connection with female connector of the syringe adaptor 400.
When an overpressure is generated in the syringe 500, it is then released into the ambiance through the first valve 40, as described in detail further below with reference to Fig. 6A to 6E. When an underpressure is generated in the syringe 500, it causes the operation of the second valve 50 to allow the air to enter from the ambiance into the air channel 27, as described in detail further below with reference to Fig. 6A to 6E. The syringe adaptor can be separated from the adaptor 1 by pressing the lever button 25 into the first outlet 24 thereby causing the lever notch 23 to disengage from the flange 430.
Reference is now made to Figs. 3A to 3I and 4A to 4F of the drawings in order to explain in detail the connector 10. Figs. 3A – 3D depict various views of the adaptor 1 with the connector 10 having the luer lock connection port 100 extracted from the outer body 200 along longitudinal axis X of the adaptor 1 for illustration purposes. The luer lock connection port 100 is a male luer lock connection port comprising an elongate central member 110, extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis X. The elongate central member 110 has a front portion 110A, a middle portion 110B, and a rear portion 110C. The luer lock connection port 100 further comprises a collar 120 surrounding the middle portion 110B of the elongate central member 110. The collar 120 has a side wall 121 constituting the side wall of the luer lock connection port 100 and extending generally parallel to the elongate central member 110, and a back wall 122 constituting the back wall of the luer lock connection port 100 extending from and generally perpendicular to the elongate central member 110. The length of the collar 120 in a direction along the longitudinal axis X, i.e., the length of the side wall 121 of the collar 120, designated as L1 (shown in Fig. 3A), ranges between 5.4 mm to 8 mm. In the illustrated example, the elongate central member 110 and the collar 120 are integrally formed. However, in other examples (not shown), the elongate central member 110 and the collar 120 can be separately manufactured and then assembled together. The side wall 121 has an internal surface 121A facing the elongate central member 110, and an opposite external surface 121B. The internal surface 121A comprises threads 123 configured to be threaded to the corresponding threads 320 of the fluid transfer device 300 when the fluid transfer device 300 is coupled with the luer lock connection port 100. As can be best seen in Fig. 1C, the threads 123 are in threaded engagement with the threads 320, thereby coupling the fluid transfer device 300 with the luer lock connection port 100, and the external port 310 of the fluid transfer device 300 is received between the elongate central member 110 and the collar 120 such that the collar 120 is positioned between the external port 310 and the outer body 200. The external surface 121B 42comprises a plurality of protrusions 124 protruding outwardly from the external surface 121B.
Each of the protrusions 124 has a first side surface 124A and a second side surface 124B defining therebetween a thickness of the protrusion 124 in a direction parallel to circumference of the sidewall 121. The protrusions 124 comprise a connecting member 124C connecting the protrusions 124 with each other along the external surface 121B. In other examples, the external surface 121B can comprise a single protrusion 124.
The back wall 122 has an internal surface 122A (as best seen in Figs. 3F and 3G) facing in a direction from which the fluid transfer device 300 is coupled to the connector 10, and an opposite external surface 122B. The external surface 122B comprises a plurality of locking members 125 protruding therefrom. In other examples, the external surface 122B can comprise only one locking member 125. Each of the locking members 125 has a locking surface 125A extending generally perpendicular to the external surface 122B as well as to the elongate central member 110, and having an edge 125B distal to the external surface 122B. In other examples, the locking surface 125A can extend at an angle, other than being perpendicular, with respect to either or both of the external surface 122B and to the elongate central member 110. The locking surface 125A faces towards the clockwise direction of rotation of the luer lock connection port 100. The locking member 125 further comprises a slope 125C extending from the edge 125B to the external surface 122B in the counter-clockwise direction of rotation of the luer lock connection port 100. The slope 125C, in the illustrated example, has a gradient slope, however, in other examples, the slope 125C can be a plain slope.
The outer body 200 comprises a side wall 210 corresponding to, and extending generally parallel to, the side wall 121 of the luer lock connection port 100, and a back wall 220 (as best seen in Fig. 3G) corresponding to, and extending generally parallel to, the back wall 122 of the luer lock connection port 100. The back wall 220 has an internal surface 220A (seen in Fig. 3G) facing the luer lock connection port 100 and an opposite external surface 220B. As shown in Fig. 4B, the back wall 220 further comprises a through-hole 221 in fluid communication with the liquid channel 26. The outer body 200 comprises a central member 230 extending from the internal surface 220A in a direction generally parallel to the side wall 210. The central member 230 receives therewithin the rear portion 110C of the elongate central member 110 of the luer lock connection port 100, such that the elongate central member 110 is in fluid communication with the liquid channel 26 via the through-hole 221. The central member 230 has a rim 231 (seen in Figs. 3C and 3D) generally facing the back wall 122 of the luer lock connection port 100. As shown in Fig. 3D, the rim 231 comprises a rim surface 231A extending parallel to the external surface 122B of the back wall 122 of the luer lock connection 43port 100, and has a plurality of arresting members 232 protruding therefrom. In other examples, the rim 231 can comprise only one arresting member 232. Each of the arresting members 232 has an arresting surface 232A extending generally parallel to the locking surface 125A, and having an edge 232B distal to the rim surface 231A. The arresting surface 232A faces towards the counter-clockwise direction of rotation of the luer lock connection port 100. The arresting member 232 further comprises a ramp 232C extending from the edge 232B to the rim surface 231A in the clockwise direction of rotation of the luer lock connection port 100. In the illustrated example, the arresting member 232 is connected to the internal surface 210A of the side wall 210 of the outer body 200 via a bridge 232D. In other examples, the adaptor 1 may not comprise the bridge 232D.
The ramp 232C, in the illustrated example, has a gradient slope, however, in other examples, the ramp 232C can have a plain slope The locking members 125 and the arresting members 232 constitute a coupling facilitating mechanism according to the illustrated example of the presently disclosed subject matter. The coupling facilitating mechanism is configured to selectively assume a coupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 at least in the clockwise direction R1, and a coupling disabled state at which it allows the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction R1. When the coupling facilitating mechanism is at the coupling disabled state, as shown in Fig. 1A, upon actuation by an operator that applies a pushing force on the luer lock connection port 100, the coupling facilitating mechanism is configured to assume a coupling enabled state.
The side wall 210 of the outer body 200 has an internal surface 210A facing the central member 230, and an opposite external surface 210B. The side wall 210 further comprises an opening 211 extending between the internal surface 210A and the external surface 210B. The opening 211 has a rim 212 (seen in Fig. 4B) having an internal surface 212A facing the luer lock connection port 100 and coinciding with the internal surface 210A, and an opposite external surface 212B coinciding with the external surface 210B. The connector 10 further comprises an actuator 240 positioned at least partially in the opening 211. In the illustrated example, the actuator 240 has been shown as being formed with the housing 20. However, in other examples, the actuator 240 can be formed with or connected to the outer body 200, for example at the side wall 210, the back wall 220, or the rim of the opening 211. The actuator 240 has an internal surface 240A facing and extending parallel to the luer lock connection port 100, and an opposite external surface 240B. The actuator 240 is formed in two portions, a first portion 241 extending from the housing 20, and a second portion 242 extending from the first portion 241. The first portion 241 and the second portion 242 constitute a lever configured to 44be pivoted in and out of the opening 211 along a connection between either the first portion 241 and the housing 20 or the first portion 241 and the second portion 242. The internal surface 240A comprises a tooth 243 having a first side surface 243A extending perpendicular to the luer lock connection port 100 and parallel to the first and the second side surfaces 124A and 124B of the protrusions 124, and an opposite second side surface (not shown). The actuator 240 and the protrusions 124 constitute a decoupling facilitating mechanism according to the illustrated example of the presently disclosed subject matter. The decoupling facilitating mechanism is configured to selectively assume a decoupling disabled state at which it allows rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 about the longitudinal axis X at least in the counter-clockwise direction R2, and a decoupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 at least in the counter-clockwise direction R2 so as to allow decoupling of the external port from the luer lock connection port. The decoupling facilitating mechanism is configured to be at the decoupling disabled state, as shown in Fig. 4C, assume, upon actuation by an operator, a decoupling enabled state when the decoupling is to be done, as shown in Fig. 4B. Thus, the decoupling facilitating mechanism needs to be kept in the decoupling enabled state only during the decoupling is under process.
In the illustrated example, the adaptor 1 further comprises an O-ring 250 positioned between the rear portion 110C of the elongate central member 110 of the luer lock connection port 100 and the central member 230 facilitating an efficient fitting of the rear portion 110C of the elongate central member 110 within the central member 230. In other examples, the adaptor 1 may not comprise the O-ring 250.
Reference is now made again to Figs. 3A to 3I in order to explain coupling of the connector 10 to the fluid transfer device 300. As can be best seen in Figs. 3F and 3G, the luer lock connection port 100 is within the outer body 200 such that the locking member 125 does not engage with the arresting member 232 and the coupling facilitating mechanism is in its coupling disabled state. At this state, the luer lock connection port 100 is at its first normal position along the longitudinal axis X, within the outer body 200, and can freely rotate about the longitudinal axis in both the clockwise as well as counterclockwise direction. At the first normal position of the luer lock connection port 100, a proximal end 100A is a first extent E1 within the outer body 200 from a proximal end 200A of the outer body 200, as can be best seen in Fig. 3F. As the luer lock connection port 100 can rotate freely at this position, no external element can thus be threaded to the threads 123 of the luer lock connection port 100 unless the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 is restricted at least in the direction of the threading, which in the illustrated example is clockwise. When the fluid transfer device 300 is 45to be coupled to the connector 10, the coupling facilitating mechanism needs to be displaced into its coupling enabled state. The luer lock connection port 100 is pushed further inside the outer body 200 along the longitudinal axis X, as can be best seen in Figs. 3H and 3I, for example by force applied by the fluid transfer device 300, when an operator pushes the same for coupling it with the connector 10, along the longitudinal axis X during coupling. As shown in Figs. 3H and 3I, the luer lock connection port 100 is in its second pushed position along the longitudinal axis X, within the outer body 200, and the locking member 125 engages with the arresting member 232 such that the rotation of the luer lock connection port is restricted in the clockwise direction, and thus the coupling facilitating mechanism is in its coupling enabled state, thereby enabling the coupling of the connector 10 with the fluid transfer device 300, for example. At the second pushed position of the luer lock connection port 100, the proximal end 100A is a second extent E2, greater than the first extent E1, within the outer body 200 from a proximal end 200A of the outer body 200, as can be best seen in Fig. 3H. At this state, as the luer lock connection port 100 cannot rotate in the clockwise direction, thus threads of an external port, for example that of the fluid transfer device 300, can be threaded onto the threads 123 of the luer lock connection port thereby coupling the same with the connector 10. As can be seen in Fig. 3I, at the coupling enabled state, the locking surface 125A engages with the arresting surface 232A thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 in the clockwise direction. The slope 125C engages with the ramp 232C, and the inclination of the slope 125C and the ramp 232C allows the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 in the counter-clockwise direction. In other examples, the coupling facilitating mechanism can have any other structure capable of achieving the similar purpose of restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 with respect to the outer body 200 at least in the direction of threading.
Reference is now made again to Figs. 1C and 4A to 4F in order to explain decoupling of the connector 10 from the fluid transfer device 300. As can be seen in Figs. 1C and 4C the fluid transfer device 300 is coupled to the connector 10 and the actuator 240 is not pressed, and thus the decoupling facilitating mechanism is in its decoupling disabled state. At the decoupling disabled state of the decoupling facilitating mechanism, the luer lock connection port 100 can rotate freely at least in the direction of unthreading, which in the illustrated example is counter­ clockwise. When the fluid transfer device 300, while being coupled to the connector 10, is rotated in the counter-clockwise direction, the luer lock connection port 100 rotate therewith thereby preventing the decoupling of the fluid transfer device 300 from the connector 10. For decoupling to take place, the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 needs to be restricted 46in the counter-clockwise direction. However, as can be seen in Figs. 1A to 1C and 4A to 4F, there is no enough space in the opening 211 around the actuator 240 for an average (or even smaller than the average) sized fingertip of an operator (or even a child) to be inserted, thus, the outer body 200 prevents an operator from directly accessing by fingertips the luer lock connection port 100, thus, the operator needs to indirectly access the luer lock connection port 100 facilitated by the actuator 240 in conjunction with the opening 211. Thus, when the fluid transfer device 300 is to be decoupled from the connector 10, the actuator 240 is pressed into the opening 211. As can be best seen in Fig. 4A and 4D to 4F, when the actuator 240 is pressed (by the operator) with a pressing force, the tooth 243 engages with the protrusion 124 thereby shifting the decoupling facilitating mechanism into its decoupling enabled state. As shown in Fig. 4F, the first side surface 243A of the tooth 243 engages with the second side surface 124B of the protrusion 124, thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 in the counter-clockwise direction. At this state of the decoupling facilitating mechanism, when the fluid transfer device 300 is rotated counter-clockwise, the luer lock connection port 100 does not rotate therewith, thereby enabling decoupling of the fluid transfer device 300 from the connector 10 by rotation of the fluid transfer device 300 in the counter-clockwise direction by the operator. The actuator 240 returns to its original not-pressed state upon removal of the pressing force by the operator. In other examples, the coupling facilitating mechanism can have any other structure capable of achieving the similar purpose of restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100 with respect to the outer body 200 at least in the direction of unthreading.
As can be seen in Figs. 4A and 4B, at the decoupling enabled state, the actuator 240 is sunk into the opening 211 such that a minimal distance D1 between the external surface 240B of the actuator 240 and the longitudinal axis X is less than a minimum distance D2 between the external surface 212B of the rim 212 of the opening 211 and the longitudinal axis X. In other words, at the decoupling enabled state, the external surface 240B of the actuator 240 lies below an imaginary plane extending over the opening 211, and defined by, and/or comprising, the external surface 212B of the rim 212.
As can be seen in Fig. 4C, at the decoupling disabled state, i.e., when the actuator 240 is not pressed, the external surface 240B, or at least a majority thereof, of the actuator 240 lies below an imaginary plane parallel to the outer body 200 and comprising a portion of the external surface 210B farthest from the longitudinal axis, for example, the portion 210BB as shown in Fig. 4C. In other words, a maximum distance D3 between the external surface 210B and the longitudinal axis X is greater than a maximum distance D4 between the external surface 47240B and the longitudinal axis X. Such a configuration of the actuator with the outer body 200 renders the actuator as a hidden button, inasmuch as an operator would not even presume the actuator 240 to be an element equipped to facilitate the decoupling of the fluid transfer device 300 from the connector 10.
It is to be understood herein that though drawings illustrate two openings 211 and two corresponding actuators 240, only one opening 211 and one actuator 240 have been described herein for the ease of understanding, and the other ones operate in the same manner as to the ones described herein. In fact, both the actuators 240 can be used together, from opposite sides of the connector 10, to improve the efficiency of the decoupling facilitating mechanism by more effectively restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port 100.
Further, as can be in Figs. 1A to 1C, 2A to 2E, 3A to 3I, and 4A to 4F, the outer body 200 radially covers the majority of the luer lock connection port 100, or at least the side wall 121 thereof. An operator can not access, without the use of the decoupling facilitating mechanism, or directly by fingertips, the luer lock connection port 100 so as to restrict its rotation in any direction to facilitate coupling or decoupling of the connector 10 to or from the fluid transfer device 300. In other examples, the outer body 200 can have a plurality of openings or through holes on the side wall 210 thereof, to radially cover at least 90 percent, or at least 80 percent, or at least 70 percent, or at least 60 percent, or at least 50 percent of the luer lock connection port 100, or at least the side wall 121 thereof. However, each one of such openings would have at least one dimension smaller than an average diameter of a fingertip of a child.
For instance, the average diameter of the fingertips of a child of about 3-10 years of age is approximately 10-12 mm. Thus, in some examples, every opening would have at least one dimension smaller than 10 mm. Such a configuration of the outer body 200 with the luer lock connection port 100 renders the connector 10 to be a tamper proof connection, i.e., direct access to the luer lock connection port 100 through the outer body 200 by fingertips is prevented, at least after the connector 10 has been coupled to the fluid transfer device 300.
Attention is now directed to Figs. 5A-5D of the drawings illustrating an adaptor 1’ according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter. The adaptor 1’ has at least some of the elements corresponding to those of the adaptor 1 as described above, and have been depicted by corresponding reference numerals for ease of understanding. Additionally, the adaptor 1’ comprises a bump 240C formed on the external surface 240B’ of the actuator 240’. The bump 240C gives the actuator 240’ a look and feel of an actual button, unlike the hidden button as that of actuator 240 as described above. Further, as shown in Fig. 5C, the tooth 243’ is so formed and positioned on the internal surface 240A’ of the actuator 240’ that 48when the luer lock connection port 100’ is in its first normal position along the longitudinal axis X’, the tooth 243’ is vertically aligned above the connecting member 124C’. At this position of the luer lock connection port 100’, the connecting member 124C’ prevents the actuator 240’ from being pressed and thereby preventing the decoupling facilitating mechanism to attain its decoupling enabled state. In order to displace the decoupling facilitating mechanism to attain its decoupling enabled state, i.e., to press the actuator 240’, it is necessary to pull the luer lock connection port 100’ into its first position along the longitudinal axis X’, as shown in Fig. 5D. In this position of the luer lock connection port 100’, the connecting member 124C’ displaces from under the tooth 243’ and thus, the actuator 240’ can be pressed for the decoupling facilitating mechanism to attain its decoupling enabled state. The luer lock connection port 100’ can be pulled along the longitudinal axis X’ into its first position by a pulling force applied by an operator pulling the fluid transfer device 300, when coupled to the adaptor 1’.
Attention is now directed to Figs. 6A-6E of the drawings illustrating the adaptor 1 which has been briefly described in connection with Figs. 1A to 1C, 2A to 2E, 3A to 3I, and 4A to 4F, configured for connection to the syringe 500 via the syringe adaptor 400, as described in connection with Figs. 2A to 2E. The adaptor 1 is configured to solve the problem of overpressure and underpressure in the syringe 500, which may arise in the syringe 500. The adaptor 1 comprises the first valve 40 positioned within the housing 20 and in fluid communication with the first outlet 24. The first valve 40 comprises a first valve seat 41 having a first valve seat opening 42 formed therein. The first valve seat 41 has a first surface 41A facing the first outlet 24 and an opposite second surface 41B, and the first valve seat opening 42 extends between the first surface 41A and the second surface 41B. The adaptor 1 comprises a first fluid path extending between the air channel 27 and the first outlet 24. The first fluid path passes through the first valve seat opening 42 and is selectively sealable by the first valve 40 at the first valve seat opening 42. The first valve 40 further comprises a first valve sealing member 43 having a central portion 44 and a skirt portion 45 extending radially outwards therefrom. The first valve sealing member 43 has a first surface 43A facing the first outlet 24, and an opposite second surface 43B facing the first valve seat 41. The portion of the second surface 43B corresponding to the central portion 44 comprises flanges 46. The first valve 40 further comprises a rigid central member 47 positioned in the first valve seat opening 42, having a first end 47A and a second end 47B. The portion of the second surface 43B of the first valve sealing member 43 corresponding to the central portion 44 is attached to the first end 47A of 49the rigid central member 47 via flanges 46. The rigid central member 47 comprises bridges 47C (seen in Fig. 6E) connecting the rigid central member 47 to the first valve seat 41.
The adaptor 1 further comprises the second valve 50 positioned within the housing 20 and in fluid communication with the second outlet 28. The second outlet 28 is defined by the opening 211 formed in the side wall 210 of the outer body 200. The second valve 50 comprises a second valve seat 51 having a second valve seat opening 52 formed therein. The second valve seat 51 has a first surface 51A facing the first valve seat 41, and an opposite second surface 51B, and the second valve seat opening 52 extends between the first surface 51A and the second surface 51B. In the illustrated embodiment, the second surface 51B of the second valve seat 51 forms a portion of an internal surface 26A of the liquid channel 26. The adaptor 1 comprises a second fluid path extending between the air channel 27 and the second outlet 28. The first fluid path passes through the second valve seat opening 52 and is selectively sealable by the second valve 50 at the second valve seat opening 52. The second valve 50 further comprises a second valve sealing member 53 having a central portion 54 and a skirt portion 55 extending radially outwards therefrom. The second valve sealing member 53 has a first surface 53A facing the first valve seat 41, and an opposite second surface 53B facing the second valve seat 51. The second end 47B of the of the rigid central member 47 rests on the central portion 54 of the second valve sealing member 53.
As can be seen in Figs. 6B and 6C, the first valve 40 is normally at its first valve normally closed state, and a rim 45A of the skirt portion 45 rests on the first surface 41A of the first valve seat 41, thereby sealing the first valve seat opening 42, i.e., not allowing air flow between the air channel 27 and the first outlet 24. When an overpressure is created in the air channel 27, as described above with reference to Figs. 2A – 2E, the air pressure within the air channel 27 exerts force on the second surface 43B of the first valve sealing member 43 via the first valve seat opening 42. When the air pressure within the air channel 27 exceeds a first predetermined threshold (e.g., having a value of 0.5 bar), the force applied thereby on the second surface 43B causes the rim 45A of the skirt portion 45 to automatically lift up from the first surface 41A of the first valve seat 41 thereby displacing the first valve 40 into its first valve open state and unsealing the first valve seat opening 42. At this first valve open state of the first valve 40, the air flows from the air channel 27 through the first valve seat opening 42 and escapes in the ambiance via the first outlet 24, thereby releasing the overpressure from the air channel 27. When the air pressure being released from the air channel 27 falls below the first predetermined threshold, the rim 45A again returns to its original position thereby automatically displacing the first valve 40 into its first valve normally closed state. It is to be 50understood herein that the first predetermined threshold is greater than the ambient pressure for the air to flow from the air channel 27 into the ambiance. Further, the skirt portion 45 of the first valve sealing member 43 is a resilient member, whose resilience, along with its geometry and the parts surrounding it, is selected on the basis of the first predetermined threshold, which further depends on how much pressure is intended to be a maximum pressure that can be built within the air channel 27 before being released into the ambiance.
As further shown in Figs. 6C and 6E, the second valve 50 is normally at its second valve normally closed state, and a rim 55A of the skirt portion 55 rests on the first surface 51A of the second valve seat 51, thereby sealing the second valve seat opening 52, i.e., not allowing air flow between the air channel 27 and the second outlet 28. The air pressure within the air channel 27 exerts force on the first surface 53A of the second valve sealing member 53 against the force applied by the ambient pressure on the second surface 53B of the second valve sealing member 53 via the second outlet 28, an air filter 56, and the second valve seat opening 52, thereby keeping the rim 55A engaged with the first surface 51A of the second valve seat 51.
When an underpressure is created in the air channel 27 and the air pressure within the air channel 27 falls below a second predetermined threshold (e.g., having a value of 0.2 bar), the force applied by the ambient pressure on the second surface 53B of the second valve sealing member 53 activates the second valve 50, thereby causing the rim 55A of the skirt portion 55 to automatically lift up from the first surface 51A of the second valve seat 51 thereby displacing the second valve 50 into its second valve open state and unsealing the second valve seat opening 52. At this second valve open state of the second valve 50, the air flows from the ambiance into the air channel 27 through the second outlet 28, the filter 56 and the second valve seat opening 52, thereby balancing the underpressure created in the air channel 27. When the air pressure in the air channel 27 rises above the second predetermined threshold, the rim 55A returns to its original position thereby automatically displacing the second valve 50 into its second valve normally closed state. It is to be understood herein that the second predetermined threshold is lesser than the ambient pressure for the air to flow from the ambiance into the air channel 27.
Further, the skirt portion 55 of the second valve sealing member 53 is a resilient member, whose resilience, along with its geometry and the parts surrounding it, is selected on the basis of the second predetermined threshold, which further depends on how much pressure is intended to be a minimum pressure that can be allowed within the air channel 27 before being balanced from the ambiance.
It is to be understood herein that when the pressure within the air channel 27 is between the first predetermined threshold and the second threshold pressure, both the first 51valve 40 and the second valve 50 are in their respective closed states. In particular, when the pressure within the air channel 27 is equal to the ambient pressure, both the first valve 40 and the second valve 50 are in their respective closed states.
It is to be further understood herein that at the first valve open state, the second valve 50 remains in its second valve normally closed state, and at the second valve open state, the first valve 40 remains at its first valve normally closed state.
Attention is now directed to Figs. 7A-7E of the drawings illustrating an adaptor 1’’ according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter, configured for connection to the syringe 500 via the syringe adaptor 400. The adaptor 1’’ has at least some of the elements corresponding to those of the adaptor 1 as described above, and have been depicted by corresponding reference numerals for ease of understanding. Alternative to the first valve 40 and the second valve 50 as of the adaptor 1, the adaptor 1’’ comprises a valve arrangement 60 in fluid communication with the ambiance via the first outlet 24’’ as well as the second outlet 28’’. The valve arrangement 60 is a dual function valve configured to perform the functioning of both of the first valve 40 and the second valve 50. For instance, the adaptor 1’’ is configured to solve the problem of overpressure and underpressure in the syringe 500, which may arise in the syringe 500, in that, the valve arrangement 60 is configured to facilitate escape of air from within the valve arrangement 60 to the ambiance in case of overpressure, and to facilitate entry of air from the ambiance into the valve arrangement 60 in case of underpressure.
The valve arrangement 60 comprises a first valve seat 61 having a first valve seat opening 62. The first valve seat 61 has a first surface 61A facing the outlet 24’’ and an opposite second surface 61B, and the first valve seat opening 62 extends between the first surface 61A and the second surface 61B. The valve arrangement further comprises a second valve seat 71 having a second valve seat opening 72. The second valve seat 71 has a first surface 71A facing the first valve seat 61 and an opposite second surface 71B, and the second valve seat opening 72 extends between the first surface 71A and the second surface 71B. The valve arrangement 60 further comprises a sealing member 63 including a central member 64 extending between the first valve seat 61 and the second valve seat 71. The central member 64 has a first end 65 positioned towards the first valve seat 61 and having a face 65A, facing the second surface 61B of the first valve seat 61, constituting a sealing member first portion. The central member 64 has an opposite second end 66 positioned towards the second valve seat 71 and having a face 66A facing the first surface 71A of the second valve seat 71. The sealing member 63 comprises a resilient skirt portion 67 diverging from a periphery of the second end 66 towards the first 52surface 71A of the second valve seat 71. The skirt portion 67 extends between a first rim 68 connected to the second end 66 of the central member 64, and a second rim 69 constituting a sealing member second portion. The skirt portion 67 has a first surface 67A facing the first valve seat 61 and an opposite second surface 67B facing the second valve seat 71. The first surface 71A of the second valve seat 71 comprises a protrusion 73 corresponding to a groove 66B formed in the face 66A of the second end 66 of the central member 64. The sealing member 63 is so positioned in the valve arrangement 60 that the groove 66B securely receives therewithin the protrusion 73 to prevent movement of the sealing member 63 in a plane parallel to the first and the second valve seats 61 and 71. The valve arrangement 60 further comprises a side wall 70 extending from the first valve seat 61 to the second valve seat 71. The valve arrangement 60 can be in fluid communication with a fluid transfer system where pressure needs to be maintained within a range via the side wall 70, for example the air channel 27’’ in the illustrated example. However, in other examples, the valve arrangement 60 can be used to serve similar purposes in conjunction with fluid transfer systems not related to medical systems.
As can be seen in Figs. 7C and 7D, the valve arrangement 60 is normally at its normal fully closed state. The sealing member first portion 65A engages with the second surface 61B of the first valve seat 61, thereby sealing the first valve seat opening 62. Also, the sealing member second portion 69 engages with the first surface 71A of the second valve seat, thereby sealing the second valve seat opening 72. At this state, there is a gap G between the face 66A and the first surface 71A of the second valve seat 71. Further, at this normal fully closed state, the volume V defined between the second surface 61B of the first valve seat 61, the sealing member 63, the first surface 71A of the second valve seat 71, and the side wall 70 defines the volume within the valve arrangement 60.
When an overpressure is created in the volume V, the air pressure within the valve arrangement exerts force on the first surface 67A of the skirt portion 67 of the sealing member 63. When the air pressure within the valve arrangement 60 exceeds a first predetermined threshold, the force applied thereby on the first surface 67A causes the first rim 68 of the skirt portion 67 flexes towards the second valve seat 71 such that the face 66A of the second end 66 of the central member 64 flexes into the gap G towards the first surface 71A of the second valve seat 71. This causes the sealing member first portion 65A to disengage from the second surface 61B of the first valve seat 61, thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening 62 and automatically displacing the valve arrangement 60 into its first valve open state. At this first valve open state, the air flows from the volume V through the first valve seat opening 62 and 53escapes into the ambiance via the first outlet 24’’, thereby releasing the overpressure from the valve arrangement 60. When the air pressure being released from the valve arrangement 60 falls below the first predetermined threshold, the first rim 68 of the skirt portion 67 flexes back to its normal position thereby automatically displacing the valve arrangement 60 into its normal fully closed state. It is to be understood herein that the first predetermined threshold is greater than the ambient pressure for the air to flow from the valve arrangement 60 into the ambiance, and is selected based on how much pressure is intended to be a maximum pressure that can be built within the valve arrangement 60 before being released into the ambiance.
At the normal fully closed state of the valve arrangement 60, the air pressure within the valve arrangement 60 exerts force on the first surface 67A of the skirt portion 67 against the force applied by the ambient pressure on the second surface 67B of the skirt portion 67 via the second outlet 28’’, an air filter 56’’, and the second valve seat opening 72, thereby keeping the sealing member second portion 69 engaged with the first surface 71A of the second valve seat 71.
When an underpressure is created in the volume V, the force applied by the air pressure within the valve arrangement 60 on the first surface 67A of the skirt portion 67 decreases. When the air pressure within the valve arrangement 60 falls below a second predetermined threshold, the sealing member second portion 69 automatically lifts up from the first surface 71A of the second valve seat 71, thereby displacing the valve arrangement 60 into its second valve open state and unsealing the second valve seat opening 72. At this second valve open state, the air enters from the ambiance into the volume V via the second outlet 28’’, thereby balancing the underpressure created in the valve arrangement 60. When the air pressure in the valve arrangement 60 rises above the second predetermined threshold, the sealing member second portion 59 returns to its original position thereby automatically displacing the valve arrangement 60 into its normal fully closed state. It is to be understood herein that the second predetermined threshold is lesser than the ambient pressure for the air to flow from the ambiance into the valve arrangement 60, and is selected based on how much pressure is intended to be a minimum pressure that can be allowed within the valve arrangement 60 before being balanced from the ambiance.
It is to be understood herein that when the pressure within the valve arrangement 60 is between the first predetermined threshold and the second threshold pressure, the valve arrangement 60 is in its fully closed state. In particular, when the pressure within the valve arrangement 60 is equal to the ambient pressure, the valve arrangement 60 is in its fully closed state. 54It is to be further understood that the resilience of the skirt portion 67 is selected based on the first predetermined threshold and the second predetermined threshold. It is to be further understood herein that at the first valve open state of the valve arrangement 60, the sealing member second portion 69 seals the second valve seat opening 72, and at the second valve open state, the sealing member first portion 65A seals the first valve seat opening 62.
The valve arrangement 60 as described above can be used with any fluid transfer apparatus that requires an air pressure to be maintained within a range. Also, the valve arrangement 60 as described above can be used with the adaptor 1 as described above with reference to Figs. 6A to 6D, wherein the first valve 40 and second valve 50 can be realized as the valve arrangement 60, with the sealing members 43 and 53 being configured as a single common sealing member, such as sealing member 63.
It should be understood herein that the application of the dual function valve 60 is advantageous over application of two valves 40 and 50, in that, a single sealing member needs to be manufactured and assembled instead of two separate sealing members. Further, the single valve arrangement occupies lesser space than the two separate valves within the housing of the adaptor. 55

Claims (103)

1. A connector for connection with a fluid transfer device, said connector comprising: an outer body having a longitudinal axis; and a luer lock connection port positioned within the outer body and configured to be coupled with an external port of said fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable about the longitudinal axis at least in one of a clockwise direction and a counter­ clockwise direction at least prior to initiation of coupling thereof with the external port; wherein the outer body is structured, and the luer lock connection port is positioned therewithin, such that to prevent an operator to access, through the outer body, directly by fingertips an exterior of the luer lock connection port after the luer lock connection port has been coupled with the external port.
2. The connector according to Claim 1, wherein the luer lock connection port is rotatable about the longitudinal axis in both of the clockwise direction and the counter-clockwise direction at least prior to the initiation of coupling thereof with the external port.
3. The connector according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the luer lock connection port is rotatable about the longitudinal axis in both of the clockwise direction and the counter­ clockwise direction upon coupling thereof with the external port.
4. The connector according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, further comprising a coupling facilitating mechanism configured to selectively assume a coupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction, and a coupling disabled state at which it allows the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction.
5. The connector according to Claim 4, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism is configured to assume the coupling enabled state at least during the time when coupling of the luer lock connection port with the external port is under process.
6. The connector according to Claim 4 or 5, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism, in its coupling enabled state, is configured to allow rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis in a counter-clockwise direction.
7. The connector according to any one of Claims 4 to 6, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism, in its coupling disabled state, is configured to allow rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis in a counter-clockwise direction.
8. The connector according to any one of Claims 4 to 7, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to axially displace along the longitudinal axis between a first position associated with the coupling disabled state, and a second position associated with the coupling enabled state.
9. The connector according to Claim 8, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to freely displace from the first position to the second position upon application of a pushing force by the external port during the coupling.
10. The connector according to Claim 8 or 9, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism comprises at least one locking member mounted on an external surface of the luer lock connection port and at least one arresting member mounted on an internal surface of the outer body, wherein at the second position, the locking member engages with the arresting member thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction.
11. The connector according to Claim 10, wherein at the first position, the locking member disengages from the arresting member.
12. The connector according to any one of Claims 4 to 11, further comprising a decoupling facilitating mechanism configured to selectively assume a decoupling disabled state at which it allows rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis thereof at least in a counter-clockwise direction, and a decoupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction so as to allow decoupling of the external port from the luer lock connection port.
13. The connector according to Claim 12, wherein the outer body comprises a side wall with at least one opening formed therein and configured to be used in conjunction with said 57decoupling facilitating mechanism so as to provide access to an external surface of the luer lock connection port at least at said decoupling enabled state.
14. The connector according to Claim 13, wherein the decoupling facilitating mechanism comprises an actuator at least partially positioned in the opening, the actuator having an actuator internal surface facing the luer lock connection port and an opposite actuator external surface, the decoupling facilitating mechanism being configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon application of a pressing force on the actuator, and the decoupling disabled state upon removal of said force.
15. The connector according to Claim 14, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the actuator external surface is lesser than a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and an external surface of a rim of the opening.
16. The connector according to Claim 14 or 15, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, at least a majority of the actuator external surface is positioned below an imaginary surface defined by a rim of the opening.
17. The connector according to any one of Claims 14 to 16, wherein the actuator has a first portion extending from the outer body, and a second portion extending from the first portion, wherein the first portion forms a part of the outer body.
18. The connector according to Claim 17, wherein the first portion and the second portion constitute a lever.
19. The connector according to any one of Claims 14 to 18, wherein the decoupling mechanism comprises a first engaging portion formed on an external surface of the luer lock connection port, and a second engaging portion formed on the actuator internal surface, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, the first engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction.
20. The connector according to Claim 19, wherein at the decoupling disabled state, the first engaging portion disengages from the second engaging portion.
21. The connector according to Claim 19 or 20, wherein the first engaging portion comprises at least one protrusion formed on the external surface of the luer lock connection port, and the second engaging portion comprises at least one tooth projecting from the actuator internal surface, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, the at least one tooth engages with the at least one protrusion thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction.
22. The connector according to Claim 21, wherein at the decoupling disabled state, the at least one tooth disengages from the at least one protrusion.
23. The connector according to any one of Claims 7 to 22, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to axially displace along the longitudinal axis into a third position in a direction opposite to that of the second position with respect to the first position, and the third position can be any position between the first position and the second position, and in particular, the first position.
24. The connector according to Claim 23, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to freely displace from the first position to the third position upon application of a pulling force during decoupling the external port from the luer lock connection port.
25. The connector according to Claim 23 or 24, wherein the decoupling facilitating mechanism is configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon the luer lock connection port displacing into the third position.
26. The connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the luer lock connection port is a male luer lock connection port comprising an elongate central member and a collar surrounding the elongate central member, wherein the male luer lock connection port is configured to be coupled to the external port by threadingly receiving the external port between the collar and the elongate central member, such that upon coupling, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body.
27. The connector according to Claim 26, wherein the collar extends parallel to the elongate central member, and a length of the collar ranges between 5.4 mm to 8 mm.
28. The connector according to Claim 27, wherein the outer body covers at least a majority of the collar.
29. The connector according to any one of Claims 26 to 28, wherein the collar and the elongate central member are integrally formed.
30. The connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of the luer lock connection port.
31. The connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of the luer lock connection port.
32. The connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port.
33. The connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port.
34. An adaptor configured for use in medical fluid transfer devices, the adaptor comprising the connector according to any one of the preceding claims.
35. The adaptor according to Claim 34, the adaptor comprising a septum positioned at a distal end thereof configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe therethrough.
36. The adaptor according to Claim 34 or 35, wherein the connector constitutes a proximal portion of the adaptor.
37. A connector for connection with a fluid transfer device, said connector comprising: a luer lock connection port configured to be coupled with an external port of said fluid transfer device; an outer body covering at least a portion of the luer lock connection port; and 60a decoupling facilitating mechanism configured to selectively assume a decoupling disabled state at which it allows rotation of the luer lock connection port about a longitudinal axis thereof at least in a counter-clockwise direction, and a decoupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction so as to allow decoupling of the external port from the luer lock connection port.
38. The connector according to Claim 37, wherein the outer body comprises a side wall with at least one opening formed therein and configured to be used in conjunction with said decoupling facilitating mechanism so as to provide access to an external surface of the luer lock connection port at least at said decoupling enabled state.
39. The connector according to Claim 38, wherein the decoupling facilitating mechanism comprises an actuator at least partially positioned in the opening, the actuator having an actuator internal surface facing the luer lock connection port and an opposite actuator external surface, the decoupling facilitating mechanism being configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon application of a pressing force on the actuator, and the decoupling disabled state upon removal of said force.
40. The connector according to Claim 39, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and the actuator external surface is lesser than a minimum distance between the longitudinal axis and an external surface of a rim of the opening.
41. The connector according to Claim 39 or 40, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, at least a majority of the actuator external surface is positioned below an imaginary surface defined by a rim of the opening.
42. The connector according to any one of Claims 39 to 41, wherein the actuator has a first portion extending from the outer body, and a second portion extending from the first portion, wherein the first portion forms a part of the outer body.
43. The connector according to Claim 42, wherein the first portion and the second portion constitute a lever.
44. The connector according to any one of Claims 39 to 43, wherein the decoupling mechanism comprises a first engaging portion formed on an external surface of the luer lock connection port, and a second engaging portion formed on the actuator internal surface, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, the first engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction.
45. The connector according to Claim 44, wherein at the decoupling disabled state, the first engaging portion disengages from the second engaging portion.
46. The connector according to Claim 44 or 45, wherein the first engaging portion comprises at least one protrusion formed on the external surface of the luer lock connection port and the second engaging portion comprises at least one tooth projecting from the actuator internal surface, wherein at the decoupling enabled state, the at least one tooth engages with the at least one protrusion thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the counter-clockwise direction.
47. The connector according to Claim 46, wherein at the decoupling disabled state, the at least one tooth disengages from the at least one protrusion.
48. The connector according to any one of Claims 37 to 47, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to axially displace along the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position.
49. The connector according to Claim 48, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to displace from the first position to the second position upon application of a pushing force.
50. The connector according to Claim 48 or 49, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to axially displace along the longitudinal axis into a third position in a direction opposite to that of the second position with respect to the first position, and the third position can be any position between the first position and the second position, and in particular, the first position.
51. The connector according to Claim 50, wherein the luer lock connection port is configured to displace from the first position to the third position upon application of a pulling force.
52. The connector according to any one of Claims 48 to 51, wherein the decoupling facilitating mechanism is configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon the luer lock connection port displacing into the second position.
53. The connector according to any one of Claims 48 to 51, wherein the decoupling facilitating mechanism is configured to assume the decoupling enabled state upon the luer lock connection port displacing into the third position.
54. The connector according to any one of Claims 37 to 53, further comprising a coupling facilitating mechanism configured to selectively assume a coupling enabled state at which it restricts the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in a clockwise direction, and a coupling disabled state at which it allows the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction.
55. The connector according to Claim 54, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism is configured to assume the coupling enabled state at least during the time when coupling of the luer lock connection port with the external port is under process.
56. The connector according to Claim 54 or 55, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism, in its coupling enabled state, is configured to allow rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis in the counter-clockwise direction.
57. The connector according to any one of Claims 54 to 56, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism, in its coupling disabled state, is configured to allow rotation of the luer lock connection port about the longitudinal axis in a counter-clockwise direction.
58. The connector according to any of Claims 54 to 57, when dependent on any one of
59.Claims 48 to 53, wherein the coupling disabled state is associated with the first position and the coupling enabled state is associated with the second position. 6359. The connector according to Claim 58, wherein the coupling facilitating mechanism comprises at least one locking member mounted on an external surface of the luer lock connection port and at least one arresting member mounted on an internal surface of the outer body, wherein at the second position, the locking member engages with the arresting member thereby restricting the rotation of the luer lock connection port at least in the clockwise direction.
60. The connector according to Claim 59, wherein at the normal position, the locking member disengages from the arresting member.
61. The connector according to any one of Claims 37 to 60, wherein the luer lock connection port is a male luer lock connection port comprising an elongate central member and a collar surrounding the elongate central member, wherein the male luer lock connection port is configured to be coupled to the external port by threadingly receiving the external port between the collar and the elongate central member, such that upon coupling, the collar is positioned between the external port and the outer body.
62. The connector according to Claim 61, wherein the collar extends parallel to the elongate central member, and a length of the collar ranges between 5.4 mm to 8 mm.
63. The connector according to Claim 62, wherein the outer body covers at least a majority of the collar.
64. The connector according to any one of Claims 61 to 63, wherein the collar and the elongate central member are integrally formed.
65. The connector according to any one of Claims 37 to 64, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of the luer lock connection port.
66. The connector according to any one of Claims 37 to 65, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of the luer lock connection port.
67. The connector according to any one of Claims 37 to 66, wherein the outer body radially covers at least a majority of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port.
68. The connector according to any one of Claims 37 to 67, wherein the outer body radially covers at least 90% of a sidewall of the luer lock connection port.
69. An adaptor configured for use in medical fluid transfer devices, the adaptor comprising the connector according to any one of Claims 37 to 68.
70. The adaptor according to Claim 69, the adaptor comprising a septum positioned at a distal end thereof configured to receive at least one needle of a syringe therethrough.
71. The adaptor according to Claim 69 or 70, wherein the connector constitutes a proximal portion of the adaptor.
72. An adaptor configured for connection to a syringe having an air chamber and a liquid chamber, the adaptor comprising: a liquid channel configured to be in communication with the liquid chamber; an air channel configured to be in communication with the air chamber; a first valve in fluid communication with the air channel, and having a first valve open state at which it allows air in the air channel to escape into ambiance, and a first valve normally closed state.
73. The adaptor according to Claim 72, wherein the first valve is configured to automatically displace into the first valve open state in response to air pressure within the air channel exceeding a first pre-determined threshold.
74. The adaptor according to Claim 72 or 73, wherein the first valve comprises a first valve seat having a first valve seat opening being in fluid communication with the air channel at said first valve open state, and a first valve sealing member engaging the first valve seat at said first valve normally closed state thereby sealing said first valve seat opening.
75. The adaptor according to Claim 74, wherein at the first valve open state, the first valve sealing member at least partially disengages from the first valve seat thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening.
76. The adaptor according to Claim 74 or 75, wherein the first valve seat opening defines at least a portion of a first fluid path extending between the air channel and the ambiance, the first fluid path being selectively sealable by the first valve at the first valve normally closed state.
77. The adaptor according to Claim 76, wherein the first valve, at the first valve normally closed state, seals the first fluid path, and at the first valve open state, unseals the first fluid path to allow air in the air channel to escape into the ambiance.
78. The adaptor according to any one of Claims 72 to 77, wherein the adaptor further comprises a first outlet in fluid communication with the first valve and the ambiance, wherein the first outlet is configured to receive therewithin a lever button operational to disconnect the adaptor from an external female connector.
79. The adaptor according to Claim 78, when dependent on Claim 76 or 77, wherein the first fluid path extends via the first outlet.
80. The adaptor according to any one of Claims 72 to 79, further comprising a second valve in fluid communication with the air channel, and having a second valve open state at which it allows air to enter into the air channel from the ambiance, and a second valve normally closed state.
81. The adaptor according to Claim 80, wherein the second valve is configured to automatically displace into the second valve open state in response to air pressure within the air channel falling below a second pre-determined threshold.
82. The adaptor according to Claim 80 or 81, wherein the second valve comprises a second valve seat having a second valve seat opening being in fluid communication the with air channel at said second valve open state, and a second valve sealing member engaging the second valve seat at said second valve normally closed state thereby sealing said second valve seat opening.
83. The adaptor according to Claim 82, wherein at the second valve open state, the second valve sealing member at least partially disengages from the second valve seat thereby unsealing the second valve seat opening.
84. The adaptor according to Claim 82 or 83, wherein the second valve seat opening defines at least a portion of a second fluid path extending between the air channel and the ambiance, the second fluid path being selectively sealable by the second valve at the second valve normally closed state.
85. The adaptor according to Claim 84, wherein the second valve, at the second valve normally closed state, seals the second fluid path, and at the second valve open state, unseals the second fluid path to allow air to enter in the air channel from the ambiance.
86. The adaptor according to any one of Claims 80 to 85, wherein the adaptor further comprises a second outlet in fluid communication with the second valve and the ambiance, wherein the second outlet is an opening formed in a side wall of an outer body of a luer lock connection port constituting a proximal end of the adaptor.
87. The adaptor according to Claim 86, when dependent on Claim 84 or 85, wherein the second fluid path extends via the second outlet
88. The adaptor according to any one of Claims 80 to 87, wherein the first valve and the second valve are positioned within a single common valve housing.
89. The adaptor according to any one of Claims 80 to 88, wherein the first valve and the second valve are integrated as a single valve arrangement.
90. The adaptor according to Claim 89, wherein the valve arrangement comprises the first valve seat, the second valve seat, and the first and second sealing members configured as a single integrated sealing member, the single integrated sealing member having a sealing member first portion configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage the first valve seat thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve seat opening, and a sealing member second portion configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage the second valve seat thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve seat opening.
91. The adaptor according to Claim 90, wherein the valve arrangement has: a normal fully closed state at which the sealing member first portion engages with the first valve seat thereby sealing the first valve seat opening and the sealing member second portion engages with the second valve seat thereby sealing the second valve seat opening; a first valve open state at which the sealing member first portion at least partially disengages from the first valve seat thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening, wherein at the first valve open state, the sealing member second portion engages with the second valve seat further tighter as compared to that at the normally fully closed state, thereby sealing the second valve seat opening; and a second valve open state at which the sealing member second portion at least partially disengages from the second valve seat thereby unsealing the second valve seat opening, wherein at the second valve open state, the sealing member first portion engages with the first valve seat further tightly as compared to that at the normally fully closed state, thereby further tightly sealing the first valve seat opening.
92. The adaptor according to Claim 91, the valve arrangement being normally at the normal fully closed state, wherein the valve arrangement automatically displaces into the first valve open state in response to an air pressure within the valve arrangement rising above a first predetermined threshold, wherein the valve arrangement automatically displaces into the second valve open state in response to the air pressure within the valve arrangement falling below a second predetermined threshold.
93. The adaptor according to Claim 91 or 92, wherein at the first valve open state, the valve arrangement allows the air to escape from within the valve arrangement to outside the valve arrangement via the first valve seat opening, and at the second valve open state, the valve arrangement allows the air to enter into the valve arrangement from outside the valve arrangement via the second valve seat opening.
94. The adaptor according to any one of Claims 90 to 93, wherein the sealing member first portion and the sealing member second portion are positioned at opposite ends of the sealing member.
95. The adaptor according to any one of Claims 90 to 94, wherein the sealing member is monolithic.
96. A valve arrangement comprising: a first valve seat having a first valve seat opening; a second valve seat having a second valve seat opening; and a sealing member having a sealing member first portion configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage the first valve seat thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the first valve seat opening, and a sealing member second portion configured to selectively engage and at least partially disengage the second valve seat thereby selectively sealing and unsealing the second valve seat opening.
97. The valve arrangement according to Claim 96, wherein the valve arrangement has: a normal fully closed state at which the sealing member first portion engages with the first valve seat thereby sealing the first valve seat opening and the sealing member second portion engages with the second valve seat thereby sealing the second valve seat opening; a first valve open state at which the sealing member first portion at least partially disengages from the first valve seat thereby unsealing the first valve seat opening, wherein at the first valve open state, the sealing member second portion engages with the second valve seat further tighter as compared to that at the normally fully closed state, thereby sealing the second valve seat opening; and a second valve open state at which the sealing member second portion at least partially disengages from the second valve seat thereby unsealing the second valve seat opening, wherein at the second valve open state, the sealing member first portion engages with the first valve seat further tightly as compared to that at the normally fully closed state, thereby further tightly sealing the first valve seat opening.
98. The valve arrangement according to Claim 97, the valve arrangement being normally at the normal fully closed state, wherein the valve arrangement automatically displaces into the first valve open state in response to an air pressure within the valve arrangement rising above a first predetermined threshold, wherein the valve arrangement automatically displaces into the second valve open state in response to the air pressure within the valve arrangement falling below a second predetermined threshold.
99. The valve arrangement according to Claim 97 or 98, wherein at the first valve open state, the valve arrangement allows the air to escape from within the valve arrangement to outside the valve arrangement via the first valve seat opening, and at the second valve open state, the valve arrangement allows the air to enter into the valve arrangement from outside the valve arrangement via the second valve seat opening.
100. The valve arrangement according to any one of Claims 96 to 99, wherein the sealing member first portion and the sealing member second portion are positioned at opposite ends of the sealing member.
101. The valve arrangement according to any one of Claims 96 to 100, wherein the sealing member is monolithic.
102. The valve arrangement according to any one of Claims 96 to 101, wherein the sealing member includes a central portion having a first end constituting the sealing member first portion and a second end, wherein a resilient skirt portion extends from a periphery of the second end, the skirt portion being defined between a first rim proximal to the second end and a second rim distal from the second end.
103. A connector for connection with a fluid transfer device, said connector comprising: an outer body having a longitudinal axis; and a luer lock connection port positioned within the outer body and configured to be coupled with an external port of said fluid transfer device, the luer lock connection port being rotatable about the longitudinal axis at least in one of a clockwise direction and a counter-clockwise direction at least prior to initiation of coupling thereof with the external port, wherein the outer body radially covers a majority of the luer lock connection port. 70
IL281248A 2021-03-03 2021-03-03 A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor IL281248A (en)

Priority Applications (11)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IL281248A IL281248A (en) 2021-03-03 2021-03-03 A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor
IL287544A IL287544A (en) 2021-03-03 2021-10-25 A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor
JP2023553663A JP2024518674A (en) 2021-03-03 2022-03-03 Valve arrangement for tamper-resistant luer lock connectors and adapters
PCT/IL2022/050236 WO2022185313A1 (en) 2021-03-03 2022-03-03 A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor
EP22762739.5A EP4297840A4 (en) 2021-03-03 2022-03-03 A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor
EP23195130.2A EP4302796A3 (en) 2021-03-03 2022-03-03 A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor
CA3207812A CA3207812A1 (en) 2021-03-03 2022-03-03 A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor
AU2022230100A AU2022230100A1 (en) 2021-03-03 2022-03-03 A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor
IL305598A IL305598A (en) 2021-03-03 2022-03-03 A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor
CL2023002595A CL2023002595A1 (en) 2021-03-03 2023-08-31 A tamper-proof luer lock connector and valve arrangement for an adapter
US18/241,728 US20240009082A1 (en) 2021-03-03 2023-09-01 Tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IL281248A IL281248A (en) 2021-03-03 2021-03-03 A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor

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IL287544A IL287544A (en) 2021-03-03 2021-10-25 A tamper proof luer lock connector and a valve arrangement for an adaptor

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