KR100868148B1 - Fluid connecttor apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A compression treatment system (10) is provided that includes a first bladder (46a, 46b, 46c, 48a, 48b, 48c) supported about a limb. A second bladder is supported about the limb. The bladders are in fluid communication with a fluid source (50) and the bladders are inflated such that the first bladder is inflated for a first time period and the second bladder is inflated for a second time period. The second time period is initiated within the first time period. A single pressure sensor communicates with the first bladder and the second bladder.

Description

Fluid connector device {FLUID CONNECTTOR APPARATUS}

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the field of fluid conduit connectors applied to multiple fluid line systems, and more particularly to fluid line connectors having valve ports.

Medical conditions that form clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and peripheral edema, are a major concern for immobile medical patients. Such patients include those who experience surgery, anesthesia, prolonged bed rest, and the like. This coagulation condition generally occurs in the lower extremities and / or the pelvic cardiac veins. These veins, such as the long bone, thigh, and tibia, send oxygen-deficient blood to the heart. When blood circulation in such veins is retarded due to disease, injury or inactivity, the blood tends to collect or collect. The static accumulation of blood provides an ideal environment for the formation of dangerous clots. The main risk associated with these conditions is the disruption of cardiovascular circulation. Most seriously, some of the clots can move freely. Pulmonary embolism can form potentially fatal blockages in the main pulmonary artery.

Conditions and consequent risks associated with a patient's inability to move may be controlled or mitigated by intermittently applying pressure to the patient's limbs to aid in blood circulation. Known devices, such as pieces of pads and compression boots, have been used to aid blood circulation (see, for example, US Pat. Nos. 6,290,662 and 6,494,852).

A sequential compression device was used, consisting of an air pump connected to a pad around a disposable body by a series of fluid conduits such as, for example, an air tube. Body pads are placed around the patient's leg. Air is then forced into other parts of the sequential body pad, creating pressure around the calf and improving the return of venous blood. Such known devices have various drawbacks depending on their volume and cumbersome use. These defects can make the patient uncomfortable, reduce flexibility, and interfere with the patient's motility as the postoperative recovery progresses. It is desirable to overcome the disadvantages of this known device with a compression device using a fluid connector device according to the principles herein.

US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 784,607, filed February 23, 2004, the contents of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, by reducing the volume and improving comfort and flexibility for the patient. An exemplary sequential compression apparatus that overcomes the disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art is disclosed. This sequential compression device includes a valve connector that facilitates the connection of the detachable portion of the compression sleeve (the pad around the body) with the detachable portion from the pressurized fluid source.

In a sequential compression device, a predetermined fluid pressure is supplied to each of the plurality of tubes to the device in a predetermined timing sequence. Fluid pressure feedback information is necessary to ensure proper operation of the device. Closure of the valve in the valve connector prevents fluid leakage when the detachable portion and corresponding tube are disconnected and disconnected. Valve connectors known to date fully open or close the fluid conduits. Open or closed fluid conduits have pneumatic features that differ from previously connected system components.

In an exemplary apparatus, the controller recognizes a pressure change that indicates closing of the valve connector when the detachable portion is disconnected. The controller then begins to execute the second predetermined pressure timing sequence to supply pressurized fluid to the remainder of the device. If the valve connector does not exist or is not functioning properly when the detachable portion is disconnected, the controller can recognize a pressure change indicative of an open fluid line and execute an error or alarm program sequence (e.g., the entirety herein). See controller disclosed in US Patent Application No. 10 / 784,323, filed Feb. 23, 2004, entitled Compression Processing System, the content of which is incorporated by reference.

Thus, the use of such valve connectors undesirably requires more complex control components in the fluid supply that must be able to execute multiple pressure / timing sequences in response to the required pressure measurements. In an exemplary apparatus, switching between multiple control sequences may undesirably require stopping the system and require manual input to initiate a second pressure / timing sequence.

Overcoming the shortcomings of fluid line connectors known to date by providing a coupling valve that allows the controller to continue uninterrupted operation of a single pressure timing sequence when the detachable portion is disconnected from the controlled pressure system. desirable. It is also desirable to enable uninterrupted operation of a single control sequence by providing a coupling valve that mimics the pneumatic features of the separable portion of the controlled pressure system. It would be desirable to provide a connector that is configured to be used in a sequential compression apparatus that is low cost to failure and preventive.

Accordingly, a fluid conduit connector device is provided that facilitates uninterrupted execution of a single pressure timing sequence when the fluid conduit is separated from the pneumatic system. The fluid conduit connector device overcomes the drawbacks and drawbacks of the prior art when incorporated into a preventive sequential compression device by reducing the complexity of the control system, providing ease of use, and minimizing disturbance to the patient. Preferably, the fluid conduit connector device comprises a port portion comprising a valve to achieve the advantages of the present invention. Most preferably, the fluid conduit connector device has a valve that mimics the pneumatic features of a separate pneumatic system component. Fluid conduit connector devices are manufactured easily and efficiently.

In accordance with the principles of the present invention, the fluid conduit connector device is configured for use in a compression device. The fluid conduit device includes a connector having a plurality of fluid ports formed to facilitate fluid communication between the plurality of fluid conduits of the compression device and the pressurized fluid source. Each of the plurality of fluid ports forms a fluid orifice configured for fluid flow. The valve is disposed at one of the fluid ports. The valve is operatively coupled with the fluid port such that disconnection from the connector of the fluid conduit of the compression device corresponding to the fluid port reduces the dimension of the fluid orifice of the fluid port.

The fluid connector device may include a first connector having a plurality of first fluid ports formed in fluid communication with the plurality of first fluid conduits. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of first fluid conduits is a set of three air tubes. The valve is supported and movable with the first connector such that when one of the plurality of first fluid conduits is disconnected from the first connector, the valve engages with a corresponding fluid port in the feature that creates a reduced fluid orifice therein. . The valve is configured to resemble the pneumatic features of the connected device when the connected device is disconnected from the first connector.

In another embodiment, one of the fluid ports includes a coupling port and one of the plurality of first fluid conduits includes a quick release fit configured to releasably mate with the coupling port. The valve may comprise a spring loaded plunger disposed in the coupling port, for example. Exemplary coupling fittings include joining portions extending therefrom. The spring loaded plunger is displaced by the engaging portion when the coupling fitting is mated to the coupling port.

In one embodiment, the coupling port includes a cap portion disposed therein. The spring loaded plunger engages the cap portion to create an orifice that provides a pneumatic action similar to one of the plurality of first fluid conduits when the coupling fitting is disconnected from the coupling port.

In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid connector device according to the present invention includes a second connector in fluid communication with a plurality of second fluid conduits. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of second fluid conduits is a set of three air tubes. The plurality of couplings are in fluid communication with the air tube. The first connector includes a sleeve forming a cavity configured to mate with the plurality of couplings. The cavity forms a female mating receptacle. The plurality of couplings form a male mating plug configured to mate with a female mating receptacle.

In certain embodiments, the first and / or second connectors include an outer surface of the mammary gland that has been improved to prevent tangling of the connector on the patient garment or bedding. In one embodiment, the first connector includes an interference key in the cavity to prevent the first connector from mating with the legacy connector component. The second connector includes free space for the interference key.

In another embodiment, the plurality of first fluid conduits is a set of pitched tubing having increased webbing volume between at least one pair of adjacent conduits. At least one interference rib is formed between at least a pair of adjacent fluid ports in the plurality of first fluid conduits. The increased webbing volume is aligned with the interference ribs if a plurality of fluid conduits are oriented inappropriately with the first connector. As such, the interference ribs prevent improperly oriented fluid conduits from attaching to the first connector. Similarly, the plurality of second fluid conduits may include increased webbing volume configured to interfere with interference ribs between adjacent ports in the second connector to prevent the inappropriately oriented fluid conduit from attaching to the second connector. .

In one embodiment of the present invention, the fluid conduit connector device further comprises a gasket disposed in the cavity. The gasket is configured to provide a fluid seal between the first and second connectors when the first and second connectors are mated together.

In at least one embodiment, the sleeve comprises a window extending at least partially through. The second connector includes a locking arm extending therefrom. The locking arm is configured to engage with the window to releasably retain the first connector with the second connector. The sleeve may include a slot that partially opens the sleeve and extends into a window that forms an opposite snap arm for engaging the locking arm. One of the first or second connectors may comprise an alignment slot and the other of the first or second connectors may comprise an alignment rib configured to engage the alignment slot.

In a particular exemplary embodiment, the locking arm has a tip surface that is inclined at a first angle to provide a predetermined engagement force between the locking arm and the snap arm, and a second angle to provide a predetermined non-engagement force between the locking arm and the snap arm. It includes the trailing surface inclined to. For example, the predetermined coupling force may be designed to be less than the predetermined non-binding force.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the fluid connector device includes a first connector having a tubular wall that forms a plurality of fluid ports configured to connect to the plurality of first fluid conduits. At least one of the fluid ports includes a coupling port. At least one of the plurality of first fluid conduits includes a coupling fitting configured to releasably mate with the coupling port. The valve is disposed in the coupling port. The valve engages with the coupling port to create an orifice similar to the pneumatic action of one of the plurality of first conduits when the coupling fitting is disconnected from the coupling port. The second connector is configured to connect to and mate with the first plurality of fluid conduits.

In an exemplary embodiment, the valve includes a spring loaded plunger disposed in the coupling port. In one embodiment, the coupling fitting includes a joining portion extending therefrom. The spring loaded plunger is displaced by the engaging portion when the coupling fitting is mated to the coupling port. The coupling port includes a cap portion disposed therein. The spring loaded plunger engages the cap portion to create an orifice that provides a pneumatic action similar to one of the plurality of first fluid conduits when the coupling fitting is disconnected from the coupling port.

In another embodiment of the fluidic connector device, the second connector device includes a plurality of couplings in fluid communication with the plurality of second fluid conduits. The first connector includes a sleeve forming a cavity configured to mate with the plurality of couplings. The sleeve includes a window that extends at least partially through. The second connector includes a locking arm configured to extend therefrom and detachably hold the first connector with the second connector in engagement with the window. The sleeve includes a slot that extends into the window and partially cracks the sleeve to form an opposing snap arm for engaging the locking arm.

In a particular embodiment of the invention, the fluid connector device includes a sleeve connector having tubular walls that form a plurality of fluid ports configured to connect to a first tubing comprising an ankle tube, a calf tube, and a thigh tube. One of the ports includes a coupling port. The thigh tube has a coupling fitting configured to detachably mate with the coupling port.

In a particular embodiment, the valve is disposed in the coupling port. The valve includes a spring loaded plunger that engages the coupling port to create an orifice similar to the pneumatic action of the thigh tube when the fitting is disconnected from the coupling port. The coupling fitting includes a joining portion extending therefrom. The spring loaded plunger is displaced by the engaging portion when the coupling fitting is mated to the coupling port. The coupling port includes a cap portion disposed therein. The spring loaded plunger engages the cap portion to create an orifice that provides a pneumatic action similar to the thigh tube when the coupling fitting is disconnected from the coupling port.

The tubing set connector can be configured to connect to the second tubing set and mate with the sleeve connector. The tubing set connector includes a plurality of couplings in fluid communication with the second tubing set. The sleeve connector includes a formed sleeve having a gasket disposed in the cavity and forming a cavity configured to mate with the plurality of couplings. The gasket is configured to provide fluid sealing between the sleeve connector and the tubing set connector. In at least one embodiment, the gasket includes a retaining portion extending therefrom. The sleeve includes a gasket retaining groove configured to receive the retaining portion and thus retain the gasket in the sleeve.

In a particular embodiment, the sleeve includes a window extending at least partially through. The tubing set connector includes a locking arm extending therefrom. The locking arm is configured to engage the window to keep the sleeve connector detachable from the tubing set connector. The sleeve includes a slot extending into the window and at least partially splitting the sleeve to form an opposing snap arm for engaging the locking arm. One of the sleeve connector or tubing set connector includes an alignment slot and the other of the sleeve connector or tubing set connector includes an alignment rib configured to engage the alignment slot.

In another embodiment, the present application discloses a coupling device that includes a coupling fitting permanently mounted to a first end of a fluid conduit. The second end of the fluid conduit is connected to the inflatable device. The coupling port includes a valve configured to mate with the coupling fitting and supported by the coupling port. The valve is similar to the pneumatic features of the fluid conduit and expandable device when the coupling fitting is disconnected from the coupling port.

In another particular embodiment, the coupling fitting may comprise a proximal cylinder and a distal cylinder extending therefrom. The central longitudinal axis extends through the base cylinder and the end cylinder. The proximal cylinder has an inner diameter that is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the fluid conduit to facilitate interference therebetween. The end cylinder includes a locking tab having an inner diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the coupling port to facilitate slip fit therebetween and extending radially from the outer surface of the end cylinder.

The coupling port is integrated with a sleeve that includes a fluid communication channel and has a recess for engaging the locking tab to removably secure the coupling fitting to the coupling port. Alternatively, the inner surface of the sleeve or first connector may comprise a concave cavity configured to at least partially extend into the inner surface and to receive the locking tab. An exemplary concave cavity includes a longitudinal track portion configured to guide the locking tab during engagement and non-engagement and an annular portion configured to retain the locking tab when the coupling fitting is rotated about an axis in the longitudinal direction. Along the length, the concave cavity may have a varying depth or width into the interior surface. The varying depth of the concave cavity provides a certain engaging / unengaging force / displacement profile between the locking tab and the concave cavity. In one embodiment, the locking tab has an outer portion with a manual engagement surface enlarged to assist in the manipulation of the locking tab.

In an exemplary embodiment, the valve includes a spring loaded plunger. The spring is compressed by the coupling between the coupling fitting and the plunger to open the coupling port for fluid communication when the coupling fitting is connected to the coupling port. The spring extends to press the plunger into the channel. The plunger is drilled to provide some fluid resistance through the channel when the coupling fitting is disconnected from the coupling port.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a first connector device comprising a first connector having a plurality of first fluid ports formed in fluid communication with the plurality of first fluid conduits. The second connector includes a plurality of couplings in fluid communication with and in fluid communication with the plurality of second fluid conduits. The restrictor means inside the first connector are provided to resemble the pneumatic features of one of the fluid conduits when disconnected from the first connector.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method of coupling a pressure source to a pneumatic device. According to the method of the present invention, the plurality of first fluid conduits from the pneumatic device is connected to the plurality of second conduits from a pressure source using a multi-port tube connector. One of the plurality of first conduits is disconnected from the multi-port tube connector. Accordingly, the valve is released in a connector similar to the pneumatic feature of one of the plurality of first conduits.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a fluid conduit coupling. The fluid conduit coupling has a coupling fitting on the base cylinder and an end cylinder integrally molded to the base cylinder along a central longitudinal axis. The proximal cylinder has an inner diameter configured to receive the fluid conduit. The fluid conduit coupling includes a fluid port having a male cylindrical portion extending therefrom and a fluid channel extending from the male cylindrical portion to the distal opening through the port. The end cylinder of the coupling fitting includes a female orifice configured to mate with the male cylindrical portion of the coupling port. The valve disposed within the port is operatively configured to resemble the pneumatic features of the disconnected device when the coupling fitting is disconnected from the coupling port.

The coupling fitting of the fluid conduit coupling according to the exemplary embodiment has a joining portion configured to displace the valve in the coupling port. The valve includes a plunger biased at the proximal end by spring force. The engagement portion is aligned to displace the plunger distal to the spring force when the fitting is attached to the port. The plunger provides an increased fluid passageway when displaced at the distal end and a reduced fluid passageway when deflected at the proximal end.

The objects and constructions of the invention, which are considered novel, are described in detail in the appended claims. The invention can best be understood by reference to the following description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are set forth below, together with objects and effects in terms of construction and manner of operation.

1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a fluid conduit connector device in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

2 is a perspective view of the first and second connectors according to an exemplary embodiment of the fluid conduit connector device of the present invention.

3 is a partial side cross-sectional view of the exemplary fluid conduit connector device shown in FIG.

4 is a top cross-sectional view of the exemplary fluid conduit connector device shown in FIG.

5 is a front sectional view of a coupling port in an exemplary fluid conduit connector device in accordance with the present invention.

6 is a side cross-sectional perspective view of a fluid conduit connector device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

6A is a cut away perspective view of the fluid conduit connector device shown in FIG.

6B is a cut away perspective view of the fluid conduit connector device shown in FIG.

7 is an exploded view of various components of an exemplary fluid conduit connector device according to the present invention.

8 is an exploded view of various components of an exemplary first connector in a fluid conduit connector device according to the present invention.

8A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the first connector shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the first connector shown in FIG. 8A and the second connector shown in FIG. 2.

9 is a side view of an exemplary coupling fitting according to the present invention.

Fig. 10 is a plan view of a first or second connector including a recessed cavity in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 11 is a front view of the first and second connectors including disturbing ribs in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

12 is a front view of a woven tubing having increased landing volume in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 13 is an end view of a first or second connector including an interference key in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of two embodiments of a first connector and two embodiments of a second connector.

Exemplary embodiments of the disclosed fluid conduit device and method of operation include a prophylactic compression device for application to the limbs of the body and in view of the prophylactic compression device and vascular treatment, in particular in view of a compression device having a detachable part do. However, the present invention finds products with a wide variety of pneumatic systems with separable fluid conduits, for example medical and industrial products which require a timed sequence of compressed air in a plurality of air tubes.

In the following review, the term "proximal" refers to a portion of the structure that is closer to the body of the subject, and the term "distal" refers to a portion further away from the body. The term "subject" refers to a patient who receives vascular therapy using a prophylactic sequential compression device as used herein. According to the present invention, the term "practitioner" refers to an individual who implements a sequential preventive compression device and may include an assistant.

The following review includes a description of a fluid conduit connector device, followed by a description of an exemplary method of operating a fluid conduit connector device in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Example embodiments and disclosures are described in detail and are shown in the accompanying drawings.

Returning to the drawings, the same parts are now referenced by the same reference numerals throughout the several views. Referring first to FIGS. 1 and 2, a fluid conduit connector device 10 constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention is shown. The fluid conduit connector device 10 includes a first connector 12 and a second connector 14. The first connector 12 is configured to detachably couple with the second connector 14.

The first connector 12 includes a plurality of first fluid ports 16 extending therefrom and configured to receive a plurality of first fluid conduits 18. Fluid conduit 18 is connected to a compression device that includes, for example, a compression sleeve (not shown) configured to process a limb of a subject (not shown). The second connector 14 includes a plurality of second fluid ports 20 extending therefrom and configured to receive a plurality of second fluid conduits 22. The fluid conduit 22 is in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source (not shown) configured to inflate the compression sleeve through the preferred configuration of the fluid conduit connector device 10, as described in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Conduits 18 and 22 may include various tubing, such as, for example, non-webbed tubing.

The fluid ports 16, 20 of the connectors 12, 14 respectively form internal fluid orifices or passageways that facilitate fluid communication between the connectors 12, 14. Thus, the connectors 12, 14 facilitate fluid communication between the pressurized fluid source and the compression sleeve. The fluid conduit connector device 10 is illustrated as having three fluid port sets in each connector for the connection of three fluid conduit sets, but each connector may have several fluid ports without departing from the scope of the present invention. It seems to be possible.

The first connector 12 includes a sleeve 24 that forms a cavity 26 having a distal opening. Cavity 26 accommodates distal portions of a plurality of first fluid ports 16 that extend distal within cavity 26. The second connector 14 includes a plurality of fluid couplings 28 extending therefrom. A plurality of fluid couplings 28 are formed at proximal portions of the plurality of second fluid ports 20 for aligning with distal portions of the plurality of first fluid ports 16. The locking arm 30 extends proximal from the body portion 32 of the second connector 14. The slot 34 in the sleeve 24 of the first connector 12 receives a window 36 configured to detachably receive the locking arm 30 to hold the first connector 12 to the second connector 14. Include.

At least one of the plurality of first ports is a coupling port 38 configured to receive the coupling fitting 40. Coupling fitting 40 is permanently attached to the distal end of the corresponding one of the plurality of first fluid conduits 18. The locking tab extending radially from the coupling fitting 40 is configured to engage the recessed cavity 44 in the first connector 12 in the sleeve 24, for example as shown in FIG. 1. The outer surface of the mammary gland prevents the connector from hooking the patient's clothing or bedding.

Referring to Figures 3-7, various components of the fluid conduit connector device are described in more detail.

The gasket 46 is a space between the plurality of couplings 28 and the distal portions of the plurality of first fluid ports 16 in the cavity 26 when the first connector 12 is engaged with the second connector 14. Conforms to Gasket 46 provides a seal against pressurized fluid communication between corresponding fluid conduits by providing a sealed fluid channel comprising a plurality of first fluid ports 16 and a plurality of second fluid ports. Gasket 46 can be manufactured efficiently and at low cost using a variety of common materials or manufacturing methods, for example by injection molding elastomeric materials or die cutting cork or paper based gasket materials. Gasket 46 may be configured to be retained in one or the other of first connector 12 and second connector 14. In an exemplary embodiment, the gasket includes a proximal lip 48 configured to engage a proximal portion of each of the plurality of first fluid ports to provide a fluid seal between the first connector 12 and the second connector 14. do. The gasket includes a retaining portion extending therefrom. The sleeve 24 includes a gasket retaining groove configured to receive the retaining portion, such that the gasket is retained in the sleeve 24 when the second connector 14 is detached therefrom.

The slot 34 at least partially cracks the sleeve 24 such that when the locking arm 30 is pressed into the slot 34 at the distal end with the first connector 12 mating to the second connector 14. It is possible to open the sleeve 24 under. When the engaging portion 48 of the locking arm 30 reaches the window portion 36 of the slot 34, the sleeve can return to its relaxed form to release the second connector 14 by the locking arm 30. Keep it. The locking arm 48 is formed such that the leading surface is inclined at a constant angle (ie, the first angle) and the trailing surface is inclined at the second angle. In an exemplary embodiment, the leading surface 39 is inclined at an angle lower than the trailing surface 41 such that a force connecting the first connector 12 to the second connector 14 restrains the first connector 12. 2 is less than the force to disconnect from connector 14. Thus, the desired connection / disconnection force can be achieved by suitable selection of the first and second angles when designing the special locking arm 48.

Although the exemplary embodiments described herein have described particular locking arms and slot configurations, in practice various types of detachable retaining methods may be used to detachably retain the first connector to the second connector without departing from the scope of the present invention. Can be. For example, an interference fit may be provided between the first connector 12 and the second connector 14 or may be provided by a suitably configured deformable gasket 46. Alternatively, snap or recess arrangements known in the art can be used to hold the first connector 12 to the second connector 14. For example, as shown in FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C, the first connector 12 is a locking arm configured for mating engagement with a corresponding slot 230 formed in the second connector 14. 234), similar to the arm and slot structures described.

Alignment rib 59 (FIG. 1) extends radially from at least one of the plurality of couplings 28 along the longitudinal axis. Corresponding alignment slots (not shown) are provided in the inner surface of the sleeve 24 extending toward the distal end to receive the alignment ribs 59. Substantially various types of alignment rib / slot configurations commonly used in the art to align mating connectors can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Coupling fitting 40 includes proximal cylinder 52 and distal cylinder 54 that are aligned along longitudinal axis 56. Proximal cylinder 52 includes an inner diameter 60 and a proximal opening 58 forming an inner surface 62 configured for press fit corresponding to an outer diameter of one of the plurality of first fluid conduits 18. . In an exemplary embodiment, the corresponding fluid conduit is an air tube that is press fit into the base cylinder 52 through the base opening 58. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid conduit is substantially permanently attached to the base cylinder 52 by friction. In alternative embodiments, various suitable adhesives may be applied to the inner surface of the base cylinder 52 to permanently attach the fluid conduit and provide a rigid fluid seal therebetween. For example, silicone adhesives, rubber cements, material specific adhesive compounds, O-rings, gaskets and the like can be used according to methods known in the art to attach fluid conduits to coupling fittings.

The end cylinder 54 comprises an inner surface formed by the inner contour 64 pivoted about the longitudinal axis 56 and an outer surface 66 formed by the outer diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the inner contour 64 includes a sealing portion 68, a flexible portion 70 and an annular lip portion 72. The sealing portion 68 has an inner diameter configured to fit closely to the outer surface of the coupling port 38. The annular lip portion 72 forms an annular ring that compresses against the outer surface of the coupling port 38 and provides a fluid seal therebetween. The flexible portion 70 is formed by a reduced wall thickness that allows the end cylinder 54 to deflect inwardly to facilitate engagement of the locking tab 42 into the recessed cavity 44.

Exemplary embodiments are described for the particular retention and seal configuration between the coupling fitting 40 and the coupling port 38, but a substantially various type of coupling fitting retention and sealing method known in the art is It can be used between the coupling fitting 40 and the outer surface of the coupling port 38 without departing from the scope of. For example, a screw collar, cantilever snap arm, or the like can be used to attach the coupling fitting 40 to the coupling port 38 or the first connector 12.

In another embodiment with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, the sleeve 24 or inner surface of the first connector 12 at least partially extends to the inner surface and receives the locking tab 42 of the coupling fitting 40. It may include a concave cavity 44 configured to. The recess 57 of the tab 42 is inserted into the sleeve 24 and disposed in the cavity 44. The recess 57 is rotated through the cavity 44 by the operation of the fitting 40 and is held in place by a bump formed in the wall of the cavity 44. In another embodiment, the concave cavity shown in FIG. 10 is coupled to the longitudinal track portion 55 and the coupling fitting (virtually shown) configured to guide the locking tabs 42 of FIG. 9 upon engagement and disengagement. It includes an annular portion 57 configured to retain the locking tab 42 of FIG. 9 when 40 is rotated about the longitudinal axis 56. The concave cavity 44 may have a depth or width that varies into the interior surface along its length. The varying depth of the concave cavity 44 provides a predetermined engagement / disengagement force / displacement profile between the locking tab 42 and the concave cavity. In one embodiment, the locking tab has an outer portion with an enlarged passive engagement surface 43 to assist in manipulation of the locking tab 42.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the coupling fitting includes a coupling portion 74 configured to open a valve 76 disposed in the coupling port 38. The engagement portion 74 extends distal from the transverse wall 78 in the coupling fitting 40 to displace the plunger in the valve 76. In the exemplary embodiment, the transverse wall 78 is disposed in the coupling fitting 40 between the proximal cylinder 52 and the distal cylinder 54 and orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 56. At least one fluid passageway extends through the transverse wall.

Although the exemplary embodiment is described in terms of the engagement portion extending at the distal end, substantially various types of valve engagement structures are used such that the valve plunger 80 is displaced within the scope of the present invention. For example, ribs extending from the flat surface of the transverse wall 78 or from the inner surface of the end cylinder 54 are aligned with the complementary structure in the valve 76 such that the coupling fitting 40 is coupled to the coupling port 38. When combined with the valve plunger 80 can be displaced.

The exemplary embodiment includes a valve 76 disposed in the coupling port 38. The valve 76 includes a plunger 80 which is movable along the longitudinal axis of the coupling port 38 and deflected at the proximal end by the spring 82. The spring 82 is supported by a gasket 46 held in place in the cavity 26 by a protrusion 51 on the gasket 46. An adhesive may alternatively be used to hold the gasket 46 in place. The gasket 46 includes a spring seat formed along the longitudinal axis of the gasket passage to align with the coupling port (FIGS. 4 and 5). In an exemplary embodiment the spring sheet includes a central stub 84 supported by radially colloidal beams in the gasket opening.

The valve can be easily assembled by installing a spring 82 over the distal end of the plunger 80 to form a plunger and a spring sub-assembly. Plunger 80 includes a step 88 to engage the proximal end of spring 82. Thereafter, the plunger and the spring sub-assembly can be installed into the coupling port 38 from the proximal end. The gasket 46 may then be installed into the cavity 46. Alternatively, the plunger and the spring sub-assembly may be fitted to the gasket 46 by inserting the spring 82 into the spring seat before installing the gasket 46, the spring 82, and the plunger 80 together in the first connector 12. Can be installed on 7 and 8 provide two exemplary embodiments of the plunger 80 according to the present invention.

While the present invention illustrates the use of the coil spring 82 to deflect the plunger 80, substantially various types of plunger and spring arrangements known in the art may be used to provide the plunger 80 within the scope of the present invention. Bias can be provided. For example, spring force may be applied to the plunger 80 by forming a plastic cantilever spring arm that may be formed in the first connector 12. Alternatively, a spring sheet-like structure could be formed of elastomeric material as part of the gasket 46 to provide a biasing force to the plunger 80 without departing from the scope of the present invention.

When the coupling fitting 40 is engaged with the coupling port 38, the engaging portion 74 of the coupling fitting forces the plunger 80 to move distal to the force of the spring 82 which is thus compressed. do. Accordingly, an open fluid connection is provided through the coupling port 38 from the fluid conduit connected to the coupling fitting 40 to the corresponding one of the plurality of second fluid conduits 22, ie the corresponding air tube.

For example, a portion of the compression sleeve in fluid communication with the pressurized fluid source via coupling port 38 may be separated from the remainder of the compression sleeve. The remaining portion of the compression sleeve continues to provide treatment to the limbs of the subject. When the selected part is separated, the coupling fitting 40 is disconnected from the coupling port 38 and is not connected. The spring 82 forces the plunger 80 to the proximal limit of the path where the plunger 80 engages the stop of the proximal end so that the valve is in the closed position.

The plunger 80 is configured to cooperate with the internal structure in the coupling port 38 to form a reduced fluid orifice when the plunger 80 is displaced to the proximal limit. The reduced fluid orifice is designed to provide a pneumatic feature similar to the pneumatic feature of a separate device.

6-7, a cap 90 having a penetrating fluid passageway 92 is disposed in the proximal opening of the coupling port 38. The cap 90 is configured to provide a stop that forms the proximal limit of the plunger path and cooperate with the plunger 80 of the valve 76 such that the valve 76 measures the dimension of the fluid orifice of the coupling port 38. Decrease.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the coupling fitting 40 is connected to the coupling port 38 to pressurize the plunger 80 at the end and connect the fluid as described above (FIG. 6). Is opened to expand the detachable portion of the inflatable compression sleeve (not shown). To provide this open connection, the valve seat 282 of the plunger 80 is connected with the conical seat 284 of the cap 90 via a spring 82 (not shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B for clarity). Are placed without coupling. This configuration allows air to flow around the conical sheet 284 through the conduit 22 (not shown) to the inflatable detachable portion of the compression sleeve, as shown by arrow A.

For separation of the detachable portion of the compression sleeve, the coupling fitting 40 is separated from the coupling port 38. The spring 82 forces the valve seat 282 to engage the counter bore edge of the conical seat 284. Thus, this configuration preferably reduces the dimensions of the fluid orifice of the coupling port 38 so that air flows through the cavity formed by the semicircular slot 286 of the valve seat 282. Slot 286 is formed on the side of valve seat 282. The cavity formed by the slot 286 and the conical seat 284 provides fluid flow similar to pneumatic behavior of the detachable portion of the compression sleeve when the coupling fitting 40 is connected to the coupling port 38 during open fluid connection. To facilitate. The cavity formed by slot 286 and conical sheet 284 may have various shapes and dimensions, including shapes such as ovals, polygons, and the like.

This shape preferably mimics the pneumatic features of a separate device. The fluid orifice of the coupling port 38 reduces the orifice dimensions similarly to fluid flow through the coupling port 38 where the corresponding engagement with the plunger 80 occurs differently in the valve 76 in the open position. It is variously shaped. Plunger 80 may include openings to mimic fluid flow. The valve 76 is operable to reduce the dimension of the fluid orifice of the coupling port 38 over the range of the enclosed portion, including partial fluid flow, leakage, etc. to similar the fluid in the port, or Can be completely sealed to prevent fluid flow through the corresponding port. In a fully enclosed configuration, the pump speed or other setting can be adjusted.

In a particular embodiment, the present invention provides an air piping connector for use in a compression device having a detachable portion, for example, US patent application Ser. No. 10/23, filed February 23, 2004 in the name of the compression device. See the compression sleeve described in 784,607. Three separate air tubes are connected to the ankle, calf and knee of the device. Each portion is provided with a timed sequence of compressed air through separate air tubes. The proximal end of each of the three air tubes is connected to a plurality of first fluid ports 16 in the first connector 12 according to the invention. A mating set of three air tubes extends from a timed pressure source and is connected to a plurality of second fluid ports 18 in a second connector 14 according to the invention.

In an exemplary embodiment, the distal end of the thigh tube is connected to the first connector 12 through the coupling fitting 40 and the port 38 as described below. When the patient no longer needs the thigh portion of the preventive compression device, the thigh portion is detached and the tubing attached thereto can be disconnected from the first connector at the coupling port 38. Operation of the valve 76 in the coupling port 38 provides a reduced fluid orifice that limits the air flow therethrough to mimic the pneumatic characteristics of the thigh portion and its corresponding air tube. Thus, the sensor in the timed pressure source will not detect a change in fluid pressure or fluid velocity when the thigh portion is separated. This allows the timed pressure source to continue to provide timed air pressure unobstructed to the ankle and calf portions of the preventive compression device.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, a set of rake tubing 98 in which a plurality of first fluid conduits 18 has an increased webbing volume 100 between at least one pair of adjacent conduits. Certain embodiments are provided. At least one interference rib 94 is formed between at least one pair of adjacent fluid ports in the plurality of first fluid ports. The increased webbing volume 100 is aligned with the interfering rib 94 if the rake tubing 98 is oriented inadequately with the first connector 12. Thus, interference ribs 94 prevent improperly oriented fluid conduits from attaching to first connector 12. Similarly, the plurality of second fluid conduits 22 is configured to interfere with interference ribs between adjacent ports in the second connector 14 to prevent inappropriately oriented fluid conduits from attaching to the second connector 14. Increased webbing volume.

Referring to FIG. 13, one embodiment includes a first connector 12 having an interference key 96 in the cavity 26 to prevent the first connector 12 from mating with legacy connector components. . The second connector 14 includes free space for the interference key 96. 14 schematically illustrates the function of the interference key 96 in which a particular embodiment of the first connector 12 prevents the connection of the second connector 13 to a particular embodiment. For example, the key slot 98 in the second connector 13B provides room for the interference key 96 in the first connector 12B to facilitate matching one to the other. The second connector 13B may be mated to a particular first connector, such as '12a' which does not include an interference key. The second connector 13A does not include a key slot and therefore cannot be mated with the first connector 12B. In at least one embodiment, the second connector 13A is a legacy connector. In an exemplary embodiment, an interference key 96 in an incompatible connector, such as first connector 12B, is used to prevent connecting the incompatible connector to the legacy connector.

Embodiments disclosed herein may make various modifications. For example, the connector of the present invention can be used in a variety of single and multiple bladder compression sleeve devices, for example in February 2004, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and designated by compression devices in February 2004. US Patent Application No. 10 / 784,604, filed May 23. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the above description and is merely illustrative of various embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other variations are within the scope and spirit of the appended claims.

Claims (24)

delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete Fluid connector device configured for use in a compression device, A first connector and a second connector, The fluid connector device further has a first position and a second position, both positions permit fluid flow through the fluid orifice located in the first connector, The second connector is releasably attached to the first connector at a proximal end of the orifice of the first connector, the fluid orifice further comprises a valve disposed within the fluid orifice, In the first position, the valve is in the open position by the second connector to allow fluid flow from the compression device to the compression sleeve, In the second position, the second connector is disconnected from the first connector, the valve proceeds proximal to the closed position in the fluid orifice, and the valve flows in such a way that the fluid resembles the pneumatic behavior of the compression sleeve separated at the second connector. Reducing fluid orifice but not closing it, The second connector includes a mating portion extending from a second connector, the valve being displaced by the mating portion when the second connector is mated with the first connector. delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete Fluid connector device configured for use in a compression device, A first connector and a second connector, The fluid connector device further has a first position and a second position, both positions permit fluid flow through the fluid orifice located in the first connector, The second connector is releasably attached to the first connector at a proximal end of the orifice of the first connector, the fluid orifice further comprises a valve disposed within the fluid orifice, In the first position, the valve is in the open position by the second connector to allow fluid flow from the compression device to the compression sleeve, In the second position, the second connector is disconnected from the first connector, the valve proceeds proximal to the closed position in the fluid orifice, and the valve flows in such a way that the fluid resembles the pneumatic behavior of the compression sleeve separated at the second connector. Reducing fluid orifice but not closing it, And the valve comprises a biasing member comprising at least one of a spring, a plastic cantilever spring arm, and an elastomeric material forming a gasket. 22. The fluid connector device of claim 21, wherein the valve is biased to open in the first direction. Fluid connector device configured for use in a compression device, A first connector and a second connector, The fluid connector device further has a first position and a second position, both positions permit fluid flow through the fluid orifice located in the first connector, The second connector is releasably attached to the first connector at a proximal end of the orifice of the first connector, the fluid orifice further comprises a valve disposed within the fluid orifice, In the first position, the valve is in the open position by the second connector to allow fluid flow from the compression device to the compression sleeve, In the second position, the second connector is disconnected from the first connector, the valve proceeds proximal to the closed position in the fluid orifice, and the valve flows in such a way that the fluid resembles the pneumatic behavior of the compression sleeve separated at the second connector. Reducing fluid orifice but not closing it, At least one of the orifice and the valve has a slot therein. Fluid connector device configured for use in a compression device, A first connector and a second connector, The fluid connector device further has a first position and a second position, both positions permit fluid flow through the fluid orifice located in the first connector, The second connector is releasably attached to the first connector at a proximal end of the orifice of the first connector, the fluid orifice further comprises a valve disposed within the fluid orifice, In the first position, the valve is in the open position by the second connector to allow fluid flow from the compression device to the compression sleeve, In the second position, the second connector is disconnected from the first connector, the valve proceeds proximal to the closed position in the fluid orifice, and the valve flows in such a way that the fluid resembles the pneumatic behavior of the compression sleeve separated at the second connector. Reducing fluid orifice but not closing it, The valve further comprises a valve seat and a plunger having at least one slot.

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