RU2819225C1 - Syringe filling adapter - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: medicine.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to medical equipment, namely, to filling adapters for pouring medical fluid into a container. Adapter has a body with a distal end, a proximal end and a central hole extending between the distal end and the proximal end along a longitudinal axis. Central canal has a divergent portion at the proximal end of the body so that the diameter of the central portion increases at the divergent portion in the direction from the distal end to the proximal end. Filling adapter additionally has a flow regulator located inside the central channel at the distal end of the divergent part so that a gap is formed between the outer surface of the flow regulator and the inner surface of the central channel.

EFFECT: flow regulator shape is configured to direct fluid flowing through the central channel into the gap and along the divergent part of the central channel according to the Coanda effect.

17 cl, 34 dwg

Description

This application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 62/259,906, “Syringe Filling Adapter,” dated November 25, 2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Field of technology

The present invention relates generally to syringes, fill adapters and fluid delivery assemblies for use in fluid delivery systems, and more particularly to syringes, fill adapters and fluid transfer assemblies for use in medical fluid delivery systems in which fluids are delivered to a patient under conditions limited in time.

State of the art

In many medical procedures, such as drug delivery, fluid administration to the patient is desirable. During diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, numerous types of fluids may be administered to the patient, such as a contrast agent (often referred to simply as “contrast”) and/or saline. Some medical procedures, such as angiography, computed tomography (CT), ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine, and positron emission tomography (PET), require temporary delivery of a fluid, such as contrast, under pressure. Injectors suitable for these applications generally use relatively large volume syringes and provide relatively high flow rates.

Medical personnel work under ever-increasing time and physical constraints. Thus, it is desirable to fill syringes or other fluid containers and connect and disconnect fluid delivery systems as quickly as possible. However, filling a large syringe with a liquid such as contrast is a mostly time-consuming process. Conventional syringes have a distal opening, which is usually used to fill the inside of the syringe with liquid. The size of this distal opening places significant restrictions on the filling rate. Additionally, since conventional syringes are generally marketed with the plunger in the fully retracted position, filling the syringe first requires moving the plunger to the distal end of the syringe to release air and begin the liquid filling process. Since the cost of many medical processes, such as medical diagnosis, increases with duration, any delays can significantly increase costs.

Additionally, in many of these fluid delivery systems, it is necessary to form a hydraulic connection between the individual flow line components. For example, it may be necessary to connect a syringe driven by an injector to a flexible plastic tube, which in turn is connected to a catheter inserted into the patient. A common connector used in the medical field is the Luer connector or Luer Lock. The Luer connector includes a male connector or male portion and a female connector or female portion. The male element and the female element are typically connected through a radially inwardly extending wire attached to the female element, which engages one or more radially outwardly extending flanges on the male luer element to create a tight connection.

Medical personnel must connect and/or disconnect fluid delivery elements in a relatively short time and under stressful and/or critical conditions. Thus, there is a demand for the development of syringe adapters configured to fill a syringe, which have wear-resistant surfaces between the syringe and the adapter, designed to be easily and quickly connected or disconnected.

The essence of the invention

Generally, the present disclosure relates to syringes and fill adapters used in fluid delivery units for medical fluid delivery systems.

In accordance with some examples of the present invention, a fill adapter for delivering a medical fluid to a container may have a body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a central channel extending between the distal end and the proximal end along a longitudinal axis. The central channel may have a flared portion at a proximal end of the body so that the diameter of the central portion increases on the flared portion in a direction from the distal end to the proximal end. The fill adapter may further have a flow regulator within the central channel at the distal end of the flared portion so as to create a gap between the outer surface of the flow regulator and the inner surface of the central channel. The shape of the flow control may be configured to direct fluid flowing through the central channel into the gap and along the flared portion of the central channel according to the Coanda effect.

In accordance with other examples of the present invention, at least a portion of the flow regulator can be attached to the inner surface of the central channel by one or more spokes. Each of the one or more spokes may have a first end connected to the inner surface of the central channel and a second end connected to the flow regulator. Each of the one or more spokes may be resiliently elastic to allow the flow regulator to be moved in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the body by fluid flow. The flow regulator may have a curved distal surface. The curved distal surface of the flow regulator may be convex. The curved distal surface may have a flow deflector extending distally from a central portion of the curved distal surface. The flow diversion device may be formed to direct fluid flowing through the central channel in a radially outward direction toward the gap. The flow regulator may have a curved proximal surface. The curved proximal surface of the flow regulator may be convex. The body may have a flange at the distal end, the flange extending radially outward relative to the outer surface of the body. At least a portion of the body may be formed to be movably receptive within the open distal end of the container.

In accordance with other examples of the present invention, the fluid delivery unit may include a syringe for receiving a medical fluid and a filling adapter. The syringe may have a proximal end, a distal end having an open neck of the syringe, and a side wall extending between the proximal end and the distal end along a longitudinal axis. The syringe may limit the internal volume for receiving medical fluid. The fill adapter can be accessed inside the open neck of the syringe. The fill adapter may have a body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a central channel extending between the distal end and the proximal end along a longitudinal axis. The central channel may have a flared portion at a proximal end of the body so that the diameter of the central portion increases on the flared portion in a direction from the distal end to the proximal end. The fill adapter may further have a flow regulator located within the central channel at the distal end of the flared portion so as to create a gap between the outer surface of the flow regulator and the inner surface of the central channel. The shape of the flow control may be configured to direct fluid flowing through the central channel into the gap and along the flared portion of the central channel according to the Coanda effect.

In accordance with other examples of the present invention, the outer portion of the neck of the syringe may have a flange extending around at least a portion of the circumference of the neck of the syringe. At least a portion of the flange may be configured to engage a cap to enclose the distal end of the syringe. The syringe may have a drive member grip portion extending proximally from an end wall enclosing the proximal end and configured to engage the fluid injector drive member. The side wall of the syringe may be flexible and self-folding under the action of the fluid injector drive element such that the outer surface of the side wall is folded in a radially inward direction as the drive element moves from the proximal end to the distal end, and where the outer surface of the side wall is folded outward in a radial direction as the drive element contracts from the distal end to the proximal end. At least a portion of the flow regulator may be connected to the inner surface of the central channel by one or more spokes. Each of the one or more spokes may have a first end connected to the inner surface of the central channel and a second end connected to the flow regulator. The flow regulator may have a curved distal surface.

In other examples of the present invention, the fluid delivery assembly may comprise a syringe for receiving a medical fluid, the syringe having a proximal end, a distal end having an open neck of the syringe, and a side wall extending between the proximal end and the distal end along a longitudinal axis. The syringe may limit the internal volume for receiving medical fluid. The fluid delivery unit may additionally have a fill adapter that receives inside the open neck of the syringe. The fluid delivery unit may further have a cap attached to the neck of the syringe, the cap having a spout hydraulically connected to the interior of the roll-up diaphragm syringe. The fill adapter may have a body with a distal end, a proximal end, and a central channel extending between the distal end and the proximal end along a longitudinal axis. The central channel may have a flared portion at a proximal end of the body so that the diameter of the central portion increases on the flared portion in a direction from the distal end to the proximal end. The fill adapter may further have a flow regulator located within the central channel at the distal end of the flared portion so that a gap is formed between the outer surface of the flow regulator and the inner surface of the central channel. The shape of the flow control may be configured to direct fluid flowing through the central channel into the gap and along the flared portion of the central channel according to the Coanda effect. The outer portion of the syringe neck may have a flange extending around at least a portion of the circumference of the syringe neck, and the cap may have one or more tabs formed to releasably engage at least a portion of the flange. The one or more legs may have a first end attached to the cap and a second end extending proximally from the first end. The second end may be flared in a radially outward direction when the cap contacts a flange on the neck of the syringe.

Various other aspects of the present invention are set forth in one or more of the following paragraphs:

Claim 1: A filling adapter for supplying a medical fluid to a container, the filling adapter comprising: a body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a central channel extending between the distal end and the proximal end along a longitudinal axis, the central channel having a flared portion at the proximal end of the body so that the diameter of the central portion increases on the flared portion in a direction from the distal end to the proximal end, and a flow regulator located inside the central channel at the distal end of the flared portion so that a gap is formed between the outer surface of the flow regulator and the inner surface of the central channel, wherein the shape The flow regulator is configured to direct fluid flowing through the central channel into the gap and along the expanding portion of the central channel according to the Coanda effect.

Claim 2: The fill adapter of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the flow regulator is connected to the inner surface of the central channel by one or more spokes having a first end connected to the inner surface of the central channel and a second end connected to the flow regulator.

Claim 3: The fill adapter of claim 2, wherein each of the one or more spokes is resiliently elastic to allow the flow regulator to be moved in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the body by the flow of fluid.

Clause 4: Filling adapter according to any one of paragraphs. 1-3, where the flow regulator has a curved distal surface.

Item 5: The fill adapter of item 4, wherein the curved distal surface of the flow regulator is convex.

Claim 6: The fill adapter of claim 4, wherein the curved distal surface has a flow deflector extending distally from a central portion of the curved distal surface, the flow deflector configured to direct fluid flowing through the central channel in a radially outward direction toward gap.

Clause 7: Filling adapter according to any one of paragraphs. 1-6, where the flow regulator has a curved proximal surface.

Item 8: The fill adapter of item 7, wherein the curved proximal surface of the flow regulator is convex.

Item 9: Filling adapter according to any one of paragraphs. 1-8, wherein the body has a flange at a distal end, the flange extending radially outward relative to the outer surface of the body.

Item 10: Filling adapter according to any one of paragraphs. 1-9, wherein at least a portion of the body is configured to movably receive within the open distal end of the container.

Clause 11: A fluid delivery unit comprising: a syringe for receiving a medical fluid, the rollable membrane syringe comprising: a proximal end, a distal end having an open neck of the syringe, and a side wall extending between the proximal end and the distal end along a longitudinal axis, wherein the syringe defines the internal volume for receiving medical fluid into it; and a fill adapter extending inside the open neck of the syringe, the fill adapter comprising: a body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a central channel extending between the distal end and the proximal end along a longitudinal axis, the central channel having a flared central portion at the proximal end of the body, so that the diameter of the central part increases on the flared part in the direction from the distal end to the proximal end; and a flow regulator located within the central channel at the distal end of the flared portion so that a gap is formed between the outer surface of the flow regulator and the inner surface of the central channel, the flow regulator being shaped to direct fluid flowing through the central channel into the gap and along the flared portion central channel according to the Coanda effect.

Claim 12: The fluid delivery assembly of claim 11, wherein the outer portion of the syringe neck has a flange extending around at least a portion of the circumference of the syringe neck.

Clause 13: Fluid delivery unit according to any one of paragraphs. 11-12, wherein at least a portion of the flange is configured to engage a cap to surround the distal end of the syringe.

Clause 14: Fluid delivery unit according to any one of paragraphs. 11-13, wherein the syringe has a drive member grip portion projecting proximally from an end wall surrounding the proximal end and formed to engage the fluid injector drive member.

Clause 15: Fluid delivery unit according to any one of paragraphs. 11-14, where the side wall of the syringe is flexible and folds itself under the action of the fluid injector drive element so that the outer surface of the side wall folds in the radial direction as the drive element moves from the proximal end to the distal end, and where the outer surface the side wall rotates in a radially outward direction as the drive element contracts from the distal end to the proximal end.

Clause 16: Fluid delivery unit according to any one of paragraphs. 11-15, wherein at least a portion of the flow control is connected to the inner surface of the central channel by one or more spokes, and where each of the one or more spokes has a first end connected to the inner surface of the central channel and a second end connected to the flow control.

Clause 17: Fluid delivery unit according to any one of paragraphs. 11-16, where the flow control has a curved distal surface.

Clause 18: A fluid delivery unit comprising: a syringe for receiving a medical fluid, the syringe having a tuckable membrane comprising: a proximal end, a distal end having an open neck of the syringe, and a side wall extending between the proximal end and the distal end along a longitudinal axis, wherein the syringe defines the internal volume for receiving medical fluid into it; a filling adapter receiving within the open neck of a syringe, the filling adapter comprising: a body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a central channel extending between the distal end and the proximal end along a longitudinal axis, the central channel having a flared portion at the proximal end of the body such that the diameter of the central part increases on the flared part in the direction from the distal end to the proximal end; and a flow regulator located inside the central channel at the distal end of the flared portion so that a gap is formed between the outer surface of the flow regulator and the inner surface of the central channel; and a cap attached to the neck of the syringe, the cap having a spout in fluid communication with the internal volume of the tuckable diaphragm syringe, the flow control being shaped to direct fluid flowing through the central channel into the gap and along the flared portion of the central channel according to the effect Coanda.

Claim 19: The fluid delivery assembly of claim 18, wherein the outer portion of the syringe has a flange extending around at least a portion of the circumference of the neck of the syringe, and wherein the cap has one or more tabs formed to releasably engage at least a portion of the flange.

Claim 20: The fluid delivery assembly of claim 19, wherein the one or more legs has a first end attached to the cap and a second end extending proximally from the first end, and wherein the second end is capable of deflecting in a radially outward direction when the cap contacts flange on the neck of the syringe.

These and other features and characteristics of syringes, fill adapter and syringe and fluid delivery assembly for use in medical fluid delivery systems and combinations of parts and manufacturing savings will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the accompanying claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be clearly understood, however, that the drawings are provided for purposes of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the extent of the disclosure.

Brief description of drawings

FIG. 1 is a detailed side view of a syringe and fluid delivery assembly in accordance with one example of the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional side view of a syringe with a refill adapter in accordance with one example of the present invention;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a syringe for use with a filling adapter in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 3A is a side view of the syringe and fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the syringe and fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 3A in first engagement position;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the syringe and fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 3A in the second engagement position;

FIG. 6 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a side view of the syringe and fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 1 after filling the syringe with fluid and separating the piercing device from the filling adapter;

FIG. 8 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a side view of the syringe of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the fill adapter of FIG. 7;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a syringe and fluid delivery assembly in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the joint interface of the fill adapter of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a detailed cross-sectional side view of a fluid delivery assembly in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 15A is a perspective view of a fluid delivery assembly in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 15B is another perspective view of the fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 16 is an enlarged perspective view of a fluid delivery assembly in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 17A is a perspective view of a fluid delivery assembly in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 17B is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 17A;

FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a fluid delivery assembly in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 18B is another perspective view of the fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 18A;

FIG. 18C is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 18A;

FIG. 18D is a detailed side cross-sectional view of the gear adapter of FIG. 18A;

FIG. 18E is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the joint interface of the fill adapter of FIG. 18A;

FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a fluid delivery assembly in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 19B is another perspective view of the fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 19A;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a fluid delivery assembly in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 21A is a detailed cross-sectional side view of a joint interface of a fill adapter according to another aspect;

FIG. 21B is a detailed perspective view of a cross-section of the interface of the joint of FIG. 21A;

FIG. 21C is a perspective view of a syringe in accordance with the filling adapter of FIG. 21A;

FIG. 21D is a perspective view of the crimped fill adapter connector of FIG. 21A;

FIG. 21E is a perspective view of the fill adapter flow regulator of FIG. 21A;

FIG. 21F is a perspective view of a crimped connector in accordance with another example of the fill adapter of FIG. 21A;

FIG. 22A is a perspective view of a fluid delivery assembly in accordance with another aspect;

FIG. 22B is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 22A;

FIG. 22C is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the joint interface of the fill adapter of FIG. 22A;

FIG. 22D is an enlarged view of the valve body of the fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 22A;

FIG. 23A is a perspective view of a fluid delivery assembly in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 23B is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the joint interface of the fill adapter of FIG. 23A;

FIG. 23C is a perspective view of the gear adapter of the fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 23A;

FIG. 23D is a perspective view of a flow regulator in accordance with one aspect of the fill adapter of FIG. 23A;

FIG. 24A is a detailed cross-sectional side view of a joint interface according to another example of the fill adapter of FIG. 23A;

FIG. 24B is a perspective view of the interface flow controller of FIG. 39A;

FIG. 25A is a detailed cross-sectional side view of a joint interface according to another example of the fill adapter of FIG. 23A;

FIG. 25B is a perspective view of the interface flow controller of FIG. 25A;

FIG. 26A is a detailed cross-sectional side view of a joint interface in accordance with another aspect of the fill adapter of FIG. 23A;

FIG. 26B is a perspective view of the interface flow controller of FIG. 26A;

FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a fluid delivery assembly in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 27B is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the joint interface of the fill adapter of FIG. 27A;

FIG. 27C is another perspective view of the fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 27A;

FIG. 27D is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the joint interface of the fill adapter of FIG. 27C;

FIG. 27E is a perspective view of the slide valve of the fluid delivery assembly of FIG. 27A;

FIG. 27F is an enlarged perspective view of the slide valve of FIG. 27E;

FIG. 27G is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the slide valve of FIG. 27E;

FIG. 28A is a perspective view of a fluid delivery assembly in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 28B is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the joint interface of the fill adapter of FIG. 28A;

FIG. 29 is an enlarged perspective view of a syringe assembly in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 30A is a perspective view of a syringe with a filling adapter in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 30B is a detailed top perspective view of the syringe and filling adapter of FIG. 30A;

FIG. 30C is a cross-sectional side view of the syringe and filling adapter of FIG. 30A;

FIG. 30D is a top perspective view of the fill adapter shown in FIG. 30A removed from the syringe;

FIG. 31A is a cross-sectional side view of a syringe and a filling adapter in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 31B is a top perspective view of the fill adapter shown in FIG. 31A removed from the syringe;

FIG. 32A is an enlarged perspective view of a syringe, refill adapter and cap in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 32B is a perspective view of the syringe, refill adapter, and cap of FIG. 32A in assembled form;

FIG. 32C is a cross-sectional side view of the syringe, refill adapter, and cap of FIG. 32A;

FIG. 32D is a perspective view of the syringe of FIG. 32A;

FIG. 33A is an enlarged perspective view of a syringe, refill adapter and cap in accordance with another example of the present invention;

FIG. 33B is a perspective view of the syringe of FIG. 33A;

FIG. 33C is a perspective view of the cover of FIG. 33A;

FIG. 34A is a cross-sectional side view of a syringe and filling adapter in accordance with another example of the present invention, showing the flow regulator in a closed position; And

FIG. 34B is a cross-sectional side view of the syringe and filling adapter of FIG. 34A showing the flow control in the open position.

Detailed Description of the Invention

In general, the illustrations show non-limiting examples of the present invention. While the description provides various examples, it should not be interpreted in any way as limiting the disclosure. Moreover, the modifications, concepts and uses of examples of the disclosure should be interpreted by those skilled in the art as encompassing, but not limiting, the illustrations and descriptions provided herein. Any and all such modifications, variations, equivalents and alternatives are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

As used in the specification and claims, the singular form includes plural entities unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

For purposes of description further in this document, the terms “top”, “bottom”, “right”, “left”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “top”, “bottom”, “lateral”, “longitudinal” and their derivatives must refer to the components as they are oriented in the drawing figures. When used in relation to a syringe, the term “proximal” refers to the portion of the syringe closest to the injector when the syringe is oriented to connect to the injector. The term “distal” refers to the portion of the syringe furthest from the injector when the syringe is oriented to connect to the injector. The term “radial” refers to the direction on the cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the syringe, extending between the proximal and distal ends. The term “circumferential” refers to the direction around the inner or outer surface of the side wall of the syringe. The term “axial” refers to the direction along the longitudinal axis of the syringe, extending between the proximal and distal ends. The term “flexible” when used in connection with a syringe means that at least a portion of the syringe, such as a side wall of the syringe, is capable of bending or is bendable to change the direction in which it extends. The terms “collapse,” “coil,” and “invert” refer to the ability of a first portion of the syringe, such as the proximal portion of the side wall of the syringe, to bend approximately 180° relative to the second portion of the syringe, such as the distal portion of the side wall of the syringe, under the influence of the injector drive element. fluid.

Unless otherwise indicated, it should be understood that all ranges or relationships disclosed in this specification include any and all subranges or subratios included in this specification. For example, a stated interval or relationship of “1 to 10” should be considered to include any and all subranges between (and including) a minimum value of 1 and a maximum value of 10; that is, all subranges or subratios starting with a minimum value of 1 or more and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less, such as, but not limited to, 1 to 6.1, 3.5 to 7, 8 and from 5.5 to 10.

It should be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary aspects of the disclosure. Accordingly, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics with respect to the aspects disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting.

All documents, such as, but not limited to, published patents and patent applications, mentioned in this specification, and until otherwise indicated, should be considered “incorporated by reference” in their entirety.

With reference to the drawings, in which like reference characteristics refer to like parts throughout several forms thereof, this specification will describe in detail syringes, filling adapters and syringes and fluid transfer assemblies for use in medical fluid delivery systems. The present disclosure also provides other connectors suitable for use with the syringes disclosed herein, as well as other fluid-conducting components or fluid injection systems. In general, the connectors of the present disclosure are suitable for use in low pressure and high pressure fluid injection systems.

In FIG. 1 and FIG. 3A-11, a fluid transfer assembly 10 for delivering medical fluids is illustrated according to one example. The fluid transfer unit 10 is configured to accelerate the transfer of liquid from the second liquid container 36 to the first liquid container 12. In some examples, the first liquid container 12 and/or the second liquid container 36 may be a syringe, vial, bottle, pouch, or other container structure formed to receive a volume of liquid. In some examples, the first liquid container 12 may be a syringe, while the second liquid container 36 may be a liquid product storage container, such as a bottle or bag.

In FIG. 1, the fluid transfer assembly 10 further includes a fill adapter 32 configured to facilitate the transfer of fluid between two fluid containers, such as from a second fluid container 36 to a first fluid container 12. The fill adapter 32 may be coupled to the first fluid container 12 and/or the second fluid container 36 by a connector. In some examples, the fill adapter 32 may be connected without a connector to one of the first fluid reservoir 12 and the second liquid container 36, and coupled to the other of the first liquid reservoir 12 and the second liquid reservoir 36. The fill adapter 32 may have a unitary one-piece structure, or it may be formed from two or more components connected together with or without a connector.

The fill adapter 32 may be configured to operate between the first state and the second state. In the first state, the flow of liquid may be blocked so that no amount of liquid can move between the two liquid containers, such as from the second liquid container 36 to the first liquid container 12. In the second state, liquid can flow between two liquid containers, such as from the second liquid container 36 to the first liquid container 12 through the filling adapter 32. As described herein, the fill adapter 32 may be movable between a first position and a second position to affect operation between the first and second states, respectively.

In FIG. 1 and FIG. 3A-3B, fluid transfer assembly 10 may have a locking mechanism 108 removably coupled to at least two of a first fluid container 12, a fill adapter 32, and a second fluid container 36. The locking mechanism 108 may be configured to prevent movement of components of the fluid transfer assembly 10 between a first position and a second position to prevent the flow of fluid between two containers, for example, from the second fluid container 36 to the first fluid container 12. The locking mechanism 108 may be a bracket that is detachable from the fluid transfer assembly 10, or it may move from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the locking mechanism 108 may prevent activation of the fill adapter 32 from the first state to the second state, thereby preventing fluid from flowing from the second fluid container 36 to the first fluid container 12. In the second position, the locking mechanism 108 may cause the fill adapter 32 to be activated in the second state, thereby allowing fluid to flow from the second fluid container 36 to the first fluid container 12.

In FIG. 2A, a non-limiting example of the first liquid container 12 is shown as a bellows syringe 12a having a flexible side wall. The bellows syringe 12a can be used as the first liquid container in any example of the present invention described with reference to FIG. 3A-33C. The 12a bellows syringe is suitable for use in CT, MRI, PET and similar procedures and operates at typical operating pressures of, for example, about 10-300 psi, such as 200-300 psi, depending on the viscosity of the liquid and the desired injection rate. In some examples, the bellows syringe 12a may be configured for use in procedures requiring pressures of approximately 1200 psi, such as those used in angiography. In some aspects, the rollable diaphragm syringe 12a may be the syringe disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2015/027582 and/or International Patent Application No. PCT/US2016/028824, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

In FIG. 2A, the rollable diaphragm syringe 12a generally includes a hollow body that includes an anterior or distal end 18, a posterior or proximal end 16, and a flexible sidewall 20 extending therebetween along a longitudinal axis L. During operation, the proximal end 16 is configured to be inserted into a passageway of a vacuum jacket connected to the liquid injector so that the side wall 20 is surrounded by the inner surface of the vacuum jacket. At least a portion of the distal end 18 of the roll-up syringe 12a may be exposed to the distal end 18 of the vacuum jacket. In some examples, the rollable diaphragm syringe 12a may be produced using blow molding technology. In other examples, the rollable diaphragm syringe 12a may be injection molded.

As can be seen from FIG. 2A, the proximal end 16 of the syringe 12a is connected by a closed end wall 30, and the distal end 18 of the tuckable syringe 12a defines a syringe neck 22 opposite the closed end wall 30. The distal end 18 may have a truncated cone shape that gradually tapers from the side wall 20 to neck 22 syringes. The neck 22 of the syringe is open to allow fluid to enter the interior of the syringe and/or flow from the interior of the syringe. The closed end wall 30 may be shaped to interface directly or indirectly with the drive element of a fluid injector (not shown). For example, the closed end wall 30 may define a receiving end stack to mate directly with a similarly shaped drive member, which may be formed to substantially conform to the shape of the closed end wall 30. The side wall 20 and/or the end wall 30 may have the same or uneven thickness. For example, side wall 20 may have increased thickness at distal end 18 compared to end wall 30.

The side wall 20 of the rollable syringe 12a defines a soft, bendable or flexible, still self-supporting body that is configured to roll under the action of the drive element. In particular, the side wall 20 of the rollable diaphragm syringe 12a is configured to fold so that its outer surface folds in a radially inward direction and turns inside out as the drive member moves distally, and turns out and flips out in the opposite direction in a radially outward direction. as the drive element is retracted proximally.

The collapsible syringe 12a can be made from any suitable plastic or polymeric material suitable for medical use, preferably a transparent or substantially translucent plastic material such as polypropylene random copolymer, polypropylene block copolymer, polypropylene homopolymer, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, POM , ABS, HPDE, nylon, cyclic olefin copolymer, multilayer polypropylene, polycarbonate, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyethylene, etc. The material of the tuckable diaphragm syringe 12a is desirably selected to meet the required elongation and plane stress requirements, water vapor permeability, and chemical/biological compatibility.

The distal end 18 of a rollable syringe 12a, such as a syringe neck 22, may have a connector 130a at the distal end 18 for connection to a corresponding cap member, such as at least a portion of the fill adapter 32 described herein. In some aspects, the connector 130a is a threaded connector having one or more threads for alignment with corresponding threads on the fill adapter 32. In certain aspects, the connector 130a may be configured to connect to the fill adapter 32 via a luer lock. In other aspects, the connector 130a may have one or more projections or grooves that engage corresponding grooves or projections on the primer adapter 32 to releasably or permanently secure the tuckable syringe 12a to the primer adapter 32. The connection between the filling adapter 32 and the syringe 12a may have at least one seal, such as an O-ring, to prevent fluid leakage at the coupling between the filling adapter 32 and the syringe 12a. The neck 22 of the syringe may also be configured to be hydraulically coupled to a fluid line (not shown) that may be connected to the patient. In some examples, the fluid distribution may be configured as a tubing connection configured to deliver fluid from the first fluid container 12 to a patient or fluid receiving container. In some examples, the fluid distribution is configured to be removably connected to the neck 22 of the syringe of the first fluid container 12.

End wall 30 may have a central portion 132 having a substantially dome-shaped structure, and a drive member gripping portion 134 protruding proximally from the central portion 132, such as from approximately the midpoint of the central portion 132. In some aspects, the most distal end of the central portion 132 may be essentially flat. The drive member engaging portion 134 is configured to engage with an engagement mechanism on the fluid injector drive member. The proximal end 16 of the tumble syringe 12a may have one or more ridges 136 extending radially outward from the drive member grip portion 134 along the proximal surface of the central portion 132. In certain embodiments, the tumble syringe 12a may be initially in a compressed, folded configuration when engaged. with the injector, and the drive element can engage with the drive element grip portion 134 to retract the end wall 30 rearward, unfolding the side wall 20 and allowing the interior of the syringe to be filled.

In FIG. 2B, a non-limiting example of the first liquid container 12 is shown as a syringe 12b having a substantially rigid side wall. The syringe 12b can be used as the first liquid container in any example of the present invention described with reference to FIG. 3A-33C. The 12b syringe is adapted for use in CT, MRI, PET and similar procedures and operates at typical operating pressures of, for example, about 10-300 psi (pounds per square inch), such as 200-300 psi, depending on the viscosity of the fluid and desired injection rate. In some examples, syringe 12b may be configured for use in procedures requiring pressures of approximately 1200 psi, such as those used in angiography. In some aspects, syringe 12b may be the syringe disclosed in US Pat. No. 9,173,995, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The syringe 12b generally has a syringe barrel 14 made of glass, metal, suitable medical grade plastic, or combinations thereof. The barrel 14 has a proximal end 16 and a distal end 18, with a side wall 20 extending between them along the length of the longitudinal axis L. The neck 22 of the syringe projects from the distal end 18 of the barrel 14. The barrel 14 has an outer surface 24 and an inner surface 26 that defines the internal volume , configured to receive liquid into it. The proximal end 16 of the cylinder 14 may be sealed by a plunger 31 that slides through the cylinder 14. The plunger 31 forms a liquid-tight seal with the inner surface 26 of the side wall 20 of the cylinder 14 as it is advanced or retracted therethrough. The plunger 31 may have a rigid internal member configured to engage a fluid injector drive member (not shown). The plunger 31 may further include an elastomeric coating located over at least a portion of the rigid inner member. The elastomeric coating is configured to come into contact with the inner surface 26 of the cylinder 14 and provide a liquid-tight seal with the inner surface of the side wall 20 of the cylinder 14.

In FIG. 2B, the proximal end 16 of syringe 12b is calibrated and adapted for detachable insertion into the syringe port of the injector. In some examples, the proximal end 16 of the syringe 12b defines an insertion portion that is configured to be removably inserted into the syringe port of the injector 10 while the remainder of the syringe 12b remains outside the syringe port.

In specific examples, the proximal end 16 of the syringe 12b includes one or more syringe retaining elements 33 configured to form a locking engagement with a corresponding locking mechanism in the syringe port of the injector to releasably retain the syringe 12b in the syringe port. The combination of the syringe 12b having one or more syringe retaining members 33 and the injector locking mechanism defines a connection interface for inserting the syringe 12b into and out of the injector. In some examples, at least a portion of the syringe retaining elements 33 may be connected to at least a portion of the locking mechanism to self-orient the syringe 12b relative to the syringe port so that the syringe 12b can be inserted with a connector into and locked with the syringe port. The one or more syringe holding members 33 may be configured as one or more projections 34 that project radially outward from the outer surface 24 of the syringe barrel 14 relative to the longitudinal axis L. In some examples, a plurality of projections 34 may be spaced radially around the circumference of the barrel 14. In such In the examples, the projections 34 are separated from each other by portions of the outer surface 24 of the cylinder 14. Each of the one or more projections 34 may have a generally triangular, rectangular, polygonal, or arrow-shaped shape.

In FIG. 3A, the locking mechanism 108 may be a “U”-shaped clamp with a clamp 110 at the first end 112 configured to connect to the first fluid container 12, and a clamp 114 at the second end 116 configured to connect to the second fluid container 36. The length of the middle portion 118 of the locking mechanism 108, defined as the length between the first end 112 and the second end 116, is longer than the longitudinal length of the fill adapter 32 so that when the locking mechanism 108 is attached to both the first liquid container 12 and the second container 36 for fluid, the fill adapter 32 will be in the first engagement position (ie, engaged only with the first fluid container 12 and not engaged with the second fluid container 36).

The fluid transfer assembly 10 may further include a flexible housing 120 made of any durable and flexible material, such as rubber, to enclose and protect the fill adapter 32 . The flexible housing 120 may be collapsible or compressible to allow the fill adapter 32 to move from a first position to a second position.

According to FIG. 3B, the second fluid container 36 may have a cylinder 38 made of glass, metal, a suitable medical grade plastic, or combinations thereof, or may be a plastic bag such as a saline bag. The cylinder 38 has a proximal end 40 and a distal end 42, with a side wall 44 extending therebetween along a longitudinal axis 45. A fluid delivery portion, such as a neck 46, extends from a distal end 42 of the cylinder 38. The cylinder 38 has an outer surface 48 and an inner surface 50 that define an internal volume 52 configured to receive liquid F. The distal end 42 of the second liquid container 36 may include a coupling assembly for connection to the filling adapter 32 . In some examples, the distal end 42 may be enclosed by a pierceable septum 54. The fill adapter 32 may be configured to be pierced through the septum 54 to connect the interior volume 52 of the second fluid container 36 to the interior volume 28 of the first fluid container 12 to facilitate transfer of fluid F from the second container. 36 for liquid into the first container 12 for liquid.

According to FIG. 3B, the fill adapter 32 has a generally cylindrical body 56 formed from glass, metal, suitable medical grade plastic, or combinations thereof. The body 56 has a longitudinal axis 58, a distal end 60, and a proximal end 62. The distal end 60 is configured to engage the second fluid container 36 to establish a hydraulic connection between the second fluid reservoir 36 and the fill adapter 32. The proximal end 62 is configured to engage the first fluid container 12 to establish a hydraulic connection between the first fluid container 12 and the fill adapter 32 . In some examples, the proximal end 62 of the body 56 is removably connected to the neck 22 of the syringe.

The body 56 of the fill adapter 32 needs to be hollow to allow fluid to pass through it. In some examples, body 56 has an inner side wall 64 and an outer side wall 66 extending between a distal end 60 and a proximal end 62 along a longitudinal axis 58. In some examples, the inner side wall 64 may be configured to mate with the inner surface 26 of a syringe neck 22, while the outer side wall 66 is configured to mate with the outer surface 24 of the syringe neck 22. Grooves 35 are formed on the outer side wall 64 and are configured to engage a marked portion 34 located on the outer surface 24 of the neck 22 of the syringe.

As shown in FIG. 6, the distal end 18 of the first fluid container 12 may include a mating assembly connecting the first fluid container 12 to the fill adapter 32. In some examples, the coupling assembly may include a protruding portion 34 located on an outer surface 24 of the barrel 14 on the neck 22 of the syringe to engage a groove 35 of the fill adapter 32 for attaching the fill adapter 32 to the first fluid container 12 . When engaged, the fill adapter 32 facilitates transfer of fluid F from the second fluid container 36 to the first fluid container 12 . In other examples, the connection interface between the first fluid container 12 and the fill adapter 32 may be a threaded connection, a welded connection, a press-fit connection, a dead-fit connection, a lock connection, or other mechanical connection.

In particular, in FIG. 8, body 56 removably receives a piercing device 68 configured to penetrate the pierceable partition 54 of the second liquid container 36. The piercing device 68 has a typically cylindrical body 70 with a longitudinal axis 71, a piercing apex 72 located at the distal end 74, and an extended base 76 extending radially from the longitudinal axis 71 located at the proximal end 78. In some examples, the extended base 76 is configured to activation of fluid flow due to the Conda effect. According to FIG. 6, when received within the body 56 of the fill adapter 32, the body 56 of the fill adapter 32 surrounds the body 70 of the piercing device 68 and the piercing apex 72 may extend beyond the distal end 60 while the flared base 76 extends toward the proximal end 62 into the interior of the cervix 22 syringe. The longitudinal axis 71 of the piercing device 68 may be coaxial with the longitudinal axis 58 of the body 56. The piercing device 68 has a first tube 80 surrounded by a second annular tube 82. The first tube 80 is configured to displace air from the interior of the first fluid container 12 during a filling procedure, while the second annular tube 82 is configured to transfer liquid F from the second liquid container 36 to the first liquid container 12. In some examples, the cross-sectional area of the first tube 80 may be 8% to 40% less than the cross-sectional area of the second annular tube 82. Both the first tube 80 and the second annular tube 82 extend along the longitudinal axis 71 of the piercing device 68. The first tube 80 and the second annular tube 82 may be of equal or different lengths. The first tube 80 may be concentric with the second annular tube 82. In some examples, the first tube 80 and the second tube 82 may be parallel when positioned adjacent to each other. The first tube 80 and/or the second annular tube 82 may have a smooth or spiral inner side wall (not shown). In some examples, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the expanded base 76 to the cross-sectional area of the first tube 80 may be from 5:1 to 20:1. In additional examples, the radius of the flared base 76 is required to be less than or equal to the radius of the syringe 12 at the transition between the frusto-conical distal end and the neck 22 of the syringe.

According to FIG. 6, the fluid transfer assembly 10 is shown in a second engaging position where the piercing tip 72 penetrates the rubber septum 54 of the second fluid container 36, thereby allowing fluid F to flow into the second annular tube 82. The fluid F is moved from the proximal end 78 of the second annular tube 82 through the filling adapter 32 into the internal volume 28 of the first container 12 for liquid through the neck 22 of the syringe. Fluid flow may be gravity-driven or pressure-assisted as when the tuckable syringe 12a is deployed proximally or when the plunger 31 of the syringe 12b is retracted proximally. Liquid F entering the first fluid container 12 through the second annular tube 82 contacts the flared base 76 and is deflected radially outward from the longitudinal axis 71 and toward the inner surface 26 of the cylinder 14 before flowing down the side wall 20 of the cylinder 14 and accumulating at the bottom the first container 12 for liquid. Fluid F initiates flow through the second annular tube 82 instead of the first tube 80 because it is at a lower point in the fill adapter 32 and will have a higher head pressure than the inlet to the first tube 80. Flow of fluid F from the second fluid reservoir 36 the interior of the first fluid container 12 replaces the air contained within the first liquid container 12 into the second liquid container 36 through the first tube 80. Any amount of liquid initially flowing through the first tube 80 is forced to flow out of the first tube 80 by the action of the air flowing through the first tube 80 from the first liquid container 12 to the second liquid container 36. The exchange of air and liquid within the first fluid container 12 occurs substantially simultaneously through the first tube 80 and the second annular tube 82, without any delay or gurgling due to irregular flow characteristics.

According to FIG. 8, the piercing device 68 may further include a plurality of deflectable whiskers 84 configured to prevent removal of the piercing device 68 from the second liquid container 36 after the piercing device 68 has penetrated the septum 54. The deflectable whiskers 84 extend radially outward from the outer surface of the piercing device. 68 and form an acute angle with it. As the piercing tip 72 penetrates the piercing septum 54 of the second liquid container 36, the whiskers 84 are deflected radially inward toward the longitudinal axis 71 so as to allow the piercing device 68 to pass through the septum 54 and into the second liquid container 36. Likewise, when a proximally directed force is applied to the piercing device 68, the deflectable whiskers 84 project radially outward to prevent removal of the piercing device 68 from the second fluid container 36. The proximally directed force causes the piercing device 68 to detach from the body 56 of the filling adapter 32 while the body 56 remains connected to the syringe neck 22 of the first fluid container 12. In the same manner, the second liquid container 36 can be removed along with the piercing device 68 fixed inside the neck 46 of the syringe of the second liquid container 36.

According to FIG. 8, the fill adapter 32 may further include a plug 85 that is removably coupled to the distal end 78 of the piercing device 68. With removal of the piercing device 68 from the body 56, the plug 85 moves from a first position (shown in FIG. 6) to a second position (shown in FIG. 8). In the first position, plug 85 is detached from body 56, while in the second position, plug 85 is attached to base 56 as described herein. According to FIG. 11, plug 85 has an internal member 86 defining a fluid passage 88 that is in fluid communication with the internal volume 28 of the first fluid container 12. Inner member 86 is aligned with the first tube of the piercing device (not shown in FIG. 11). The inner member 86 is surrounded by an outer annular jacket 90 that extends axially along at least a portion of the longitudinal length of the inner member 86. The inner member 86 is spaced radially from the outer annular jacket 90 into an annular space 92. The outer annular jacket 90 has a threaded portion 94, i.e. ., a female luer lock member formed on an inner surface 96 facing an inner member 86 formed to connect the first fluid container 12 to a fluid flow path thereto. The outer surface 98 of the outer annular jacket 90 has at least one leg 100 extending from portion of the longitudinal length of the outer ring-shaped jacket 90 configured to fit inside a suitably formed recess 102 formed on the inner side wall 64 of the body 56. Once the leg 100 engages within the recess 102, the plug 85 is connected to the base 56 to prevent the plug 85 from being removed from neck tip of a 22 syringe. According to FIG. 8, when the leg 100 engages within the recess 102 and the user applies a proximally directed force on the first fluid container 12 to separate the assembly 10, the lower portion 103 of the whiskers 84 contacts the septum 54 of the second fluid reservoir 36 and prevents removal of the piercing device 68 from the second container 36 for liquid. As a result, the body 70 of the piercing device 68 and the plug 85 attached to the distal end 78 of the piercing device 68 are forced to move towards the distal end 18 of the first fluid container 12 until the leg 100 is secured within the recess 102. Next, the proximal the force causes the body 70 of the piercing device 68 to disengage from the body 56 of the filling adapter 32 while the plug 85 remains connected to the base 56 and covers the neck 22 of the syringe of the first liquid container 12. The piercing device 68 can be removed along with the second fluid container 36 .

According to FIG. 11, a tube (not shown) may optionally be connected to plug 85 to create a path for fluid from the first fluid container 12 to the patient after the first fluid container 12 is filled with fluid. In some examples, the outer annular jacket 90 of the plug 85 includes a threaded portion 94, i.e., a female luer lock, formed on an inner surface 96 configured to connect to a tube having a pin element (not shown) to create a path for fluid . In other examples, the arrangement of the internal threads 94 and the pin element (not shown) may be reversed. In such examples, the pin element is provided on the plug 85 while the pointed female thread 94 is provided on the tube.

According to FIG. 11, the inner side wall 64 of the body 56 may radially bend at least one leg 100 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 58 to facilitate longitudinal movement of the plug 85 within the neck 22 of the syringe when the leg 100 is not engaged within the recess. The outer surface 98 of plug 85 may further include one or more seals 104 to prevent liquid F from leaking out between the base 56 and plug 85 when the leg 100 is engaged within the recess 102. Alternatively, one or more seals 104 may optionally be attached to the inner side wall 64 around the recess 102 .

Next, according to FIG. 12, a fluid transfer assembly 200 in accordance with another example of the present invention is discussed. The fluid transfer assembly 200 is formed to eliminate the need for vacuum to fill the syringe through plunger activation. Instead, the fluid transfer assembly 200 creates a fluid head pressure to increase the filling rate by maintaining the fluid reservoir at a height above the syringe during the filling process. As shown in FIG. 12, fluid transfer assembly 200 has a syringe 202 and a tip 204 configured to connect to a fluid reservoir 201 above the syringe 202. The tip 204 includes a valve 206 to allow air to enter the fluid reservoir during the filling process. The connection between the syringe 202 and the tip adapter 204 is a fill tube 208, wherein the fill tube 208 has a tube clamp 210 disposed thereon to selectively stop or initiate the flow of fluid through the fill tube 208. The tube clamp 210 may be any suitable alternative valve, such as a shut-off valve. valve. While the syringe 202 can be connected directly to the tip adapter 204, the fill tube 208 increases the hydraulic pressure of the fluid in the fluid container 201 by increasing the distance between the syringe 202 and the fluid container 201. In the same way, the filling rate of the syringe 202 can be increased because the flow rate generally increases with hydraulic head when the remaining flow variables are held constant. In various embodiments, the fill rate for the syringe 202 can be selected by selecting an appropriate hydraulic head.

According to FIG. 13 and FIG. 12, valve body 216 mates with the open end of syringe 202, with valve body 216 having on it a connection cap 212 and an optional floating ball 214 or other valve structure allowing one-way flow of fluid held therein. The valve body 216 further includes a fastening device 218 configured to connect to a low pressure connecting tube 220 that can form an ongoing connection to a separate tubing (not shown) connected to the patient once the syringe is full and the tubing is primed. The connecting tube 220 has a filling tube 222 connected to a fastening device 221 at its distal end. In examples where the floating ball 214 is omitted, a separate valve mechanism (not shown) may be provided to prevent liquid from flowing from the syringe 202 into the liquid reservoir 201.

In FIG. 13 shows valve body 216 coupled to syringe 202, with fill tube 208 hydraulically coupled to valve body 216 via connection cap 212. Also located within valve body 216 is a funnel-shaped flow regulator 224. The open end 226 is configured to hydraulically engage with the connecting tube 220. During the filling process, liquid from the fluid container 201 (shown in FIG. 12) above the syringe 202 is gravity fed through the filling tube 208 into the valve body 216. The floating ball 214 or other one-way valve is formed to allow fluid to pass through the valve body 216 during the initial filling process, with the fluid flowing down and around the outer surface of the flow regulator 224. It is not necessary for the funnel-shaped surface profile of the flow regulator 224 to force fluid along the interior walls of the syringe 202 via the knurled connector 225. The combination of the funnel-shaped profile of the flow regulator 224 and the conical sidewall of the distal end of the syringe 202 (and/or the knurled connector 225) results in liquid filling. syringe 202 in accordance with the Coanda effect. As used in this description, the Coanda effect is the tendency of a fluid stream to be attracted to a nearby curved or inclined surface as the fluid flows along the surface. Thus, as liquid flows downward from the flow regulator 224 and/or knurled connector 225, it is spontaneously attracted to the inner surface of the tapered distal end 250 of the syringe 202 rather than flowing away from the edge of the flow regulator 224 and/or knurled connector 225. Then liquid flows down the tubular side wall 252 of the syringe 202, ultimately accumulating at the bottom of the syringe 202, filling the syringe 202 from the bottom upward as air leaves the syringe through the flow regulator 224 and connecting tube 220. This flow is along the inner surface of the syringe 202 helps reduce turbulence as the syringe 202 fills with liquid, which helps reduce the formation of air bubbles as the syringe 202 fills.

When the syringe 202 is filled, the liquid will eventually reach a level inside the syringe 202 where it will pass into the open end 226 of the flow regulator 224 and flow into the connection tube 220, thereby filling the connection tube 220. When the connection tube 220 is completely filled, any additional the flow of liquid into the syringe 202 will cause the floating ball 214 to rise upward relative to the internal surfaces of the connection cap 212, thereby stopping the flow of liquid from the filling tube 208 into the syringe 202. From this point of view, the filling tube 222 can be removed and the connecting tube fastening device 221 220 may be connected to a patient-side tubing (not shown), and the contents of the syringe 202 may be delivered to the patient through a conventional fluid delivery procedure, such as using an automatic fluid injector. During an injection procedure where liquid is dispensed from the syringe 202, the floating ball 214 is fixed relative to the distal end of the valve body 216 to prevent liquid from passing into the liquid reservoir 201. It should be understood that the fluid flow rate in the fluid transfer assembly 200 can be optimized by, for example, changing the height between the container and the syringe 202 to increase the head pressure, removing fluid restrictions in valve areas, increasing the size of the syringe neck, etc.

Next, in FIG. 14 shows a fill adapter 300 in accordance with another alternative example of the present invention. The filling adapter 300 may be used in combination with a syringe 302 having a prong 304 connected thereto by a snap connection, thread connection, welding, etc. The tooth 304 has a plurality of fluid openings 305 on its side surfaces, along with an air exchange tube 306 extending along its axial length. In some examples, the cross-sectional area of the air exchange channel 306 may be 8% to 40% less than the cross-sectional area of the tube hydraulically connected to the fluid openings 305. The fluid pressure at port 305 is higher than that at air exchange tube 306 due to the head pressure. Thus, the liquid in the container will flow freely through the opening 305. This arrangement ensures that air escaping from the tube 306 does not enter the openings 305 introducing air bubbles into the syringe during the filling procedure. At the end of the air exchange tube 306 proximal to the syringe 302 is a cone-shaped flow regulator 308. While not shown, tooth 304 is formed to connect to a container (such as the liquid container 201 shown in FIG. 12) above the syringe 302 so as to initiate flow of liquid from the container into the syringe 302. The liquid inside the container is formed to flow into fluid openings 305 on tooth 304, flowing downward through tooth 304 around the circumference of air exchange tube 306. The air present inside the syringe 302 is simultaneously exchanged with air inside the container through air exchange tube 306. As the liquid flows along the outer peripheral surfaces of the flow regulator 308, it reaches a cone-shaped extension 310 at the proximal end of the flow regulator 308, which forces fluid toward the knurled connector 309 at the distal end of the syringe 302. As discussed above with respect to FIG. 13, this combination of the funnel-shaped flow regulator 308 and knurled connector 309 causes the syringe 302 to fill with liquid in accordance with the Coanda effect. Thus, as fluid flows downward from flow regulator 308 and knurled connector 309, it is spontaneously attracted to the interior surface of syringe 302, helping to reduce turbulence as fluid fills syringe 302 and helping to reduce the likelihood of air bubbles forming within syringe 302. In some examples the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the funnel-shaped expander 310 to the cross-sectional area of the outer contour of the flow regulator 308 can be from 5:1 to 20:1. In additional examples, the radius of the funnel retractor 310 is desirably less than or equal to the radius of the side wall of the syringe 302 at the transition between the frusto-conical distal end and the neck of the syringe.

Once the syringe 302 has been filled with liquid, the prong 304 can be removed from the container and a connecting tube (not shown) can be attached to it via a suitable connection, such as a snap connection. The connecting tube may be connected to a patient-side tube (not shown), and the contents of the syringe 302 may be delivered to the patient through a conventional fluid delivery procedure, such as using an automatic fluid injector.

In FIG. 15A-15B show a fluid transfer assembly 400 in accordance with another example of the present invention. The fluid transfer assembly 400 has dual syringes 401, 402. As is known in the art, many injection procedures involve injecting the patient with two different fluids, such as a contrast agent and a saline solution. The fluid transfer assembly 400 provides such a procedure through the use of dual syringes 401, 402. Each syringe 401, 402 is filled in a substantially similar manner as described herein, for example, as described in FIG. 12-14. That is, syringes 401, 402 and gear adapters 403, 404 are formed for connection with a liquid reservoir (not shown) above the syringes 401, 402. The connection of syringes 401, 402 and corresponding gear adapters 403, 404 are filler tubes 405, 406, each fill tube 405, 406 having a tube clamp 407, 408 disposed thereon to selectively stop and start the flow of fluid, respectively, through the fill tubes 405, 406.

Each syringe 401, 402 is dually coupled with a corresponding valve body 411, 412 having corresponding connecting caps 409, 410. Accordingly, the syringes 401, 402 are filled with respective liquids in substantially the same manner as described above with respect to FIGS. 12-14. As shown in FIG. 15A, the valve body 411 is hydraulically coupled to a T-connector 413. The T-connector 413 couples the valve body 411 to a low pressure connecting tube 414, wherein the connecting tube 414 has a charging tube 415 connected to its distal end. T-connector 413 also includes a fastening device 419. On the other hand, the valve body 412 on the syringe 402 communicates directly with a connecting tube 416 having a fastening device 417 at its distal end.

After filling the respective syringes 401, 402 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to FIG. 12-14, the fluid transfer assembly 400 ensures that the contents of the syringes 401, 402 can be simultaneously or sequentially introduced into the patient through the connecting tube 414. That is, with reference to FIG. 15B, after filling the syringes 401, 402, the connecting tube 416 and fastening device 417 can be connected to the fastening device 419 on the T-connector 413. With this hydraulic connection, the corresponding liquids inside the syringes 401, 402 can be connected together or poured sequentially during the process injections and are provided to the patient by connection to the connecting tube 414 without interruption of operation.

FIG. 16 illustrates another alternative example of the present invention. The dual syringes 501, 502 are shown as being fluidly coupled to respective gear adapters 505, 506 via respective filling tubes 503, 504. The filling procedure may be substantially similar to that described above with respect to FIG. 12-13 and FIG. 15A-15B. After the syringes 501, 502 are filled with the appropriate liquids, they can be connected to the Y-shaped connecting tube 510 through the corresponding return valve fastening devices 508, 509. The connecting tube 510 can then be connected to the patient side tube 511 at its distal end. With this hydraulic connection, the respective fluids within the syringes 501, 502 can be connected together or supplied sequentially during the injection process and provided to the patient by connection to the connecting tube 510 without interruption of operation. This configuration may be particularly effective for injection use for many patients since the connecting tube 510 may be a disposable connection and the check valve fastening devices 508, 509 may prevent fluids from flowing in both directions and contaminating the associated syringes 501, 502.

According to FIG. 17A-17B, a fluid transfer assembly 600 in accordance with another example of the present invention. FIG. 17A illustrates a syringe 601 having a valve body 603 coupled thereto, where the valve body 603 has a connection cap 604 coupled thereto. A gear adapter 605 is coupled to the connection cap 604, while a low pressure connection tube 602 is hydraulically coupled between the valve body 603 and the connection cap 604, wherein the fastening device 606 is configured to provide a releasable connection between the connection tube 602 and the connection cap 604. FIG. 17B provides more detail on the fluid paths associated with the fluid transfer assembly 600. For example, gear adapter 605 has a pair of shells 607, 608. Fluid tube 607 allows fluid to pass from the interior of a container (not shown) associated with gear adapter 605 down to tube 610 inside connection cap 604. Air tube 608 allows allowing air to escape from the container as liquid is introduced into liquid tube 607. In some examples, the cross-sectional area of the air tube 608 may be between 8% and 40% less than the cross-sectional area of the liquid tube 607. As shown in FIG. 17B, the distal end of the air tube 608 is positioned distal to the distal end of the liquid tube 607. In some examples, the air tube 608 may extend 0.15 inches to 0.25 inches distally further than the liquid tube 607. Thus, the fluid pressure in the opening of the fluid tube 607 is higher than the fluid pressure in the air tube 608 due to the difference in head pressure. Because of this difference in pressure, air may be forced out of the container through the air tube 607 as the container is filled through the liquid tube 608. In addition, introducing fluid into the first fluid reservoir through fluid conduit 608 also causes a vacuum in the second fluid reservoir, which “pulls” air from the first fluid reservoir into the second fluid reservoir through air conduit 608. As the syringe 601 fills, liquid is able to flow around the optional floating ball 609 within the valve body 603 and through passage 620. The liquid is then able to flow around the circumference of the cone-shaped flow regulator 612 through flow passage 621. As discussed above with respect to FIG. 12 and 13, the flow regulator 612 is configured and calibrated to direct liquid to flow along the internal surfaces of the syringe 601 as the syringe 601 is filled by the Coanda effect. The flared portion 616 of the flow regulator 612 and the knurled connector 611 at the distal end of the syringe 601 can also direct such fluid flow. In some examples, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the expanded portion 616 to the cross-sectional area of the flow channel 621 may be from 5:1 to 20:1. In additional examples, the radius of the flared portion 616 is desirably less than or equal to the radius of the side wall of the syringe 601 at the transition between the frusto-conical distal end and the neck of the syringe.

As liquid from the container fills the syringe 601, the air inside the syringe 601 is able to pass through the passage 615 formed in the flow regulator 612, which air then passes through the connecting tube 602 and into the tube 608 of the gear adapter 605, where the air enters the container. As the syringe 601 is filled with liquid, the liquid itself enters the passage 615 and primes the connection tube 602. The passage of liquid into the tube 608 (and thus re-entering the container) is prevented by the filter 613, causing the connection tube 602 to be primed with liquid. After the connecting tube 602 is completely filled with liquid, the liquid still flowing into the syringe 601 forces the floating ball 609 upward, effectively sealing the syringe 601 from receiving more liquid. During an injection procedure where liquid is delivered from a syringe 601, a floating ball 609 is positioned at the level of the distal end of the gear adapter 605 to prevent flow of liquid into a liquid reservoir (not shown).

After the syringe 601 is filled with contrast agent or saline and the connecting tube 602 is fully primed, the connecting tube 602 can be separated from the connecting cap 604 on the fastening device 606, and the patient-side connecting tube can in turn be attached to the fastening device 606 so that so that the contents of the syringe 601 can be transferred to the patient through a traditional liquid delivery procedure, such as using an automatic liquid injector.

In FIG. 18A-18E describe a fluid transfer assembly 700 in accordance with another example of the present invention. Many components of the system 700 are the same or similar to the components of the system 600 described above with respect to FIG. 17A-17B, so redundant components will not be discussed in detail. The fluid transfer assembly 700 has a syringe 701 fluidly coupled to the container 702 via two different connecting tubes 704, 705. One end of the respective connecting tubes 704, 705 is coupled to a gear adapter 703 that engages the container 702. The syringe 701 has a valve body 708, connected thereto, where the valve body 708 has a connection cover 707 connected thereto. The corresponding connecting tubes 704, 705 are connected to the connecting cap 707, while the low pressure connecting tube 709 is hydraulically connected between the valve body 708 and the connecting cap 707, and the fastening device 710 is configured to provide a removable connection between the connecting tube 709 and the connecting cap 707 Additionally, a tube clamp 706 (or other suitable valve) is coupled to the connection tube 705 to allow flow through the connection tube 705 to be shut off.

In FIG. 18C-18E show in more detail the fluid paths associated with the fluid transfer assembly 700. For example, the gear adapter 703 has a plurality of fluid holes 712 extending laterally through the gear adapter 703 configured to allow liquid from the container 702 to flow into the connecting tube 704. The gear adapter 703 also has a tube 713 formed for air communication with a connecting tube 705 and a container head 702. The openings 712 allow liquid from the container 702 to pass down into the connecting cap 707. The openings 712 may have a cross-sectional area of 0.01 to 0.10 in ² or about 0.06 in ² . In some examples, the cross-sectional area of the tube 713 may be 8% to 40% less than the cross-sectional area of the tube hydraulically connected to the openings 712. As the syringe 701 is filled, liquid is able to flow around the optional floating ball 715 within the valve body 708 and into the syringe 701, since the floating ball 715 is supported on the surface 719 within the valve body 708, thereby allowing the passage of liquid. Once again, as discussed above in relation to FIG. 12-13, the flow regulator 716 is configured and calibrated to direct liquid to flow along the internal surfaces of the syringe 701 as the syringe 701 is filled through the Coanda effect.

As liquid from reservoir 702 fills syringe 701, air within syringe 701 is able to pass through flow regulator 716, which air then passes through connecting tube 709 and into tube 713 of gear adapter 703, where air enters reservoir 702 (shown in FIG. 18A) . As the syringe 701 is filled with liquid, the liquid itself flows into the flow regulator 716 and primes the connection tube 709. Liquid is prevented from entering the tube 713 (and thus re-entering the container) by the filter 717. After the connection tube 709 is completely charged with liquid, the liquid still flowing into the syringe 701 forces the floating ball 715 to move upward, effectively sealing the syringe 701 from receiving more liquid. During an injection procedure where fluid is pressurized from the syringe 701, a floating ball 715 is held at the distal end of the valve body 708 to prevent fluid flow into the fluid reservoir 702. Flow through tubes 703,704 can also be prevented by tube clamp 706.

According to FIG. 18D holes 712 may be spaced axially relative to each other. When the gear adapter 703 is inserted into a fluid container, the fluid pressure in the holes 712 from the liquid in the container increases from the distal end of the gear adapter 703 to the proximal end of the gear adapter 703. Likewise, the fluid pressure at the most distal hole 712 will be slightly lower than the pressure liquid at the proximal most opening 712. Thus, the liquid in the container will first pass through the proximal most opening 712 before flowing through the distal openings 712. This arrangement ensures that air exiting tube 713 does not enter the openings 712 introducing air bubbles into syringe during the filling procedure, for example due to the Venturi effect.

After the syringe 701 is filled and the connecting tube 709 is completely primed, the connecting tube 709 can be detached from the connecting cap 707 on the fastening device 710, and the patient-side connecting tube can in turn be attached to the fastening device 710 so that the contents of the syringe 701 can be was delivered to the patient through a traditional fluid delivery procedure, such as using an automatic fluid injector.

In FIG. 19A-19B show a fluid transfer assembly 800 in accordance with another example of the present invention. The fluid transfer assembly 800 has a first container (eg, a saline bag) 801 and a second container 802 (eg, a bottle of contrast agent) fluidly coupled to respective first and second syringes 803, 804. Details of how the first and second syringes 803 are filled , 804 are substantially the same as those disclosed above with respect to FIGS. 18A-18E, therefore further description of the filling process will be omitted here. As shown in FIG. 19A, during the filling process, a low pressure connecting tube 805 defines a passage between the first syringe 803 and a connecting tube leading to a first container 801, while a separate tube 806 provides a passage between a second syringe 804 and a connecting tube leading to a second container 802. However, referring to FIG. 19B, after filling the first and second syringes 803, 804 with the respective fluids, the connecting tube 806 can be connected to the connecting tube 805. In case of this hydraulic connection, the corresponding fluids inside the first and second syringes 803, 804 can be connected together or supplied sequentially during the injection procedure and provided to the patient by connection to the connecting tube 805 without interruption of operation.

In FIG. 20 shows a fluid transfer assembly 900 in accordance with another alternative example of the present invention. The fluid transfer assembly 900 has a first container (eg, a saline bag) 901 and a second container 902 (eg, a bottle of contrast agent) fluidly coupled to respective first and second syringes 903, 904. Once again, details of how the first and second syringes are filled the second syringes 903, 904 are essentially the same as those disclosed above with respect to FIG. 18A-18E, therefore further description of the filling process will be omitted here. During the filling process, a connecting tube 905 provides a passage between the first syringe 903 and a connecting tube leading to a first container 901, while a separate tube 906 provides a passage between a second syringe 904 and a connecting tube leading to a second container 902. After filling the first and of the second syringes 903, 904 with corresponding fluids, the connecting tube 906 can be connected to the connecting tube 905. In the case of this hydraulic connection, the corresponding fluids within the first and second syringes 903, 904 can be connected together or supplied sequentially during the injection procedure. The separate low pressure connection tube 910 can then be coupled to the connection tube 905, primed, and provided to the patient by connection to the connection tube 910 without interruption of operation.

In FIG. 21A-21F illustrate a fluid transfer assembly 1000 in accordance with another example of the present invention. In particular, the fluid transfer assembly 1000 shows in more detail the flow regulator 1006 retained within the valve body 1002. Similar to the previous examples discussed above, the fluid transfer assembly 1000 has a valve body 1002 having a connection cap 1012 associated therewith with an optional floating ball 1004 held therein. Liquid is capable of entering the valve body 1002 through a connecting tube 1013 connected to a container (not shown) located above. The floating ball 1004 allows fluid to pass through thereby by resting on a surface 1005 having fluid passages thereon. The flow regulator 1006 is further connected to a connecting tube 1009, which allows air and/or liquid to pass through it. During the injection procedure, when liquid is dispensed from the syringe 1008 under pressure, the floating ball 1004 is held at the distal end of the valve body 1002 to prevent flow of liquid into the liquid reservoir.

As discussed above, flow regulator 1006 is formed and calibrated to direct fluid to flow therethrough into contact with the inner surface of syringe 1008 in accordance with the Coanda effect. To achieve flow in accordance with the Coanda effect, it may be preferable to provide fins or channels on one or both of the outer surfaces of the flow regulator 1006 and knurled connector 1010. For example. FIG. 21C-21D illustrate a grooved connector 1010 with a plurality of rounded ribs 1011 formed on its inner surface. As fluid passes through the knurled connector 1010, the ribs 1011 may direct the fluid to pass so as to maintain adhesion of the fluid to the internal surfaces of the syringe 1008. Likewise, the flow regulator 1006 may be shaped and calibrated to further induce such fluid flow. As shown in FIG. 21E, flow regulator 1006 may include a plurality of fins 1015 that likewise maintain uniform flow of liquid. The fins 1015 may have an equal or unequal angular arrangement around the longitudinal axis of the flow regulator 1006. Ribs 1015 associated with flared end 1007 may further support fluid adhesion to internal surfaces of syringe 1008. Also, while knurled connector 1010 is shown having rounded ribs 1011, it may also be preferable to have ribs of various shapes for flow control. For example, as shown in FIG. 21F, the knurled connector 1020 may have a plurality of square ribs 1021 having flared ends to maintain fluid flow along the internal surfaces of the syringe 1008. In some examples, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the flared end 1007 to the cross-sectional area of the inner tube of the flow regulator 1006 may be between 5:1 up to 20:1. In additional examples, the radius of the flared end 1007 is desirably less than or equal to the radius of the side wall of the syringe 1008 at the transition between the frusto-conical distal end and the neck of the syringe.

Next, referring to FIG. 22A-22D, a fluid transfer assembly 1200 is shown in accordance with another example of the present invention. The fluid transfer assembly 1200 has a syringe 1201 and a gear adapter 1202 configured to connect to a fluid reservoir (not shown) above the syringe 1201. The gear adapter 1202 has an outlet 1203 for admitting air into the fluid reservoir during the filling process. Connecting the syringe 1201 and the gear adapter 1202 is a filling tube 1204. A valve body 1205 is coupled to the open end of the syringe 1201, the valve body 1205 having a connection cap 1206 thereon and an optional floating ball 1210 held there. The valve body 1205 is further configured to be hydraulically coupled to the priming tube 1207 via a fastening device 1208. Once the priming tube 1207 is removed, a separate tube (not shown) can be attached to the valve body 1205 for an occasional hydraulic connection to the patient after priming.

Shown is a valve body 1205 coupled to a syringe 1201, with a fill tube 1204 fluidly coupled to the valve body 1205 via a connection cap 1206. Also located within the valve body 1205 is a cone-shaped flow regulator 1212. Once again, the cone-shaped contour of the surface of the flow regulator 1212 directs liquid along the inner walls of the syringe 1201 in accordance with the Coanda effect. The central opening on the flow regulator 1212 provides a wide path for air to flow from the syringe 1201 to the primer tube 1207, thereby reducing the speed of air moving past the air-liquid interface. Thus, slowing air movement is unlikely to push fluid distally, such as through the Bernoulli effect.

In FIG. 23A-23D show a fluid transfer assembly 1300 in accordance with another example of the present invention. The fluid transfer assembly 1300 has a syringe 1301, a reservoir 1302, and a gear adapter 1303 configured to be directly hydraulically coupled to the syringe 1301 and reservoir 1302. Specifically, referring to FIG. 23B, the tooth adapter 1303 has a tooth 1310 capable of piercing a septum or other sealing component of the container 1302. The tooth 1310 has two passages formed therethrough, one in fluid connection with the syringe 1301, the other capable of releasing air through an outlet passage 1306 formed on the tooth adapter 1303, into the container 1302, with the outlet 1306 connected to the outlet cap 1307. As liquid passes through the tooth 1310 from the container 1302, for example, during a vacuum filling procedure, it contacts the flow regulator 1308. As described in detail in the examples above, the flow regulator 1308 is configured to direct the flow of liquid along the inner walls of the syringe 1301 during the filling process. As shown in FIG. 23B and FIG. 23D, specifically the flow regulator 1308 may have an internal opening 1315 formed therein where any liquid entering the flow regulator 1308 is forced to flow downward from the peripheral surfaces of the flow regulator 1308 to better direct the flow of liquid along the internal surfaces of the syringe 1301.

While the flow regulator 1308 is shown to have an internal opening 1315 formed therein, the shape and contours of the flow regulator are not limited to such in accordance with the disclosure. For example, FIG. 24A-24B, FIG. 25A-25B and FIG. 26A-26B illustrate alternative flow controllers in accordance with alternative examples of the present invention. In particular, FIG. 24A-24B show a flow regulator 1312 having a solid cone-shaped component 1316 extending downward, wherein the cone-shaped component 1316 is configured to direct fluid flow along the internal surfaces of the syringe 1301. FIG. 25A-25B show a flow regulator 1320 having an opening 1321 thereon, wherein the lower portion of the flow regulator 1320 has a plurality of openings 1322 formed thereon to allow liquid to pass therethrough on or near the internal surfaces of the syringe 1301. Next, FIG. 26A-26B show a flow regulator 1328 having a convex insert 1330 retained therein to assist in the movement of fluid passing therethrough along the internal surfaces of the syringe 1301. The insert 1330 may be made of an elastomeric material so that the opening formed by the deflection can be adjusted. at least a portion of the insert 1330 as a result of fluid flow.

Referring now to FIG. 27A-27G, a fluid transfer assembly 1400 is shown in accordance with another example of the present invention. Many aspects of the fluid transfer assembly 1400 are similar to those previously discussed with respect to earlier fluid transfer assemblies, but the fluid transfer assembly 1400 uses a spool valve 1415 to allow or prevent flow to/from the syringe 1401, as will be discussed. in this description.

Specifically referring to FIG. 27A-27G, the fluid transfer assembly 1400 has a reservoir 1402 and a syringe 1401, wherein the reservoir 1402 and the syringe 1401 are fluidly coupled through dual connecting tubes 1403, 1404. The valve body 1406 is coupled to the syringe 1401, the valve body 1406 including a flow regulator 1410, an outlet cap 1412 formed for releasing air into/from the syringe 1401, and a fastening device for hydraulic connection with the low pressure connecting tube 1405. The valve body 1406 is further hydraulically coupled to the spool valve 1415 so that the spool valve 1415 allows or does not allow fluid flow to pass through the valve body 1406 and into the syringe 1401. More specifically, the spool valve 1415 is hydraulically coupled to both connecting tubes 1403, 1404. During the syringe filling operation, one end of the connecting tube 1405 is connected to the valve body 1406, while the second end of the connecting tube 1405 having a fastening device 1408 is connected to a spool valve 1415 on the fastening device 1409. Inside the spool valve 1415 there is a valve element 1416 made capable of being longitudinally displaced to a “closed” position by means of a spring 1417 or other biasing element. However, when the fastening device 1408 of the connecting tube 1405 is connected to the fastening device 1409, a portion of the fastening device 1408 moves the valve element 1416 from a “closed” position (shown in FIG. 27D) to an “open” position (shown in FIG. 27B), thereby allowing fluid pass from the connection tube 1403 into the syringe 1401, and then allow air flowing from the syringe 1401 to pass through the connection tube 1405 and into the connection tube 1404 to pass into the container 1402. Thus, the fluid transfer assembly 1400 is a closed system where no air is introduced outside the fluid transfer unit 1400. Preferably, air exchange between the container 1402 and the syringe 1401 during the filling operation of the syringe 1401 is accomplished by connecting tubes 1403, 1404 and 1405, and only sterile air is exchanged within the fluid transfer assembly 1400. The closed system of the fluid transfer assembly 1400 may be suitable for transferring liquids where it is desired to prevent contamination of the liquid by outside air, such as in the case of chemotherapy drugs.

Referring to FIG. 27C-27D, where the fastening device 1408 is removed from the spool valve 1415, the valve element 1416 is no longer pushed against the spring 1417. Accordingly, the spring 1417 biases the valve element 1416 to the “closed” position (FIG. 27D), thereby preventing fluid flow. from the connecting tube 1403 into the syringe 1401, as well as blocking the passage of air or liquid from the connecting tube 1404.

Referring to FIG. 28A-28B, a fluid transfer assembly 1500 is shown in accordance with another aspect of the present invention. Many aspects of the fluid transfer assembly 1500 are similar to those previously discussed above with respect to the fluid transfer assembly 1400, but the fluid transfer assembly 1500 does not require the use of a secondary tube (such as tube 1404 in FIGS. 27A-27G) extended between the syringe 1501 and a capacity of 1502, as described in this specification.

As shown in FIG. 28A-28B, the fluid transfer assembly 1500 has a reservoir 1502 and a syringe 1501, wherein the reservoir 1502 and the syringe 1501 are hydraulically coupled through a single connecting tube 1503. The connecting pipe 1503 is hydraulically coupled to the reservoir 1502 through an exhaust clutch 1522, which includes an air filter such that to allow air within the container 1502 to vent while fluid is transferred between the container 1502 and the syringe 1501. The valve body 1506 is coupled to the syringe 1501, the valve body 1506 having on it a flow regulator 1510 and a hydraulic connection mounting device in the low pressure connecting tube 1505. The valve body 1506 is further hydraulically coupled to the spool valve 1515 so that the spool valve 1515 may or may not be able to permit fluid flow through the valve body 1506 and into the syringe 1501. More specifically, the spool valve 1515 is hydraulically coupled to the connecting tube 1503. During the filling operation syringe, one end of the connecting tube 1505 is connected to the valve body 1506, while the second end of the connecting tube 1505, having a fastening device 1508, is connected to a spool valve 1515 on the fastening device 1509. Inside the spool valve 1515 there is a valve element 1516 configured to be longitudinally biased to the “closed” position by the spring 1517. However, when the fastening device 1508 of the connecting tube 1505 is connected to the fastening device 1509, a portion of the fastening device 1508 forces the valve element 1516 to the “open” position, thereby allowing liquid to pass from the connecting tube 1503 into the syringe 1501. Valve element 1516 may be solid or hollow. In a hollow configuration, valve element 1516 can allow air to pass through the interior of valve 1515 while fluid flowing through connection tube 1503 into syringe 1501 is allowed to pass over its outer surfaces.

In addition to valve element 1516 allowing fluid to pass between reservoir 1502 and syringe 1501 in an “open” configuration, valve element 1516 also allows air to pass from syringe 1501, through connecting tube 1505, and from outlet air filter 1521 located at the pump. tube 1520 coupled to spool valve 1515. Specifically, during transfer of liquid from reservoir 1502 to syringe 1501, air is blown from syringe 1501 through connecting tube 1505. Air filter 1521, which may be, for example, a 0.2 micron air filter, allows release removed air into the atmosphere. When the fastening device 1508 is removed from the spool valve 1515, the valve element 1516 is no longer guided by the spring 1517. Accordingly, the spring 1517 moves the valve element 1516 to the “closed” position, thereby preventing fluid from flowing from the connection tube 1503 into the syringe 1501. In “closed” valve element 1516 may also block the passage of air or fluid from the air filter 1521, but alternatively may allow the air passage to remain open when disconnected from the connecting tube 1505.

In FIG. 29 shows a syringe 1600 in accordance with another aspect of the invention. The syringe 1600 is configured to receive a flexible bellows diaphragm, such as the tumble diaphragm syringe 12a shown in FIG 2A, within the interior of the syringe 1600. The syringe 1600 has a base adapter 1601 having a plunger 1604 disposed thereon and a connector 1603 thereon. distal end. The syringe tip 1602 is removably connected to the connector 1603 through, for example, a threaded connection. The syringe tip 1602 is desirably a disposable, single-use item. However, the basic adapter 1601 is a reusable item capable of being used between many procedures and/or patients. Accordingly, instead of the entire syringe assembly being a disposable unit (as is common today), the syringe 1600 allows only the tip of the syringe 1602 to be replaced between uses. In addition, different types of syringe tips can be used together with one type of basic adapter.

In FIG. 30A-30C show a fluid transfer assembly 10 in accordance with another example of the present invention. The fluid transfer unit 10 is configured to facilitate transfer of liquid from a second liquid container, such as a bottle or bag (not shown), to a first liquid container, such as the syringe 12a described herein with reference to FIG. 2A. In other examples, the first liquid container may be the syringe 12b described in this specification with reference to FIG. 2B.

According to FIG. 30A-30C, fluid transfer assembly 10 includes a fill adapter 32 configured to facilitate transfer of fluid between two fluid containers, such as from a second fluid container to syringe 12a. The fill adapter 32 may be removably coupled to the syringe 12a, such as to the neck 22 of the syringe 12a. In some examples, the fill adapter 32 may be permanently connected to the syringe 12a, such as being integrally molded therewith or permanently attached to it, such as by gluing, welding, a press fit, or other mechanical joining means. The fill adapter 32 may be one integral structure, or it may be formed from two or more components removably or non-removably coupled together. In various aspects, the filling adapter 32 can flow at a rate of from 2 ml/s to 20 ml/s when filling the syringe 12a.

According to FIG. 30C, the fill adapter 32 has a generally cylindrical body 56 that is configured to fit inside the open distal end 23 of the neck 22 of the syringe. A flange 57 extends radially outward from the body 56 at the distal end 60. In some examples, the outer diameter of the flange 57 may substantially match the outer diameter of the syringe neck 22 such that the fill adapter 32 is flush with the syringe neck 22. In other examples, the outer diameter of the flange 57 may be larger or smaller than the outer diameter of the syringe neck 22. The longitudinal length of the body 56 along the longitudinal axis 58 may correspond to the longitudinal length of the syringe neck 22 such that the proximal end 62 of the fill adapter 32 terminates at the proximal end of the syringe neck 22 before where the syringe side wall 20 transitions from the syringe neck 22 to the conical portion 33. B In some examples, the longitudinal length of the body 56 may be longer or shorter than the transition point where the syringe side wall 20 transitions from the syringe neck 22 to the conical portion 33. In various examples, the longitudinal length of the body 56 may be between 6 mm and 100 mm.

The fill adapter 32 may be sized to fit snugly within the open distal end 23 of the neck 22 of the syringe. For example, the outer side wall 66 of the fill adapter 32 may be in contact with the inner side wall of the syringe neck 22 due to a tight fit between the outer side wall 66 of the fill adapter 32 and the inner side wall 26 of the syringe neck 22. The fill adapter 32 may engage with or without a connector with the neck 22 of the syringe. In some examples, the fill adapter 32 and the syringe neck 22 may be connected to each other with or without a connector through clips, fasteners, adhesive bonding, welding, or other mechanical joining means. In some examples, the outer surface of the body 56 may have one or more recesses 59 to facilitate insertion of the fill adapter 32 into the open distal end 23 of the neck 22 of the syringe. In various examples, the outer diameter of the fill adapter body 56 may be between 2.6 mm and 26 mm.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 30C, the filling adapter 32 has a central channel 61 extending through the body 56 along the longitudinal axis 58. The central channel 61 is configured to provide hydraulic communication between the second fluid reservoir and the interior of the syringe 12a. In some examples, the central channel 61 may have a uniform diameter along its entire length. In other examples, at least a portion of the central channel 61 may narrow or widen in the direction from the distal end 60 to the proximal end 62 of the body 56. For example, the flared portion 63 of the central channel 61 may expand in the direction from the distal end 60 to the proximal end 62 of the body 56 so , as shown in FIG. 30C. In some examples, the angle of the flared portion 63 may correspond to the angle of the conical portion 33 of the syringe 12a. In other examples, the angle of the flared portion 63 may have a greater or lesser angle than the angle of the conical portion 33 of the syringe 12a. In various examples, the angle of the flared portion 63 may be between 10 degrees and 80 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the body 56.

One or more slots 65 may extend through the side wall of body 56. In some examples, multiple slots 65 may extend through the side wall of body 56 at equal or unequal angular intervals therebetween. The slots 65 may be provided in the same axial position relative to each other, or one or more slots 65 may be offset axially relative to the remaining slots 65. In some examples, the protrusion 67 may extend radially inward from the inner surface of the central channel 61. The protrusion 67 may be located proximally or distally from one or more slots 65. The projection 67 may be continuous or discontinuous in the circumferential direction of the central channel 61. The slots 65 and/or the projection 67 arrest the flow of fluid along the inner wall of the central channel 61. Thus, the grooves 65 and/or the projection 67 contribute to the direction fluid flowing through the fill adapter 32 toward the central portion of the opening 61 and away from the inner wall of the opening 67 so that the fluid can pass over the flow regulator 69, as described herein.

According to FIG. 30C, the fill adapter 32 may have a flow regulator 69 located within the central channel 61. The flow regulator 69 may be located at the proximal end 62 of the body 56. In some examples, the flow regulator 69 is connected to the inner surface of the central channel 61 by one or more spokes 73 (shown in FIG. 30D). As shown in FIG. 30D, each of the spokes 73 has a first end 75 connected to the base 56 of the fill adapter 32 and a second end 77 connected to the flow regulator 69. The gap 79 between the base 56 of the fill adapter 32 and the flow regulator 69 is formed to allow fluid to pass through it and into the interior of the syringe 12a.

The flow regulator 69 may be positioned such that the outer edge of the flow regulator 69 is aligned with the distal end of the flared portion 63. Thus, liquid that is deflected by the flow regulator 69 will be deflected toward the flared portion 63. As described herein, according to the Coanda effect, the liquid will be attracted to the expanding surface of the expanding portion 63 of the filling adapter 32 and will continue to flow down the inner side wall of the syringe 12a.

According to FIG. 30D and FIG. 30C, the flow regulator 69 may have a curved distal surface 81 that is formed to deflect fluid flowing into the flow regulator 69 in a radially outward direction toward the gap 79. The distal surface 81 may have a convex shape having a uniform or non-uniform curvature. In some examples, the flow regulator 69 may have a curved proximal surface 83. The proximal surface 83 may have a convex shape with a protrusion 89 at its central portion. The protrusion 89 may extend proximally from the proximal surface 83. In some examples, such as those shown in FIG. 31A-31B, the central portion of the distal surface 81 may have a flow deflector 87. The flow deflector 87 may extend distally relative to the distal surface 81. The flow deflector 87 may be configured to deflect fluid flowing through the central channel 61 of the fill adapter 32 in the direction to the outer edges of the flow regulator 69 so that fluid flows through the gap 79.

In some examples, the neck 22 of the syringe may have a sealing member, such as an O-ring 91. The O-ring 91 is configured to sealably engage a cap (not shown) connectively coupled to the neck 22 of the syringe 12a. The outer portion of the syringe neck 22 may have a flange 150 configured to engage the cap to releasably retain the cap to the syringe neck 22. In some examples, the prime adapter 32 may be coupled to a cap with or without a connector so that the prime adapter 32 can be removed from the syringe 12a with the cap removed. In other examples, the fill adapter 32 is provided separately from the cap such that the fill adapter 32 remains connected to the syringe 12a when the cap is removed from the syringe 12a.

During the filling procedure, liquid from a second liquid container (not shown) above the syringe 12a is fed by gravity or vacuum into the filling adapter 32. As liquid flows through the central channel 61 of the fill adapter 32, the liquid contacts the flow regulator 69. Due to the convex shape of the distal surface 81 of the flow regulator 69, the liquid will be directed radially outward to flow through the gap 79. Due to the funnel-shaped flared portion 63, the liquid is naturally attracted to flow along the conical portion 33 of the syringe 12a before flowing down the side wall 20. This flow along the inner surface of the syringe 12a helps reduce turbulence as liquid fills the syringe 12a, which helps reduce the formation of air bubbles as the syringe 12a fills. At the same time, air is forced out of the interior of the syringe and evaporates into the second fluid reservoir through gap 79. The exchange of air and liquid within syringe 12a occurs substantially simultaneously through the central channel 61, without any delay or gurgling due to uneven flow characteristics.

According to FIG. 32A-32D, a cap 122 may be provided on the neck 22 of the syringe 12a. The cap 122 is configured to enclose the distal end 18 of the syringe 12a. The cap 122 is connected to the connector with the neck 22 of the syringe 12a, for example, through a threaded connection, a snap connection, a friction fit, or any other suitable releasable connection mechanism. In some examples, the fill adapter 32 may be coupled with or without a connector to the cap 122 so that the fill adapter 32 is capable of being removed from the syringe 12a with the cap 122 removed. In other examples, the fill adapter 32 is provided separately from the cap 122 so that the adapter The fill 32 remained connected to the syringe 12a when the cap 122 was removed from the syringe 12a.

Cap 122 includes a connector 124 configured to connect to a hose that is hydraulically coupled to a second fluid container (not shown) for filling the syringe 12a with fluid from a second fluid source. In other examples, connector 124 may be formed to connect to a tubing attached to a catheter, needle, or other fluid delivery connection (not shown) inserted into a patient at a vascular access point to deliver fluid from syringe 12a to the patient.

In some examples, connector 124 may be provided on the radial side of cap 122. A high crack pressure valve (not shown) may be provided on cap 122 to allow fluid flow through cap 122 into syringe 12a when a predetermined crack pressure is reached or exceeded at the same time preventing flow through the cap 122 when the pressure head is less than the cracking pressure. In one example, the high pressure crack valve may be a slotted valve or another conventional pressure crack valve. The cap 122 may have at least one gasket around the inner surface of the cap 122 to engage the outer surface 24 of the neck 22 of the syringe. In some examples, a spacer, such as an O-ring 91, may be provided on the outer surface 24 of the syringe neck 22. The O-ring 91 is configured to create a liquid-tight seal between the outer surface 24 of the syringe neck 22 and the inner surface of the cap 122. Referring to FIG. 32A-32B, the distal surface 126 of the cover 122 can be formed as a substantially flat surface.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 32A-32B, cap 122 is coupled to a connector with syringe 12a via a coupling mechanism 140. Coupling mechanism 140 is configured to tightly lock cap 122 coupled to neck 22 of syringe 12a, such as that shown in FIG. 32B, and allows the cap 122 to be detached from the neck 22 of the syringe 12a by rotating the cap 122 about its longitudinal axis relative to the syringe 12a. The coupling mechanism 140 has one or more tabs 142 on the cap 122 that engage one or more cams 144 on the syringe 12a. When cap 122 is coupled to syringe 12a, rotation of cap 122 relative to syringe 12a causes one or more tabs 142 to interact with one or more cams 144 to tilt tabs 142 radially outward so that cap 122 can be removed from syringe 12a.

According to FIG. 32C, tabs 142 extend proximally from a skirt 146 that extends around the outer circumference of the cover 122. The tabs 142 may be spaced apart at equal or unequal angular intervals around the skirt 146. Each tab 142 has a first end 142a coupled to the jacket 146 , and a second end 142b protruding proximally from the skirt 146. The second end 142b of each tab 142 is deflectable relative to the first end 142a when the tab 142 engages the cam 144. The second end 142b of each tab 142 has a recess 148 that is configured to engage a flange 150 extending radially outward from the outer surface 24 of the neck 22 of the syringe. The flange 150 may extend around part or all of the circumference of the neck 22 of the syringe. When engaged with flange 150, recess 148 prevents cap 122 from being removed from syringe 12a. Each tab 142 may have a beveled edge 152 that is configured to engage a distal surface of the flange 150 to deflect the tab 142 in a radially outward direction when connecting the cap 122 to the neck 22 of the syringe. After the beveled edge 152 releases the flange 150, each tab 142 may swing back to engage the recess 148 with the flange 150, thereby connecting the cap 122 to the neck 22 of the syringe 12a.

According to FIG. 32D, cams 144 are positioned proximally from flange 150. In some examples, a plurality of cams 144 are spaced apart around the outer circumference of syringe neck 22 below flange 150. Cams 144 may be spaced apart at equal or unequal angular intervals. For example, FIG. 32D shows a syringe 12a with four jaws 144 spaced 90 degrees apart. Thus, rotation of the cap 122 less than 90 degrees causes the tabs 142 to engage the cams 144 to release the cap 122 from the syringe 12a. Each cam 144 has a pair of ramps 144a, 144b that slide together at the edge 154. In some examples, the edge 154 may terminate at the outer edge of the flange 150. The ramps 144a, 144b define an engaging surface for the second end 142b of the tabs 142 to contact when it should disconnect cap 122 from syringe 12a.

To remove cap 122 from syringe 12a, cap 122 may be rotated in a first direction (eg, clockwise) or a second direction (eg, counterclockwise) about its longitudinal axis relative to the longitudinal axis of the syringe. During such rotational movement of the cover 122, the second end 142b of each tab 142 engages one of the inclined surfaces 144a, 144b of each cam 144. Due to the angular configuration of the inclined surfaces 144a, 144b, the continued rotation of the lid 122 causes the second end 142b of the tabs 142 to deflect relative to the first end 142a ( and flange 150), thereby allowing the tabs 142 to move behind the flange 150. Thus, the cap 122 can be detached from the syringe neck 22 by simply rotating the cap 122 relative to the syringe 12a.

In FIG. 33A-33C show a fluid transfer assembly 10 in accordance with another example of the present invention. Components of the fluid transfer assembly 10 shown in FIG. 33A-33C are substantially similar to the components of the fluid transfer assembly 10 described in this specification with reference to FIGS. 32A-32D. Since the previous discussion regarding the fluid transfer unit 10 shown generally in FIG. 32A-32D, applicable to the examples shown in FIGS. 33A-33C, only the relative differences between the two fluid transfer units 10 are discussed below.

The cap 122 is connected to the connector with the syringe 12a via a coupling mechanism 140. In some examples, the fill adapter 32 may be connected with or without a connector to the cap 122 such that the fill adapter 32 is removed from the syringe 12a with the cap 122 removed. In other examples, the fill adapter 32 is provided separately from the cap 122 so that the filling adapter 32 remains connected to the syringe 12a when the cap 122 is removed from the syringe 12a. The coupling mechanism 140 is configured to securely retain the cap 122 connected to the neck 22 of the syringe 12a, and allows the cap 122 to be detached from the neck 22 of the syringe 12a by rotating the cap 122 about its longitudinal axis relative to the syringe 12a to a removal position at which the cap 122 can be separated from the syringe 12a by axial movement of the cap 122 relative to the syringe 12a. The coupling mechanism 140 has one or more tabs 142 on the cap 122 that engage with a flange 150 on the syringe 12a.

According to FIG. 33C, one or more tabs 142 on the cap 122 protrude proximally from a skirt 146 that extends around the outer circumference of the cap 122. The tabs 142 may be spaced apart at equal or unequal angular intervals around the skirt 146. Each tab 142 has a first an end 142a connected to the shirt 146, and a second end 142b protruding proximally from the skirt 146. It is desirable that the second end 142b of each tab 142 be deflectable relative to the first end 142a. The second end 142b of each tab 142 has a recess 148 that is configured to engage a flange 150 extending radially outward from the outer surface 24 of the syringe neck 22 (shown in FIG. 33B).

According to FIG. 33B, the flange 150 may extend around a portion of the outer circumference of the neck 22 of the syringe. In some examples, the flange 150 may be formed as a continuous member having a first end and a second end separated by a gap 160. In other examples, the flange 150 may be formed from a plurality of segments separated from each other by two or more gaps 160. For example, the flange 150 may have two flange segments 150a, 150b separated by two gaps 160. The flange segments 150a, 150b may be of equal or unequal length and may be separated by gaps 160 having equal or unequal width. Each gap 160 defines a removal position at which the tabs 142 can be oriented to remove the cap 122 from the syringe neck 22, as discussed herein. It is desirable that the number of tabs 142 correspond to the number of gaps 160. When engaged with the flange 150, the recess 148 prevents the cap 122 from being removed from the syringe 12a. Each tab 142 may have a tapered edge 152 that is configured to engage a distal surface of the flange 150 to deflect the tab 142 in a radially outward direction while connecting the cap 122 to the neck 22 of the syringe. After the tapered edge 152 separates the flange 150, each tab 142 can be deflected back to engage the recess 148 with the flange 150, thereby connecting the cap 122 to the neck 22 of the syringe 12a.

To remove cap 122 from syringe 12a, cap 122 may be rotated in a first direction (eg, clockwise) or a second direction (eg, counterclockwise) about its longitudinal axis relative to the longitudinal axis of the syringe. During such rotational movement of the cover 122, the tabs 142 can rotate to the removal position by orienting the tabs 142 with the gaps 160 between the flange segments 150a, 150b. When the cover 122 is rotated to the removal position, the gaps 160 create dead space for the tabs 142 to release the flange segments 150a, 150b. Cap 122 can be detached from syringe neck 22 by axial movement of cap 122 relative to syringe 12a.

In FIG. 34A-34B illustrate a fill adapter 32 in accordance with another example of the present invention. The filling adapter 32 is configured to facilitate transfer of liquid from a second liquid container, such as a bottle or bag (not shown), to a first liquid container, such as a syringe 12a. Components of the fill adapter 32 shown in FIG. 34 are substantially similar to the components of the fill adapter 32 described in this specification with reference to FIG. 30A-31B, except as noted. Since the previous discussion regarding the fill adapter 32 generally shown in FIG. 30A-31B, applicable to the example shown in FIG. 34, only the relative differences between the two fill adapters 32 are discussed here.

The fill adapter 32 is sized to fit comfortably within the open distal end of the syringe neck 22, such as by engaging the outer side wall of the fill adapter 32 with the inner side wall of the syringe neck 22. The body 56 of the fill adapter 32 has a central channel 61 extending along the longitudinal axis. The central channel 61 is configured to provide a hydraulic connection between the second fluid reservoir and the interior of the syringe 12a. The channel 61 has a flared portion 63 that expands in a direction from the distal end 60 to the proximal end 62 of the body 56. A sealing lip 99 may extend radially inward from the inner surface of the central channel 61. A sealing lip 99 may be positioned distal to the flared portion 63. It is desirable that the sealing lip 99 was continuous in the circumferential direction of the central channel 61. In some examples, the sealing lip 99 may be made of the same or a different material as the body 56. For example, the sealing lip 99 may be made of a flexible elastomeric material, while the body 56 may be made from hard plastic material.

The filling adapter 32 has a flow regulator 69 located within the central channel 61. The flow regulator 69 may be located at the proximal end 62 and is connected to the inner surface of the central channel 61 by one or more elastic elements 101. Each of the elastic elements 101 has a first end 103 connected to the base 56 of the filling adapter 32, and the second end 105 connected to the flow regulator 69. The flow regulator 69 is capable of moving axially in the direction of the longitudinal axis due to fluid flow in the direction from the distal end 60 to the proximal end 62. The elastic elements 101 displace the flow regulator 69 relative to the sealing edge 99 in the absence of liquid flow. Thus, the flow regulator 69 and the sealing lip 99 restrict the seal to prevent leakage of liquid between the flow regulator 69 and the sealing lip 99. Thus, the filling adapter 32 can be removed from the syringe 12a without spilling any amount of liquid that may remain in the filling adapter 32 . In some examples, the refill adapter 32 may be coupled with or without a connector to the cap 122 such that removing the cap 122 from the syringe 12a also removes the refill adapter 32.

During a vacuum filling procedure, such as when the end wall 30 of the syringe 12a contracts proximally under the action of a fluid injector drive member (not shown), the vacuum generated within the internal volume 28 of the syringe 12a stretches the flow regulator 69 proximally against the restoring force elastically elastic members 101. In other examples, fluid pressure due to the fluid head pressure in the second container, once the fill adapter 32 is connected to the second container, will drive the flow regulator 69 proximally in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 34B from the restoring force of the elastic members 101. Moving the flow regulator 69 proximally displaces it away from the sealing edge 99, thereby opening a gap 79 between the inner circumference of the sealing edge 99 and the outer circumference of the flow regulator 69 as shown in FIG. 34B. The flow regulator 69 may have a curved distal surface that is formed to deflect fluid flowing into the flow regulator 69 in a radially outward direction toward the gap 79. Thus, liquid can flow into the internal volume 28 of the syringe 12a through the gap 79. As described herein document, according to the Coanda effect, liquid will be attracted to the expanding surface of the expanding portion 63 of the filling adapter 32 and will continue to flow down the inner side wall of the syringe 12a. This flow along the inner surface of the syringe 12a helps reduce turbulence as liquid fills the syringe 12a, which helps reduce the formation of air bubbles as the syringe 12a fills.

Proximal movement of the flow regulator 69 in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 34B may be a function of the fluid head pressure in the second container or the vacuum generated by the fluid injector drive element pulling the end wall 30 of the syringe 12a (or the plunger 31 of the syringe 12b in FIG. 2B) in the proximal direction from the restoring force of the elastic elements 101 acting in the distal direction. direction. Thus, the size of the gap 79 can be controlled to widen or narrow the gap 79 to optimize fluid flow according to the Coanda effect.

While several examples of syringes, adapters, and connection systems and methods for use in medical fluid delivery systems are shown in the accompanying drawings and described in detail above in this specification, other examples will be obvious and can be readily obtained by those skilled in the art without departing from the following. scope and essence of disclosure. For example, it should be understood that this disclosure provides, to the extent possible, that one or more features of any example can be combined with one or more features of any other example. Accordingly, the foregoing description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims (28)

1. A syringe for a medical fluid delivery device, including: a proximal end, a distal end having an open neck of the syringe, a conical flared portion at the distal end of the syringe, and a side wall extending between the proximal end and the distal end along the longitudinal axis, the syringe defining an internal volume for receiving medical fluid; a bellows portion in the open neck of the syringe, the bellows portion having ribs on an inner surface of the bellows portion; And a flow regulator located within the central channel at the distal end of the conical flared portion and configured to form a gap between an outer surface of the flow regulator and an internal surface of the open neck of the syringe, the flow regulator including ribs or channels on the outer surface of the flow regulator, wherein the ribs or channels on the outer surface of the flow regulator and the corrugated portion result in uniform flow of liquid and adhesion of the liquid to the inner surface of the conical flared portion and the inner surface of the side wall of the syringe in accordance with the Coanda effect during the syringe filling process. 2. The syringe according to claim 1, in which the ribs of the corrugated part are rounded ribs. 3. The syringe according to claim 1, in which the ribs of the corrugated part are square ribs. 4. The syringe according to claim 3, in which the square ribs have flared ends. 5. The syringe according to claim 1, wherein the ribs of the corrugated portion extend proximally from the open neck of the syringe into the flared conical portion of the syringe. 6. The syringe according to claim 1, wherein the ribs or channels on the flow regulator have the same angular arrangement around the longitudinal axis of the flow regulator. 7. The syringe according to claim 1, wherein the ribs or channels on the flow regulator have an unequal angular arrangement around the longitudinal axis of the flow regulator. 8. A method for reducing the formation of bubbles during filling of a syringe with a medical fluid injector, comprising: delivering a syringe with a flow regulator placed in the open neck of the syringe so that a gap is formed between the outer surface of the flow regulator and the inner surface of the syringe neck; pouring medical liquid into a syringe; directing the flow of medical fluid radially outward in the direction of the gap by the distal surface of the flow regulator; flow of medical fluid down the inner surface of the conical distal end of the syringe and down the inner surface of the side wall of the syringe; And reducing the turbulent flow of medical fluid flowing into the syringe down the inner surface of the conical distal end of the syringe and down the inner surface of the side wall of the syringe according to the Coanda effect, the Coanda effect reducing the formation of air bubbles in the medical fluid in the syringe. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein directing the medical fluid to flow radially outward through the distal surface of the flow regulator includes directing the medical fluid to flow radially outward in the direction of the gap through the curved distal surface of the flow regulator. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the curved distal surface is a convex curved distal surface. 11. The method of claim 8, wherein at least a portion of the flow regulator is connected to the inner surface of the open neck of the syringe by one or more spokes having a first end connected to the inner surface and a second end connected to the flow regulator. 12. The method according to claim 8, in which a decrease in the turbulent medical fluid flowing into the syringe according to the Coanda effect leads to an increase in the flow rate of the medical fluid into the syringe. 13. The method of claim 8, further comprising proximally retracting a plunger slidable within the syringe from a distal end of the syringe to a proximal end of the syringe while the medical fluid flows into the syringe. 14. The method of claim 8, further comprising holding a plunger slidable within the syringe at a proximal end of the syringe while the medical fluid flows into the syringe. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising providing the syringe with a valve to equalize hydraulic pressure within the syringe while the medical fluid flows into the syringe. 16. The method of claim 8, wherein the flow regulator further includes fins or channels on a distal surface of the flow regulator, and wherein the direction of flow of the medical fluid radially outward in the direction of the gap by the distal surface of the flow regulator includes the direction of flow of the medical fluid radially outward by the ribs and channels on the distal surface of the flow regulator. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the syringe further includes a bellows portion in the open neck of the syringe, the bellows portion having ribs on an inner surface of the bellows portion, and wherein flow of the medical fluid down the inner surface of the conical distal end of the syringe includes flow of the medical fluid down the ribs on the inner surface of the bellows portion.

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